Green Fleet Award Winners

2018 Award Winners

Louisville Metro Government

Greenest Municipal Government Fleet

Louisville Metro Government has added seventeen propane mowers, seven hybrid sedans and one hybrid electric sedan to the Metro Government fleet in 2018.

Crittenden County Board of Education

Greenest Public School Fleet

Crittenden County Schools operates the largest propane school bus fleet in the state, with adding two propane busses to their fleet in 2018. Now operating at 13 propane buses. About 60% of their routes are covered by propane powered buses. They also operate one hybrid electric school bus.

Kentucky Division of Fleet Management

Greenest State Government Fleet

Fleet Management owns approximately 11,493 vehicles of diverse makes and models of the light duty variety and manage the maintenance, insurance, and fueling.

Lextran

Greenest Transit Fleet

In 2018, Lextran now operates 12 CNG buses. The fleet also operates hybrid-electric buses and they added 5 fully electric vehicles to their fleet.

LG&E/KU

Greenest Utility Fleet

LG&E/KU owns approximately 8,719 vehicles of diverse makes and models of the light duty variety.

Mercer Transportation

Greenest Corporate Fleet

Mercer's entire fleet operates on biodiesel. They also have 97 shorepower units on-site which leads to millions of gallons of diesel to be displaced as trucks plug-in instead of idling their engines.

UPS

Greenest Freight Fleet

UPS's on-road fleet includes hybrid electric delivery trucks and compressed natural gas powered semi-trucks. Off-road they operate over 2,100 pieces of equipment. Over 66% of their equipment is fueled by alternative fuels/advanced technology vehicles including propane, biodiesel, and hybrid-electric.

Waste Management

Greenest Refuse Fleet

In 2018, Waste management increased their fleet.The vehicles also use idle reduction technology with automatic shut off.

2017 Award Winners

City of Somerset

Greenest Municipal Government Fleet

In 2017, increased the size of their CNG fleet by almost 60%. They now operate 33 CNG powered vehicles including police cruisers, refuse trucks, and pick-up trucks.

Crittenden County Board of Education

Greenest Public School Fleet

Crittenden County Schools operates the largest propane school bus fleet in the state at 11 propane buses with one on order. About 60% of their routes are covered by propane powered buses. In FY2017 they estimate a fuel savings of almost $82,000.00. They also operate one hybrid electric school bus.

Kentucky Division of Fleet Management

Greenest State Government Fleet

Fleet Management owns approximately 4,377 vehicles of diverse makes and models of the light duty variety and manage the maintenance, insurance, and fueling for another 422 vehicles owned by other state agencies. In 2017, they had around 3,800 vehicles with GPS installed. Fleet Management also work with other state agencies to install an additional 1,000+ GPS units in vehicles and equipment.

Lextran

Greenest Transit Fleet

In 2017, Lextran increased their CNG powered transit buses by over 70%. They now operate 12 CNG buses. The fleet also operates hybrid-electric buses and they added 5 fully electric vehicles to their fleet.

M & M Cartage

Greenest Freight Fleet

In 2017, M&M Cartage increased their compressed natural gas fleet to 184 vehicles. They operate the largest CNG fleet in the state. M&M Cartage's sustainability efforts also include advanced anti-idling and fuel efficiency technologies including automatic shut-off equipment and skirts.

Mercer Transportation

Greenest Corporate Fleet

Mercer's entire fleet of 2,350 vehicles operates on biodiesel. They also have 96 shorepower units on-site which leads to millions of gallons of diesel to be displaced as trucks plug-in instead of idling their engines.

UPS

Greenest On-Road/Off-Road Combination Fleet

UPS's on-road fleet includes hybrid electric delivery trucks and compressed natural gas powered semi-trucks. Off-road they operate over 2,100 pieces of equipment. Over 66% of their equipment is fueled by alternative fuels/advanced technology vehicles including propane, biodiesel, and hybrid-electric.

Waste Management

Greenest Refuse Fleet

In 2017, Waste management increased their fleet to 86 compressed natural gas refuse trucks. The vehicles also use idle reduction technology with automatic shut off.

2016 Award Winners

City of Somerset

Greenest Third Class Municipal Government Fleet

In 2016, the City of Somerset increased their compressed natural gas (CNG) fleet to 21 vehicles. This includes cars, pick-up trucks, refuse trucks, and 3 police cruisers. They plan on continuing their fleet strategy to invest in CNG vehicles with nine additional CNG powered pick-up trucks on order.

