Sunday, March 25, 2012

UCCC's 1st Success Story: Jordan School District - Education Invested

Jordan School District (JSD) owns and operates 48 Compressed Natural Gas buses, and they are continuing to invest with six more buses scheduled for deployment this fall. This is not a statement to be taken lightly, as the district has walked the walk in Utah’s alternative fuel sector for over a decade.

Since 2000, the school district has been expanding their alternative fuel vehicle fleet and retrofitting their bus yard with 76 CNG fuel dispensers. They are one of two Utah school districts utilizing CNG. However, they are the only school district actively expanding their CNG bus fleet.

How did JSD become an alternative fuel pioneer, when other school districts continue to be hesitant to follow? There are three key factors which District Transportation Director, Herb Jensen, credits with the school district’s alternative fuel success: its partnership with UCCC, its network with key players in the alternative fuel sector and the hard work and dedication of their fleet mechanics.

Since they inherited their first CNG buses twelve years ago, the district has taken full advantage of the benefits of their partnership with UCCC. It was UCCC who helped them obtain their first CNG station, second hand from Newspaper Agency Company, for just $1. In their latest project, the district has invested $950, 000 dollars to update and expand their fueling infrastructure. They’ve added a new compressor, on which “time” fueling takes 2 hours each night instead of 7, and added 28 time fill fuel dispensers. With the help of UCCC’s grants, their investment has been matched almost dollar for dollar.

Additionally, UCCC funding has made it possible for the school district to outfit 23% of its bus fleet with CNG shuttles, which cost on average $ 30,000 dollars more than a traditional diesel bus. It is estimated that with the help of grants, the district has been able to offset the cost of each new vehicle by $15,000. JSD looks forward to working with UCCC to find grant opportunities that will allow them to continue purchasing CNG buses in the future.

JSD is also an active member within the coalition, with representation on UCCC’s Operating Committee. In this position Jensen stays in touch with key players in the alternative fuel sector, which include Questar. This network has proven to be an invaluable support system for the school district.

Last, but certainly not least, the district’s the fleet mechanics have gone above and beyond the call to make alternative fuels a viable option for the fleet. They have taken the initiative to educate themselves about CNG, and their passion and determination has made all the difference.

As with the implementation of any new technology or system, JSD had obstacles to overcome when they started using CNG buses. In the beginning, older models struggled up steep grades and canyons. Additionally, fueling was difficult when the infrastructure was less developed.

Today, however, “it’s hard to distinguish the CNG buses from the others” says Jensen, “We could take them anywhere in the state. We could take them all the way to St. George and there would even been the infrastructure to do it.” The commitment of the district and its mechanics during the initial learning curve has given them invaluable knowledge – which they eagerly share.

Other districts and municipalities who have seen the potential of CNG are frequent visitors. “We love to share the secret and let others get in on it too,” says Jensen. Wasatch, Washington, and Pinedale are among the Utah school districts have paid recent visits to the CNG fleet. JSD has also entertained officials from schools as far away as Arizona and Pennsylvania.

The main appeal for these fleets: diesel prices are between $3-4 /gallon, and rising, whereas CNG is priced at about $1/gallon and is stable. Couple this with a comparable mpg rate in day-to-day operations to diesel fuel buses, and it only takes a few years before these buses pay for themselves.

“Any good businessman knows that value of an investment rests on how long it takes to recapture capitol,” says Jensen, “But aside from this, it’s just the right thing to do, to be good stewards of the environment.”


UCCC is proud to share our first Stakeholder Success Story! We have been conducting brief interviews with stakeholders to help archive the successes of UCCC partners. These articles will be used to showcase, encourage, and educate others about alternative fuel use in various industries and organizations throughout Utah. Please share your successes, contact UCCC Intern Jessica Kagie for an interview. 801-298-0231 or UCCC@utahcleancities.org


Come get fueled with knowledge to put you ahead of the curve!

Davis Applied Technology College (DATC) is bringing professional trainers to Kaysville, UT to provide:

Light-Duty Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Vehicle and Compressed Natural Gas Fuel System Inspector* Training

$1,327 value
* cost of Inspector certification exam included

Cost: FREE for those who qualify
Contact:
Rene Meza, Department of Workforce Services
Phone: 801-686-6520 or E-mail rmeza@utah.gov

Must have proof of citizenship via birth certificate and picture I.D. If you don’t have a Utah I.D., must provide proof of residency

5 Day Training with classes held 8am-5pm daily includes:

· First three days - Compressed Natural Gas Overview

·Last two days - Natural Gas Cylinder Tank Overview and Certification

April 9th - 13th

Sponsored by AVS

Only 20 students per class, so sign up NOW!
Did we mention lunch will be provided by AVS!

