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Government agencies at every level have the important duty of overseeing large numbers of vehicles used for various purposes, such as law enforcement, waste management, maintenance and transportation.
Public sector fleet managers and municipal authorities are turning to alternative fuel vehicles that produce fewer emissions to improve efficiency and reduce costs. This not only helps to lower operational expenses but also contributes to creating cleaner and healthier environments in our communities.
As a clean-operating alternative fuel, propane autogas helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improves air quality. What’s more, propane autogas vehicles typically have lower fuel costs and maintenance expenses compared to their gasoline or diesel counterparts.
Cost Effectiveness
On a per-gallon average, propane autogas costs 40% less than gasoline and 50% less than diesel. Fleet operators can save substantial amounts on fuel expenses, which directly impact operating budgets. Chesterfield County, Virginia, is realizing significant cost savings with propane. According to its website, the average purchase price of LPG during fiscal year 2023 was $1.53 per gallon, about 40% less than unleaded gasoline and 53% less than diesel.
Propane autogas engines often have longer lifespans and require less frequent maintenance. These engines produce fewer carbon deposits and contaminants, leading to less wear and tear over time.
Environmental Advantages
Propane autogas vehicles emit fewer harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur oxide (SOx) compared to gasoline and diesel engines. Vehicles powered by propane autogas produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than those running on gasoline, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
To further cut emissions to near-zero, Petersburg, Virginia, operates 49 police vehicles that run on renewable propane, which comes from the processing of agricultural products like vegetable oil and animal fat. Renewable propane’s carbon intensity — or the carbon emitted for every unit of energy it produces — is lower than conventional propane because it’s produced from bio-based or renewable sources.
Operational Efficiency
Propane autogas vehicles are known for their reliability and performance in various weather conditions. This ensures consistent operation for essential public services like emergency response and transportation. Propane autogas and gasoline passenger cars have comparable fuel economy at 30.9 miles per gasoline gallon equivalent. In comparison, the fuel economy of compressed natural gas passenger cars is nearly 5% lower.
There is an ample domestic supply of propane, ensuring energy independence and security. Fleet operators benefit from stable and predictable fuel availability. And, the United States produces more than 90% of its own propane supplies.
Versatility and Infrastructure
Propane autogas vehicles are suitable for a wide range of public service functions, including school buses, police cars, paratransit buses, utility trucks and more. In one of the nation’s busiest national parks, Maine’s Acadia National Park operates a propane autogas bus fleet. The Island Explorer Bus System transports passengers to attractions within the park, local communities and the regional airport. The decreased emissions of propane autogas have lessened the ecological footprint of the buses at Acadia, benefitting both guests and wildlife and promoting increased accessibility for visitors.
The infrastructure for propane fueling is well-established, with thousands of public fueling stations across the country. Fleet operators can also install on-site fuel stations, providing additional convenience and cost savings. As a part of the Indiana Department of Transportation’s fleet strategy, the agency installed 115 propane fuel sites at its facilities across the state.
By transitioning to greener fleet options, government entities can demonstrate environmental leadership and set an example for private businesses and citizens. Propane autogas fleet vehicles support broader sustainability initiatives and show a commitment to the health and well-being of local communities.