Crittenden County Board of Education

Greenest Public School Fleet

Crittenden County Board of Education operates the largest propane school bus fleet in the state. In 2016, they increased their fleet to 10 propane buses with an additional bus on order. They also operate a hybrid electric school bus.

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government

Greenest First Class Municipal Government Fleet

In 2016, Lexington Fayette Urban County Government increased the number of CNG powered refuse trucks to 44 and added 3 CNG bi-fuel Ford F150s to their fleet. The city’s fleet also includes hybrid-electric, plug-in hybrid electric, fully electric, and ethanol (E85) powered vehicles.

M&M Cartage

Greenest Medium Freight Fleet (under 500 vehicles)

M & M Cartage continued their dedication to their strategy to work towards becoming a fully compressed natural gas (CNG) fleet. In 2016, they increased number of CNG semi-trucks to 87 trucks.

Mercer Transportation

Greenest Corporate Fleet

In 2016, Mercer drastically expanded their efforts to increase the use of biodiesel in their fleet. The fleet now operates exclusively on biodiesel. They used over 34.5 million gallons in 2016. Mercer also maintained having almost the entire fleet equipped with APU units or clean idle certified. There are 96 shorepower units established by Mercer across the state of Kentucky.

Transit Authority of River City

Greenest Transit Fleet

Transit Authority of River City operates both fully electric and hybrid-electric buses in their fleet. There are 15 fully electric buses operating on two routes in Louisville, KY. There are 32 hybrid electric buses operated by Transit Authority of River City.

UPS

Greenest Freight Fleet (over 500 vehicles)

UPS is consistently reviewing ways to increase their investment in alternative fuels. In Lexington, UPS operates 74 CNG powered semi-trucks and 50 CNG powered delivery trucks. In Louisville, UPS maintains an extensive ground support fleet including biodiesel, propane, and electric equipment.

Waste Management of Kentucky

Greenest Refuse Fleet

Waste Management of Kentucky has almost reached their goal of becoming a fully compressed natural gas (CNG) powered fleet. In 2016, they increased number of CNG refuse trucks 86 trucks. Almost the entire fleet has been replaced with CNG refuse trucks. Waste Management has also begun a $30 million project to process their landfill gas to be used in their CNG vehicles.

2015 Award Winners

Crittenden County Board of Education

Greenest Public School Fleet

Crittenden County Board of Education operates the largest propane school bus fleet in the state. In 2015, they added one additional bus in 2015 with two on order. Currently operating 8 LPG buses.

Kentucky Division of Fleet Management

Greenest State Government Fleet

The Kentucky Division of Fleet Management operates a fleet which includes both hybrid-electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. In 2015, the fleet increased the number of vehicles with GPS units and 3G communications for more efficient tracking. They also sold 362 vehicles and replaced them with vehicles that were 72% more fuel efficient.

Lexington Fayette Urban County Government

Greenest First Class Government Fleet

Lexington Fayette Urban County Government maintains a fleet including hybrid-electric, plug-in hybrid electric and fully electric vehicles as well as vehicles powered by compressed natural gas (CNG) and ethanol (E85). In 2015, they increased number of CNG refuse trucks to 20 vehicles.

City of Somerset

Greenest Third Class Municipal Government Fleet

In 2015, the City of Somerset increased their compressed natural gas (CNG) fleet to 19 vehicles. This includes cars, pick-up trucks, refuse trucks, and 2 police cruisers. They plan on continuing their fleet strategy to increase the number of CNG vehicles by adding another Ford 150, more refuse trucks and more police cruisers.

UPS

Greenest Large Freight Fleet

In Louisville, UPS maintains an extensive ground support fleet including biodiesel, propane, and electric equipment. In 2015, UPS’s Lexington facility invested in compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles by adding 74 CNG powered semi-trucks and 50 CNG powered delivery trucks.

M & M Cartage

Greenest Medium Freight Fleet

M & M Cartage continued their dedication to their strategy to work towards becoming a fully compressed natural gas (CNG) fleet. In 2015, they increased number of CNG semi-trucks to 58 trucks. The remainder of the fleet uses biodiesel, so the entire fleet is powered by alternative fuels.

