SOUTH AFRICAN LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS S P OT L I G H T 2 | Africa Outlook Issue 121
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
South Africa’s liquefied petroleum gas industry is enacting positive change across the country, paving the way for equitable access to affordable energy, meaningfully contributing to green energy solutions, and encouraging energy diversification – bringing significant growth to the landscape Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Henry Butler
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he liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry in South Africa (SA) is at a pivotal stage as the country seeks to improve energy security, expand energy access, and support lower-carbon energy solutions. LPG is increasingly recognised as a practical energy source that complements electricity whilst contributing to economic growth and environmental objectives. Significant opportunities include growing demand driven by electricity supply challenges, which encourage households and businesses to diversify their energy sources. Government and private-sector efforts to reduce carbon emissions and support a just energy transition also favour greater LPG adoption. In addition, continued investment in import and storage infrastructure is strengthening the security of supply, whilst the sector also presents substantial opportunities for skills development, entrepreneurship, local economic growth, and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Despite this positive outlook, several challenges continue to limit growth. The ongoing illegal market, which includes non-compliant installations and unsafe practices, undermines consumer confidence and creates unfair competition. As such, there is a growing need for regulatory processes to keep pace with industry developments whilst maintaining high safety standards. Affordability, accessibility, and usage patterns also remain major obstacles, with the upfront cost of appliances and cylinders constraining wider adoption. Elsewhere, the expansion of localised last-mile distribution infrastructure is essential to improve access, particularly in rural and peri-urban communities. Overall, the future of the LPG industry in SA remains highly positive. The opportunities presented by energy diversification, clean cooking, lower-carbon energy solutions, infrastructure expansion, autogas development, and local economic growth are substantial. With continued investment, stronger collaboration, and targeted support, LPG can play a transformative role in SA’s energy future by advancing clean cooking, improving energy resilience, and supporting sustainable economic development. Africa Outlook Issue 121 | 3
INTERVIEW: LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM G A S A S S O C I AT I O N O F SOUTH AFRICA The Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association of South Africa (LPGSA) has played a vital role in the development and advancement of the LPG industry for nearly four decades. Gadibolae Dihlabi, Managing Director, delves deeper into how the association promotes responsible use of LPG, drives compliance with critical public safety legislation, and acts as the unified voice of the sector 4 | Africa Outlook Issue 121
Africa Outlook (AO): Firstly, could you introduce us to the Liquified Petroleum Gas Association of South Africa and outline its founding vision? Gadibolae Dihlabi, Managing Director (GD): Established in 1987 as the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Safety Association of Southern Africa (LPGSASA), the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association of South Africa (LPGSA) was founded with a clear mandate: to promote the sustainable growth of the LPG industry through adherence to the highest standards of safety, compliance, and ethical business practices. At a time when the LPG sector was still developing, LPGSA served as the industry’s leading custodian of safety and technical excellence. The association worked closely with industry stakeholders, regulators, and practitioners to
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
establish and maintain best-practice standards, ensuring LPG could be adopted as a safe, reliable, and efficient energy source across Southern Africa. Through its unwavering focus on safety, education, compliance, and technical guidance, the organisation helped build confidence in LPG as an energy solution for households, businesses, and industrial users. These foundational principles remain central to the organisation’s mission today. However, as SA’s energy landscape evolved and the role of LPG expanded, the association recognised the need to broaden its focus and respond to emerging industry opportunities and challenges. In 2020, it underwent a strategic rebranding, becoming LPGSA. This reflected not only a name change but also a significant evolution in the association’s mandate and vision. Whilst safety and compliance continue to form the cornerstone of its activities, LPGSA expanded its role to address a wider range of industry priorities, positioning itself as the unified voice of the LPG sector in SA. Today, LPGSA’s mandate extends beyond technical standards and regulatory compliance. The association actively engages in industry advocacy, representing the interests of its members and promoting policies that support the growth and sustainability of the LPG sector. Through constructive engagement with government, regulators, policymakers, and industry partners, LPGSA works to create an enabling environment that encourages investment, innovation, and expanded access to cleaner energy solutions. Stakeholder engagement has become another critical component of the association’s work. LPGSA collaborates with government departments, energy institutions, training bodies, consumer groups, and international organisations to advance the role of LPG in SA’s energy mix. These partnerships are essential in supporting the country’s energy security objectives, reducing reliance on traditional fuels, and promoting cleaner, more efficient cooking and heating solutions. Recognising the significant potential of LPG as a transition fuel, LPGSA has also intensified its efforts to stimulate market growth and consumer adoption. The association actively promotes LPG as an affordable, accessible, and cleaner household energy source, particularly for communities seeking alternatives to biomass, coal, and increasingly constrained electricity supplies. Through targeted awareness campaigns, public education initiatives, and demonstration projects, LPGSA continues to showcase the economic, environmental, and health benefits of LPG. Central to this mission is the association’s commitment to safety awareness, education, and skills development.
