KPHL starts Motukea JetA1 fuel import and storage facility construction

Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited [KPHL] has officially commenced the construction of a Jet A1 fuel import and storage facility located adjacent to the Motukea wharf.

The project is being executed by China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering, a subsidiary of the China National Petroleum Company.

Wapu Sonk, the Managing Director of KPHL, emphasized that this facility is a crucial part of KPHL’s commitment to the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea (PNG) following a recent fuel supply crisis.

He stated that the organization is focused on providing both short-term and long-term solutions to prevent future fuel supply issues.

The facility will feature four fuel tanks, each with a capacity of 3,000 cubic meters, along with the necessary infrastructure for ship offloading, truck loading, and safety and environmental controls.

"KPHL has been actively collaborating with various stakeholders, including PNG Ports Corporation, the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority [CEPA], the National Maritime Safety Authority [NMSA], and other regulatory agencies to ensure all aspects of the project are approved," Sonk noted.

This construction marks Phase 1 of the project, which is a significant investment for KPHL. Upon completion, there are plans for a second phase that would expand the facility to include additional storage tanks and pipelines for diesel and petrol imports.

Sonk reiterated KPHL’s commitment to supporting the government in establishing critical infrastructure to prevent energy crises in Port Moresby and other regions of the country, which is vital for the nation’s economic development.

He also expressed gratitude to the Marape-Rosso government, particularly Minister Duma, and the management of KCH and PNG Ports for their support in bringing this project to fruition.