Waste Management of Kentucky

Greenest Refuse Fleet

Waste Management of Kentucky has almost reached their goal of becoming a fully compressed natural gas (CNG) powered fleet. In 2015, they increased number of CNG refuse trucks 82 trucks. Almost the entire fleet has been replaced with CNG refuse trucks. There are only 6 conventional refuse trucks left in the fleet.

Transit Authority of River City (TARC)

Greenest Transit Fleet

Transit Authority of River City operates both fully electric and hybrid-electric buses in their fleet. In 2015, they put in order to increase number of fully electric buses to 15.

2014 Award Winners

Crittenden County Public Schools

Greenest Public School Fleet

In 2013, Crittenden County became the first school district in the state of Kentucky to operate a propane powered school bus. Their leadership has made it possible for all school districts across Kentucky to invest in propane powered school buses. In 2014, they expanded their efforts by purchasing 6 additional propane powered school buses.

City of Somerset

Greenest Municipal Government Fleet

In 2014, the City of Somerset added five new compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles to their fleet bringing the total to 17 CNG powered vehicles. Additionally, Somerset began safety, anti-idling, and fuel saving training to all of their departments. Finally, the city has continued to operate their CNG filling station and expanded their filling station offerings to provide fuel to a major trucking firm.

Kentucky Division of Fleet Management

Greenest State Government Fleet

In 2014, through their efforts of vehicle replacement, the Kentucky Division of Fleet Management has increased their fuel economy by 38%. They also developed a Speeding Program, increased in the number of GPS units installed, and upgraded to 3G communications to allow for more efficient vehicle tracking and monitoring. The fleet also has two Chevy Volts and a charging station.

M&M Cartage

Greenest Freight Fleet

M & M Cartage has continuously been a leader in the freight industry. In 2014, their fleet expanded their sustainability efforts by opening a public/private compressed natural gas refueling station, adding twenty CNG powered class 8 semi trucks to their fleet, and equipping trailers with “skirts” to improve their fuel economy. M & M Cartage also uses biodiesel (B20) in the other 157 class 8 semi trucks making the entire fleet 100% alternatively fueled. Finally, M & M has a strict anti-idling policy which includes engine shut-off equipment that turns off the engine if idled over 12 minutes.

UPS

Greenest Support Equipment Expansion

UPS invests significantly in alternative fuel off-road vehicles for their ground support equipment. UPS operates 132 propane powered and 231 electric-powered pieces of equipment.

Waste Management of Kentucky

Greenest Refuse Fleet

Waste Management of Kentucky leads the state in investment in alternative fuel refuse vehicles. In 2014, their fleet added 30 compressed natural gas refuse trucks. The new refuse trucks brought their total to 70 CNG-powered refuse trucks which are over 90% of their fleet.

Mercer Transportation

Greenest Corporate Fleet

In 2014, Mercer continued their efforts to increase their fleet’s fuel economy as well as invest significantly in auxiliary power units and shore power hook ups. Currently, ninety percent of Mercer’s vehicles are equipped with auxiliary power units and the company now has 96 outlets established on their routes for the use of auxiliary power units. Additionally, Mercer maintains their two electric vehicles, anti-idling policy, driver training, responsible maintenance, and strong partnerships.

Transit Authority of River City (TARC)

Greenest Transit Fleet

TARC has focused its sustainability efforts on replacing older buses with more fuel efficient models. The fleet currently operates thirty-two hybrid buses. In 2014, TARC replaced 12 1998-1999 diesel buses with clean diesel buses equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction technology and electric cooling fans. Additionally, TARC has received 9 Proterra battery-electric buses. They will receive the final bus in 2015. The fully electric vehicles were purchased to replace diesel trolleys on TARC's downtown circulator routes.

