from ALLOYCE KIMBUNGA in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania
Tanzania Bureau
DAR-ES-SALAAM, (CAJ News) – TANZANIA has unveiled its first integrated compressed natural gas (CNG) filling station and conversion centre.
The pioneering project is hailed as a monumental leap towards a sustainable, greener and economically efficient future for the East African country.
Named “Master Gas”, it is developed by TAQA Dalbit, a collaboration between TAQA Arabia and JCG Oil and Gas.
Located in Dar es Salaam, it aims to bolster the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation’s resolve to increase the use of its natural gas reserves, which offers a cleaner and cheaper alternative to consumers.
It is the first of 12 stations TAQA Dalbit plans to deploy in the coming years in Tanzania.
Dr Doto Mashaka Biteko, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy of Tanzania, presided over the commissioning ceremony.
“We are on the cusp of a transformative shift in Tanzania’s energy landscape,” he said.
“The new CNG Filling Station and Conversion Center is a monumental achievement by TAQA Dalbit, demonstrates our nation’s technological prowess and commitment to a sustainable, greener and economically efficient future.”
CNG-powered passenger vehicles are estimated to emit about 25 percent less carbon dioxide, or CO2. CNG is on average, 50 percent cheaper than liquid fuel.
The CNG station has a capacity of 11 000 kg of CNG (7 600m² of compressed gas) capable of serving up to 800 vehicles daily, while the conversion center will have the capacity to convert 1 000 vehicles/year.
Pakinam Kafafi, CEO of TAQA Arabia, said the cost-effective and eco-friendly solution to Tanzania would enhance economic growth and reduce emissions.
“TAQA Arabia is also looking to add greater value to clients either with natural gas distribution, conventional and renewable power generation and distribution, and other utility services that the company provides,” Kafafi said.
– CAJ News