Botswana Energy Regulatory Authority Announces Discontinuation of Unleaded Petrol 93 by 2025
The move is seen as a significant step in Botswana's efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure and reduce its carbon footprint.
GABORONE, Botswana— The Botswana Energy Regulatory Authority (BERA) has officially announced plans to phase out unleaded petrol 93 (ULP93) in the country, with the discontinuation set to take effect on February 1, 2025, writes Tshepiso Gabotlhomolwe, AfricaBrief SADC Correspondent.
This decision comes after extensive consultations with stakeholders and a thorough assessment of supply chain challenges in the southern African region.
BERA officials emphasized that the move aligns with regional trends and addresses growing supply constraints.
Botswana, which imports the majority of its petroleum products from or through the Republic of South Africa (RSA), with smaller quantities from Namibia and Mozambique, has been grappling with the implications of diminished refining capacity in South Africa due to ageing infrastructure.
"The refining landscape in South Africa, our primary fuel supplier, has changed dramatically in recent years," said a BERA spokesperson.
"Many major refineries have shut down as the cost to upgrade or repair them to meet cleaner fuel production standards has become unsustainable."
The NATREF Refinery in South Africa, the main producer of ULP93 for Botswana and other countries in the region, has been facing challenges.
Despite occasional imports from other parts of the world, stringent South African Revenue Services (SARS) rules have made it difficult to re-export ULP93 from South Africa.
This reduction in refining capacity and ULP93 production has already led several neighbouring countries, including Namibia, Mozambique, and Eswatini, to phase out the product.
BERA also noted South Africa's plans to discontinue ULP93 by 2026, further justifying Botswana's decision as South Africa is the region's sole producer of this grade.
To address public concerns, BERA has assured citizens that the transition will not negatively impact motorists.
"All petrol engines currently running on ULP93 can operate smoothly with unleaded petrol 95 (ULP95)," the spokesperson explained.
"ULP95 is readily available both regionally and internationally, and offers better quality and environmental benefits compared to ULP93."
As Botswana moves forward with this change, BERA has committed to ongoing monitoring of fuel supplies and technological advancements.
The Authority aims to ensure the introduction of newer, more sustainable fuel grades in the future.
"This decision marks a pivotal moment for Botswana's energy sector," said Energy Minister Lefoko Moagi. "We are adopting a more sustainable approach to fuel consumption while remaining in step with regional and global trends."
The announcement has been met with mixed reactions from the public, with some praising the move towards cleaner fuels and others expressing concerns about potential price increases.
BERA has promised to keep the public informed of any further developments related to fuel supply, emphasizing its focus on security and environmental protection.
As the 2025 deadline approaches, stakeholders in Botswana's energy sector are preparing for the transition, with fuel retailers and importers expected to adjust their operations accordingly.
The move is seen as a significant step in Botswana's efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure and reduce its carbon footprint.