Elgin meeting to discuss natural gas vehicles

Submitted by Elgin Area Natural Gas Vehicle Coalition

The Elgin Area Natural Gas Vehicle Coalition is being formed to build awareness, answer questions and guide the process of making the Elgin area a successful location for the use and cost-savings of NGVs.

A Natural Gas Vehicle Summit will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 27 in the Eagle Lounge in the Lindner Tower on the Judson University Campus — 1151 N. State St., Elgin. It is free and open to all interested parties — municipal, business or individual. To RSVP, email EaNGVco@yahoo.com. For details, call (847) 628-2065.

CNG (compressed natural gas) is poised to become the next big fuel. With its low-cost attributes compared to gasoline, and recent improvements in obtaining huge supplies right here in the Midwest, CNG and natural gas vehicles are garnering more and more attention. The initial interest is coming from fleet managers who are looking to save money, as well as derive other benefits like improvements in the environment, health and national security. Individuals are paying close attention as well when it comes to being more “green.”

Attendees of the summit will learn the basics of using CNG to operate their fleet vehicles. Presenters will talk about infrastructure (fueling stations), what CNG costs per GGE (gasoline gallon equivalent), and how vehicles are fueled. In addition, audience members will get answers for: what types and models are available to purchase new; what can be converted and what is the cost to do so; how much money can be saved; what kind of funding is available for infrastructure and vehicles; what kind of grants and rebates are available; what other assistance is available; and information about public fuel stations.