However, the conversion is not easy..."
Nusa Dua, Bali (ANTARA News) - Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Jero Wacik has urged the National Oil and Gas Entrepreneurs Association (Hiswana Migas) to continue to build gas refueling stations (SPBG).

"With as many gas refueling stations as possible, the government will find it easy to realize the program of oil conversion into gas," Wacik said here on Friday.

The energy minister expressed hope that he would have dedicated a gas refueling station in Bali before the Asia-Pacific Economic Conference (APEC).

Wacik said the conversion of fuel oil into gas was not an easy task but he was optimistic to make the government program a success.

According to him, the conversion of fuel oil into gas in Indonesia was necessary because oil production in the country continued to decline while the demand kept increasing.

But off-shore gas production capacity is still high to be exploited for motor vehicles and house hold needs.

"However, the conversion is not easy and therefore the government plans to involve private companies to speed up the realization of the program," the energy minister said.

He said the government has earlier dedicated several gas refueling stations to support the program of fuel oil conversion into gas in Surabaya, Jakarta, Balikpapan, and Palembang.

Therefore the minster urged the Hiswana Migas to continue to build not only the gas refueling stations but also help the government make the program a success.
(Uu.O001/F001)

Editor: Priyambodo RH
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