While Government has expanded electricity fuel surcharge relief to qualifying Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), businesses now face a new challenge, and that is navigating the application and verification process needed to access support.

Under the arrangement, eligible MSMEs with an annual gross turnover below $30,000 must apply through Energy Fiji Limited customer service centres and submit documentation validated against recent tax returns or assessments from the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service before receiving assistance.

The requirement has raised questions around accessibility for smaller operators, particularly informal businesses and sole traders who may not have updated records, formal business registration, or electricity accounts registered under their trading names.

The subsidy only takes effect after successful verification and from the customer’s next billing cycle, meaning delays in applications or documentation could leave some businesses exposed to higher electricity costs in the meantime.

For small operators already managing tight margins, the process highlights a broader issue whether support measures can reach intended beneficiaries quickly enough during periods of rising operational costs.

Businesses have been encouraged to submit applications early as authorities work with Government agencies to verify eligibility and roll out the support programme.