Boost for South Australian fuel supplies

A new Adelaide facility has lifted local fuel storage by 50 per cent, which will help spur economic growth across the state.

South Australia's fuel supplies are more secure following the opening of a new storage facility in Adelaide.

Caltex Australia will supply petrol, diesel and biodiesel from the 85 million litre Pelican Point facility.

It was developed with a combined $100 million investment from Caltex, Terminals Pty Ltd and Flinders Ports, and will also allow larger fuel-carrying tankers to berth at Outer Harbor.

Caltex Australia general manager for supply chain Andrew Brewer says the extra capacity will lift total storage in Adelaide by about 50 per cent and help underpin the state's economic growth.

"Storage and shipping capacity constraints have contributed to a number of fuel shortages across Adelaide and South Australia over recent years, especially following weather-related disruptions to shipping movements into Port Adelaide," he said.

"This facility is a very clear demonstration of our commitment to South Australia as it grows.

"We're investing alongside our customers so that industries such as mining, transport and agriculture can invest in the confidence that they have a safe and reliable supply of fuel."

The new facility is owned by Terminals Pty Ltd, with Caltex taking a 25-year lease to provide fuel to local service stations.

SA Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis said the new facility offered both motorists and industry peace of mind over fuel supplies.

"Fuel is the blood of our economy," he said. "You can't have a growing economy without a stable and reliable fuel supply."