Dar es Salaam, Tanzania—Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is steadily gaining traction as a clean, affordable, and locally sourced energy solution in Tanzania. Speaking exclusively to Tanzania Petroleum, Mr. Greyson Kiondo, Chairman & CEO of Cleanergies Ltd and Petrogas Field Services Ltd, outlined the key benefits of CNG for households, businesses, and industries, emphasizing its role in the country’s sustainable energy transition.
What is CNG?
“CNG, or Compressed Natural Gas, is a fuel made by compressing natural gas into a smaller volume for storage and transport,” explained Kiondo. “It is a clean-burning energy source derived from Tanzania’s abundant natural gas reserves, eliminating reliance on imported fuels.”
Kiondo highlighted the wide range of CNG applications, from cooking and vehicle fuel to industrial heating, furnace operations, and biomedical waste incineration in hospitals.
Transformative Benefits for Tanzanians.
Kiondo emphasized the transformative potential of CNG, particularly for everyday Tanzanians.
1. Cleaner and Safer.
“CNG is far cleaner than traditional fuels like charcoal, firewood, petrol, or diesel,” he said. “It emits fewer harmful gases, significantly reducing indoor and outdoor air pollution. Additionally, it’s safer, with a lower risk of fires or explosions compared to other fuels.”
2 . Affordable Energy.
As a cost-effective option, CNG can reduce household and business expenses. “It is more affordable than biomass, petrol, or diesel, enabling families and enterprises to save on energy costs,” Kiondo noted.
3. Health Improvements.
By minimizing harmful emissions, CNG contributes to better air quality. “This is particularly crucial in densely populated urban areas, where traditional fuels exacerbate respiratory problems,” he said.
4. Environmental Sustainability.
“CNG plays a vital role in reducing Tanzania’s carbon footprint,” Kiondo added. “Its lower greenhouse gas emissions align with global climate action goals while mitigating local pollution.”
A Homegrown Solution.
Tanzania’s extensive natural gas reserves position CNG as a strategic energy solution for national development. “This is not just about cleaner energy; it’s about leveraging local resources to empower communities, reduce costs, and create jobs,” Kiondo stated.
Call to Action
Kiondo urged stakeholders, including policymakers, businesses, and civil society, to champion the adoption of CNG. “Awareness is key,” he said. “We need to educate the public about the economic, health, and environmental benefits of CNG.”
Conclusion
As Tanzania seeks sustainable and cost-efficient energy alternatives, CNG offers a practical solution. Backed by local resources and championed by advocates like Cleanergies, the fuel could play a pivotal role in the nation’s clean energy future, benefiting households and industries alike.