DATC Registration Deadline: April 6th

Located in main building RM# 1061

550 East 300 South, Kaysville

If you have any questions about the training or to receive an application, please contact Irene Rizza, Utah Clean Cities Coalition at irene.rizza@utahcleancities.org or at 801-535-7736

Additional Information:






Compressed Natural Gas Training Agenda

The week-long CNG course consists of two separate but related classes:

Light-Duty Natural Gas Vehicles (3 days)

Several auto manufacturers make natural gas-powered vehicles available to the consumer today. The need for qualified technicians to service and maintain these vehicles is growing rapidly. This three-day hands-on course is designed for the professional technician or automotive student and will teach safety, service procedures, vehicle systems, and the nature of gaseous fuels.

Natural gas is a "natural" alternative fuel used to power automobiles. It burns cleaner than gasoline or diesel, and the nationwide pipeline system makes it available in almost every community in the country. From the earliest days of the internal combustion engine, natural gas has been used as a clean-burning, efficient fuel. The number of vehicles powered by natural gas is growing every year. Mandates such as the federal Energy Policy Act and the California Federal Pilot Program require most large fleets to include alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) in ever-growing numbers. In addition, many consumers have chosen to buy and drive vehicles powered by compressed natural gas (CNG).All of this means that the demand for AFV technicians is increasing dramatically. The AFV technician needs to know everything that is currently applicable to servicing automobiles, along with new technology to deal with the gaseous fuel system, engine, electronics, and exhaust.

For an experienced technician, the greatest challenges when working with AFVs include the concepts of working with natural gas, changes in emission-control equipment, electronic ignition, diagnostics, and safety. Each chapter of the Technician’s Manual contains text, illustrations, explanatory figures and tables, chapter review questions, and job aids, along with classroom and/or shop activities. The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) is pleased to offer this course, Light-Duty Natural Gas Vehicles, which meets the needs of the technician, the employer, the fleet operator, and the training institution. The hands-on and classroom time will be approximately split 50-50.

Course Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, the technician will be able to:

  • Explain the sources and processing of compressed and liquefied natural gas
  • List personal and shop safety procedures, and describe the appropriate responses to common emergencies such as fire, gas leakage, and collision
  • List the major policies and regulations pertaining to the installation, operation, and inspection of gaseous fuel vehicles
  • Use the concepts of pressure, density, and volume in describing, measuring, and handling natural gas
  • State the chemical and physical properties of methane (natural gas)
  • Describe the four-stroke Otto and diesel cycles, and explain how combustion is different with a gaseous fuel
  • Explain lean-burn technology and calculate the correct air-fuel ratio to achieve best power, lowest emissions, and greatest fuel economy
  • Describe the components of a natural gas fuel system and explain how each operates
  • Explain the operation of the Electronic Control Module (ECM) and the components that connect to it
  • Describe basic diagnostic techniques, the use of the Diagnostic Scan Tool (DST) and the meanings of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
  • Identify the primary types of emissions testing and the equipment used to perform such tests.
  • Understand the basics of natural gas conversion using the IMPCO GM 6-Liter conversion kit. This training will also include proper installation of natural gas cylinders.
  • In addition, there is a comprehensive appendix containing detailed information about the conversion of gasoline vehicles to dedicated CNG or bi-fuel CNG/gasoline operation
Materials Provided to the Technician
Course Manual and job aids (charts, handbooks, checklist) and IMPCO specific handouts. Program certificate of completion, continuing education units (CEUs, optional)


Natural Gas Vehicles: CNG Cylinder Inspection (2 days)


CNG vehicle cylinders should be inspected every three years or 36,000 miles. This two-day hands-on
course will prepare you to take the certification examination as a CNG cylinder inspector. More than 150,000 natural gas vehicles (NGVs), each using CNG cylinders and each cylinder requiring periodic inspection, create a demand for certified inspectors.


Current standards require a detailed visual inspection once every three years or 36,000 miles over the life
of the container. Good shop practice recommends a more frequent general inspection. The inspector needs to know what to look for, how to visually inspect, and how to determine whether the container is safe. The continued use of acceptable cylinders and the removal from service of damaged cylinders that do not pass the visual inspection criteria are critical to the safety and well-being of all who may come into contact with NGVs. Done correctly, cylinder inspection will assure a viable, safe future for an industry that provides a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels for transportation.


The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium at West Virginia University has developed a

thoroughly-researched, instructionally sound, easily-applied training program for CNG cylinder inspection. Participants gain a thorough knowledge of all required inspections, tests, and apparatus and inspection procedures applicable to the types of cylinders to be inspected.

