FCCC appointed as independent regulator for electricity sector

This is under Section 5(1) of the Electricity Act.

FCCC will be in charge of regulating existing electricity operators such as Energy Fiji Limited as well as newer entrants into the sector like Sunergise Fiji Limited.

FCCC Chief Executive, Joel Abraham says they will be responsible for issuing the Generation, Transmission and Supply Licenses to operators in the electricity sector.

Abraham adds this basically means existing operators like EFL and new applicants will have to apply with FCCC for licenses and failure to do so will result in a fine of $5000 for individuals and 2 per cent of annual gross revenue for corporate bodies.

Abraham also clarified that other than the issuance of licenses to operators, FCCC will also be handling settlement of possible disputes between new entrants to the sector and EFL, as well as certification and testing of imported electrical appliances and fittings in collaboration with the Department of Standards and Weights.

He says FCCC is currently working on a Memorandum of Agreement with EFL to ensure this outsourcing is done in an accountable and transparent manner.

Abraham confirms that EFL will continue to be responsible for compliance with the enforcement of technical codes such as generators, wiremen, contractors and licensing of Electrical Contractors and Wiremen.

This will also include meter testing while FCCC will monitor meter testing to ensure it is done properly.

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Source: Fiji Broadcasting Commission (FBC News)