LPG helps keep natural gas customers up and running

LPG suppliers are moving quickly to ensure many natural gas customers remain operational while the Maui pipeline is being repaired, says the LPG Association (LPGA).

LPGA executive director, Peter Gilbert, said LPG suppliers are installing temporary LPG fixtures in various North Island businesses including cafes, hotels, crematoriums and manufacturers.

“In situations where LPG is able to be utilised, suppliers are working with natural gas customers to provide not only continuity of supply and interim arrangements until the pipeline is back up and running, but also to offer clients a contingency plan for the future.”

Because LPG is stored and transported, generally, in a tank or a cylinder, its supply is not affected by the Maui pipeline.

Mr Gilbert said “many LPG suppliers have been approached by natural gas users to adapt industrial and light commercial natural gas appliances to run on LPG.”

He said there is plenty of LPG to meet business as-usual-requirements as well as providing temporary supplies to natural gas customers.

“LPG and natural gas are strategic energy assets and New Zealand is lucky to have adequate home-grown supplies of both to meet market demands, both on a daily basis and in an emergency situation like this.

“It enhances the country’s energy security.”