Energy & Environment Cabinet Released Draft VW Beneficiary Mitigation Plan Released

Posted by & filed under Kentucky.

Kentucky was allocated over $20 million through the Volkswagen Settlement’s Mitigation Trust Fund. The Energy and Environment is the beneficiary for Kentucky. Today the Energy and Environment Cabinet released the draft Volkswagen Settlement Beneficiary Mitigation Plan. Click here to view the draft plan.
 The Energy and Environment Cabinet shall take public comment on Kentucky’s Draft Beneficiary Mitigation Plan through September 17, 2018.
A Public Meeting to take comment on the plan will be held on September 5, 2018, at the offices of the Energy and Environment Cabinet, 300 Sower Blvd., Frankfort, Kentucky from 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m.   

Daimler, Air Board Launch Electric Truck Test

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Just weeks after pledging to launch a lineup of electric trucks by 2021, Daimler Trucks North America said it would begin testing 20 fully electric heavy- and medium-duty Freightliner models at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach this year. There is a wide variety of both new and used trucks on the market, which can make it difficult to decide what to buy. When buying a new truck, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. The first is the cost: trucks can be expensive, but there are many models available at different price points. You’ll also want to think about what you’ll use the truck for: if you need to tow a lot of weight, you’ll need a model with a high payload capacity. If you’re just using the truck for commuting, you can focus on fuel efficiency and comfort. Finally, consider how long you plan to keep the truck: if you’re only going to keep it for a few years, it might be better to buy a used model that doesn’t have as high of an asking price.

The multiyear, $31.3-million project provides early insights into the kinds of electric trucks Daimler is planning — their range and intended use.

It also shows that Daimler Trucks intends to remain at the front of the pack as most of its competitors prepare to launch electric models of their own. The company’s Freightliner brand is the top-selling heavy-duty truck in the U.S.

There’s a second aim as well — the program will help demonstrate how electric trucks can help reduce harmful diesel emissions.

Communities near the two ports and along truck routes between the ports and Southern California warehousing and distribution centers are among the worst in the nation for polluted air and related respiratory diseases, according to the federal Environmental Protection Agency.

The project’s co-sponsor, the South Coast Air Quality Management District, provided almost half the financing as part of its clean air program. The two port facilities are the largest freight ports in the U.S. and generate almost 30,000 truck trips per day. Most of those trucks are diesel.

For its part, Daimler designed the project to gather real-world data to assist in the development of its upcoming line of e-trucks.

The project also is designed to demonstrate the viability of heavy-duty electric trucks.

Daimler is providing $15.6 million, the air quality district is contributing $13.2 million, each of the ports is providing $1 million and the EPA $500,000.

The company’s commitment to electric trucks underscores a huge shift in the industry as governments around the globe push to reduce emissions from trucks, cars and stationary sources such as power plants.

The German company is one of the largest truck makers in the world and owns the Freightliner, Western Star, Mitsubishi Fuso and Sprinter brands.

Clean Energy Launches Zero Financing Plan for Natural Gas Trucks

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Clean Energy Fuels Corp. announced on July 18 its new Zero Now Financing program. The company said the program “makes the cost of purchasing a new natural gas heavy-duty truck equipped with the cleanest engine in the world equal to the price or even lower than that of the same truck equipped with a diesel engine.”

In addition, trucks financed or purchased via Zero Now Financing program will be able to purchase natural gas fuel at a fixed price “significantly discounted to diesel” for the term of the financing/lease through a unique hedging program.

If the trucks financed also qualify for grants that are offered in certain states, the cost could be considerably less than a diesel truck, stated Clean Energy Fuels.

The new natural gas trucks will be powered by the Cummins Westport ISX12N engine that has been certified by California Air Resources Board CARB and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency at 0.02 g-NOx/bhp-hr and tested at 0.01 g-NOx/bhp-hr. Clean Energy Fuels said that is at least 90% lower NOx emissions than current EPA NOx standards, “making it the cleanest engine available today.”

