Following a number of enquiries from constituents about the availability of Calor gas in the islands, Alasdair Allan raised the issue with representatives of the company this week.

The company predominantly supplies LPG to homes in rural areas that are not connected to the national gas grid, but their gas cylinders have been in higher demand since the summer of 2020 due to the UK’s pandemic-induced boom in staycations and outdoor socialising.

The recent supply difficulties in some areas have been a result of a shortage of the storage cylinders, as opposed to the gas itself. Supply chain delays have been caused by increased global steel demand, continued Covid-19 issues in manufacturing locations, and increased shipping demand worldwide as a result of the pandemic.

Alasdair Allan, MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, has spoken this week with representatives of Calor gas, emphasising the importance of this type of fuel for off-gas-grid communities. Commenting after the meeting he said:

“The representatives I spoke with have assured me that the key supply issues for the company’s cylinders are being tackled, and that they anticipate noticeable improvements for their customers in the coming weeks. As I emphasised, it is essential that all those living in the Western Isles are able to access the fuel they need to power their homes, no matter their location.

“Should anyone in the islands still be experiencing difficulties with sourcing the LPG they need, I would urge them to get in touch with me and I will endeavour to assist them as quickly as possible.”

Calor Gas have encouraged anyone with unused or empty cylinders to return them to the company to be refilled in order to continue to improve availability.