HydroCIS, an energy data information services firm, has provided valuable details regarding generators powered by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for the Nigerian audience. This information was conveyed through an infographic published on the company's official LinkedIn page on Monday, August 7th.

Key elements for conversion to LPG
According to HydroCIS, the key elements for generator conversions are:

• High-quality cylinder regulator, which must have an excess flow shut-off valve
• High-quality safety relief which must be recertified every 5 years and replaced every 15 years. Note that all cylinder valves must have a safety relief.
• High-quality cable ties that are used to secure gas hoses safely
• High-quality and high-pressure hose with no folds/cuts and must be replaced every 24 months. Note that water hoses are not suitable replacements for this.
• High-quality dual fuel carburettor that is properly sized for generator capacity and has an easily accessible fuel selector switch/knob.
• Jubilee clips that are the correct size for the diameter of the pressure hose should be replaced as required. Note that the user should discard it if it is bent or broken.

HydroCIS also emphasized the importance of securely placing the generator on a stable surface while in operation. It's essential to prevent vibrations during its functioning from causing any shifts in the generator's position.

Advantages of Switching to LPG Fuel
HydroCIS pointed out that transitioning to LPG offers financial benefits due to its cost-effectiveness, given that LPG fuel consumption is lower compared to petrol.
Furthermore, LPG-powered generators demand less maintenance due to reduced carbon deposits, a prevalent issue with petrol. The accompanying infographic also highlights that LPG-based generator engines experience less wear and emit lower levels of pollutants than those running on petrol."

Actions to Follow After Opting for LPG Conversion
As per HydroCIS's guidance, users are advised to collaborate with vendors possessing ample knowledge and expertise. Selecting a kit customized to the specific engine undergoing conversion and using the appropriate gas type are crucial steps.
Furthermore, the accompanying infographic underlines the necessity of placing gas cylinders and generators in well-ventilated locations, maintaining a reasonable separation between them, and ensuring secure attachment of all accessories.
Users are also urged to conduct regular checks, including leak tests, to safeguard the integrity of their setup."

Financial Considerations
According to the infographic shared by HydroCIS, the expenses associated with converting generators to run on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) differ based on the generator's capacity.

For generators rated at 7.5kVA or lower, the conversion cost varies between N50,000 and N55,000 if the cylinder and all accompanying accessories are included.
However, in cases where the cylinder and accessories are not included, the cost falls within the range of N90,000 to N95,000.
For generators surpassing the 7.5kVA rating, the conversion cost falls between N55,000 and N100,000, provided that the cylinder and all accessories are part of the package."

"HydroCIS additionally highlighted that it would take approximately 150 to 200 hours of operating the LPG-fueled generator to recoup the costs associated with the generator conversion.

The infographic also indicates that utilizing a 12.5kg gas cylinder on a 7.5kVA generator with a 15-hour runtime results in a consumption rate of N500 per hour (though this might vary based on the load factor).

Conversely, running a petrol-powered generator for 15 hours would necessitate 30 liters of petrol, costing N1,050 per hour."