18 Jun 2020

Public relations officer for Botswana Energy Regulatory Authority (BERA) Mr Tshepang Monare says local fuel service providers will face penalties for not complying with recent adjustments of fuel pump prices for petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin.

In an interview, Mr Monare explained that they had already identified companies that did not comply, especially on the first day, adding that inspections countrywide were ongoing to assess compliance with the new regulations.

This comes after the observation that some service providers failed to adjust retail pump prices following an announcement by BERA on June 13.

Moreover, he noted that as a regulatory authority, they were obliged to enforce service standards set by the Botswana Bureau of Standards on fuel distribution.

He further indicated that BERA Act 13 of 2016, section 46 (1) stipulates that the Authority may suspend, impose further conditions on or revoke a license for non-compliance to set regulations.

Mr Monare said in instances where consumers might have been charged previous prices, they have the right to seek reimbursement with relevant service providers.

He added that their office continued to rely on the public to keep a watchful eye and report incidents of non-compliance by companies.

Mr Monare said the Authority would continue to closely monitor the prices of petroleum products in both regional and international markets and make price adjustments as necessary. ENDS