Deputy Governor Amartuvshin Amgalanbayar of Ulaanbaatar recently met with James Rockall, CEO of the World Liquid Gas Association (WLGA). They discussed Mongolia’s gas fuel sector and explored ways to cooperate. The meeting was an important step toward solving energy and pollution issues in the capital.
Mongolia’s gas fuel sector faces big challenges. Many households still rely on solid fuels, especially compressed coal briquettes. The Deputy Governor said that more than 200,000 households use these fuels. During winter, this number grows, worsening air pollution in the city. As a result, local leaders have made reducing solid fuel use a top priority.
One key project is the ‘20-minute city’ plan. This initiative will build 20,000 residential units in Selbe, Bayankhoshuu, and Khanyn Material areas. The plan aims to create neighborhoods where people can reach services within 20 minutes by walking. This will reduce pollution and improve living conditions.
In addition, the city is insulating and converting 5,000 homes to gas heaters. These homes are in five khoroos in the Chingeltei and Bayangol districts. These areas suffer the most from air pollution, so they need urgent help. The city also plans to study ways to gradually replace old heating systems with electric and gas heaters in polluted zones. This is part of the city’s green development goals.
James Rockall from WLGA expressed full support for these plans. He stressed that educating citizens about gas heaters is crucial. The association will offer training and resources to help Ulaanbaatar switch to cleaner energy.
Founded in the late 1980s, WLGA works in over 125 countries. It promotes liquefied gas fuels, especially in developing nations. The “Cooking for Life” program helped hundreds of millions switch from coal to gas for household use.
In summary, the cooperation between Mongolia and WLGA aims to transform Mongolia’s gas fuel sector. The goal is to reduce solid fuel use and promote cleaner energy. This will improve air quality, public health, and urban life in the capital.
