The U.S. Department of Energy has authorized the emergency release of four million barrels of crude oil from strategic reserves to be made available to two oil companies. The aim is to make up for supply disruptions following a hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico.

Based on a statement by the ministry on Saturday, the companies receiving the oil must return the borrowed oil next year and with the agreed additional amount. The Energy Department says the measure strengthens reserves without any new cost to taxpayers.

Chris Wright, U.S. Energy Secretary, said: “With this emergency exchange, the Department of Energy is acting quickly to keep refineries operating, limit fuel supply disruptions, and ensure that American families and businesses have access to affordable, reliable energy.”

He added: “These exchanges require Exxon and BP to return more oil than is being withdrawn today and will save millions of dollars for taxpayers.”