A second geographically targeted exemption applies to Arequipa, Moquegua, Tacna, Puno, Cusco, and Madre de Dios from August 17 to September 1. This measure suspends biofuel blending obligations for operators mixing ethanol with gasoline and B100 biodiesel with Diesel N° 2. The suspension allows distribution of non-blended fossil fuels in these regions, temporarily increasing the carbon footprint of transportation fuels normally required to contain renewable components derived from sugarcane ethanol and palm oil biodiesel.
The emergency declaration stems from multiple simultaneous supply disruptions. Refinería Talara has operated below capacity, while adverse weather conditions delayed the arrival of fuel import vessels. Most critically, protesters have blocked the Panamericana Sur highway between kilometers 728 and 782 in the Atico-Ocoña section since August 16, preventing the transport of B100 biodiesel and fuel-grade ethanol to the Mollendo terminal and southern distribution networks.
Director General of Hydrocarbons Alberto Agurto Saldaña signed the resolution under authority granted by Article 76 of the Hydrocarbons Organic Law and Supreme Decree N° 001-2011-EM, which authorize emergency measures when supply security faces threats. The ministry transmitted the resolution to energy regulator Osinergmin for enforcement oversight.
Both exemptions may terminate before their scheduled expiration dates if underlying supply conditions improve. Following the exemption periods, operators will have 15 calendar days to restore compliance with standard inventory and blending requirements. The resolution’s publication in El Peruano formalized measures addressing what technical assessments identified as imminent nationwide fuel shortages. The timing coincides with a congressional interpelation motion filed against Energy and Mines Minister Guillermo Shinno regarding fuel price increases and supply management.
This article was curated and published as part of our South American energy market coverage.
