Switzerland releases jet fuel reserves but expects no immediate shortage

Switzerland has released jet fuel from its mandatory reserves as supply to Zurich Airport risks running low, but the federal government does not expect an acute shortage, SRF reported. Fuel traders can draw up to 30 million litres from the stockpiles by November 1.

Roland Pfister, the government’s delegate for economic supply, said deliveries had been at risk since March. Low water levels on the Rhine have reduced fuel shipments, while construction work has disrupted rail transport. The pipeline to the refinery in Cressier is the only one of the country’s three main supply routes currently operating, he said.

Switzerland’s mandatory reserves hold heating oil and diesel for four and a half months, and kerosene for three months, assuming no further deliveries. Pfister said imports had not stopped completely, and rail transport could partly make up for reduced Rhine shipments.

The government currently rates the risk to diesel and other fuels as moderate, or yellow, on its four-level scale. Pfister said measures such as public appeals to save fuel, followed if necessary by restrictions on consumption, were not expected at present. The government could release reserves of other petroleum products if supplies tighten.

The release is not intended to lower prices. Fuel sold from the reserves costs the same as fuel on the market, Pfister said.