What You Will Learn

Taught by a certified NAFTC instructor, this course will enable you to:
  • Understand theory, equipment, safety, and good work practices
  • Develop a working knowledge of the types of cylinders used in CNG vehicle systems
  • Describe construction techniques and material types used in CNG cylinder manufacturing
  • Build skills in proper installation and removal of cylinders
  • Vent and store CNG cylinders safely
  • Perform required reporting procedures
  • Determine and apply the correct testing procedures
  • Recognize various failure modes
  • Safely and confidently handle CNG cylinders
  • Visually inspect CNG cylinders for damage and deterioration
  • Become a certified CNG Cylinder Inspector by passing the CSA International standardized certification test for cylinder inspection (CSA International is a recognized certification and standards organization). Certification exams are offered at the conclusion of each training session. CSA charges a $375 non-refundable fee to take the certification.

Materials Provided to the Technician
Course Manual and job aids (charts, handbooks, checklist) Program certificate, continuing education units(CEUs, optional)


Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Washakie Renewable Energy Is Pleased to Host USDA Rural Development in a Public Tour.

PRESS RELEASE:
For Immediate Release.
March 18, 2011

Washakie Renewable Energy
435-886-2292
info@wrebiofuels.com
http://wrebiofuels.com
PO Box 192
Plymouth, Utah 84330

Washakie Renewable Energy Is Pleased to Host USDA Rural Development in a Public Tour.

PLYMOUTH, Utah – USDA Rural Development, Utah State Director, Dave Conine announced an event to celebrate Washakie Renewable Energy’s (WRE) Open House for the public and press on Tuesday, March 20 for their expanded biofuel facility at 24050 N 6000 W, Plymouth, Utah 84330, from 12pm to 2pm.

“We were happy to receive the grant and we are very excited to show the public how it has has impacted the local community and our production growth,” said WRE founder, Dr. Jacob Kingston. ” Jobs producing local, and renewable, energy are what will drive the economy and meet our fuel needs. We are pleased that the U.S., and Utah specifically, are at the forefront of that goal”.

WRE received almost a half million dollars from the USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) in 2011 and has used the grant to update the $30 million biofuel plant in rural Plymouth, Utah and created 65 jobs in a community of 300.

The event is open to the public and the press and will showcase the improved facilities, the economic impact to the community and is an opportunity for the community and press to tour the plant.

“Domestic and clean energy is more important than ever,” said Dr. Kingston, “and we are pleased to be part of the solution to the rising cost and security of our energy needs”.

CONTACT:

Sam Powell

samp@wrebiofuels.com

801-995-8045

Washakie Renewable Energy (WRE), was founded in 2007 by Dr. Jacob Kingston in Plymouth, Utah and has grown to produce 10 million gallons of clean and renewable biofuel annually. Each gallon of fuel removes 17 pounds of carbon from the atmosphere. WRE is the largest manufacturer of biofuels in the Intermountain West.

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of state and local offices. Rural Development has an active portfolio of more than $165 billion in affordable loans and loan guarantees. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.

-END-

Thursday, March 1, 2012

NatGasCar LLC Announces EPA Certification of 2011 Dedicated CNG Dodge Caravan





FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NatGasCar LLC Announces EPA Certification of 2011 Dedicated CNG Dodge Caravan, ChryslerTown and Country, and Volkswagon Routan

Cleveland, Ohio – February 29, 2012 - NatGasCar LLC is pleased to announce the EPA has Certified theNatGasCar proprietary Van Conversion System for use on the 2011 Dodge Caravan, the 2011 ChryslerTown and Country, and the 2011 Volkswagon Routan. The NatGasCar proprietary conversion systemenables vehicles to fuel with clean-burning Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) instead of gasoline. The 2011Caravan is the first passenger or cargo van in the NatGasCar fleet that includes bi-fuel and dedicated fuelpick-up trucks. The Chrysler Town and Country and the Volkswagon Routan are also approved under thecertification.

“We are very excited to launch our EPA certified Van Conversion System now to help reduce our country’s dependence on foreign oil by increasing miles driven using domestically produced compressed natural gas.Our launch of the CNG Caravan enables fleets and private users to immediately reduce their operating costswithout giving up any of the benefits of the award winning 3.6L Pentastar engine,” said Joe Wray Directorof Sales.

“The Caravan enables consumers that need heavier passenger vehicles to participate in the growing marketfor alternative fuel vehicles” said Brad Trembath President of NatGasCar LLC. “Electric cars are lowerweight vehicles that have a small range of miles before refueling. The CNG Caravan will be a greatalternative for families, taxis or carpools.”

About NatGasCar, LLC:
NatGasCar LLC is a recognized leader in the alternative fuel industry. Their proprietary system uses a sleekinjection device to provide a cost effective and reliable conversion system. The patent-pending processenables NatGasCar to avoid drilling and tapping into the manifold of the vehicle. The systems are designedwith “best in class” components to eliminate customer downtown. NatGasCar LLC is one the entrepreneurial companies owned by Cleveland, Ohio based Dan T Moore.

NatGasCar LLC Contact Information
Director of Sales: Joe Wray – jwray@natgascar.com (216) 246-0506
Website: http://www.natgascar.com/ (216) 692-3700