The proposed electricity tariff increase has been deferred until 31 March 2027, while the current fuel surcharge of 5.91 cents per kilowatt-hour will remain in place until December this year.

The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) announced the decision today, saying it wanted to avoid placing additional financial pressure on households and businesses by applying the new tariff and fuel surcharge at the same time.

The Commission said global fuel prices remain unstable due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, continuing to affect electricity generation costs.

The interim fuel surcharge has been in place since 26 May 2026. It was initially calculated using the cost of Industrial Diesel Oil and Heavy Fuel Oil purchased in March, when fuel prices increased sharply.

FCCC said the surcharge was maintained as fuel prices continued to fluctuate between April and August, while weather conditions also affected hydroelectric power generation.

Keeping the surcharge until December will also allow time for a reconciliation exercise to determine whether there has been an over-recovery or under-recovery during the period.

Meanwhile, Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) has submitted a request to FCCC seeking a further increase in the fuel surcharge.

The submission comes as water levels in hydroelectric dams continue to fall, with dry conditions already affecting the Western Division and forecasts pointing towards a super El Niño.

FCCC said lower dam levels mean less electricity can be generated through hydropower, requiring more fuel to be used to meet demand.

The Commission is assessing EFL’s request and will provide updates to the public. In the meantime, the existing surcharge of 5.91 cents per kilowatt-hour remains unchanged.

FCCC is also urging Fijians to use electricity sparingly, noting that reducing consumption helps lower the amount of fuel needed for power generation.