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Energy sector to take steps if gas crisis continues
Belgrade,
15 January 2009
The Serbian Minister of Mining and Energy Petar Skundric stated that at its session today the Serbian government recommended heating plants to reduce the bills for heating due to poorer heating caused by problems with gas deliveries.
Petar Skundric at today's press conference
Addressing a press conference Skundric expressed his conviction that all cities where heating has become a problem will respect this decision, adding that several decisions were made making it possible for the energy sector to take action if the gas crisis continues.
The Minister said that it was decided that, if needed, crude oil would be imported and heating plants in Belgrade have been authorized to use 7,700 tones of crude oil from the commodities reserve if necessary. He stressed that domestic refineries are working normally and 2,700 tones of crude oil is being produced daily.
Skundric said that the electricity system is stable and working to maximum capacity during the past few days, which were perhaps the toughest ever, adding that electricity supply restrictions will not be necessary.
Speaking about objections that he should resign due to the energy situation in the country the Minister said that there is no reason for him to do so because the Ministry of Energy and the Serbian government’s crisis committee have reacted in the best possible manner.
He explained that he is responsible for the work done by the Ministry of Energy but not for the dispute between Ukraine and Russia, because of which the gas supply has been cut off.
The Minister did not specify at which price Serbia is buying oil from Germany and Hungary, saying that considering the unusual circumstances normal commercial conditions are in question.
The Minister said that it was decided that, if needed, crude oil would be imported and heating plants in Belgrade have been authorized to use 7,700 tones of crude oil from the commodities reserve if necessary. He stressed that domestic refineries are working normally and 2,700 tones of crude oil is being produced daily.
Skundric said that the electricity system is stable and working to maximum capacity during the past few days, which were perhaps the toughest ever, adding that electricity supply restrictions will not be necessary.
Speaking about objections that he should resign due to the energy situation in the country the Minister said that there is no reason for him to do so because the Ministry of Energy and the Serbian government’s crisis committee have reacted in the best possible manner.
He explained that he is responsible for the work done by the Ministry of Energy but not for the dispute between Ukraine and Russia, because of which the gas supply has been cut off.
The Minister did not specify at which price Serbia is buying oil from Germany and Hungary, saying that considering the unusual circumstances normal commercial conditions are in question.
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