Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is proud to announce the launch of two pioneering sustainability initiatives aimed at significantly reducing our environmental footprint and promoting a greener future for Fiji.
Installation of a 660kW Solar Panel System
In a landmark achievement, Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa has installed a state-of-the-art 660kW solar panel system on the rooftops of our main buildings and guest blocks. Successfully connected to the energy grid on June 11th, this project, completed in collaboration with solar energy experts Clay Energy, marks a significant milestone in our commitment to environmental sustainability.
Harnessing the abundant energy of the sun, our new solar power system is set to produce approximately 25% of our total energy usage. To put this into perspective, the energy generated by our solar grid could fully power approximately 170 homes on Denarau Island. This initiative underscores our dedication to contributing to a cleaner and greener future for Fiji.
Ateca Waqavolau, Environment & Sustainability Manager at Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, expressed her enthusiasm for the project:
“This solar installation is a testament to our ongoing efforts to embrace renewable energy and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. It’s a significant step towards achieving our sustainability goals and protecting the beautiful environment of Fiji.”
Vincent Macquet, General Manager at Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, added: “We are incredibly proud of this achievement. Not only does it demonstrate our commitment to sustainability, but it also sets a precedent for other businesses in the region. Our investment in solar energy is an investment in the future of Fiji, and we hope to inspire others to follow suit.”
Launch of In-House Water Bottling Facility
In another stride towards sustainability, Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is excited to announce the launch of its in-house water bottling facility. Phase one of this initiative has seen the removal of plastic water bottles in all guest rooms, replaced with reusable glass bottles. Phase two has eliminated plastic bottles from all conferencing and events. The upcoming third phase will extend this effort to remove plastic bottles from all other areas of the resort, including our food and beverage outlets.
By bottling water in glass bottles on-site through a rigorous 8-step filtering process, we are significantly reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices by encouraging both guests and staff alike to reuse their glass bottles. Daily water quality tests are conducted to ensure that the water is safe to drink and of the highest standard. This facility has also created four new full-time positions. To further support this initiative, we have installed filtered water refill stations on every accommodation wing and around public areas of the resort, encouraging guests to refill their bottles and reduce single-use plastics.
“These sustainability initiatives reflect our deep commitment to preserving Fiji’s natural beauty and ensuring a sustainable future,” said Ateca Waqavolau. “By taking these steps, we are not only reducing our environmental impact but also setting a standard for responsible tourism in the region.”
Vincent Macquet emphasized, “Our efforts to embrace renewable energy and eliminate plastic waste demonstrate our dedication to sustainable development. We believe that these initiatives will inspire positive change and encourage others to join us in our mission to protect and preserve our environment.”
FURTHER READING: For those interested in exploring this topic further, additional resources and in-depth materials are provided below when available; otherwise, no further reading is included at this time.:
REFERENCES: This guide is based on over a decade of research and firsthand experience living in Fiji. It incorporates extensive knowledge gained through long-term residence and ongoing engagement with the region. Images and text have been sourced from official references, which are acknowledged below, to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.
FOOTNOTES: Additional details, clarifications, or sources referenced in this article are included as Footnotes below the text when applicable; otherwise, no Footnotes are provided.