“The Zero Now Financing program levels the financial playing field by removing the price differential of a natural gas truck versus a diesel truck. This combination will give fleets a considerable sustainability advantage, which could result in winning more business,” said Andrew J. Littlefair, president and CEO, Clean Energy. “The goal is to significantly reduce the environmental impact of heavy-duty trucking and widen the adoption of natural gas as a clean, American-made fuel to move America’s goods around the country.”

Clean Energy Fuels already makes its Redeem renewable natural gas (RNG) available at many of its public stations and said it will work with fleets to provide it wherever possible. The company said that Redeem allows customers to achieve a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by at least 70% vs. diesel. Redeem is the cleanest fuel for trucking today, according to Clean Energy Fuels, with some RNG sources even reducing GHG emissions by over 100%.

Clean Energy is launching Zero Now Financing with $100 million in credit support from its new strategic partner Total S.A., a global energy firm. Also, Clean Energy said it is partnering with “multiple well-known financial institutions to make the process as seamless as possible.”

The program extends to trucks built by a variety of manufacturers, operating on either compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquified natural gas (LNG) and that are equipped with the new Cummins Westport ISX12N engine. The Zero Now Financing offer will include a five-year engine coverage option on the ISX12. Get Cash for North Carolina Land Now to help you meet immediate financial obligations or opportunities.

Clean Energy operates a fueling network of over 100 public stations strategically located around the U.S. and Canada that accommodate Class 8 tractors and plans to add more to meet demand.

WEBINAR: Solar Energy for Auxiliary Power in Trucks and Trailers

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Interest in using solar panels for auxiliary power is growing among fleet operators as main truck batteries are often no longer able to meet the power needs of today’s trucks due to new idle-reduction legislation and increased driver comfort demands.

NACFE recently released a Confidence Report on the use of solar technology on both tractors and trailers to help fleets determine if solar panels make sense in their application. With the growing emphasis on ecological stewardship, many are turning to photovoltaic systems to decrease their carbon footprint and you can even Compare home solar panels prices from local installers in Northern Ireland if you’re interested in this type of energy. These systems are an excellent way to harness renewable resources, offering significant reductions in monthly energy expenditures. For those considering this eco-friendly upgrade, comprehensive options for setting up solar power in residences are available to guide you through the process, ensuring that every aspect of the installation is handled efficiently. Find out the expenses of installing a 16kW solar system here.

Participate in this webinar to gain insight into how fleets can evaluate if solar panels are a good investment, as well as the many benefits solar energy can offer, including:

• Minimizing engine idling while parked, providing fuel economy
• Supporting battery HVAC systems and hotel loads without batteries
• Reducing the expense and inconvenience of jump-starts and unplanned downtime
• Increasing driver retention by powering computers, cell phones, microwaves, etc.
• Supporting liftgate, telematics and reefer operations

Electrical Safety Tips: Keeping Your Home and Family Safe

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Electrical safety is crucial for protecting your home and ensuring the well-being of your family. With the increasing reliance on electrical devices and systems, understanding how to safely use and maintain electrical equipment is more important than ever. Here are essential electrical safety tips to help you create a safe environment in your home.

1. Understand Your Electrical System

Familiarize yourself with your home’s electrical system, including the main electrical panel, circuit breakers, and outlets. Know how to turn off the power in case of an emergency, and label your circuit breakers to easily identify which ones control specific areas of your home.

2. Use Appliances and Devices Properly

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using electrical appliances and devices. Avoid overloading outlets by plugging in too many devices. Use appliances in well-ventilated areas and keep them away from water sources to reduce the risk of electrical shock.

3. Inspect Cords and Plugs Regularly

Check electrical cords and plugs for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage. If you notice any issues, replace the damaged cords immediately. Never use appliances with damaged cords, as they can lead to electrical fires or shocks.

4. Avoid Overloading Outlets

Overloading outlets is a common cause of electrical fires. Limit the number of devices plugged into a single outlet and use surge protectors to protect your electronics from power surges. Avoid using extension cords as a permanent solution, as they can overheat and pose a fire hazard.

