Why Kiwis can rely on LPG supply in New Zealand

Kiwis love using gas – and not just for the barbie. Throughout the country Rockgas supplies Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) to over 140,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers who enjoy all the comfort, reliability and versatility that LPG offers. 

You might have heard or seen in the news that New Zealand is experiencing a natural gas supply shortage, which is causing some concern about meeting expected and contracted natural gas demand. However, this is not a concern for LPG which is imported to supplement domestic supplies.

LPG is versatile and reliable in times of need

LPG is a great option for the energy needs for homes and businesses because it is both versatile and reliable, offering a flexible solution that fits various requirements. Other advantages of LPG is that its portable and available nationwide, whereas natural gas is only available in the North Island and transported through pipeline networks. People can opt for bottled LPG for the home when natural gas is unavailable or too difficult or uneconomical to install. LPG can also be used for cooking, heating and hot water when extreme weather events cause disruption to electricity supply.

Five reasons why Kiwis’ can rely on Rockgas LPG 

LPG is considered a stable energy source during security of energy supply concerns for several reasons:

1. Comprises of both local and international components: LPG is produced from both natural gas processing and crude oil refining, meaning it has a diversified supply base which can be supplied both locally and internationally. This dual production pathway ensures that any supply disruptions locally (e.g. natural gas supply) will not completely halt LPG production.
2. Global trade network: LPG is traded globally, with significant infrastructure in place for its import. This international trade network allows Rockgas to import LPG from other areas in the event of supply shortages, thereby enhancing energy security.
3. Rockgas is New Zealand’s largest LPG supplier: Established in 1934, and with a national network comprising of 10 branches, 25 franchises and more than 180 Refill & Save locations, customers can rely on a secure LPG supply.
4. Storage and transport flexibility: LPG can be stored in large quantities for extended periods without significant degradation. Its liquid state under moderate pressure makes it easy to store in tanks and transport via various means such as ships, pipelines and trucks. This flexibility allows for the maintenance of strategic reserves and rapid distribution in response to supply disruptions.
5. Decentralised supply chains: Unlike electricity lines or natural gas pipelines, LPG can be distributed directly to end-users in cylinders or bulk tanks. This decentralisation reduces vulnerability to single points of failure and makes the energy supply more resilient to localised disruptions.