“ B Y B A L A N C I N G S A F E T Y, A D V O C A C Y, M A R K E T D E V E L O P M E N T, S TA K E H O L D E R E N G A G E M E N T, A N D E D U C AT I O N , T H E A S S O C I AT I O N C O N T I N U E S TO CHAMPION LPG AS A CRITICAL CONTRIBUTOR TO THE COUNTRY’S CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION, ECONOMIC D E V E L O P M E N T, A N D E N E R G Y SECURITY OBJECTIVES” – GADIBOLAE DIHLABI, MANAGING DIRECTOR, L I Q U E F I E D P E T R O L E U M G A S A S S O C I AT I O N O F S O U T H AFRICA
LPGSA develops and delivers leading training programmes for installers, practitioners, and industry professionals whilst also educating consumers on the safe handling and use of LPG. By fostering a culture of safety and accountability, the association ensures industry growth is underpinned by competence, compliance, and public confidence. As SA pursues a more diverse and resilient energy future, LPGSA remains committed to its founding vision of promoting the responsible growth of the LPG industry. By balancing safety, advocacy, market development, stakeholder engagement, and education, the association continues to champion LPG as a critical contributor to the country’s clean energy transition, economic development, and energy security objectives. AO: In your opinion, how has the association remained a cornerstone of the industry’s development as it has evolved over the last 40 years? GD: Over the past four decades, SA’s LPG industry has undergone a remarkable transformation. What was once a relatively niche energy source, primarily serving limited domestic and industrial applications, has evolved into a strategically important sector that contributes to energy security, economic development, and the country’s transition towards cleaner energy solutions. Throughout this evolution, LPGSA has remained at the forefront of industry development, adapting its role to meet changing market needs whilst maintaining an unwavering commitment to safety, compliance, and industry excellence. Africa Outlook Issue 121 | 5
Life Made ‘Easi’ – 40 years of safe and reliable LPGas solutions Easigas is a leading supplier of liquefied petroleum gas (LPGas) in Southern Africa, with over 40 years of experience in the industry. The company makes life and doing business easi by offering a dependable and secure energy source through its extensive LPGas supply network, boosting industry efficiency LEADING THE WAY In 2016, a merger between the company and Reatile Gaz successfully positioned Easigas as the leading LPGas business in Southern Africa. Its operation delivers LPGas solutions that are transforming the energy sector and empowering Africa’s industries. Today, Easigas stands as a level 1 BBBEE company that’s 55 percent owned by Rubis Group, a Frenchlisted company that specialises in storage terminals and petroleum distribution; and 45 percent owned by Reatile Gaz, controlled and managed by Reatile Group. The Reatile Group is a Black-owned and managed company with diverse interests in the Southern African energy sector.
Easigas keeps businesses operating at optimal levels by providing a steady flow of energy at a great price and has meticulously created a rock-solid reputation over the years.
WHY LPG AND WHY EASIGAS? Easigas helps businesses in Southern Africa stay ahead in a constantly changing energy landscape. No matter the industry, the company provides a steady source of energy that fuels growth. LPGas boosts efficiency by keeping businesses up and running, safe, and producing at maximum capacity. It remains a fantastic energy choice because it’s versatile, has lower emissions, and offers numerous benefits.
As a cost-effective solution, LPGas has found a home in many households, industrial facilities, and mining operations because of its efficiency as an energy source. LPGas is also one of the most effective ways to reduce dependency on electricity.
RELIABLE SOLUTION Easigas is a reliable solution for domestic, commercial, and industrial energy needs. From households to big industries, count on the company’s LPGas for a range of indoor and outdoor applications that make life easier. The answer to safe, efficient, and cost-effective energy is here. Available in a variety of sizes, Easigas’ LPGas cylinders are distributed through its widespread network of resellers in every province of South Africa, as well as in Botswana, Lesotho, and Eswatini. An approved LPGas installer must carry out the installation and maintenance of LPGas appliances. LPGas in the home is used primarily for cooking, water heating, and space heating, and its portable nature makes it possible to use it in any location. Over time, LPGas appliances have grown in popularity, coupled with an understanding that it is a cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly way to provide the home with reliable energy, not only during power outages but in everyday applications. From cooking with gas on the stove to a braai stand, geyser, or heater, LPGas has a place in every room in the home, bringing the efficiency of this exceptional energy to you and your loved ones.
