6 Nov 2008

Consumers in Fiji to face higher costs over power

11:46 am on 6 November 2008

Many businesses in Fiji say they will pass the additional cost of generating own power on to consumers.

The Fiji Times Online reports many are saying it would be difficult for them to set up adequate generator back-up to deal with the power interruptions as anticipated by Fiji Electricity Authority.

Suva's Chamber of Commerce president Dr Nur Bano Ali said the sudden imposition of additional costs on business of generating their own electricity would create a huge cost management problem which includes re-negotiation of contracts with buyers.

Given the lack of ability of FEA to supply electricity, Dr Nur Bano Ali, says deregulation is a good idea and government should review the operations of the only electricity provider in the country.