2013 Award Winners

Mercer Transportation

Greenest Corporate Fleet

Mercer Transportation has implemented strict idling and driving and maintenance rules along with top of the line policies with trucks and drivers that it doesn't even own. For the year of 2013 any Mercer driver receiving a ticket or warning for speeding was required to meet with Safety Director within 30 days or be terminated. During the second quarter of 2013, Mercer required drivers to be counseled regarding the effect of speeding on both their personal and the fleet mpg average.  Due to this policy change, fleet mpg improved to 6.02 from 2012 SmartWay 5.97, while running more trucks during the third quarter in 2013. Through implementing a policy that doesn't allow a unit to be loaded if a contractor submits two consecutive monthly maintenance reports showing nothing done, Mercer has raised contractor awareness towards regular maintenance. Due to forthcoming CARB regulations banning non-particulate filter-equipped 96-06 engines in California, after 1/1/14 Mercer has met with dealers and manufacturers reps for HUG, Donaldson and Johnson Matthey particulate filters, to put together programs for discounts and financing for contractors who want to retrofit their equipment. Mercer's SmartWay filing shows they have 1520 trucks in this group. Mercer has also implemented a significant financial incentive for owners of 96-06 engines to replace their equipment with 07 or newer engines. If the truck is replaced or has a PM filter installed before the CARB compliance date, the contractor will receivce a $3000 bonus and will get 80% instead of 75% of the line haul on loads into and out of California for 24 months.

M&M Cartage

Greenest Freight Fleet

CNG trucks have been added to the 2013 M & M Cartage fleet, as well as 50 trailers equipped with 'skirts' to improve mpg by approximately .3 mpg. Fuel savings have increased to approximately 22,000 gallons and 3,000,000 miles on the 50 trailers. M & M Cartage has implemented the use of class 8 semi trucks that run on diesel, bio-diesel and CNG.

Crittenden County Public Schools

Greenest Public School Fleet

Crittenden County Public Schools has better fuel mileage on diesel buses, more driver training, added emission controls to 14 regular route buses, and added a Propane bus to their fleet. That propane bus has been placed on a regular route, and three more propane buses are in the works for the upcoming year. Crittenden County has added driving to their training this year where driving habits, both good and bad, were demonstrated. Because of this added feature to training, drivers were specifically made aware of the good and bad habits they possessed while on the road.  A partnership with UPG Propane/River Region Propane was developed during 2013, and a propane filling station was put on site.  Crittenden County Public Schools has a strong online presence, in several print articles and has most recently been in L.P. Gas Magazine.

Murray State University

Greenest University Campus Fleet

During the past year of 2013 Murray State University has replaced 13 higher mileage vehicles and replaced them with new more fuel efficient flex fuel vehicles. Additionally two of those higher mileage vehicles were replaced by all electric GEM vehicles.

Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection

Greenest State Government Fleet

The Department for Environmental Protection added 4 plug-in electric hybrid vehicles and two charging stations in 2013 to total 247 vehicles fleet-wide, a decrease in 5 vehicles from 2012. As a result, the MPG of the entire fleet has increased by ~7% to 19 MPG. This includes 223 conventional gasoline vehicles and 1 diesel, along with 23 alternative fueled vehicles. Of the 23, 4 are plug-in electric hybrid vehicles. The fleet is primarily composed of light duty passenger vehicles.The Department greatly increased its transparency and public outreach through articles in the Department's blog, the Cabinet's magazine Land, Air, and Water, and on the Department's webpage. The Department continues to work with the Finance and Administration Cabinet on state-wide fleet improvement efforts and education and outreach

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government

Greenest Municipal Fleet

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government has increased alternative fuel use with the introduction of E85 in 2013, the use of propane for forklifts, and continued use of a five percent blend of biodiesel in heavy vehicles. Lexington has decreased the use of conventional diesel and gasoline with the introduction of a plug-in electric vehicle, use of low speed electrics, and hybrid-electric (not plug-in) vehicles. In January 2013, Lexington officially introduced the Chevy Volt, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, to its fleet and opened a dual charging station to the public. For the 2013 calendar year, the Volt has only been filled two times with gasoline for a total cost of $46.08 during the entire year. In addition, the city has the largest municipal fleet of hybrids (not plug-in) with 72 vehicles. Lexington also operates two forklifts with propane power, 214 plug-in electric golf carts, and two, low speed electric vehicles. The introduction of E85 in October 2013 represents a significant savings for the city since the public safety fleet is the largest consumer. LFUCG ordered eleven CNG refuse haulers in the 2nd quarter of 2013, which are due to arrive in March 2014 and May 2014. Lexington introduced Greenwork guides, which division trainers and supervisors use to provide training and protect the environment. Strategy: For the solid waste fleet, Lexington is now entering the next phase in its use of route ware on the waste haulers. To recap, the software installed on all refuse haulers tracks vehicle operations, routes, monitors driver idle time and time to first pickup, etc. The project, referred to as operational efficiency boost, has begun reconciling services to routes. There has been a decrease in operational costs for fuel usage, vehicle maintenance, and personnel. With this project, the city is decreasing the number of missed collections by 50% to reduce the number of “go backs” on collecting missed containers, monitoring idle time and first pickup ensuring driver productivity and efficiency, optimizing the current fleet to run more balanced routes based on route data, and reallocating staff for efficiency. The project has improved safety by creating turn-by-turn directions in vehicles to alleviate drivers referencing maps for collection area, allowing route configuration for right turn routes, and performing pre and post trip vehicle inspection reports on a daily basis to ensure vehicles are mechanically sound. Overall, the 2012 to 2013 fiscal year comparison shows a fuel reduction by 33,176 gallons at a cost reduction of $102,625. Based on the latest data, LFUCG will realize a 43% ROI for the total project and a 10% fuel reduction due to route optimizations is projected thru 2018.

