LPG usage declines

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THE Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera) says it expects a five percent annual increase in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) usage despite a decline of 2,16 percent in the first half of the year.
LPG consumption depreciated to 29,87 million kilograms (kg) in the first six months of 2023 from 30,53 million kg in the comparative period, apparently on the back of improved power availability in the country.
In June, LPG consumption fell by 24,09 percent to 4,47 million kg from 5,88 million kg in the same month last year.

“Over the years, the increase in LPG usage was driven by domestic demand at 74 percent and acceptance of households of LPG as a safe alternative source of energy for heating and cooking,” Edington Mazambani, Zera, chief executive officer told The Financial Gazette.
“The slight decline by 2,16 percent of cumulative consumption of LPG in the first six months of the year 2023, as compared to the same period last year is not an issue of much concern since there were no shortages.”
The southern African nation has been experiencing a more stable power supply after units 7 and 8 at the Hwange Power Station were switched on.
“However, it is important to note that there were fewer hours of load shedding during the winter of this current year, as compared to last year, which may have contributed to a slightly lower demand for LPG,” he said.
“This was necessitated by the national thrust for wheat self-sufficiency to reduce imports by government due to the shortages caused by the Russia-Ukraine Conflict.”
LPG consumption in March, at 6,64 million kg, was a nine-year record, followed by 6,31 million kg recorded in November 2021.
The country’s LPG consumption increased by 500 percent to 60 million kg between 2012 and 2022.
In 2022, LPG consumption stood at 59,89 million kg, representing a 5,47 percent rise from 56,78 million kg in 2021. Last year’s LPG consumption was the highest over the past eight years.
Experts, however, say the country should promote local production of green fuel to cut its import bill.
LPG importers require at least US$3 million of foreign currency a month to fully service the market.
The government is also currently engaging investors to come on board as independent power producers. newsdesk@fingaz.co.zw