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MINSK, 6 November (BelTA) – Belarus replaces 3 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually using local energy resources, Deputy Chairman of the State Standardization Committee of Belarus, Director of the Energy Efficiency Department Vitaly Kretsky told journalists during the press conference, BelTA has learned.
Vitaly Kretsky noted that in comparison with neighboring countries, Belarus demonstrates the highest level of GDP energy intensity reduction over the past 20-25 years. Work also continues to convert existing energy sources that use imported fuels to local energy resources. “Over the course of the five-year period, we will have built about 70 facilities. The remaining ones will be commissioned by the end of this year. The use of local fuels across the country allows for the replacement of about 3 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually. Looking at the overall national picture, out of more than 10,000 operational energy sources, over 60% have already been switched to local energy resources. In the housing and utilities sector, this figure is even higher, about 73%,” the department head said.
Vitaly Kretsky stressed that Belarus has developed comprehensive infrastructure covering the entire cycle, from procurement and transportation to efficient combustion of local fuels. “The country hosts producers of top-tier energy equipment that matches global analogues in efficiency of local fuel combustion. This enables us to satisfy domestic demand while competitively exporting these heating systems internationally,” Vitaly Kretsky added.
In his opinion, incorporating wood pellets, a relatively new fuel, represents a distinct focus area within energy efficiency initiatives. “By the end of 2025, we plan to triple the domestic consumption volume of pellets. We also emphasize that the population should actively start using this type of fuel. It is environmentally friendly and convenient to use. The state provides support for the use of this resource. Primarily, a single price for pellets has been set nationwide – Br50 per 1 tonne. If a citizen decides to purchase the corresponding equipment, the state provides a preferential loan at 4%. By the decision of the head of state, 40% of the cost will be compensated upon its purchase. Last year, the population purchased 166 boilers, and as of now this year – 288 units,” Vitaly Kretsky said.
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