UPS

Strategy Award

The UPS strategy includes short and long term goals, a review process and benchmarking of results, and integration with an organization sustainability plan. UPS implements the use of equipment consisting of diesel, gasoline, propane, and electric. UPS continues to implement the KCFC strategic goals by placing smaller engines that consume 30% less fuel into ground equipment, while retiring older units with larger gas and diesel engines. During the year of 2013, UPS has purchased two new refueler units to replace two older refuelers. Units ordered for the 2013 fleet have a new technology to reduce carbon emissions by 63% through EMS (engine management system). UPS does continuous testing replacing gasoline engines with electric motor power.

Jefferson County Public Schools

Maintenance Award

JCPS buses, including 50 hybrid-elelctric school buses, are safety inspected every month during student transport operations. Inspection includes detailed automotive status. Preventive maintenance services are scheduled and conducted based on mileage, with data-retrieval and diagnostics, and covering in-turn engine, transmission, differential lubricants, filters, fuel system, suspension system including tires, wheels, brakes, etc., and electrical system, HVAC, and electronic appliance systems.

Waste Management of Kentucky

Fuel Award

Waste Management of Kentucky is currently operating 41 Compressed Natural Gas trash collection vehicles, with seven (7) more new CNG trucks due to be delivered and routed by the end of 2013. In addition they have extensively reviewed and rerouted their operations to run their CNG powered equipment longer every day than diesel powered equipment. With 40% of the fleet converted to CNG, they are currently saving roughly 1.8 gallons of diesel per driver hour, or 33,900 gallons of diesel a month.

LaRue County Public Schools

Operation Award

LaRue County Public school implements Anti-idling practices for their drivers. Additionally, 100% of LaRue County's drivers are trained on Hybrid bus operation, and the use of alternative fuels (E85) at the annual driver update.

Transit Authority of River City

Vehicles Award

During the year of 2013, 11 hybrid-electric busses were placed on the Transit Authority of River City fleet as well as 16 "clean diesel" improvements.

Kentucky Division of Fleet Management

Transparency Award

The Division of Fleet Management has extended its public outreach through Social Media networks such as Facebook, and a statewide employee Newsletter issued out by the Finance & Administration Cabinet called “Current FACts”. Fleet Management shares its information with several magazines and organizations such as the “100 Best Fleets,” which is a program to recognize fleet excellence and share knowledge with other Fleets. This program is put on by Government Fleet Magazine, and the Division of Fleet Management has been in the top 100 for the past three years.

Louisville Metro Government

Vehicles Award

Louisville Metro Government has added one all electric plug in Chevy Volt to the Metro Government fleet of 37 hybrid electric vehicles. Additionally they are part of  Sustain Louisville - The Metro Louisville sustainability plan.

City of Somerset

Partnership Award

KCFC; The City of Somerset has partnered with Kentucky Clean Fuels Coalition on multiple occasions to use the city's CNG fueling center with the Somerset School System, airport, housing authority, Cities of Science Hill and Ferguson, and animal shelters.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Partnership Award

Mammoth Cave National Park worked with the Propane Education Resource Council (PERC) in 2013 to identify mowers, water heaters and other conventional items that could be replaced with propane equivalents. PERC has committed to buy these items for the park, and is expected to spend $80,000 - $100,000 in 2014 to meet this commitment. MCNP has two Ford F-250 Trucks that were converted to propane, and replaced two conventional vehicles. Mammoth Cave's diesel use is now at zero.

