Diesel shortage forces up prices at the pump

Some claim that in a weeks time the price of fuel oil can equal that of Eurosuper petrol or even exceed it. A liter of diesel currently costs zł.3,87 while petrol is sitting at zł.4,06. A Sales Manager of one of the biggest wholesalers says that the problems started on September 22, when demand for diesel increased and refineries could not keep pace, only stick to previous supply contracts. Terminals are empty and fuel tankers are cruising around the country searching for stocks. The representatives of PKN Orlen admit that although refineries are at full capacity, they cannot satisfy their clients demands. The problems are limited to diesel as during this time of the year the demand for it increases while the demand for petrol falls. Producers and importers are also obligated to store fuel due to EU liabilities, which is contributing to the shortfall. Producers and importers have to stockpile enough fuel to suffice for 58 days. In July and August companies did not want to store the fuel and lose profits, however, by the end of the year the obligation to store fuel will hurt more as it increases to 66 days. (Rzeczpospolita, September 30 - October 1, p. B1) M.M.