Venezuela's fuel consumption to rise

CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) -- Venezuela's government says domestic oil consumption is likely to rise roughly 100,000 barrels a day as dozens of new power plants are put into operation to curb electricity shortages.

Oil Minister Rafael Ramirez says the nearly 17 percent increase in domestic use during the coming months could force Venezuela to reduce exports.

Ramirez said Wednesday that the government aims to generate an additional 5,000 megawatts of electricity with the new plants by the end of the year. They will be equipped mostly with diesel-powered generators.

Venezuela currently consumes about 600,000 barrels a day of petroleum derivatives, including diesel fuel, gasoline and lubricants.

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