Red diesel fuel to flow from the pumps tomorrow

Petrojam Limited has moved to allay fears that its decision to add a red dye to the diesel fuel sold at the pumps come tomorrow could affect motor vehicles.

According to Petrojam, the decision to add the red dye is in preparation for the introduction of another grade of diesel, Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel (ULSD), to the market next week.

The ULSD will be of a light yellow (straw) colour and the red dye will enable differentiation between the regular diesel and ULSD.

According to Petrojam, the red dye that will be applied to the regular diesel will in no way impact the quality of the product.

Manager of safety, environment and quality at Petrojam, Leon Jarrett, explained that the introduction of the ULSD is in response to market demand to provide diesel that is compatible with the newer models of diesel engines that are being manufactured with improved emission-controlling devices.

In the meantime, Chairman of the Automobile Dealers Association, Kent LaCroix, said his group is "extremely pleased" with the introduction of the ULSD as members have been asking for it for many years.

"We now have the ability to bring in more environmentally friendly vehicles. These new diesel vehicles are able to go further on a litre of diesel and can burn the fuel a lot cleaner; so you will hardly see any smoke coming out of the back," stated LaCroix.

He argued that ULSD vehicles can offer better mileage over gas.

"So we're happy that Petrojam is introducing the ULSD, and we applaud the Government for making it happen."

The ULSD will be sold at approximately 10 per cent above the cost of regular diesel.

According to the production manager at Petrojam, Telroy Morgan, the current configuration of its refinery does not allow for refining of ULSD, and so the fuel is being imported to satisfy market demand.

He said the facilities that will supply the fuel have been prepared, with dedicated pumps and distribution lines installed

Morgan added that the price is in accordance with the company's pricing policy, and is in keeping with the cost of the fuel on the international market.