Frequently Asked Questions

Which fuels and technologies are considered for a “green” fleet?

The Kentucky Clean Fuels Coalition and the Green Fleets of the Bluegrass program use definitions and guidance provided by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuel and Advanced Vehicle Data Center.

Alternative Fuels include the following commercially available fuels: Biodiesel, Ethanol, Hydrogen, Methanol, Natural Gas, Propane, and Electricity.

 Alternative Fuel Vehicles are dedicated, flexible fuel, or dual-fuel vehicles designed to operate on at least one alternative fuel.

 Advanced Technology Vehicles combine new engine, power, or drivetrain systems to significantly improve fuel economy.  These include fuel cell, hybrid electric, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

 After Market Improvements – Examples of other technologies include engine replacement, idle reduction equipment, efficient auto-inflated tires, retrofits with emissions control devices including diesel particulate filters, diesel oxidation catalysts, and closed crank case ventilation systems.

Why should my fleet participate?

Participants have various incentives for joining Green Fleets of the Bluegrass including: achieving fuel efficiencies and cost savings, improving peak performance, reducing environmental impacts, learning and sharing best practices, demonstrating leadership in environmental performance, responding to internal and external stakeholder groups such as employees and investors, developing strategic partnerships, and leveraging efforts to affiliate fleets operating outside of Kentucky.

What do I have to do to participate?

Simply submit baseline and year end data by the annual deadline.  Past participants do not need to resubmit baseline or previous years’ data.

How are fleets rated?

Fleets are rated on demonstrated results and improvements.  Higher ratings can be achieved through continued improvements in all seven criteria areas.

Fleets demonstrating the following successes will achieve the highest ratings:

  • Reduction in petroleum use
  • Increasing use of alternative fuel & advanced vehicles versus conventional fuel & vehicles
  • Evidence of comprehensive green fleet strategies with achievement of results
  • Leadership in the advancement of adoption of alternative fuel and advanced vehicles

Will I get credit for what we’re already doing?

Yes!  Ratings will include an evaluation of improvement since baseline.  Different participants will have different baselines, depending on individual fleet activities.

How should our baseline data be determined?

Usually the prior calendar or fiscal year will be used as baseline.  However contact us if you need assistance selecting your baseline data.

How does the program recognize efficiencies made with conventional vehicles and fuel?

Actual reductions in petroleum based fuels are accounted for by the reported total amount of conventional fuel used, average fleet fuel economy, and other descriptive information provided such as vehicle replacements and trip reductions.

I already report a lot of this elsewhere; can I send you those reports?

You may attach additional documents with your data submission.

I don’t have time to do the survey, can you help?

Yes!  Please contact us if you need help getting the survey completed.