Lagos plans CNG-powered buses by end of 2024

• Published On: 19 July 2024 at 20:48

The Lagos State Government has announced intentions to use compressed natural gas-powered buses for public transport by the fourth quarter of 2024, barring any unforeseen obstacles.

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority introduced this effort as part of a larger strategy to use biogas as an alternative fuel source for state-regulated buses, with the goal of reducing emissions and aligning with the government's target of net-zero emissions by 2050.

According to LAMATA's Head of Corporate Communication, the deployment of CNG-powered buses is an important step towards improving environmental sustainability in Lagos. The move coincides with efforts to convert the public transport fleet from old fossil fuels to cleaner options.

The news comes after government officials received a detailed assessment and feasibility report on alternative fuels for public transport on July 18, 2024.

The study, carried out in conjunction with CPCS Transcom Limited and Nexant Consulting and funded by Swede Fund, found biogas as the ideal alternative fuel for Lagos' bus system.

The study identified several potential feedstock sources for biogas production, including sewage from treatment facilities, organic waste from homes and markets, abattoir waste, and animal manure.

It also outlined important project stages such as feedstock collection, transportation, storage, processing, biogas production, and integration with the state-run public bus system.

The Lagos State Government is actively studying biofuel solutions for public transport, with continuing studies and partnerships aimed at assessing the viability and impact of alternative fuels.

This effort is part of a larger mobility policy announced by the state government to reduce environmental impact and improve climate resilience, especially given Lagos' coastal location.

Under this programme, the government plans to ensure that 52% of buses in the Bus Rapid Transit scheme run on renewable energy and to expand the use of biodiesel in goods vehicles. The transport strategy includes additional policies and initiatives to promote sustainable fuel usage and reduce emissions throughout the state's transport sector.

As preparations for the deployment of CNG-powered buses progress, stakeholders remain positive about the potential benefits of switching to cleaner fuels, emphasising the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainability in urban transportation planning.