2012 Award Winners

UPS, Ground Fleet Operations

Greenest Corporate Fleet Award

Over forty percent of UPS’ ground fleet vehicles at its Worldport facility in Louisville operate on biodiesel (B5), electricity, or propane. A strict anti-idling policy, continuing training, and network improvements have reduced the operating hours and of ground equipment and fuel used by 8.3%.  UPS continues to implement its strategic goals by placing smaller engines that consume 30% less fuel into ground equipment while retiring older units with larger gas and diesel engines. A conversion strategy is being tested to remove gasoline engines from cargo tractors and replace them with electric motor power. UPS has released its 2011 sustainability report which covers the organizations mission with regards to sustainability. For more information contact edgeers@ups.com or visit UPS.com.

Lexington Fayette Urban County Government

Greenest Government Fleet

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG) earned the Green Fleets of the Bluegrass Greenest Government Fleet award for 2012.  LFUCG has seventy one gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles and 475 vehicles using B5 biodiesel.  Lexington's sustainability plan, Empower Lexington, has set goals for the community and the transportation committee meets quarterly to provide leadership towards achieving these goals.  An aggressive "right size" vehicle strategy has been created and will guide future vehicle replacement decisions. Fleet management software is being used by every department's fleet liaison to track fuel use, mileage, maintenance, and to aid in the enforcement of an anti-idling policy. Technology is also being used to help the Division of Solid Waste identify route modifications and vehicle reduction strategies. Lexington has worked with many partners, and through its partnership with the Kentucky Division of Air Quality LFUCG received a Kentucky Clean Diesel Grant for $204,000 to install diesel particulate filters in older refuse vehicles to improve air quality. In addition, the city has worked with a variety of companies interested in compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling and the city council has adopted new planning codes to support CNG and liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueling. Lexington has externally communicated its goals and efforts via the city’s website, as well as through Empower Lexington community meetings, televised city council meetings, and press releases. Many additional clean technology, clean fuel, and efficiency initiatives are planned or underway.  LFUCG is an active member of the Kentucky Clean Fuels Coalition with Tracey Thurman providing leadership in 2011 as KCFC’s President, and continuing to serve as a member of the Board of Directors. For more information view the Empower Lexington Plan or contact Tracey Thurman at tthurman@lexingtonky.gov.

Warren County Public Schools

Greenest School Fleet Award

Warren County Public Schools earned the Green Fleet program’s Greenest School Fleet Award in 2012 for their high percentage of advanced clean technology hybrid-electric school buses and participation in Hybrid Horsepower for Kentucky Schools.  Over seventy eight percent of Warren County Public School’s bus fleet is “green”, as most buses either run on biodiesel (B10-B20) or utilize hybrid-electric technology.  The Warren County Board of Education has adopted an anti-idling policy that restricts buses from running idle longer than five minutes, with some exceptions.  Hybrid–electric school bus drivers undergo training to learn how to maximize the hybrid technology and increase fuel economy. For more information contact john.odom@warren.kyschools.us

Mammoth Cave National Park

Greenest Recreational Area

Mammoth Cave National Park (MCNP) earned the Green Fleets of the Bluegrass Greenest Recreation Area award for 2012.  MCNP is the first national park in the United States to use 100% alternative fuels in all government vehicles and equipment. All park vehicles and boats utilize clean technology and clean fuels, including ethanol (E85), biodiesel (B20), and propane, as well as low speed electric vehicles. In 2012 the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)-Clean Cities/National Park Initiative awarded $505,000 to Mammoth Cave for the purchase of high-efficiency vehicles to replace older models, acknowledging the park's consistent green energy efforts.  The initiative also includes public education about the benefits of clean technology vehicles and clean fuels. The park has marked its vehicles with a "flowering flame" emblem to draw attention to alternative and clean fuels. MCNP partners with Forever Resorts, the park concessioner, to share its propane refueling station with Mammoth Cave Hotel.  For more information visit Mammoth Cave National Park or contact Mark Rich at Mark_Rich@nps.gov.

