regarding fuel specifications and standards
29 June 2006
The Minister of Minerals and Energy has published Regulations regarding
Petroleum Products Specifications and Standards under the Petroleum Products
Act, 1977 (Act No. 120 of 1977).
These Regulations, which set out specifications and standards for petrol,
diesel and bio-diesel fuels that may be sold for consumption in the Republic of
South Africa, were published in the Government Gazette of 23 June 2006.
With regard to fuel specifications and standards, the industry has been
self-regulating all along, voluntarily adhering to all the relevant South
African ABS national standards. Consultations between the department and all
stakeholders resulted in the prohibition of the addition of lead-based
additives into petrol and the reduction of the sulphur content of diesel from 1
January 2006. The prohibition of lead and sulphur reduction provide both
positive environmental health impacts and improved engine performance
characteristics.
These Regulations legislate mandatory compliance with the aforesaid and
further set out:
* Permitted petrol and diesel grades, inclusive of bio-diesel and bio-diesel
blend.
* Prohibition of certain activities (e.g., offering for sale, selling or
providing one grade of petrol or diesel as another grade of petrol or diesel,
as the case may be).
* Inspection and testing of petroleum products.
* Strict labelling specifications for petroleum products to enable motorists to
make an informed choice as to the fuel they prefer to use.
* The keeping and disclosure of records of purchase and sale transactions of
petroleum products.
�In line with Government�s cleaner air objectives, the Department of
Minerals and Energy, will further engage with all stakeholders to improve the
specifications and standards of our fuels based on environmental
considerations, international trends, technological demands and national
imperatives�, said the Minister of Minerals and Energy, Ms Buyelwa Sonjica.
With time, it is anticipated that South African fuel specifications will be
further aligned with more stringent international trends with regard to
environmental and vehicle manufacturing technology considerations. The
Department will continue with its efforts to facilitate the harmonising of fuel
specifications and standards in the Southern African Developed Community (SADC)
region and the whole African continent.
Enquiries:
Mr Sputnik Ratau
Minister�s Spokesperson
Tel: (012) 317 8291 or (012) 462 2310
Fax: (012) 322 8699
Cell: 082 885 8317
E-mail: sputnik.ratau@dme.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Minerals and Energy
29 June 2006
