ARMROSGAZPROM: GAS MOST AVAILABLE ENERGY RESOURCE

PanARMENIAN.Net
April 7, 2010 – 12:06 AMT 07:06 GMT

Despite the rise in prices, gas remains the most available energy
resource in Armenia, a spokesperson for ArmRosgazprom said.

"The company has numerously expressed concerns over the socio-economic
situation caused by the rise in prices. But gas can’t be sold below
cost," Shushan Sardaryan told a PanARMENIAN.Net reporter.

She also remarked that the number of gas consumers has increased by
10 000, totaling 600 000 as of April 1, 2010.

The gas prices in Armenia went up from AMD 96 to 132 per cu m.

Enterprises consuming over 10 000 cubic meters monthly pay $243.13
per 1000 cu m. The Public Services Regulatory Commission explained
the 37% rise in prices for population and 13% for enterprises by a 17%
up for Russian gas, AMD/USD reference exchange rate, 20% reduction in
natural gas consumption and necessity to compensate ArmRosgazprom’s
investments.