Strahorn brings in alternative fuels experts to meet with local governments
State Representative Fred Stahorn (D-Dayton) met today with a group of local government officials to discuss interest in alternative fueled vehicles. Also attending the meeting was a representative from Clean Fuels Ohio, a statewide non-profit that works exclusively with alternative transportation fuel.
The purpose of the meeting was to have Clean Fuels Ohio present the business case for alternative fueled vehicles and describe potential funding sources. Jason Phillips, Policy Director, attended the meeting on behalf of Clean Fuels Ohio. According to Phillips, because the price of alternative fuels are usually lower than traditional fuels, the return on the investment is usually around 3-5 years depending on how much fuel the vehicle uses. Representative Strahorn has been a proponent of alternative fuels for businesses and has voted in support of legislation offering financial incentives for businesses converting to compressed natural gas (CNG) and propane.
“With the price of gasoline and diesel fluctuating wildly over the past few years, it only makes sense from a business perspective to consider the cost of transitioning to alternative fuels,” Strahorn said. “Natural gas and propane are cheaper, cleaner and come from right here in Ohio which means we are creating new jobs. Businesses and local governments all over the state are moving towards CNG and propane because of the savings in transportation costs.”
Clean Fuels Ohio works with businesses and governments all over the state to encourage the use of alternative fuels. Because fleets tend to use a lot of fuel, there is usually a business case in favor of a transition. Natural gas and propane tend to be about half the cost of diesel fuel but the up-front cost of alternative fueled vehicles is considerable. Studies can be conducted to determine how long it would take to realize a return on investment.
“I wanted to extend a special thanks to Representative Strahorn for showing his leadership on this issue,” Phillips stated. “At Clean Fuels Ohio we try to make the case for alternative fuels all over the state but this doesn’t always happen without help at the local level. Rep. Strahorn’s hard work in putting this together shows he sees the opportunity to realize strong cost savings.”
Representative Strahorn represents the 39th House District and serves as House Minority Leader.