Energy crisis in Abuja
From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
CAR owners in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), are being confronted with whether to switch to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)’ or not. The nation’s capital has been grappling with intermittent fuel shortages.
This situation often leads to long queues at petrol stations, hike in the price of petrol. Amidst the turmoil, CNG, primarily composed of methane gas compressed to high pressures, is gradually gaining traction as a viable alternative.
The Federal Government introduced CNG as alternative fuel after it removed the subsidy on petrol in 2023. It claimed that gas is abundant, cheaper and burns cleaner than conventional fossil fuels, thereby reducing harmful emissions and contributing to improved air quality.
Despite the mouth watering benefits that this alternative energy source offers for transportation, many drivers and car owners are still reluctant to key in due concerns around cost of conversion, availability of refueling stations and safety concerns. Accessing CNG in Abuja Abuja currently boasts a growing network of CNG stations across key locations.
These stations are equipped with modern refueling infrastructure to cater to private vehicles, commercial fleets and industrial consumers. Most of the CNG stations also offer conversion services for petrol and diesel vehicles to run on CNG. This involves installing CNG tanks and modifying the engine to ensure compatibility and safety.
Omolara Obileye, Business Development and Strategist, Presidential CNG Initiative (Pi-CNG), said: “There are over 50 conversion centres in the FCT (the list keeps growing), however, only 12 were government verified as at the last count. There are plans to launch a mobile application which will indicate the nearest CNG conversion centre or dispensing centre to drivers and car owners.
“ Some of the places where CNG stations are located in Abuja include: Central Business District (CBD), Jabi, Utako, Kubwa ExpressWay, Along the Airport Road and Lugbe. Cost CNG is sold at between N320 – N350 per comparable litre to PMS. Conversion cost depends on the size and number of cylinders but typically ranges between N700,000 to N1.8m.
Folajimi Mohammed, Managing Director, Portland Gas, said: “CNG-powered vehicles slash fuel costs by 76 per cent compared to petrol. “Looking at fuel cost savings only for 100,800km a year and cost of CNG conversion is N1.2m it will take almost a year for a typical car owner to recover their cost of conversion. Despite fears about fire risks, CNG is lighter than air, and is structured to minimize the chances of ignition.
“P-CNGI registers converted vehicle owners for carbon credits. The cost effectiveness of the system will help car owners recoup cost of conversions within a year.
“We are seeing close to about 76 per cent savings in cost alone. Without a doubt, we know that adoption of CNG is almost inevitable. Is it safe? I am sure this is a very pertinent question everybody has asked. Why do I have gas in my truck? What happens in the event of an explosion?
“Let us make this understandable. The component of CNG is methane. CH4 is lighter than air.When we mean lighter than air, in the event there is any release of it, it goes and expresses into the air.
“Have there been incidents? Yes, there has been. But the chances are extremely very narrow. CNG tanks and systems are designed with robust safety features, making CNG a safe fuel option when installed by certified professionals. – Regular maintenance and inspection of the CNG system is recommended to ensure continued safe operation.
“Due to the inability to adulterate gas, it offers superior combustion compared to any other fuel.
“Because CNG refueling stations are currently limited, the conversion still accommodates provision for alternative fueling options.
“Conversion kits are available for dedicated CNG and bi-fuel. A hybrid system allows the vehicle to run on either natural Gas, as the primary fuel, or gasoline as the reserve fuel.
“When the natural gas runs out, the engine is switched over to gasoline either manually with a dashboard switch, or automatically.
“Dual fuel vehicles are well suited for applications in which much of the driving is in an urban area, serviced by a CNG fill station, but where occasional long-distance trips are required.”
The Federal Government introduced a 100 per cent subsidy for CNG conversions for all unionised commercial drivers nationwide, beginning in the FCT. Ride-sharing companies, including e-hailing services are receiving a 50 per cent discount on conversion kits, along with complimentary installation.