PRIORITISING SAFETY Safety for its customers is the top priority at Easigas. The company takes the management of health and safety extremely seriously, with an overarching goal to cause no harm to people or the environment. As such, Easigas remains committed to promoting the best practices in the industry and maintains a management system that follows the international standard of ISO 9001:2015. Dedicated to going above and beyond to follow the highest safety standards, even exceeding local regulations by implementing extra stringent measures, raising awareness, and providing additional training for staff, Easigas seeks to enhance the work environment and reduce occupational risks, ensuring it meets all legal and regulatory requirements. Every installation is completed according to the highest possible standards. These protocols are carried out under the close guidance of trained safety personnel, and in accordance with its customers’ specific industrial requirements.
VISION To drive Southern Africa’s shift to safer, cleaner, reliable, and more sustainable energy by working alongside trusted partners to power businesses, uplift communities, and drive longterm growth whilst limiting impact on the environment for future generations.
VALUES At Easigas, the company takes ownership of its actions, leads with integrity, and treats every person with respect. It embraces bold ideas and creativity, pursues excellence in everything it does, and is uncompromising about safety to protect its people, customers, and communities.
MISSION STATEMENT Easigas delivers safer, cleaner, reliable, and more affordable energy solutions across Southern Africa, empowering households, businesses, and industries while driving economic growth, supporting livelihoods, and improving everyday life.
For more information visit www.easigas.com or Contact 0800 001 504
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
In its early years, the association operated largely as a technical and operational safety-focused organisation, undertaking responsibilities that included governmentmandated verification and permitting of LPG equipment, appliances, and cylinders. LPGSA played a critical role in establishing safety systems and compliance frameworks that enabled the industry to develop responsibly and gain public confidence. During this period, the association became the custodian of industry best practices, ensuring that LPG installations, cylinders, and equipment met the rigorous standards required to protect consumers and businesses alike. As the industry expanded, so too did LPGSA’s role. Recognising the growing need for skilled professionals, the association invested significantly in training and skills development. It developed comprehensive training programmes that support the certification and competency of LPG practitioners across residential, commercial, industrial, and autogas applications. Today, these programmes continue to contribute to a highly skilled workforce underpinning the safe and sustainable growth of the sector. LPGSA has also become an influential voice in shaping the regulatory and standards landscape of the industry. The association actively participates in the development and review of national standards, regulations, and
8 | Africa Outlook Issue 121
technical specifications, working closely with government departments, regulatory authorities, and standards-setting bodies. This collaboration ensures SA’s LPG regulatory framework remains aligned with international best practices whilst addressing local market conditions and safety requirements. Beyond safety and compliance, LPGSA has increasingly focused on driving industry growth and supporting national development priorities. The association plays a key role in supporting government initiatives aimed at expanding the use of LPG, including the implementation of strategic programmes such as the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Rollout Strategy and SA’s Closing the Clean Cooking Gap roadmap. These initiatives seek to improve access to cleaner, more reliable energy, particularly for households and communities that continue to rely on traditional fuels such as wood, coal, and paraffin. The association’s contribution extends to broader environmental and social objectives. By promoting LPG as a cleaner-burning fuel, LPGSA supports efforts to improve air quality, reduce harmful emissions, and address pollution-related health concerns. The organisation actively advocates for LPG’s role as a practical and immediately deployable solution in SA’s energy transition, offering significant benefits for both urban and rural communities.
Importantly, LPGSA recognises that industry growth must deliver tangible socioeconomic benefits. The association is actively involved in initiatives that support small business development, entrepreneurship, and job creation across the LPG value chain. Through training, mentorship, enterprise development programmes, and stakeholder partnerships, LPGSA contributes to building a more inclusive industry that creates opportunities for emerging businesses and skilled professionals. As SA continues to navigate complex energy challenges, LPGSA remains a trusted industry leader and strategic partner in the country’s development journey. From its origins as a safety-focused technical body to its current role as a multifaceted industry association, LPGSA has consistently evolved alongside the sector it serves. Its continued leadership in safety, skills development, advocacy, standards development, environmental stewardship, and socioeconomic transformation ensures that it remains a cornerstone of the LPG industry’s growth and success, both now and into the future.
