Russia to expand pipelines

The Russian government is planning to invest RUB350 billion (US$11.8 billion) to expand and restore existing pipelines to ensure that the fuel shortage which the country experienced in the spring of 2011 will not be repeated. Deputy Energy Minister Sergei Kudryashov issued a letter to Vice Prime Minister Igor Sechin, who is in charge of the energy industry, stipulating the investments. Some regions of the world’s largest oil producer suffered through serious fuel shortages in April 2011, and the shortage in some areas lasted till the end of the year. The shortage was attributed to a 30% increase in fuel consumption and the inability to supply oil products by rail brought about by a lack of rolling stock last year. (February 13, 2012)