Fiji - Country Commercial Guide
Renewable Energy
Last published date:

Overview

The challenges faced by Fiji’s energy sector are largely due to its geographical environment and small market size.  Close to 60 percent of Fiji’s electricity generation is derived from hydropower, while remote areas and outer islands are dependent on imported fossil fuels and biomass.  Fiji’s 20-year National Development Plan calls for all power to be generated from renewable sources by 2030.  In line with this plan, assessments have shown that a combination of solar, wind, geothermal, marine, biomass, and biofuel could be used to meet Fiji’s energy needs.  Currently, as much as 40 percent of Fiji’s power is generated from diesel and heavy fuel oil, which is purchased via local companies from Singapore-based suppliers.  An objective under Fiji’s National Energy Policy 2023-2030 is to introduce import tax on heavy fuel by 2024, followed by its complete ban by 2030.  The transport industry is the largest consumer of energy, followed by the commercial, industrial, and domestic sectors.

Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) is the main generator and distributor of grid-based power to an estimated 90 percent of the population on the main islands of Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, and Ovalau.  EFL aims to be 90 percent renewable powered by 2025 and 99 percent by 2030.  At least 4 percent of the total population are still without proper access to electricity.  Essential services such as healthcare, education, water supply, and airport services are heavily dependent on on-grid electricity supply.  Fiji’s energy security is further impacted by the threats of climate change.  Dry periods can severely impact and reduce water supply and flooding causes wastewater to overflow and seep into local flora and fauna.

Leading sub-sectors:

  • Hydro and solar power energy generation
  • Energy equipment and services

Opportunities

Incentives are offered to encourage investments in energy generation through renewable energy sources and to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.  Fiji has untapped renewable energy resources such as hydro, wind, biomass, solar, and geothermal, which can be used for energy generation.  Opportunities exist for replacing fossil fuels used in ground transport through expanding the use of biofuels, hybrid, and electric vehicles, and for investments in small-scale renewable energy systems.  There is further potential for use of renewable energies in maritime transport and improved efficiency of vessels and engines.

Resources