AO: Can you outline how the association promotes the safe, sustainable, and responsible use of LPG across the South African industry landscape? GD: Promoting the safe, sustainable, and responsible use of LPG is at the core of LPGSA’s mandate. As the representative body of SA’s LPG industry, the association employs a multifaceted approach that combines consumer education, industry training, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory support to strengthen safety and compliance across the entire LPG value chain. One of LPGSA’s key initiatives is its consumerfocused awareness programmes, such as the “LPG is Safe” campaign. Through public education, community outreach, digital platforms, and safety awareness, the campaign equips consumers with the knowledge required to use LPG safely in their homes and businesses. These initiatives help build public confidence in LPG whilst promoting the correct handling, storage, and use of LPG cylinders and appliances. Africa Outlook Issue 121 | 9
Recognising the important role entrepreneurs, retailers, and operators play in the industry value chain, LPGSA also delivers targeted programmes such as the “Make LPG Safe for Your Community” workshops. These engagements provide practical guidance on safety, compliance, business operations, and community awareness, helping operators and small businesses become advocates for safe LPG practices within their local communities. LPGSA further supports the broader regulatory environment by providing capacity-building programmes for regulators, inspectors, and law-enforcement agencies. Through technical training, industry guidance, and collaboration with government stakeholders, the association assists authorities in understanding LPG regulations, identifying non-compliant activities, and strengthening enforcement efforts that protect consumers and promote fair industry practices. A critical pillar of LPGSA’s work is industry training and skills development. The association supports the development of competent LPG practitioners through training programmes covering areas such as LPG safety and handling, residential, commercial, and industrial installations, autogas conversions, cylinder refilling operations, tanker maintenance practices, and regulatory compliance. These programmes help ensure that industry personnel possess the knowledge and skills required to operate safely and professionally. Ultimately, LPGSA believes that sustainable industry growth can only be achieved through a strong culture of safety, compliance, and competency. By educating consumers, empowering entrepreneurs, supporting regulators, and developing industry skills, the association continues to advance the responsible use of LPG whilst contributing to SA’s energy security, economic development, and clean energy transition objectives. 10 | Africa Outlook Issue 121
AO: Can you talk us through your member base and how you promote their group interests to both government and industry stakeholders? GD: LPGSA’s membership represents the full LPG value chain, encompassing importers, wholesalers, distributors, cylinder and equipment suppliers, installers, retailers, and technical service providers. Whilst members operate across different segments of the industry, they share a common objective: growing the safe, sustainable, and compliant use of LPG in SA. This alignment enables LPGSA to effectively represent the collective interests of its members on matters such as regulatory developments, national standards, industry transformation, market growth, and safety compliance. As the recognised representative body for the LPG industry, LPGSA works closely with government departments, regulators, standards authorities, and industry stakeholders to ensure that the sector’s views and priorities are appropriately considered in policy and regulatory discussions. The authority facilitates industry forums and committees established under mandates delegated by the Department of Employment and Labour. These platforms bring together industry stakeholders to discuss key issues affecting the sector, including safety, compliance, technical standards, and regulatory implementation. Through these engagements, the industry develops coordinated positions and recommendations that support both regulatory objectives and industry growth. In addition, LPGSA maintains several member-focused committees that address matters relevant to specific segments of the LPG value chain. Where targeted advocacy or representation is required, these committees formulate collective positions that inform the authority’s
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
engagement with government, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders. This structured approach ensures member concerns are accurately represented whilst advancing the broader interests of a safe, compliant, and growing LPG industry. AO: Can you tell us more about the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the importance of this legislation in the LPG industry? GD: The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act is the cornerstone of workplace and public safety legislation in SA. It provides the legal framework for the safe handling, storage, transportation, installation, and use of LPG. The industry is regulated under the OHS Act through the Pressure Equipment Regulations (PER), which establish the requirements for compliance, competency, and safety throughout the LPG value chain. Under these regulations, LPGSA has been mandated by the Department of Employment and Labour to administer several critical industry safety programmes, including: • LPG Cylinder Verification Scheme • Safe Appliance Verification Scheme • The registration, training, and skills development of LPG installers through the South African Qualification and Certification Committee (SAQCC) Gas.
