Te Aponga Uira (TAU) is pleased to advise customers that it is removing the remaining temporary fuel surcharge of $0.05 per unit from electricity bills, effective 1 March 2026.

This follows a decision by the TAU Board, after confirming that the conditions set out in its frameworkhad been met and in conjunction with RE progress underway in 2026.

The temporary surcharge was introduced in October 2022 in response to elevated global fuel prices, supply chain disruptions, and exchange rate volatility. Initially set at $0.15 per unit, the surcharge was reduced by $0.05 in May 2023 and a further $0.05 in July 2023 as global fuel markets stabilised. Throughout this period, TAU has managed fuel cost volatility while maintaining reliable electricity supply for its customers.

While international fuel prices have eased from their peak levels, TAU’s landed diesel costs remain higher than pre-COVID norms due to unfavourable forex conditions, and continued increases associated with freight, insurance, and refinery costs. TAU has absorbed a portion of these elevated costs while continuing to deliver stable service and invest in the electricity network.

“The removal of the temporary fuel surcharge will provide welcome relief to customers and reflects our ongoing commitment to responsible cost management and fair pricing,” said Chief Executive Officer, Lesley Katoa.

“We understand that families and businesses across the Cook Islands have been managing rising costs, and we are pleased to make this adjustment following the Board’s decision. We continue to exercise prudent financial management to deliver reliable electricity for Rarotonga.”

Katoa added, “Diesel is only one component of our costs. We also invest in maintaining a resilient network and preparing the grid for future renewable energy opportunities. In line with national goals and per our mandate, our focus remains on long-term sustainability, reliability, and affordability.”

TAU has published a number of tools to help customers understand what goes into each bill and how to read invoices, which can be found on our website www.teaponga.com/news-updates/ or Facebook page www.facebook.com/teaponga

Tariff Categories	Tariff
Domestic Customers Dual Customers	$0.53 – first 60 units
	$0.77 – 61-300 units
	$0.79 – over 300 units
Commercial Customers	$0.77
Demand Customers	$0.68

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