FREF is driven by a passion to empower Fijian communities through sustainable rural development and electrification. Our journey began with a vision to create opportunities, support local enterprises, and inspire growth through reliable solar energy solutions. Guided by integrity, teamwork, and innovation, we continue to build lasting impact across rural Fiji, delivering clean electricity to remote villages and transforming lives.
The Fiji Rural Electrification Fund (FREF) was established to empower and support rural communities across Fiji by promoting sustainable enterprises and inclusive economic growth.
FREF operates as an independent organization guided by a Board of Trustees, working closely with national and regional partners to advance rural development initiatives.
The Foundation provides financial and technical support that helps strengthen local entrepreneurship, create employment, and improve livelihoods in rural and remote areas.
For over a decade, FREF has been at the forefront of driving community-led development and remains committed to fostering self-reliance, resilience, and innovation among Fijians.
FREF also champions environmental sustainability and climate adaptation through partnerships that encourage green and inclusive rural enterprises.
Bula Vinaka!
Since the official launch of the Fiji Rural Electrification Fund (FREF) in partnership with the UNDP Pacific Multi-Country Office in January 2025, we have made meaningful progress toward bringing clean, reliable energy to rural communities across Fiji.
While much has been accomplished, our mission continues. With over 399 rural communities identified for support over the next 8–10 years, requiring an estimated FJ $564.9 million in investment, scaling up development and climate finance is now more critical than ever. FREF, together with UNDP, will focus on mobilizing resources and strengthening partnerships to accelerate the next phases of electrification.
The Government of Fiji remains steadfast in its commitment to the FREF model, and together, we look forward to advancing sustainable energy access for all Fijians in the years ahead.
Vinaka Vakalevu.
The Fiji Rural Electrification Fund (FREF) is proud to highlight the Vio Island Solar Mini-Grid project — a shining example of how clean energy and climate resilience can be integrated into one community-driven solution.
Located off the coast of Lautoka, Vio Island’s 48-household community is already benefiting from solar power under FREF’s first phase. Building on this success, the project will soon quadruple its renewable energy generation capacity — upgrading from 5.88 kilowatts to 25 kilowatts of solar power.
In the absence of available land space, the new system will feature roof-mounted solar panels installed on the island’s newly constructed Category 5-rated Evacuation Centre. This smart design not only maximises energy generation but also integrates disaster resilience and renewable energy access in one innovative model.
The upgraded system will generate over 23 tonnes of annual carbon savings, equivalent to nearly 9,000 litres of diesel avoided and 386 trees preserved each year, while powering homes, schools, and community facilities with reliable clean electricity.
This milestone is made possible through the generous support of the Government of Australia, under Stage 2 of the Fiji Rural Electrification Fund, co-implemented by the Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services & Transport and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The Vio Island model represents the future of rural electrification in Fiji — resilient, inclusive, and powered by clean energy.
Supporting communities and initiatives to create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.
Empowering communities and partners with practical solutions for a cleaner, greener future.
