Press Release

PUC, Energy Association Host Workshop on Natural Gas Vehicle Market Development

Published on 4/18/2013

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG –The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) and the Energy Association of Pennsylvania (EAP) today hosted a workshop focusing on the natural gas distribution company (NGDC) and Commission roles in fostering the economic development and the expansion of the necessary infrastructure for natural gas vehicles (NGVs).

“Continued high gasoline prices coupled with the now lower cost of natural gas due to Marcellus Shale development have brought a renewed interest in NGVs,” said Commission Chairman Robert F. Powelson in a video news release.  “We are being presented with the opportunity of a lifetime to harness the power of natural gas in our transportation sector, including mass transit, school bus, long-haul  trucking, and really afford our citizens the benefits of cheap, abundant natural gas.”

“The Energy Association and its members are pleased to partner with the Commission to provide information and insight into how natural gas utilities can foster the growth of the NGV market,” said Terrance J. Fitzpatrick, President and CEO, Energy Association of Pennsylvania.  “For decades our members have stood ready to assist customers in their efforts to develop the necessary infrastructure.”           

Robert Feldmann, co-chair of the Drive Natural Gas Initiative, set the stage for the day by providing insights on the utility role in NGV development. The Commission also heard from the Department of Environmental Protection, Department of Community and Economic Development and Department of Labor & Industry on existing state programs designed to enhance NGV usage in Pennsylvania.

The state’s seven largest natural gas utilities then joined the Commissioners for a roundtable discussion that examined issues such as the effect of existing PUC policy on NGV market development; tariff matters and fuel access.

“It’s a very unique opportunity for the Commission to get the regulatory alignment piece correct so we can provide the proper incentives for the marketers to come into Pennsylvania and set up this infrastructure ,” Chairman Powelson said.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner. 

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility.  “Like” PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.

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Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov