Minister for Finance and Commerce, Esrom Immanuel now says he has requested that the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission undertake further stakeholder consultations and public awareness activities on the electricity tariff increase.
Immanuel says FCCC will respond to this request and provide a detailed report on the electricity tariff review by Monday.
Immanuel emphasises that any tariff review must carefully balance three critical dimensions: the role of the regulator, the discipline and transparency of the regulatory process, and the lived experience of consumers.
He stresses all three matter equally in ensuring fair, transparent, and inclusive outcomes for the people of Fiji.
Immanuel says the FCCC also briefed him that, in addition to Energy Fiji Limited, several other service providers have requested tariff reviews.
Many people including the Consumer Council of Fiji and the Fiji Employers and Commerce Federation have asked for a review of the electricity tariff decision as it will drastically affect people.
Their main concerns include the lack of a new round of proper consultations after the EFL's 2023 submission to FCCC was rejected last year.
They are also concerned that the cost of non price control items will rise which will affect everyone.
They stress it is not just about people paying minimal increases in their electricity bills or not pay anything more if they use 100 units or less of power.
We have sought further comments from the Prime Minister after he said that the Chairperson, Cecil Browne and the Chief Executive Officer of the FCCC, Senikavika Jiuta have assured Cabinet that comprehensive due diligence was undertaken prior to the announcement of the tariff increase.
The FCCC CEO, Senikavika Jiuta has not responded to our questions sent earlier in the week.
