CNG: A Highly Viable Option for Mobility Sector Transition

Amid the climate crisis and its evident global impacts, such as 2024 being recorded as the hottest year on record, it is urgent to implement actions that not only combat but also slow the progression toward catastrophic scenarios.

In Mexico, this reality is no different. Unprecedented climatic phenomena have occurred nationwide, underscoring the urgent need for immediate action, driven not only by the current situation but also by international agreements and emissions reduction commitments.

While the most viable path toward a just energy transition — balancing fossil fuels with clean or renewable sources — is being defined, it is imperative to act with the tools currently available. Among these, energy efficiency and the integration of less polluting transitional fuels stand out.

The Mobility Sector: A Key Player in Emission Reduction

Transportation is one of the largest contributors to CO₂ emissions nationwide. Although measures such as mass public transport and electric vehicles have been promoted, progress has been insufficient and too slow. Barriers include investment in electrical infrastructure, the acquisition of new units, and challenges inherent to an emerging market.

However, immediate solutions exist that could significantly reduce sectoral emissions, improve urban air quality, and prevent environmental contingencies.

CNG: A Proven and Accessible Alternative

CNG — Compressed Natural Gas for vehicular use — is not new, but its potential remains underestimated. This model, backed by years of experience and a well-established national ecosystem, offers key advantages:

• 30% reduction in CO₂ emissions and near-total elimination of suspended particulate matter compared to traditional fuels.

• Adaptability of existing vehicles: Private and public transport vehicles can be converted to hybrid systems (traditional fuel + CNG), prioritizing natural gas use. Vehicle performance remains unaffected, and engine lifespan may even be extended.

• Safe and regulated processes: Conversions are performed in specialized workshops under Mexican official standards, currently under revision. The conversion process does not require extensive downtime, depending on workshop demand, it typically takes just 1-2 days.

Costs and Financing: A Recoverable Investment

The cost of conversion has decreased due to market competition. Additionally, financing options allow users to pay through discounts on CNG refills. On average, fuel savings enable investment recovery in under a year, as the equivalent liter of CNG costs 50% less than traditional fuels.

Challenges and Infrastructure Advances

The historical limitation has been access to natural gas molecules due to pipeline infrastructure constraints. However, virtual pipelines — transporting compressed natural gas — have facilitated the expansion of service stations. Currently, Mexico has 130 CNG stations, though some states have only one or none — a stark contrast to the approximately 14,000 traditional stations nationwide. The upcoming 2025 regulatory update for CNG stations will strengthen technical criteria for these facilities.

An Ally for a Just Energy Transition

Compressed Natural Gas can play a critical role in the immediate reduction of CO₂ and promote a just energy transition, delivering social, economic, and security benefits. Its direct contribution addresses the mobility sector’s needs, not only by providing a scalable transportation solution but also by combating CO₂ emissions.

Key questions remain unanswered: Why hasn’t CNG been prioritized as part of the solution? Will 2025 finally mark its opportunity?