What is LPG?

Many people see the letters LPG without understanding its meaning. LPG is an acronym for Liquefied Petroleum Gas which is energy stored under pressure in cylinders. LPG is a modern superior alternative to firewood, charcoal and paraffin and is safe, clean, fast and portable.

Is LPG dangerous?

If used and handled in accordance with prescribed procedures LPG is safe. As with electricity, petroleum and other chemicals, care should always be taken when using LPG.

Why do gas bottles have to remain upright?

Gas bottles must be used and stored upright for safety reasons. All gas bottles are fitted with pressure relief valves which are designed to safely release gas in the event that the gas bottle becomes hot andpressure becomes too great.The pressure relief valves are incorporated into the main valve which is at the top of the bottle. Inside the gas bottle the LPG exists as liquid at the bottom and gas vapour at the top. Keeping the bottle upright ensures that the safety valve is not immersed in the liquid and is located in the vapour space as it is not designed to vent liquid.

What should I do if LPG cylinder is leaking or damaged?

If your gas cylinder is damaged or leaking do not try to repair it. Instead return it to the outlet where you bought it. Leaks are characterized by the presence of strong irritating smell. You can also check for leaks by using a cloth soaked in soapy water. The presence of bubbles means the cylinder is leaking. It is dangerous to attempt repairing a damaged or leaking cylinder as this can cause harm or injury.

What equipment do I need to safely use LPG for cooking?

First you need to have a pressure regulator that controls the amount of gas entering your cooker and a hose pipe that connects your cooker to the gas cylinder. Whenever you buy these products ensure that they are inspected by an authorised dealer who should also show you how to connect them correctly.

Are there restrictions on where gas bottles can be located?

Yes. There are exclusion zones based on wall openings, drains and ignition sources to determine how far or how close a gas bottle-cylinder can be. Ignition sources include air conditioners and other electrical items as well as heaters.

How should the LPG cylinder be transported?

LPG should be transported in an upright position. If the cylinder is in the car boot try to secure it to prevent from falling over, rolling around and possibly getting damaged.

How should I store and use LPG safely?

Do not put your gas cylinder near any sources of heat like stoves or direct sunlight because gas expands when heated and this can sometimes damage the valve, hose or cylinder. Cylinders should be stored in an upright position on a level surface. The cooking appliances should be placed higher than the cylinder.

How do I ensure that I am safe when using LPG for cooking?

Ensure you light the matchstick before turning on the gas and teach your family members how to use the gas correctly. Turn off your regulator valve when the gas is not in use.

What should I do if my gas is leaking?

Turn off the regulator and disconnect it from the cylinder. Take the cylinder outdoor into the open. Open all windows and doors. Do not put on electricity switch, light a matchstick or use a mobile phone. Use soapy water to check for a leak, the water will bubble if there is a leak.

How does LPG compare with other Fuels?

  • LPG produces no harmful or dangerous waste
  • LPG when burned, produces less CO2 than coal and oil
  • LPG burns cleanly with no soot and very few sulphur emissions
  • LPG poses no ground and water pollution hazards
  • LPG is a by-product so there is no wastage

a. What activities are licensable in the electricity sector?

  • The generation of electricity above 100 kW whether for own consumption or as a commercial activity
  • The primary transmission and bulk supply of electricity above 100 kW, the operation of independent transmission facilities.
  • The primary distribution of electricity, independent distribution of electricity and retail of electricity.

b. What ownership arrangements are allowed in the electricity sector?

  • Companies can operate as independent power producers (IPPs) or private companies.
  • Companies can also be Government owned agencies.
  • They can also operate as part private and public companies.
  • There is no restriction with respect to foreign ownership.

c. What legal form should an electricity undertaking be?

  • It should be a company registered in Zimbabwe in terms of the Companies Act.

d. What technologies are allowed?

  • All technologies are allowed as long as they are supported by availability of the feedstock and technology manufacturer.

e. What are the tariffs for the different projects?

  • The tariffs for the different projects are based on the technology costs, size of projects, financing and operational requirements.

f. Can I use one license for several sites?

  • A license is issued for a specific site and cannot be used for several sites.

g. How much is the license fees and when is it paid?

  • The license fees for a project depends on the size of the project. The bigger the size the higher the license fees. The license fees is only payable once the project has been approved.
  • There is a charge of $10, 000 (excluding VAT) for a project of 10MW or less.
  • The charge for projects more than 10MW is  $10, 000 for every 25MW or part thereof plus a fixed charge of $ 20, 000.
  • The application processing fee is $ 2,500 (excluding VAT) for the processing of any licence a cost which includes other administrative charges e.g. mandatory adverts in local newspapers.

h. Are licensed companies restricted to selling power to the national grid?

  • Licensed companies can sell power to the national grid, or a chosen customer or customers/utilities across the borders under a power purchase agreement.

i. Who issues the power purchase agreement?

  • The power purchase agreement is negotiated between the electricity supplier and the off-taker and submitted to the regulator for approval.

j. Can an electricity supplier/generator have several power purchase agreements?

  • An electricity generator is allowed to have several customers consuming their power. Each supply should however be supported by a power purchase agreement (PPA).

k. Can a generator produce to supply self?

  • A generator can generate to supply self, sell to one or more customers or net meter excess production with the grid.

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