Crittenden County Public Schools

Vehicles & Operation Award

Crittenden County Public Schools operates one hybrid-electric school bus and received a Green Fleets Vehicle & Operation Award in 2012 for leadership in procuring and driving this advanced clean technology hybrid-electric school bus as part of Hybrid Horsepower for Kentucky Schools. Hybrid-electric school bus drivers undergo training to learn how to drive in a way that maximizes the benefits of the hybrid technology. For more information contact wayne.winters@crittenden.kyschools.us

Louisville Regional Airport

Strategy Award

Louisville Regional Airport operates 11 biodiesel (B5) trucks.  An anti-idling policy restricts idling to under two minutes, except for airfield and rescue vehicles. An Energy Reduction Working Group meets monthly to reduce fuel and energy usage and cost. For more information contact ron.maxwell@flylouisville.com

Division of Fleet Management

Partnership Award

The Commonwealth of Kentucky’s Division of Fleet Management uses biodiesel or ethanol (E85) in 30% of its fleet. Through the Division of Fleet’s Management partnership with KCFC it received a grant to purchase five plug-in electric (PEV) Chevy Volts to replace gas powered vehicles. As part of the Governor Beshear’s Smart Government Initiative (SGI) Fleet Management has entered into a contract with a vendor to supply GPS units and service to track and manage vehicles. In addition, Fleet Management is part of a consortium of states that have partnered together to advance the use of compressed natural gas (CNG).  Fleet Management has also entered into contract with a fuel broker to provide a vendor network for fueling, and two CNG fuel sites have been installed in Frankfort.   The governor's Comprehensive Energy Plan charged Fleet Management with raising its fleet’s fuel economy 30% by 2015 and 50% by  2025.  As a state fleet, the Division Fleet Management participates in the U.S.  Department of Energy’s State and Alternative Fuel Provider Fleet Program through EPAct that requires covered fleets to either acquire alternative fuel vehicles as a percentage of their annual light-duty vehicle acquisitions or to employ other petroleum-reduction methods.  Over 300 EPAct credits have been banked by Fleet Management. For more information contact Jeff.Kaiser@ky.gov.

Department for Environmental Protection

Strategy Award

The Commonwealth of Kentucky’s Department for Environmental Protection (DEP) houses the Division for Air Quality and the Division of Water and operates a fleet of twenty light-duty hybrid electric vehicles and the first plug-in electric vehicles (PEV) in state government.  A total of seven PEVs and four chargers will be placed through 2013.  By strategically managing its fleet, DEP now operates eight fewer conventional vehicles and drives a larger percentage of "green" miles. DEP has "right-sized" its SUV fleet by replacing full-size and midsize SUVs with more compact SUVs.  A draft Executive Order includes energy efficiency strategies for all state government operations, including all fleet operations. For more information contact John.Lyons@ky.gov.

The City of Somerset

Fuel & Transparency Award

The City of Somerset operates four Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles, has two city technicians trained on CNG vehicles, and operates a publically accessible CNG refueling station.  The City of Somerset operates the first public CNG dispenser in Kentucky.  In addition, an efficiency and fuel savings program begun in 2012 has resulted in a 15% decrease in fuel usage by its conventional vehicle.  Public safety officers have been trained in idle reduction strategies, and up to date reporting collects miles traveled and fuel usage data.   The city provides leadership in natural gas fuels by partnering with the private sector to aid in the development of liquid removal for improved CNG, as well as by supporting technicians trained in converting vehicles to CNG.  In addition, the city has issued multiple press releases on its CNG efforts and includes details on its website.  Somerset’s strategic goals for CNG are to convert 25% of the city fleet to CNG by 2014, and 50% by 2017.  The City of Somerset has seen significant fuel savings and expects to save 75-80% in fuel costs by switching from gasoline to CNG.  Somerset is a shining example of city government being environmentally and fiscally responsible by using clean technology and clean fuel to save taxpayer dollars.  For more information visit City of Somerset or contact Mayor Ed Girdler at egirdler@cityofsomerset.com.

Jefferson County Public Schools

Vehicles & Operation Award

Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) operates fifty hybrid-electric school buses and received a Green Fleets Vehicle & Operation Award in 2012 for leadership in procuring and driving advanced clean technology hybrid-electric school buses as part of Hybrid Horsepower for Kentucky Schools. Hybrid-electric school bus drivers undergo training to learn how to drive in a way that maximizes the benefits of the hybrid technology. In addition, JCPS used over three million gallons of fuel containing biodiesel (B2) in 2011. For more information contact  john.ackerman@jefferson.kyschools.us

