Fiji has set ambitious goals to transform its energy sector but legal and regulatory gaps could slow progress toward renewable energy targets, according to a new assessment by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
The report titled “Fiji: Assessment of legislative and regulatory frameworks for a just and inclusive energy transition” notes that Fiji aims to achieve “100 percent renewable electricity generation by 2036 and net-zero emissions by 2050.”
Despite progress, the assessment warns that the country still relies heavily on imported fossil fuels and needs faster deployment of renewable energy supported by private sector investment.
“Fiji has demonstrated strong ambition in transitioning its energy sector toward renewables and low-carbon solutions,” the report states.
However, it says continued reliance on imported fuels shows the need to accelerate renewable energy deployment and strengthen the investment environment.
The study was developed with the Fiji Department of Energy through the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative and reviewed the legal and regulatory framework governing grid-connected electricity generation, transmission and supply.
It found that existing laws and institutional arrangements contain gaps that could slow renewable energy development and discourage private investors.
“This report examines the legal and regulatory conditions shaping Fiji’s electricity sector and identifies gaps that are limiting the pace and scale of renewable energy deployment,” said IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera.
The report recommends reforms across short, medium and long-term timelines, including streamlining approval processes for renewable energy projects, strengthening regulatory oversight, and updating the Electricity Act to align with national climate and energy policies.
Fiji currently has about 226 megawatts of renewable energy capacity, with hydropower making up 61 percent, bioenergy 29 percent, and solar and wind five percent each.
The assessment stresses that stronger laws and clearer regulatory processes are needed to attract independent power producers and boost investment in renewable energy projects.
“This Legislative and Regulatory Gap Analysis marks a pivotal step in our energy transition journey,” said Fiji’s Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau.
He said the review “identifies existing barriers and offers practical recommendations to unlock greater private sector investment and accelerate the deployment of renewable energy solutions.”
The report concludes that overhauling Fiji’s energy sector framework could accelerate the shift from fossil fuels to renewables while strengthening investor confidence and public-private collaboration.
“By implementing these recommendations, Fiji would establish an improved enabling environment that would accelerate the deployment of renewable energy, attract private sector participation and investment, and achieve the country’s national climate and energy goals.
