In Fiji's current electricity landscape, more than half of its electricity comes from low-carbon sources, highlighting a significant commitment to clean energy. This includes approximately 52% from hydropower, while biofuels make up a smaller share, contributing about 10% to this low-carbon mix. Fossil fuels still account for a substantial portion, with more than a third of Fiji's electricity generated from these sources. The reliance on fossil fuels remains a concern, given the pressing issues of climate change and air pollution associated with them. However, the prevalent use of hydropower is a positive reflection of Fiji's potential to further harness low-carbon electricity.
Data sources used on this page include EIA and Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Fiji?
The latest data from 2023 indicates that electricity consumption in Fiji is on an upward trajectory, with a per-person usage of 1,244 kWh, which shows an increase from the previous record in 2019 of 1,202 kWh/person. This growth of 42 kWh/person is mirrored in low-carbon electricity generation, which has also risen. The current low-carbon generation stands at 790 kWh/person, up from 765 kWh/person in 2019, marking a positive increase of 25 kWh/person. This upward trend suggests that Fiji is making strides in its efforts to enhance electricity consumption and the share of sustainable energy within its overall power makeup.
Suggestions
To further expand low-carbon electricity generation, Fiji could invest in solar power, given its geographical advantages and lessons from regions like Lebanon and Cyprus, where substantial solar generation contributions have been achieved. Additionally, although Fiji doesn't currently utilize nuclear energy, learning from nuclear-successful countries such as France and Slovakia, where more than half of their electricity comes from nuclear power, can be beneficial. Wind energy, while slightly less applicable for Fiji directly, also presents potential if leveraged correctly, similar to Denmark's successful integration of it. Emphasizing solar and considering nuclear power can help Fiji significantly reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and reinforce its low-carbon electricity objectives.
History
Historically, hydropower has been the backbone of Fiji's low-carbon electricity generation which began its gradual build-up in the 1980s, notably in 1984, with an increase of 0.3 TWh. There was further development throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, although this was interspersed with occasional decreases, such as a drop in 2003. Biofuels started contributing in the early 2000s, adding diversity to the low-carbon mix. Despite minor fluctuations over the years, the overall trend leaned towards steady growth. More recently, in 2020 and 2023, slight increases in biofuel contributions have been observed, hinting at ongoing efforts to bolster clean energy production. Yet, there remains room for expansion in other low-carbon options like solar to drive further clean energy advancements.
