Natural gas options for truckers may become more popular

Fuel prices and emissions are two major concerns for the trucking industry. Gas prices have risen in the past month due to civil unrest in Libya, which has caused many companies to reassess their approach and identify ways to cut down on expenses. As a result, many businesses are exploring domestic options such as natural gas as a way to reduce overhead.

Clean Energy Fuels Corp. recently announced that it signed an agreement with freight carrier Dillon Transport to build, operate and supply a liquefied and compressed natural gas station (LNG/CNG) in Texas. The location will not only be open to truckers who have natural gas systems for their rigs, but also the general public.

“We are involved in this project because LNG is cleaner, cheaper and domestic," said Jeff Dillon, owner and president of Dillon Transport. "This benefits every U.S. citizen in the form of environmental stewardship, national security and job creation. The new station is supported by private enterprise without government funding."

Safety directors may wish to enroll their employees in online truck driver safety training courses to help their fleet stay ahead of the curve and be up to date with industry news.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, diesel currently costs $3.90 per gallon, which is an increase of nearly 98 cents from last year's totals.

By Andie Martin

Natural gas options for truckers may become more popular

Wednesday, March 23rd, 2011