The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has recently confirmed that drivers across the country will experience an increase in petrol and diesel prices starting from Wednesday this week. In a move that is set to impact consumers, the hike in fuel costs is expected to affect all grades of petrol and diesel, with illuminating paraffin prices also expected to rise, while prices of liquefied petroleum (LP) gas will decrease.
According to the announcement made by the DMRE, the price per litre of both 93 and 95 Octane petrol is set to increase by 37 cents. Meanwhile, diesel containing 0.05% sulfur is expected to see a hefty increase of 72 cents per litre, with diesel containing 0.005% sulfur following closely behind with a 71-cent increase. Phuthi Thobejane, a petrol attendant, said, “Most customers are complaining that the petrol was not supposed to increase now, especially since the load shedding has impacted the economy negatively.” The petrol station has been fully packed after the announcement of the petrol increase. “It is essential for consumers to be aware of these upcoming changes in fuel prices as it will inevitably impact their day-to-day lives,” he said.
Starting with the wholesale illuminating paraffin, the DMRE confirmed a significant increase of 71 cents per litre. Additionally, the Single Maximum National Retail Price for illuminating paraffin is also expected to rise by 95 cents per litre. Bongani Mohlala said, “Paraffin is used for cooking and lighting by millions of South Africans who either have no access to or cannot afford electricity. As fuel prices play a significant role in the cost of transportation and various industries, it is advised for individuals to plan their expenses accordingly and consider seeking more fuel-efficient alternatives to mitigate any financial strains,” said Mohlala. These adjustments are expected to impact consumers who rely on this energy source for heating and lighting purposes. In contrast, the DMRE has announced a noteworthy decrease in the maximum retail price of LPGas, with a reduction of R1.61 per kilogram.
Even though the news of rising fuel prices may be hard to digest for motorists, there is a glimmer of hope for consumers relying on LP gas. The price of LP gas is anticipated to decrease, offering some relief amidst the overall increase in energy costs. The specific amount of decrease in LP gas prices was not provided in the announcement. Lerato Selepe, a business owner, said, “I use a generator to cook food during load shedding for my customers, now I have to increase prices, and it will affect my business as a result of petrol increase.”
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