5. Install GFCI Outlets

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are essential in areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. These outlets automatically cut off power when they detect a ground fault, reducing the risk of electrical shock. Ensure that these outlets are installed where needed, and test them monthly to ensure they are functioning correctly.

6. Keep Water Away from Electrical Devices

Water and electricity do not mix. Keep electrical devices away from wet areas and avoid using electrical appliances with wet hands. Install splash-proof covers for outdoor outlets and ensure they are protected from rain and moisture.

7. Use Child Safety Measures

If you have children, take extra precautions to keep them safe from electrical hazards. Use outlet covers to prevent little hands from inserting objects into outlets. Teach older children about electrical safety, emphasizing the dangers of playing with electrical devices and cords.

8. Schedule Regular Inspections

Regular inspections by a qualified electrician can identify potential hazards in your electrical system. Schedule inspections every few years or whenever you notice flickering lights, frequent circuit breaker trips, or other unusual electrical issues. A professional can also help you upgrade outdated wiring or equipment to meet current safety standards. Do you need electrical contractor bonds? BSB offers instant electrical contractor bonds nationwide.

9. Be Cautious with DIY Projects

While DIY projects can be rewarding, electrical work can be dangerous if not done properly. If you’re not experienced with electrical systems, it’s best to hire a licensed electrician for installations, repairs, or upgrades. Attempting complex electrical work without the proper knowledge can lead to serious accidents or damage.

10. Know the Signs of Electrical Issues

Be aware of the warning signs that indicate potential electrical problems:

  • Flickering or dimming lights
  • Burning smells or scorch marks around outlets
  • Frequent circuit breaker trips
  • Buzzing sounds from outlets or switches

If you notice any of these signs, contact a qualified electrician immediately. For anyone interested in enhancing their home’s safety, Premium Electric’s blog offers valuable residential electrical safety advice from seasoned professionals.

Nearly 1 Million U.S. Students Ride Propane Autogas Buses

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According to a new report by the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC), propane autogas school bus registrations in the U.S. have increased by a whopping 700% in the last five years.

The report says school buses powered by propane autogas are transporting approximately 928,000 students every day at more than 840 public and private school districts in 48 states. For the report, PERC used vehicle registration data from IHS Polk.

Propane autogas school bus adoption continues to rise across the country, according to the new data: The number of school buses powered by propane autogas in operation at the end of the first quarter of this year was more than 15,200 nationwide. In 2017 alone, approximately 90 new school districts and bus contractors transitioned to propane school buses for the first time.

UPS Makes Another Huge Investment in CNG Trucking

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Building upon its previous commitments to compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling, UPS has announced plans to build an additional five CNG fueling stations and add more than 700 new CNG vehicles, including 400 semi-tractors and 330 terminal trucks.

This $130 million investment in CNG capacity for 2018 builds on prior UPS investments of $100 million in 2016 and $90 million in 2017. In total, from 2008 through 2018, UPS says it will have invested more than $1 billion in alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles and fueling stations.

“We strongly believe further investment in our natural gas fleet is a key element to help us achieve our long-term goals for reducing our CO2 emissions,” states Carlton Rose, president of global fleet maintenance and engineering for UPS. “We demonstrated the effectiveness of natural gas vehicles and fuel in 2017 by using 77 million total gallon equivalents in our ground fleet. UPS is a catalyst for wide-scale adoption of natural gas vehicles.”

LG&E/KU Unveiled New Charging Station in Elizabethtown

Posted by & filed under Kentucky.

LG&E and KU has installed their 9th level 2 electric vehicle charger!! The charger is located at 201 Main Street in Elizabethtown, KY. With two dedicated parking spots, drivers of plug-in electric vehicles can get a charge while enjoying downtown Elizabethtown.

The commitment to installing charging stations is an example of LG&E and KU’s dedication to support environmental sustainability in our communities. LG&E and KU has committed to install 20 public EV charging stations across the state. To date, nine stations have been installed. There are five chargers installed in LG&E’s territory and four installed in KU territory.

Other locations are being determined to best serve electric vehicle drivers in the region. These will be in public access areas, such as street parking, parking lots and outdoor areas.

