In the heart of Tanzania’s commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, the Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) is pioneering a groundbreaking initiative. Behind the unassuming facade of DIT’s buildings along Morogoro Road, a dedicated team of technicians is diligently working to transform traditional gasoline-powered vehicles into environmentally friendly ones using Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).
Driving Innovation at DIT
DIT, a prominent educational institution in East Africa, is at the forefront of cutting-edge advancements. Among its latest innovations is the technology to modify vehicles, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional gasoline consumption.
The Environmental Impact of CNG
Gerutu Bosinge, the CNG workshop manager at DIT, emphasizes the environmental benefits of this technology. CNG is hailed as a clean energy source with significantly lower carbon dioxide emissions than traditional fossil fuels. Bosinge stresses that adopting natural gas as a vehicle fuel contributes to environmental preservation and helps mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.
Economic Advantages of CNG
Bosinge highlights the economic advantages of CNG, stating that it is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective. Compared to gasoline, using natural gas reduces costs by approximately 50%, making it an appealing choice for consumers like Frederick Michael Sanga, a satisfied CNG user who switched from gasoline three years ago.
Successful Conversions at DIT
DIT began researching vehicle modification from 2008 to 2018, achieving a breakthrough in 2018. Since then, DIT has converted over 800 cars from gasoline to CNG. Bosinge mentions that the workshop, fully funded by DIT, employs four full-time technicians supported by students. The conversion process takes one to two days per vehicle, with more inquiries from interested individuals.
Future Plans and Challenges
As DIT continues its successful vehicle conversions, plans are underway to extend the technology to diesel-powered vehicles by the end of the year. Bosinge urges authorities to reduce import duties on modification kits and gas cylinders to encourage wider adoption.
The institute also supports former students managing small workshops in Dar es Salaam, contributing to the proliferation of CNG technology.
Infrastructure Development
Despite the success in Dar es Salaam, the technology has yet to reach upcountry regions lacking natural gas supply. Bosinge remains optimistic, citing Tanzania’s substantial natural gas reserves of 1.61 trillion cubic meters, envisioning a bright future for promoting clean energy in the country.
A Call for Environmental Responsibility
Sanga, a converted vehicle owner, emphasizes individuals’ role in environmental conservation. He urges fellow citizens to consider modifying their vehicles to use CNG, contributing to a greener future and the protection of Mother Nature.
Original Article:https://english.news.cn/20220424/fe6c0355275a49628c3b939ee44e4bb7/c.html
