Delivering compressed natural gas to industry

Supplier of premium quality gas SLCNG is a wholly owned subsidiary of SLG that has been delivering large-scale compressed natural gas (CNG) to industry since 2015. The operation is based in Umbogintwini, in KwaZulu-Natal, and accesses gas from the existing pipeline network.

CNG technology enables the compression of relatively large volumes of natural gas into portable infrastructure which can be transported via road to markets remote from the existing pipeline infrastructure on an efficient and cost-effective basis.  

SLCNG's compression facility is situated within a national key point which ensures reliable access to essential utilities (such as electricity) for its operation. In addition, it has strong service level agreements with international original-equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to facilitate collaboration and ensure SLCNG's plant and delivery vessels meet international standards in terms of quality and reliability.

The switching to CNG from other fuels like liquefied petroleum gas, IP, diesel, and petrol, can save 20% to 30% on fuel costs.  Furthermore, it is extremely safe for use, and SLCNG provides its customers with continuous training and technical support to ensure that gas is used safely and efficiently.

Its technical staff are experts in the design and installation of CNG supply infrastructure including the conversion of existing combustion systems to CNG. Since SLCNG’s inception, it has continuously invested in delivery equipment and in the facility to increase its compression capacity. These measures have contributed towards its 100% redundancy and the reliability of the supply.

SLCNG undertakes a close analysis of customers’ processes to understand their production patterns and any operational bottlenecks. This enables technicians to respond to issues without delay.

Although SLCNG was conceived to initially target the industrial sector, it has also ventured into natural gas for gas-powered vehicles. To leverage this advantage, SLCNG has commenced a pilot test with the OEMs of heavy-duty commercial vehicles. It is believed that SLCNG is in a stronger position in this endeavour owing to its established operations, and is therefore leading the development of this sector in KwaZulu-Natal.

SLCNG prides itself on its transformation agenda - the operation is 40% women-run including the head of operations.  It continues to be trusted with the supply of reliable CNG to customers, one of which is a JSE-listed manufacturer based in Pietermaritzburg.