The Tribune

SOL Petroleum Bahamas Ltd (Sol), the exclusive licensed distributor of Esso brand fuels, has confirmed the availability of adequate inventory on hand for normal demand and contingencies in place to replenish sooner if demand increases.

This came after fear and speculation spread across New Providence that there was a shortage of fuel on the island due to Hurricane Matthew, leaving many to queue at gas stations for hours to purchase fuel. However officials have repeatedly dismissed the speculation over fuel supplies.

According to a statement from the company, the network of Esso branded service stations in New Providence is currently open.

Due to pre-hurricane preparations most of these service stations opened on Friday, October 7, with normal inventory levels, which were depleted faster than usual due to post-hurricane sales, the company added.

Sol trucks have been and continue to deliver fuel to the Esso branded service stations. Due to extraordinary demand, the service stations are running out of fuel faster than they can be replenished, the company said.

Keith Glinton, general manager of Sol, said: “We will continue to keep our customers informed of the service stations that have fuel in stock. Our customers can access: www.facebook.com/solpetroleumbahamas for updates.”

Sol currently has a vessel delivering product to the Family Islands. That same vessel is expected to reload on Tuesday.

“Sol continues to provide fuel to its essential services customers to ensure their ability to respond to the needs of the community in general. The local and regional emergency response teams of Sol are continuing the assessment and response to the impact of the hurricane,” the company said.

Mr Glinton added: “We truly thank the National Emergency (Management) Agency for all the work they did on preparing us for Hurricane Matthew and all of those agencies and responders involved since the impact. I particularly thank the employees of Sol Petroleum Bahamas Ltd and all of the employees at our network of Esso branded service stations. We have been a part of this community for nearly 100 years now and we reaffirm our commitment to continue to serve The Bahamas.”