In an effort to lower costs, create jobs, and lessen their carbon footprint UPS has decided to convert over 80 of its delivery vehicles in Wyoming Valley Pennsylvania to natural gas power. This comes after a corporate decision to convert vehicles to alternative fuels. Natural gas was chosen as the alternative fuel of choice for Wyoming Valley, as well as plans to build a CNG fueling station.
Compared to gasoline and diesel, natural gas is a much cleaner burning fuel due to its lower carbon content. Natural Gas Vehicles (NGVs) meet the highest emissions standards set forth by the EPA. Not to mention natural gas reduces reliance on foreign oil and creates American jobs. On average the cost of natural gas fuel is $1.50 to $2.00 less per gallon than gasoline or diesel. In the U.S. NGVs can offset the use of around 400 million gallons of gasoline in 2013 alone. According to the Alternative Fuels Data Center, CNG (compressed natural gas) is a good choice specifically for, “High-mileage, centrally-fueled fleets that operate within a limited area.” Whereas liquefied natural gas (LNG) is better for vehicles that will travel long distances.
UPS has recognized these benefits and is using it to their advantage. In the case of Wyoming Valley, the cost efficiency of natural gas allows the company to expand their number of drivers in Pittston Township by more than 20 to their tractor-trailers and big rig fleets.
