The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has awarded 25 grants worth US$ 7.7 million to municipalities and private industry groups to convert their fleets to natural gas. This is the second round of grants issues by the DEP for NGV conversions. The grants have been funded as part of Act 13, which governs revenue generates from the state’s shale boom through impact fees on producers. To help pay for the incremental purchase and conversion costs of heavy duty natural gas fleet vehicles, the program distributes up to US$ 20 million in grants over a three year period. Bi-fuel vehicles, compressed natural gas (CNG) and LNG vehicles are all eligible for the state grants.
Comments
Tom Corbett, Pennsylvania Governor said, ‘Act 13 not only strengthened oversight of the drilling industry, it allows us to continue growing jobs while cleaning the air at the same time. Natural gas, particularly from the shale formations here in Pennsylvania, is an abundant, affordable, domestic fuel that is putting this country on a path to energy independence.’
NGVs
NGVs have lower emissions, such as CO2 and carbon monoxide, than gasoline powered. They are safer due to natural gas having a higher combustion temperature and they can help the US reduce its dependence on fossil fuels from foreign nations.
Adapted from press release by Claira Lloyd