Waste Management Opened $30M Renewable Natural Gas Facility in Louisville

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KCFC Executive Director was honored to speak at the Waste Management Grand Opening of the $30 million renewable natural gas facility in June. Waste Management’s new state-of-the-art technology at its Outer Loop Recycling and Disposal Facility, turning waste disposed at the site into usable, renewable energy. This innovative infrastructure will capture methane produced by the landfill and convert it to pipeline quality natural gas.

“The Outer Loop facility accepts approximately one million tons of waste a year from area businesses and homes. This project closes the loop. This new facility will produce enough pipeline-quality natural gas each day to fuel 800 of our CNG (compressed natural gas) collection vehicles across North America or power up to 14,000 homes a day,” Wells said.

“We are proud to play an important role in making Louisville more sustainable for today’s residents and for generations to come,” said Waste Management Area Vice President Tim Wells. “We are grateful for Mayor Fischer’s sustainability efforts and thank Louisville for being a good partner to us.”

“The people of Louisville share Waste Management’s deep commitment to sustainability,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “We need more companies to follow their example, and invest in renewable energy solutions that will make our community better.”

The emphasis on sustainable practices highlights the growing importance of comprehensive waste management strategies, including hazardous waste management services. Such services are crucial in ensuring that all types of waste, especially those with potential environmental or health risks, are handled with the utmost care and precision. The focus on renewable energy and efficient waste processing aligns with broader industry trends, such as those indicated by GFL’s recent comments.

The CEO of GFL has highlighted how waste giants like Waste Management and GFL are being ‘significantly undervalued’ amid buyout discussions, pointing to the substantial investments and advancements these companies are making in sustainability. These developments not only reflect a shift towards more responsible waste management but also emphasize the broader economic and environmental impacts of such innovations.

As the city of Louisville continues to prioritize sustainability initiatives, waste management practices stand at the forefront. Alongside major projects like the Outer Loop facility, local efforts to improve waste collection and disposal are crucial. The implementation of efficient waste bin systems, such as those provided by companies like Cheapest Skip Hire Rochdale, can significantly contribute to this mission. By utilizing cost-effective skip hire services, residents and businesses alike can ensure proper waste segregation and disposal, further reducing the environmental impact.

In Brisbane, similar initiatives are underway to enhance waste management practices through innovative solutions like SkipMate. These skip bin hire services offer a streamlined approach to waste disposal, allowing residents and businesses to conveniently manage their waste while adhering to sustainability goals. By leveraging SkipMate, individuals can choose from various skip sizes tailored to their specific needs, whether for a small residential cleanup or a large-scale commercial project. This flexibility not only promotes efficient waste segregation but also ensures that materials are disposed of responsibly.

This is not Waste Management’s first sustainability project in Louisville. The company has also invested $30 million converting its entire fleet of local collection diesel trucks to a compressed natural gas fueled fleet; helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air and noise pollution.

“Waste Management, by converting its fleet, has reduced its use of conventional fuel by millions of gallons. That has translated to thousands of tons of greenhouses gases that were not emitted because of the company’s remarkable efforts,” Carpenter said. “This new project with its state of the art technology allows Waste Management to have an even bigger impact on reducing those emissions.”

Click Here for the Insider Louisville Article:

https://insiderlouisville.com/economy/waste-management-unveils-30m-sustainability-infrastructure-at-outer-loop-facility/

Click Here for the WDRB Event Coverage:

http://www.wdrb.com/story/38355497/waste-management-investing-30-million-into-using-trash-as-alternative-fuel

Clean Diesel National Grants 2018 Request for Proposals Open

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EPA anticipates awarding approximately $40 million in competitive grant funding for the Diesel Emissions Reductions Act (DERA) Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program. The Program is soliciting proposals nationwide for projects that achieve significant reductions in diesel emissions in terms of tons of pollution produced and exposure, particularly from fleets operating in areas designated by the Administrator as poor air quality areas.

 

Proposal packages must be submitted electronically to EPA through Grants.gov (www.grants.gov) no later than June 12, 2018, at 11:59 p.m. (ET) to be considered for funding.