Fiji Rural Electrification Fund Support Project
This project aims to foster the development of mini off-grids for access to clean, affordable, reliable renewable energy and diversify Fiji’s energy mix to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the Fijian power sector, contribute to electricity access objectives and promote gender-balanced economic growth. Mini-off-grid solutions increase the reliability of electricity supply by adding to the existing grid supply, thereby improving Fijis adaptability, and reducing its climate vulnerability.
FREF is envisaged to electrify approximately 300 rural communities (households, schools and hospitals) over the next 10 years using innovative renewable energy solutions. The provision of electricity is combined with modern auxiliary services such as smart meters, mobile payment etc. to - among other things - simplify payment processing and provision peaks. The ability to harness the provided green electricity allows rural Fijians to increase community income through multiple economic activities, reduce social inequality and promotes gender inclusivity. All which also contributes to building a more climate informed resilient livelihoods. This project will seek to electrify at least 10 rural communities over 18 months to support the expeditious implementation of FREF as well as demonstrate best practices to shore up investments in FREF and its rural electrification objectives.