Vinlec gets more storage tanks

By October, the first phase of the US$19 million Lowman’s Bay Fuel facility project should be completed.

Last Tuesday, the first pieces to be used in the construction of the storage tanks came in from Venezuela, and Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves and Venezuelan Ambassador to St Vincent and the Grenadines Roel Perez Marcano were on hand at the Campden Park Port to witness the arrival.{{more}}

Dr Gonsalves again explained that besides the savings in the area of the freight to bring the fuel here, the security of having three months supply of diesel is crucial.

He explained that in the event of a natural disaster like a hurricane, which prevents ships from sailing, the current situation, where Vinlec only has enough fuel for about two weeks, isn’t good enough.

In addition to the 20,000 barrel tank which will be constructed to hold diesel, another 20,000 barrel tank will be assembled to hold gasoline, while a smaller tank will also be assembled to hold Liquid Petroleum Gas.

The project is being funded under the Petrocaribe/ ALBA arrangement.

In February of 2007, Dr Gonsalves and Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez broke ground for the project, during Chavez’s state visit here.(KJ)