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The Commonwealth of Virginia is officially embracing the use of propane and renewable propane autogas by its vehicle fleets. A state contract launched by James Madison University supports new pricing on propane vehicle conversion equipment and ensures access to renewable propane autogas.
Autogas, the name given to propane when used in vehicles, is the third most widely used alternative fuel globally, with more than 28 million vehicles on the road worldwide. Propane autogas vehicles can produce up to 22% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than gasoline vehicles, and up to 36% fewer nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions than diesel vehicles. Additionally, vehicles powered by autogas often have significantly lower maintenance and fuel costs, leading to a lower total cost of ownership than diesel and gasoline vehicles. “Autogas is a proven and viable solution for fleets in the Commonwealth of Virginia today, and we are excited to offer this additional opportunity for reduced emissions with a renewable autogas component,” said Steve McCoy, VP of Business Development with Blossman Gas, the equipment and fueling partner on the contract.
Through the contract, Commonwealth vehicle fleets can purchase a blend of up to 20% renewable propane autogas. Renewable propane is nearly identical to conventional propane in terms of its chemical structure and physical properties, but with one important difference: it is made from sustainable sources. As a result, renewable propane greatly reduces emissions while still providing the reliability and performance benefits of conventional propane. Furthermore, renewable propane is estimated to have one of the lowest carbon intensity levels (the amount of carbon by weight emitted per unit of energy), even when compared to electric vehicles.
“Propane autogas is a widely available fuel used in public and private fleets in Virginia and I’m so glad to have this fuel on state contract,” said Alleyn Harned, Executive Director of Virginia Clean Cities at James Madison University. “It is exciting for JMU to launch a statewide contract for this renewable fuel option.”
Learn more about renewable propane and autogas for vehicle fleets.
