TAQA Dalbit has announced the commissioning of Tanzania’s first integrated Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) filling station and conversion centre branded Master Gas, located at Pugu Road-Airport Area in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The project was developed by TAQA Dalbit, a Joint Venture (JV) between TAQA Arabia and JCG Oil & Gas, to bolster the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation’s quest to increase the use of its natural gas reserves, which offers a cleaner and cheaper alternative to consumers.
Dr Doto Mashaka Biteko, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy of Tanzania, who presided over the commissioning ceremony, lauded TAQA Arabia and JCG Oil & Gas for their joint investment and support to the government.
“We are on the cusp of a transformative shift in Tanzania’s energy landscape,” said Dr Biteko. “We are ushering in an era of sustainable energy solutions. The new CNG Filling Station and Conversion Center is a monumental achievement by TAQA Dalbit, demonstrating 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% less CO2. CNG is on average, 50% cheaper for the consumer than liquid fuel. This filling station will increase consumption of clean energy that has minimal carbon content and is environmentally friendly.
The CNG Station has a capacity of 11,000 KG of CNG (7600 sqm of compressed gas) that can serve up to 800 vehicles daily, while the conversion centre will have the capacity to convert 1,000 vehicles/year. The conversion centre will convert all types of vehicles from passenger cars, multi-utility vehicles, sports utility vehicles, buses, and trucks.
The CNG station is the first of 12 stations TAQA Dalbit plans to deploy in the coming years in Tanzania to support the government’s strategic plans and increase the use of CNG as a cleaner, more affordable alternative fuel.
Mr Rikin Shah, Group CEO of JCG, speaking during the ceremony, said through this joint venture, the group’s vision of building a sustainable future is being realized. “We have been present in Tanzania for the last 15 years providing fuel solutions through Dalbit Tanzania, which was established in 2008,” said Mr Shah.
Natural gas is a more sustainable alternative energy source compared to petrol and diesel. Coming at a time when the cost of living is rising, CNG station will provide a cheaper alternative for motorists, who can seamlessly convert their vehicles at the centre.
TAQA Arabia CEO Ms Pakinam Kafafi said this is a major milestone for TAQA Arabia, a leading energy provider and a pioneer in CNG technology.
