Did you know?
The lifecycle of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) cylinder is at least 15 years. After this period, cylinders must be inspected, replaced, or removed to ensure safety and optimal performance. This standard is consistent worldwide, reflecting a commitment to safe and sustainable energy solutions.
Global CNG Policies and Success Stories:
• India: The Indian government has actively promoted the adoption of CNG, especially in public transportation. Cities like Delhi have mandated using CNG for buses and auto-rickshaws, significantly reducing air pollution and enhancing public health. As of 2024, India plans to establish 20,000 CNG stations by 2030 to support its growing fleet of gas-based vehicles, reinforcing its commitment to cleaner fuel.
• Malaysia: Malaysia’s government has promoted CNG usage among taxicabs and airport limousines since the late 1990s. With the removal of fuel subsidies beginning in 2008, the country saw a 500% increase in new CNG cylinder installations, especially among private vehicle owners. Recently, Malaysia launched a program to recall and replace all cylinders installed 15 years ago, providing free replacement to ensure continued safety and compliance.
• Canada: Enbridge Gas Distribution, Canada’s largest natural gas distribution company, operates one of North America’s largest natural gas vehicle fleets, with over 675 natural gas vehicles. This initiative has reduced fuel costs and aligns with corporate social responsibility goals, setting a standard for CNG fleet adoption.
• Germany: The Volkswagen Group, in collaboration with industrial partners, has been promoting CNG as part of a national strategy to achieve 1 million CNG vehicles on German roads by 2025. This commitment represents a significant investment in alternative fuels and highlights the role of public-private partnerships in advancing sustainable fuel options.
How Does This Align with Nigeria’s CNG Policy?
In Nigeria, the PCNGI initiative actively tracks all vehicles converted to CNG, creating a comprehensive safety network for cylinder monitoring. A Nigerian Gas Vehicle Monitoring System is in development, which will simplify the process for vehicle owners to bring in hybrid or fully converted cars when cylinder replacements are due. This way, authorised technicians can safely replace or remove your cylinders after 15 years.
Should You Worry?
No need! The savings you’ll gain from using CNG will far outweigh the lifespan of the cylinder, offering peace of mind and economic benefits. Most drivers save substantially over time with CNG, covering both fuel costs and maintenance savings.
Fuel Savings:
With petrol and diesel prices exceeding 1,000 naira per litre, switching to CNG—currently priced at 230 naira per litre—provides significant cost savings for you. And remember, a litre of CNG equates to multiple litres of petrol, enhancing these savings even further.
FACT OF THE DAY:
The PCNGi is on track to deliver 100,000 CNG conversion kits by the end of this year, with about half of this target already installed and more conversions happening daily. Their near-term goal is to convert at least 1 million vehicles by 2027, ensuring the infrastructure and resources are in place to support the demand.
Who is Switching?
• Transporters are converting to CNG to benefit from reduced costs.
• Major Nigerian manufacturers are converting trucks and factory operations to CNG, embracing cleaner and cost-effective fuel solutions.
• Rideshare drivers (such as Uber) who have converted are already making up to 5x profits due to lower fuel costs.
Visit an authorised conversion centre to make the switch today. Nigeria is shifting to safer, more affordable, and readily available CNG. The choice to #SwitchToCNG is yours.
