Govt directs completion of CNG station construction
DAR ES SALAAM: DEPUTY Permanent Secretary of the Energy Ministry, Dr James Mataragio, has instructed Sinoma International Engineering Co. Ltd., the Chinese company constructing a compressed natural gas (CNG) refilling station near the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), to complete the project by December this year.
Dr Mataragio issued the directive during a recent visit to the project site, emphasising that the initiative aligns with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s strategy to promote clean energy adoption.
“This is among President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s strategies to promote the use of the clean energy. This is why we want it complete and start operations,” he emphasised.
The Director of Downstream Operations at the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), Mr Emanuel Gilbert, said the new facility will serve residents of Morogoro, Mbeya and Tanga, enabling access to natural gas through specialised transportation vehicles.
“In addition to servicing vehicles in Dar es Salaam, we will acquire new vehicles to expand gas delivery services to customers in other regions. By December, individuals in these areas can establish their own gas stations and engage with TPDC for gas supply,” Gilbert explained.
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Tanzania boasts an estimated 230 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, with 57.5 trillion cubic feet already confirmed, ranking the nation 82nd globally.
Gas extraction from Songosongo Island in Kilwa District and Msimbati in Mtwara Region currently supports electricity generation and industrial operations.
The Tanzania Natural Gas Utilisation Master Plan 2016-2045 allocates 8.8 trillion cubic feet for electricity, 500 billion cubic feet for households, 3.6 trillion cubic feet for industries, and 600 billion cubic feet for vehicles.
Key refilling stations currently include the main station in Ubungo, serving over 800 vehicles daily, the Tazara station managed by Enric Gas Technology Tanzania Limited with a capacity of 300 vehicles daily, and the Airport station accommodating 1,200 vehicles daily.
TPDC, in partnership with the private sector, plans to establish an additional 30 gas refilling stations across Dar es Salaam, including locations such as Muhimbili, Kibaha, the University of Dar es Salaam, Sinza, Mwenge, Goba, Mbezi Beach and Mbagala.
Furthermore, TPDC aims to introduce dedicated natural gas transportation vehicles to enhance accessibility and convenience at these new stations.
