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https://theconversation.com/no-diesel-no-power-why-the-global-oil-shock-is-hitting-nzs-small-pacific-neighbours-hard-281222>
"When Tuvalu recently moved to declare a state of emergency, it laid bare a
major vulnerability long faced by New Zealand’s small and far-flung Pacific
neighbours.
That is their heavy reliance on imported fuel – delivered through long and
often fragile supply chains – to power electricity, transport and other
essential services.
With a population of just over 10,600, Tuvalu spends roughly one quarter of its
GDP on imported petroleum. With limited storage capacity and few alternatives,
it requires regular diesel shipments to keep the lights on and services
running.
In a country where fuel is already an expensive commodity, the crisis in the
Middle East has sent local prices surging even higher, with diesel up 40% and
petrol about 30%.
The situation may yet grow worse, with the possibility of no consistent
shipments beyond June. By declaring a two-week state of emergency, Tuvalu’s
government has granted itself special powers to ration supplies and manage
services.
While this may ease immediate pressures, it won’t resolve those deeper,
structural problems with the wider region’s fuel security.
For New Zealand, which recently took these worries to the White House, this
moment presents an important opportunity to help its old Pacific allies finally
overcome their energy hurdles and become more resilient."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
