Expert warns against makeshift CNG kits’ installation

Under no circumstances should anyone be allowed to install makeshift Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) kits or a welded tank on any vehicles, an industry expert, Olugbenga Awe, has said.

The advice, he said has become imperative following last week explosion of a CNG vehicle during refuelling at a NIPCO Filling Station in Benin-City, Edo State capital.

He noted that there have been concerns about the safety of CNG systems, including potential leaks or explosion risks due to misuse of makeshift CNG kits and tanks.

He suggested that proper kits and tanks from reputable manufacturers needed to be strictly utilised until the time Nigeria is able to manufacture home-grown approved and certified kits and tanks inline with international safety standards and good manufacturing processes.

“Strict adherence to safety standards, regular inspections, and education about safety practices can enhance confidence in CNG systems,” he said.

He added that converting petrol vehicles to CNG has presented certain challenges due to inadequately-equipped industry participants, but that with proper training of mechanics, Nigeria can safely kickstart quest towards energy independence.

“With proper training of mechanics, usage of quality CNG Conversion kits and tanks, as well clearly established government’s standards, the industry can correctly and safely kickstart Nigeria’s quest towards energy independence as it pertains to the transportation industry,” Awe said.

He warned that the unqualified and untrained individuals installing CNG kits could cause unnecessary problems in performance and safety issues to arise.

He advised that certified technicians and mechanics that have gone through a certification course via an Accredited CNG Training Centre should be the only individuals in Nigeria allowed to install CNG kits and tanks.

Besides, the expert called on the government to give incentives or subsidies that can help offset the costs of conversion kits, tank and installation.

Local Nigerian banks, he said should also provide microloans to subscribers with repayment periods of 24 to 36 months, allowing the savings generated in refilling with CNG to more than make up for the cost of the kits.

He argued that the initial cost of a conversion kits, tank and installation may be difficult and high for certain individuals.

On limited CNG refuelling infrastructure in most areas, he urged for the development of mother stations and expanding CNG refuelling/daughter stations throughout the country, calling for partnerships with existing fuel providers to improve access to the masses.

On the issue that CNG vehicles may have a shorter driving range compared to petrol vehicles due to the storage capacity of CNG tanks, Awe suggested that installing larger tanks or dual-fuel systems could help to significantly increase range “as is the case in many nations throughout the world.”

On performance and maintenance, he said: “Drivers may notice differences in performance, and CNG vehicles may require different maintenance practices.

“Providing comprehensive training for mechanics and clear guidelines for drivers on maintenance will mitigate these issues.  CNG burns cleaner than regular petrol and is actually easier on the engine, thereby increasing the life of the vehicle.”

“Advocacy for standardised regulations and creating a clear framework for CNG vehicles will facilitate and streamline conversions,” he said

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