Alternative Fuels for Local Government Operations
Increase the use of alternative fuels in your municipal operations, particularly your vehicle fleet. These can include the use of biofuels such as ethanol or biodiesel, natural gas, propane, electricity or hydrogen.
RATIONALE
The use of petroleum-based transportation fuels involves economic, environmental, health and security costs that can be reduced by utilizing alternatives.
EFFORT REQUIRED
Transitioning to alternative fuel vehicles and infrastructure requires careful study to determine the most feasible, cost effective and beneficial options as well as a committed effort to change purchasing, maintenance and operating practices.
BENEFIT
Reducing the cost, emissions and potential for supply disruption associated with petroleum-based fuels. Potentially stimulating local economic development by serving as a customer for locally grown and/or processed alternative fuels.
RISKS
Alternative fuel infrastructure can vary in availability among communities; certain alternative fuel options remain more costly than petroleum-based fuels.
ACTION AGENT(S)
Department of Purchasing/Procurement: vehicle, infrastructure and fuel purchasing.
Department of Fleet Management: initial assessment, pilot testing (optional), vehicle and infrastructure adoption, operation and maintenance.
COST
The initial cost of transitioning from petroleum-based fuels involves capital and acquisition costs, though many financial incentives are available; ongoing fuel costs vary.
A derivative of oils or fats that is used as transportation fuel. It is biodegradable and can be used as a replacement for or as a component of diesel fuel. See also BIOFUELS.Although a popular term, the specific definition varies among states. Generally speaking, alternative fuel is any substance that can be used as fuel that is not petroleum based, i.e. gasoline, diesel, coal, propane, or kerosene. Alternative fuel is typically derived from BIOMASS material or natural gas. The term is also applied to petroleum-based fuels that have been mixed with some percentage of alternative fuel. Common types of alternative fuels include solar, vegetable oil, alcohol, hydrogen, compressed air, and electricity. Fuel produced from biological RENEWABLE RESOURCES such as plants, vegetable oils, and treated waste. Biofuels can significantly lessen harmful carbon monoxide emissions and reduce air pollution when added to petroleum-based fuels. See ETHANOL, BIOETHANOL, BIODIESEL, BIOGAS.A liquid produced from the chemical fermentation of sugars in plant materials. The liquid is consumed in alcoholic drinks, used as fuel, and added to gasoline as a fuel enhancer.
