Govt to subsidise safer gas
Candace Freeman
24 June 2004
The government plans to introduce a new retailing method for liquid petroleum gas (LPG) in order to make it more accessible to poor households.
LPG is seen as a cleaner, safer and more efficient burning energy source and is not harmful to people's health.
"Contrary to general belief, LPG is a lot safer to use, especially when used with appropriate equipment and appliances", Minerals and Energy Minister Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka said in Parliament on Wednesday.
"LPG is a better burning fuel for cooking and heating. Its fire is easier to make and generally makes cooking a lot faster. It does not generate smoke, dust and choking fumes like most other hydrocarbon fuels", the minister said.
Mlambo-Ngcuka pointed out, however, that in South Africa LPG has for many decades been a fuel for the rich.
"Currently it comes out of the refinery at R3 per kg and retails at R11 per kg, with very little value added inbetween.
"Government will
pilot a different approach to the retailing of LPG before the end of this financial year. Along with the pilot, an appropriate regulatory framework will be developed", she said.
The Department of Minerals and Energy will also be launching integrated energy centres countrywide to educate poor people about efficient energy uses.
"Integrated energy centres will not only make communities consumers of energy products, but also owners of their own energy businesses", Mlambo-Ngcuka said.
Seven such centres are expected to be launched during this financial year - in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, North West and Mpumalanga.
Source: BuaNews
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