Decarbonisation in the Transport Sector of Ghana Using Autogas

Decarbonisation is instrumental in attaining sustainable mobility. To actualize the Ghana Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) set emission reduction target of 15% relative to Business-As-Usual (BAU) scenario by 2030, sustainable transport actions should be encouraged. Thus, promoting the use of Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in automobiles is very crucial to ensure efficient and green mobility. Nonetheless, existing policies in Ghana overlook autogas (LPG/CNG) as prospective decarbonizing solution in the transport sector. The study employed survey analysis and analytical modeling approach to elicit the benign effects of autogas in the transport sector using Accra as a case study. The ecological, economic and social dimensions of autogas were expatiated to extrapolate effective measures to facilitate their smooth implementation. Survey was carried out in the central business district of Accra to attain the percentage of autogas and gasoline used by taxis operators for the first time per author’s knowledge. A purposive sample of 500 taxi drivers was selected and data analysis was conducted using R statistical package. From the survey, 14% of taxis were powered with LPG whilst 86% were gasoline, however, the LPG-powered taxis were retrofitted gasoline engine vehicles. The analytical model was based on physics principles involving three resistance forces- aerodynamic, rolling resistance and inertia. CO 2 emission savings of 29% and 18.4% were elicited from the use of CNG and LPG relative to gasoline fuel at the end of the simulation using the ambient conditions in Accra. Thus, use of autogas will limit global warming impact and aid the country to fulfill its pledged emission target by 2030. The government is entreated to regulate autogas use in the transport sector and increase its patronage by promoting flexible policies like meager custom duty on imported CNG/LPG vehicles as well as tax credits.