BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Government is looking to utilise unused fuel storage capacity in the country as part of efforts to strengthen national fuel security.
Secretary to the Prime Minister for Special Duties, Sir Dr Jimmie Rodgers, revealed this during the Prime Minister’s fortnightly press conference on Sunday.
He said while Solomon Islands currently has sufficient fuel supply, there is existing storage capacity that remains unfilled.
“We have storage capacity that is currently unfuelled, so we are looking at ways to at least fill that capacity so that we have enough supply,” Sir Dr Rodgers said.
He said discussions are underway with the country’s two main fuel importers, South Pacific Oil (SPOL) and Markwarth Oil, to explore the possibility of maximising storage use.
Sir Dr Rodgers noted that Markwarth Oil holds the largest storage capacity, which presents an opportunity for the government to increase national reserves if fully utilised.
He said filling up the available storage could allow the country to maintain fuel supply for up to four to five months.
“This is part of our long-term planning to ensure we have sufficient reserves in the event of any disruption,” he said.
Currently, Solomon Islands has fuel stock that can last up to 60 days for diesel and aviation fuel, while liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply can last between 30 to 40 days.
Sir Dr Rodgers said maximising storage capacity would provide an added buffer and improve the country’s preparedness against external supply shocks.
He added that the move is part of broader government efforts to improve efficiency in fuel management and ensure energy security for the country.
The initiative comes as global fuel supply uncertainties continue to affect markets, prompting the government to review both short-term and long-term strategies to safeguard supply.
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