By Patience Chat Moses
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has approved 80 standards for Compressed Natural Gas use in the country.
The national apex standards body said it took this step towards promoting safer, more reliable, and environmentally sustainable energy solutions.
According to a statement signed by SON’s Director of Public Relations, Mrs. Funsho Bolaji, the agency’s release of 80 approved standards covers various aspects of CNG utilization, including production, storage, transportation, and appliance compatibility.
The statement further revealed that the approval of the standards for CNG use in road vehicles and related appliances was part of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI).
Following the removal of fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023, many Nigerians have started converting their vehicles and generators to CNG to save cost. Compressed Natural Gas is gaining prominence as an alternative fuel, offering cleaner emissions and cost-effectiveness.
However, ensuring its safe and effective utilisation requires adherence to rigorous standards.
SON said its commitment to excellence and innovation has culminated in the development and approval of these standards, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s energy sector. It noted that the Presidential CNG Initiative aims to promote alternative fuel adoption as part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing energy diversification and sustainability.
The regulatory body also indicated that it collaborated with key regulatory agencies, including the National Mid-Stream Down-stream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), National Automotive Design and Development Council (NAADD) and Ministry of Finance Incorporation with each agency playing a crucial role in ensuring Nigeria’s readiness for CNG adoption.
The Organization assured that the approved standards would lead to safer CNG use, reduce environmental impact, and cost savings.
The Director General and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso, stated that “As more road vehicles and appliances transition to CNG, Nigeria can achieve energy security and contribute to global sustainability goals.”
He noted that with the standards in place, stakeholders must collaborate to implement them effectively while encouraging manufacturers and transportation stakeholders to embrace CNG as a viable and eco-friendly energy option.
“The release of these standards underscores Nigeria’s commitment to quality, safety, and progress in the energy sector. As the nation embraces CNG, it takes a significant stride toward a greener and more resilient future.
“The development of these standards was a collaborative effort, involving industry experts, regulators, and stakeholders nationwide. Adhering to these standards offers several advantages: Protects consumers, workers, and the environment.
“As the Standards Organisation of Nigeria releases these standards, we urge all stakeholders to wholeheartedly embrace them and prioritize effective implementation. Doing so ensures that CNG utilization adheres to the highest safety, quality, and environmental standards, providing an excellent alternative for fuel consumption,” the statement read in part.