Green Initiatives
Idaho's First Public CNG Fueling Stations - Boise and Nampa
Alternative fuel ~ $1.97/gallon
In the spring of 2009 our company, Republic Services, partnered with the Treasure Valley Clean Cities Coalition (TVCCC) to apply for a Department of Energy (DOE) Clean Cities grant. The purpose of the grant was to help convert our refuse and recycling fleet to compressed natural gas (CNG). We were fortunate to be awarded the grant and for the past two years have worked steadily to build the CNG infrastructure necessary to fuel our 53 CNG refuse and recycling trucks and 3 pick-ups. Just as important (or perhaps more so) we added public CNG pumps at our Boise and Nampa facilities. We are proud to now host Idaho's only public CNG fueling stations that serve as a critical link in the fuel corridor between Utah and the west coast.
Our business decision to convert to CNG was clear: the new fuel would save money (helping us contain customer rates), protect our air quality, and advance our country's energy security. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and states across the country promote CNG as a cleaner, more affordable transportation fuel that is abundant in North America. It is safe, efficient, and is delivered through the same pipeline network that supplies homes and businesses with natural gas.
Following our lead, other local businesses have begun moving away from gasoline/diesel to save on transportation costs. We've also seen the number of CNG cars and trucks fueling at our public pumps increase each week since we opened. At $1.97/GGE (gasoline gallon equivalent) we expect the number of CNG vehicles in the Treasure Valley to continue climbing.
"By investing in CNG technology, businesses that rely heavily on transportation fuel can capture significant long-term savings, freeing up funds that can be repurposed for new jobs and new capital investments," said Boise Mayor David Bieter.
"I switched to CNG simply because it's a lot cheaper, but it's also important to support a domestic fuel that burns cleaner," said owner Todd Eggers. "I'm realizing a savings of about 45% in fuel expenses, which is my largest cost. At this point, I'm looking at hiring another driver and growing the business."
Idaho's Attorney General, also a speaker at the grand opening, welcomed the arrival of a more affordable fuel, noting that high fuel prices are one of the top issues that Idaho citizens ask his office to investigate.
For additional information on CNG, available vehicles, conversions, a savings calculator, and more, visit www.shifttocng.com. Drivers and businesses can call 384-3984 for a free consultation or to learn more about how to acquire a CNG or bi-fuel vehicle or convert an existing vehicle.
For tips on how you can help, visit our Green Advice, Green Tip of the Week, and free on-site waste consultations pages.
Republic Servicesis a proud member of the Treasure Valley Clean Cities Coalition.
