The Fijian Government has outlined major progress under the Fiji Rural Electrification Fund (FREF), a multi-phase initiative aimed at expanding access to clean, reliable energy for remote island communities.

With a total budget of $21.2 million FJD; funded by a donor consortium comprising of New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. FREF is set to deliver solar-powered electrification systems to over 20 villages.

Phase 1, scheduled for completion by December 2025, includes works in:

• Yacata Island (Cakaudrove)
• Yadrana Village (Lakeba, Lau)
• Salia Village (Kioa, Cakaudrove)

Phase 2 will begin in January 2026, targeting the following locations:

• Levukaigau, Qarani, Vione, and Nawaikama villages in Gau Island, Lomaiviti
• Sinuva, Nasau, and Nakodu villages in Koro Island, Lomaiviti
• Mua Village (Batiki Island, Lomaiviti)
• Nasau, Vunisei, Nakoronawa, Naqalotu, Talaulia, and Vacalea villages
• Nabukelevuira and Tavuki villages in Kadavu
• Salia Village (Nyau Island, Lau)

Minister for Public Works, Transport and Meteorological Services, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, stated that the goal is to transition Fijians in these remote areas from expensive and environmentally harmful diesel-based energy systems to clean, affordable, and climate-resilient alternatives.

“This investment directly supports Fiji’s broader sustainable development and climate resilience agenda,” he said.