Mercer Transportation

Strategy & Operation Award

Mercer Transportation manages the deliveries of approximately 2,000 class 8 tractors and trailers.  Over 75% of these heavy-duty diesel trucks use plug-in electric auxiliary power units while stopped in Mercer’s downtown Louisville location, reducing engine idling, saving fuel, and improving the city’s air quality. Mercer requires strict adherence to the posted speed limit and driver training on anti-idling. Mercer Transportation is an EPA Smartway carrier partner.  Mercer is working with its primary fuel suppliers to explore the availability of biodiesel and CNG refueling infrastructure.  For more information contact ldunman@mercer-trans.com

Pike County Public Schools

Vehicles & Operation Award

Pike County Public Schools’ thirty seven hybrid-electric school buses have achieved a forty five percent increase in miles per gallon – resulting in almost a $75,000 savings in fuel costs in 2012 !  Hybrid-electric school bus drivers undergo training to learn how to drive in a way that maximizes the benefits of the hybrid technology. Pike County Public Schools earned a Green Fleets Vehicle & Operation Award in 2012 for their leadership in procuring and driving advanced clean technology hybrid-electric school buses as part of Hybrid Horsepower for Kentucky Schools. For more information contact kenneth.oquinn@pike.kyschools.us

LaRue County Public Schools

Vehicles & Operation Award

LaRue County Public Schools operates four hybrid-electric school buses and received a Green Fleets Vehicle & Operation Award in 2012 for leadership in procuring and using advanced clean technology hybrid-electric school buses as part of Hybrid Horsepower for Kentucky Schools. Ten percent of the entire school bus fleet operates on ethanol (E85).  When fuel is bid, biodiesel (B20) is priced and compared to #2 diesel.  Drivers are trained and instructed on no idle days, are in receipt of the no idle policy, and are monitored for compliance daily.  Driver education incorporates training on no idling, coasting and jack rabbit starts, as well as hybrid operations. For more information contact phil.fulkerson@larue.kyschools.us.

Transit Authority of River City

Strategy & Transparency Award

Over ten percent of TARC’s diesel transit vehicles are hybrid-electric buses and additional hybrid buses are on order.  TARC has implemented an anti-idling policy, and twenty diesel buses have been retrofitted with new electric cooling systems that reduce fuel use during necessary idling. TARC has been awarded $4.4 million by the Federal Transit Administration Clean Fuels Program for the purchase of five fully electric buses to replace TARC's oldest diesel trolleys. TARC is a member of the American Public Transportation Association’s Sustainability Initiative and shares best practices and technology development. For more information contact cward@ridetarc.org or visit TARC Go Green.

Waste Management of Kentucky

Fuel Award

WM of Kentucky has added forty CNG waste haulers to its fleet and as a result has reduced diesel fuel purchases by about 12,000 gallons month over month.  In addition, in 2012 WM opened a public 24 hour retail CNG fueling station at 7501 Grade Lane in Louisville.  WM of KY is on target to meet its strategic goals to transition its trucks to CNG vehicles. In addition, all trucks have internal computers that are set to shut down the vehicle after 10 minutes of idle time. The maintenance schedule is tracked by a computer maintenance program (COMPASS).  A Total Tire Maintenance (TTM) program includes employee training and tire policies such as tread depth and air pressure. For more information contact ROwen@wm.com.

Murray State University

Vehicles & Maintenance Award

More than half of all of miles traveled by Murray State University’s (MSU) campus vehicles are “green’, using alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles. MSU utilizes flex fuel vehicles operating entirely with E85 when fueled on campus. Biodiesel (B20) is used by medium and heavy duty vehicles. Six all electric GEM light duty vehicles are also used on campus.  MSU has implemented a written anti-idling policy and encourages drivers to fill up with alternative fuels. A partnership with Schaeffers Specialized Lubricants provides input, testing, and situational solutions into MSU’s 'oil analysis program'. The results are an annual savings of approximately $4,500 per year. Strategic plans include replacing older outdated vehicles with more fuel efficient and technologically advanced vehicles with special emphasis being placed on fully electric vehicles. For more information contact dickie.turner@murraystate.edu

2011 Pioneer Award Winners

Breathitt Co. Board of Education

Kentucky Division of Fleet Management

Jefferson County Public Schools

Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government

Louisville Regional airport Authority

Louisville Water Company

Mammoth Cave National Park

Mercer Transportation Company

Murray State University

Transit Authority of River City

University of Kentucky College of Agriculture

UPS

Waste Management of KY LLC