These programmes play a vital role in ensuring that LPG equipment, installations, and practitioners meet the required safety standards and regulatory requirements. Beyond the regulations themselves, the LPG industry is governed by a comprehensive set of national standards, including the South African National Standards (SANS) that prescribes safe practices for LPG storage, distribution, installations, appliances, and cylinder management. Together, the OHS Act, PER, and the applicable SANS standards form the foundation upon which the LPG industry in SA operates. The importance of this legislative framework cannot be overstated. It protects consumers, workers, and communities by ensuring that LPG is handled safely and responsibly. Compliance with these requirements helps prevent accidents, injuries, property damage, and fatalities whilst also promoting professionalism and accountability across the industry. Ultimately, safety is not merely a regulatory obligation – it is fundamental to the sustainability and growth of the LPG sector. A strong compliance culture protects lives, builds public confidence in LPG as a clean energy source, and supports the industry’s long-term development. Conversely, ignorance of or failure to comply with the act and its regulations can have serious consequences, including safety incidents, legal penalties, and loss of life
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
AO: How do you ensure your members operate in an industry that is capable of meeting the requirements of the OHS Act? GD: Compliance with the OHS Act and associated regulations is a fundamental requirement for membership of LPGSA. All members are expected to comply with applicable legislation, regulations, and industry standards governing the LPG sector. In addition, members are bound by the LPGSA Code of Conduct, which requires them to uphold the highest standards of safety, professionalism, ethical conduct, and regulatory compliance. Whilst LPGSA is not a regulatory enforcement authority and is therefore limited in its ability to police members directly, the organisation plays a critical role in promoting a culture of compliance and continuous improvement throughout the industry. Membership carries an expectation that companies will act responsibly and consistently with the values and objectives of the association, which are centred on safety, compliance, and public protection. LPGSA further supports industry compliance through its administration and oversight of key industry mandates, including the Safe Appliance Verification Scheme, LPG Cylinder Verification Scheme, and authorised installers training. These initiatives help ensure that LPG appliances and cylinders supplied to the market in SA meet the required safety, quality, and compliance standards. Through these programmes, LPGSA works to minimise 12 | Africa Outlook Issue 121
the circulation of unsafe or non-compliant products and to protect consumers and industry stakeholders alike. Where instances of misconduct, non-compliance, or behaviour that undermines industry safety are identified, LPGSA takes such matters seriously. Membership does not provide immunity from accountability, and the association reserves the right to take appropriate action in accordance with its governance processes and membership requirements. This approach is essential to maintaining the integrity, credibility, and reputation of both the association and the broader LPG industry.
“WITH CONTINUED C O L L A B O R AT I O N B E T W E E N I N D U S T R Y, G O V E R N M E N T , A N D O T H E R S TA K E H O L D E R S , L P G HAS THE POTENTIAL TO BECOME A MAINSTREAM ENERGY SOLUTION FOR MILLIONS OF SOUTH AFRICANS” – GADIBOLAE DIHLABI, MANAGING DIRECTOR, L I Q U E F I E D P E T R O L E U M G A S A S S O C I AT I O N O F S O U T H AFRICA
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
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In addition, LPGSA invests significantly in industry education and capacity building. The association offers a range of safety, technical, and compliance training programmes that are accessible to all industry participants. These programmes are designed to strengthen understanding of legislative requirements, applicable standards, and best practices across the LPG value chain. To encourage greater participation and support ongoing professional development, LPGSA members benefit from preferential rates on training and related compliance initiatives. Through these measures, LPGSA actively promotes a safe, compliant, and professional LPG industry capable of meeting the requirements of the OHS Act and contributing to the protection of workers, consumers, and the public. AO: How do you envisage the LPG industry in SA developing by the end of the decade? GD: The LPG industry in SA is poised for significant growth by 2030, driven by increasing demand, the need for a diversified energy mix, and growing recognition of LPG as a clean, reliable, and affordable energy solution. As the country continues to address energy security challenges and pursue a just energy transition, LPG is well-positioned
to play a larger role in residential, commercial, industrial, and transport energy applications. We expect to see increased adoption of LPG in household cooking and heating, particularly in communities where access to reliable electricity remains a challenge. At the same time, commercial and industrial users are likely to expand their use of LPG as an efficient alternative energy source that supports productivity whilst reducing emissions compared to more carbon-intensive fuels. Government initiatives aimed at promoting cleaner energy solutions and reducing reliance on traditional solid fuels could further accelerate LPG uptake, especially in underserved and rural communities. Programmes focused on clean cooking and energy access have already demonstrated the positive social, environmental, and health benefits that LPG can deliver. A key growth opportunity lies in the development of the autogas market. Internationally, LPG is widely used as a vehicle fuel, offering lower emissions, reduced fuel costs, and improved air quality compared to conventional petrol and diesel. SA has the potential to develop a vibrant autogas sector, particularly within commercial fleets, public transport, logistics operations, and high-mileage vehicles. Africa Outlook Issue 121 | 13
