Energy Minister: State of alert in energy sector requires responsible consumption of petroleum products

The state of alert in the energy sector requires responsible consumption of petroleum products, warned today Minister of Energy Dorin Junghietu. He emphasized that the rational use of fuel and compliance with regulations are important.

The official encouraged car owners to use petroleum products rationally in the context of the state of alert in the energy sector caused by the war in the Middle East. Thus, the authorities urge citizens to avoid purchases that are not strictly necessary and to buy fuel only to the extent of their real needs.

“Economic operators are not allowed to limit the volume of fuel sold to an individual consumer, this prohibition being expressly provided for by the current regulatory framework. Nevertheless, we urge consumers to avoid purchases that are not strictly necessary,” the Ministry of Energy stated.

At the same time, the institution stressed that industrial safety and fire prevention regulations prohibit the sale and storage of petroleum products in containers other than special metal or plastic ones intended for storing petroleum products and properly marked (printed on their walls). Violation of these rules can cause fires and explosions.

On March 4, the Government established a state of alert in the energy sector for a period of 60 days, in connection with the external situation. According to the authorities, the measure is preventive in nature and aims to protect domestic consumption and maintain the stability of the energy system.

The Ministry of Energy announced last week that imports of gasoline and diesel continue normally, and the institution is closely monitoring the situation on the petroleum products market and, together with the competent authorities, is ready to intervene to ensure consumers have the necessary fuels.

According to the latest data presented by the authorities, fuel stocks cover 22 days of consumption for gasoline, 11 days for diesel, and 12 days for LPG.