By Cameron Chai
The Greenhouse Gas Reduction regulation has been declared by the B.C. Ministry of Energy and Mines. This regulation will enable the implementation and exploitation of natural gas vehicles (NGVs) in British Columbia.
Westport Innovations has considered that this significant program will promote the transportation, environment and economy options for the industry in British Columbia. Based on the regulation, a utility can spend up to $62 million on vehicle, $30.5 million on liquefied natural gas (LNG) stations and ferry incentives on compressed natural gas (CNG) fuelling stations for up to $12 million, totaling $104.5 million.
According to the regulation, utility firms are allowed to conduct natural gas transportation programs till March 31, 2017, wherein the below mentioned opportunity are also included.
- Providing incentives to the transportation fleets such as buses, ferries or trucks that use natural gas
- Building and operating LNG or CNG fuelling stations
- Upgrading plants that offer training for the safe maintenance of natural gas vehicles
This regulation will support the utilization of ample natural gas resources found in British Columbia as a fuel in heavy-duty transport vehicles like marine vessels, refuse trucks, school buses, transit buses and trucks. Minimizing the emission of greenhouse gas (GHG), expanding the infrastructure of natural gas fueling station and displacing of high carbon fuel are included in the goal of this program.
Direct grants up to $2,500 have been awarded by British Columbia Province to the buyer of qualifying CNG vehicles. This grant has been provided through the clean energy vehicle program.
Source: http://www.westport.com/