Bisola David
The Lagos State Government had emphasised the dangers of gas-powered generators and encouraged the safe conversion of petrol for home use in the wake of the removal of subsidies.
Nairametrics reported that the LASG has warned that using alternative fuels like LPG or CNG to power generators and plants has a number of advantages, but it also has some side effects that must be dealt with to prevent anything bad from happening.
The State Government recommended that residents convert a petrol generator to run on alternate, less expensive fuels by hiring only qualified persons.
According to a statement made by the Director-General of the Lagos State protection Commission, Lanre Mojola, the government of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is committed to safeguarding the protection of the lives and property of State citizens.
According to him, the main benefit of using CNG and LPG is that both fuels are often less expensive than petrol, which could result in long-term cost savings. Additionally, CNG and LPG fuels are cleaner and less air-polluting.
“Natural Gas and LPG are often more abundant and domestically sourced in some regions than petrol,” he stated.
“Compared to the combustion of petrol, CNG and LPG make less noise. As a result, the operation of the generator is quieter, which might be advantageous for residential use as it reduces noise pollution.”
However, Mojola noted the dangers and risks associated with switching to LPG-powered generators in homes and workplaces, including:
“An explosion could happen if the generator house is not adequately ventilated. LPG has the potential to explode if not handled properly. Gas cylinders run the risk of toppling and releasing their contents if they are not put on even flooring.
“Other dangers and risks include gas cylinder corrosion, which can happen when they are exposed to moisture or rain.”
He also claimed that direct sunlight exposure, which raises the temperature of cylinders, increases their danger of exploding.
He added that using substandard, worn-out or expired cylinders significantly raises the risk of a gas explosion and that using CNG for residential generating units should be avoided.
In addition, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Ms. Shola Shasore, commented on the development and noted that it is crucial to keep in mind that converting a petrol generator to use alternative fuels may necessitate modifications and the installation of suitable conversion kits by trained professionals.
“The general public is thus cautioned to only use qualified technicians for this service, Shasore remarked. When in doubt, speak with the Lagos State Safety Commission or the Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources for advice on reputable installers as well as appropriate safety guidelines,” she said.
