A comprehensive overhaul of Fiji’s Electricity Act 2017 is recommended to establish a modern regulatory framework capable of accelerating the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. According to the authors of the newly released report, the existing legislation fails to align with the nation’s ambitious climate targets and lacks the clarity required to attract vital private sector participation.
The report notes that a “complete overhaul of the Electricity Act 2017” is necessary to “create a modern, supportive legislative and regulatory environment.” It highlights a significant gap, stating that “the objectives of the act do not include the implementation of Fiji’s commitments to increasing the generation of electricity from renewable sources.”
Essentially, the current law is out of step with the country’s future because it does not officially recognize Fiji’s pledges to adopt cleaner energy sources. Without clear legal definitions for what constitutes a renewable energy project, private investors face uncertainty that discourages them from funding new solar or wind developments. By rewriting the act, the government can ensure that the legal system actively supports the growth of clean power and provides the transparency needed for businesses to help build a sustainable grid.
The report ‘Fiji: Assessment of Legislative and Regulatory Frameworks for a Just and Inclusive Energy Transition’ was published by the International Renewable Energy Agency in Abu Dhabi in 2026. Prepared by a team led by the legal firm Siwatibau and Sloan in collaboration with the Fiji Department of Energy, it provides a comprehensive roadmap for reforming the Pacific nation’s electricity sector to meet ambitious climate goals.
