5 African Countries Leading EV and CNG Usage in Africa

Recently, Nigeria marked a significant step forward in its green energy initiatives by inaugurating 12 new compressed natural gas (CNG) stations in Abuja and Lagos. 

This shift involves electric vehicles (EVs) and compressed natural gas (CNG), alternative fuels that promise a cleaner, greener future. The stations are a key part of a larger push by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to enhance CNG infrastructure across the nation.

In a recent press release, Mallam Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, announced plans to further expand these efforts by constructing three new Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) stations in Ajaokuta.

Kyari emphasized the commitment to this path, stating, “There is simply no turning back from our commitment to make CNG accessible to all Nigerians. Although we’re a bit late to the game, we are determined to bridge the gap and ensure that the fluctuations we see with Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) are not repeated with gas.”

So, why this shift? Well, the benefits are clear: less pollution, lower fuel costs, and a big reduction in carbon emissions. 

This movement towards electric vehicles (EVs) and CNG as alternative fuel sources is gaining momentum across Africa, propelled by the urgent need to cut carbon emissions, reduce fuel costs, and bolster energy security. 

As of 2022, Africa’s total natural gas consumption reached approximately 5,745 billion cubic feet, with Egypt and Algeria leading as the top consumers at over 2,122 billion cubic feet and 1,693 billion cubic feet respectively. Here’s a look at the African countries that are front-runners in adopting EV and CNG technologies.

South Africa

Down in South Africa, the electric buzz is real. With around 1,000 electric vehicles, up from just 400 in 2019 cruising its roads, the nation is a frontrunner on the continent. The South African government isn’t just sitting back and watching; they’re incentivizing this shift. 

To support this growth, the South African government has rolled out tax incentives for EV buyers and heavily invested in developing a robust charging infrastructure, with over 200 public charging stations mainly located in urban centers.

If you buy an electric car, expect tax breaks and a growing network of over 200 public charging stations. It’s not just about private cars, though. Johannesburg’s Metrobus fleet now includes over 150 CNG buses, making daily commutes cleaner and greener for thousands.

Morocco

Morocco, with its eyes set on a renewable future, is making impressive strides in both EV and CNG adoption. The goal? To source 52% of its energy from renewables by 2030. Last year, EV sales in Morocco jumped by 20%, fueled by government subsidies and tax incentives. 

The nation is also transitioning its taxis to CNG, aiming to convert 10,000 by 2025, which will drastically cut down urban air pollution.

Kenya

Kenya is another trailblazer, with a policy-driven push toward electric mobility. Its National Electric Mobility Policy is ambitious, targeting 5% of all vehicles to be electric by 2030. 

The numbers are promising: over 350 EVs were registered in 2023 alone which is a rise from 100 in 2020. Nairobi isn’t just focusing on cars; it’s also piloting projects to shift public service vehicles to CNG, cleaning the air and offering smoother rides.

To support this growth, the government has installed over 50 charging stations across the country. Additionally, Nairobi is piloting projects to convert public service vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG) to help reduce urban air pollution, which includes setting up CNG refueling stations and providing conversion kits for diesel engines.

Nigeria

Back in Nigeria, Lagos is setting the pace with its introduction of electric buses, aiming to transform public transport in one of Africa’s busiest metropolises. The Nigerian government’s commitment isn’t just about adding new buses. 

In 2023, Lagos debuted its first electric bus fleet managed by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), aligning with efforts to modernize public transport and cut emissions in one of Africa’s busiest cities. 

They’re also building a robust network of EV charging stations and have set a national goal to convert 1 million vehicles to CNG by 2025. 

Rwanda

Rwanda may be smaller than its continental peers, but its ambitions are just as lofty. The government is boosting EV imports with attractive tax incentives and reduced duties. Kigali, the heart of Rwanda, now sports over 20 public charging stations for the growing number of electric cars and motorcycles. 

While CNG hasn’t taken off yet, the potential is there, especially for buses and trucks. The movement towards EV and CNG usage is gaining pace across Africa, fueled by environmental priorities, economic incentives, and supportive government policies. 

The continent’s market for CNG and LPG vehicles is expected to hit $1.28 billion by 2024, with natural gas predicted to comprise 30% of Africa’s energy mix by 2050. T