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
As fuel costs continue to place pressure on businesses and consumers, autogas presents a practical and costeffective alternative that can contribute to both economic and environmental objectives. The expansion of autogas infrastructure and vehicle conversion programmes could become an important driver of LPG demand over the coming years. To support this growth, continued investment in LPG infrastructure will be essential. This includes import and storage facilities, cylinder distribution networks, bulk installations, autogas refuelling infrastructure, and skills development across the value chain. Expanding infrastructure will improve security of supply, enhance market accessibility, and enable wider adoption of LPG throughout the country. However, sustainable growth will depend on maintaining the highest standards of safety and compliance. As the market expands, the industry must continue to prioritise consumer education, installer competency, enforcement of regulations, and adherence to national standards to ensure that growth is achieved responsibly. By 2030, we envisage a larger, more mature LPG industry that makes a meaningful contribution to SA’s energy landscape. Through expanding clean cooking initiatives, supporting industrial growth, improving energy access, and advancing the development of autogas, LPG can play a significant role in the country’s energy transition whilst delivering economic, environmental, and social benefits. With continued collaboration between industry, government, and other stakeholders, LPG has the potential to become a mainstream energy solution for millions of South Africans. AO: Lastly, what are LPGSA’s key priorities in order to ensure the sustainable growth of the industry through safety compliance and business practices? GD: LPGSA’s priorities are centred on creating an industry that is safe, compliant, inclusive, and capable of supporting SA’s long-term energy and economic development goals. The association believes sustainable industry growth can only be achieved through a combination of strong safety standards, regulatory compliance, consumer education, infrastructure investment, and skills development. A key priority is the expansion of clean cooking programmes that improve access to safe and cleaner energy solutions for households and schools. Through the Healthy Flames Healthy Minds programme, LPGSA is working with schools, government, and industry partners to promote the adoption of LPG for school nutrition programmes and household cooking applications. These programmes not only improve health and environmental 14 | Africa Outlook Issue 121
outcomes but also demonstrate the practical benefits of LPG in improving quality of life and energy access. Another strategic focus is supporting the growth of lastmile LPG distribution networks. LPGSA is committed to facilitating skills development and enterprise support for local distributors and small businesses that play a critical role in delivering LPG to communities. By strengthening compliant local distribution networks, the industry can expand access to clean cooking whilst creating employment opportunities and supporting the growth of SMEs. Safety compliance also remains a cornerstone of LPGSA’s mandate. The association continues to work closely with regulators, fire departments, municipalities, and law-enforcement agencies to identify and address illegal and non-compliant activities within the market. Tackling unsafe installations, non-compliant appliances, unauthorised cylinder filling, and other illegal practices is
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
essential to protecting consumers, maintaining industry credibility, and ensuring a level playing field for compliant operators. LPGSA is also prioritising stronger collaboration with regulators, customs authorities, and enforcement agencies to prevent the importation and sale of non-compliant LPG equipment and appliances. Ensuring that cylinders, appliances, and related equipment meet SA’s regulatory and safety requirements is critical to reducing risk and maintaining public confidence in LPG as a safe energy source. Looking ahead, LPGSA sees significant potential in the development of autogas as part of SA’s future energy and mobility landscape. The association is actively advocating for the adoption of LPG as a cleaner alternative transport fuel, particularly for commercial fleets, public transport, and high-mileage vehicles. Autogas offers the potential to reduce vehicle emissions, improve urban air quality, lower
operating costs, and support SA’s broader environmental objectives. Ultimately, LPGSA’s vision is to build a thriving LPG industry that contributes meaningfully to energy security, clean cooking, economic development, and environmental sustainability. By advancing safety compliance, supporting industry transformation, expanding market access, and promoting innovative applications such as autogas, the association is committed to ensuring the sector’s sustainable growth for years to come.
Tel: +27 11 886-9702 Info@lpgas.co.za www.lpgas.co.za Africa Outlook Issue 121 | 15
Tel: +27 11 886-9702 Email: Info@lpgas.co.za www.lpgas.co.za @LPGASA @LPGASA LPGas Association of South Africa @lpgasa @lpgassafetyassociationofso8717
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