NGVsNow Also Offers Grassroots Support

BOSTON – The Natural Gas Vehicles for America program here in Boston has focused largely on energy legislation, extending tax credits beyond 2010, and support for the Natural Gas Act. With the high visibility BP Oil Spill, the nation is turning to alternative fuels for autos, and trucks. NGVA’s call to action is to engage Members of Congress during this August recess and midterm election season to “get something through” Congress. A companion organization NGVsNow echoes the urgency of taking initiative now.

 “The time is now,” said John Procter, communications director for NGVsNow. “The infrastructure exists and demand is ripe. Congress needs to act to make compressed natural gas (CNG) a reality.” www.ngvsnow.com

 At a morning keynote address, Paul Kerkhoven, director of government affairs for NGVA, spoke with Energy and Natural Gas execs, about the new receptivity in Washington. “The view has changed among many Members of Congress and the Administration toward natural gas,” the program began.  “Legislation like the NAT GAS Act should be embraced by Congress as part of a clean energy revolution.”

There are more than 100,000 natural gas cars, trucks and other NGVs on the road in the U.S. but 12 million worldwide. The U.S. is playing catch-up on alternative fuel vehicles. Nationally, there are now almost 1,000 fueling stations.

 One attendee said: “Look how many green jobs we have created. The NAT GAS Act would bring more work to people and help the environment.”

 NGVA’s Kerkhoven added, “Changes are happening in Washington and have created an environment wherein exploration is important.” He said plant tours, or Hill visits, could make all the difference. “Congress must act or it will create too much uncertainty in the market.” He noted that legislative talking points for Congressional visits are found at www.ngvaamerica.org

 MACK Truck is also working with its truck partners here on a natural gas dual fuels program.

According to industry observer and Fleets & Fuels Editor Rich Piellisch, heavy duty tractor trailer trucks even at Class 8 are moving forward with gas. These trucks have gross vehicle weight of over 33,000 pounds. MACK and Freightliner are both involved in production. Several of these vehicles are parked today on Boston Harbor and NGVA members want the world to know the industry is ready to go.

 

Mike Smith is a social media writer for The Huffington Post and blogger for The Energy Collective. He lives and works in Washington, DC.