Sasol introduces LP Gas for homes

26 October 2010

South African petrochemical giant Sasol is expanding its market offering by introducing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) reticulation from bulk on-site tanks as an alternative energy option for local housing developers.

According to the company, Sasol Homegas will help ease the burden on South Africa's power grid, ensuring that buildings have a reliable alternative energy source while mitigating escalating electricity costs.

"Many South Africans are thinking twice about how they make use of energy at home and at work," Sasol Oil new business development manager Pieter Claasen said in a statement earlier this month. "Sasol Homegas provides them with a safe and clean energy solution that significantly reduces electricity costs in the home."

Century Property Developments has signed on to install Sasol Homegas in the Waterfall Country Estate in Midrand, north of Johannesburg, providing reticulated gas to about 2�000 homes.

"We are proud to be associated with Sasol in this project," said Century Property Developments CEO Mark Corbett. "Already, we have seen purchasers embrace this value-added feature of the estate."

South African retail sector first

Sasol Homegas provides business, industry and households with heating solutions using reticulated LPG from bulk tanks that range from 6�200 to 22�500 litres, making the project the first of its kind to be undertaken in this scale within the South African retail sector.

Sourced from a custom-fitted Sasol tank located on the premises, Sasol's LPG system can be installed to meet up to 70% of household energy requirements � from heating rooms and water to fuelling stoves and braais.

Safety and quality standards

Sasol Homegas is installed by qualified, experienced professionals to meet all international and local safety standards, as required by ISO, the South African Bureau of Standards and the Liquid Petroleum Gas Safety Association of SA.

The system is serviced and maintained by professionals who undertake visual inspections and test functionality regularly, while also conducting leak-detection tests every six months.

As required by law, Sasol adds a unique odour to LPG so that the slightest leak is detected immediately.

"LPG has been used in the United States and Europe for decades as a safe and convenient source of energy for home usage," said Sasol Oil sales and marketing GM Vusi Cwane. "Stringent safety and quality standards are the hallmark of Sasol Homegas. We are proud to offer a safe, clean, integrated energy solution."

SAinfo reporter