Alternative fueled vehicles and refueling stations are becoming commonplace as companies with large to mid-sized fleets adopt alternative options that are cheaper, cleaner and more abundant. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Texas ranks among the top five U.S. states with the largest number of alternative fueling stations to accommodate companies, fleets, and organizations seeking innovation for a more efficient business model.
Because of the growing number of innovative technologies in fueling and infrastructure, the Houston-Galveston Area Council is working to educate and inform industry professionals including municipalities, local school districts, private fleet owners and alternative fuel providers with the latest industry solutions. These solutions take advantage of domestically produced fuels, reduce emissions, and save businesses money. These themes and more will be discussed at the 2012 Clean Fleet Technologies Conference: Fueling the Choice.
"We seek to offer fleet managers the tools and resources necessary to become more efficient and forward-thinking about on- and off-road transport," said Shelley Whitworth, H-GAC Air Quality Program Manager.
This one-day conference, held on November 15 from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM at the George R. Brown Convention Center and hosted by H-GAC, is in its eighth year. It offers more than 200 transportation professionals successful strategies and resources to help move them towards the implementation of alternative fuel and advanced technologies for their fleets.
The Clean Fleet Technologies Conference keynote speaker will be Jon Coleman, Ford Motor Company's sustainability and technology officer. In addition, opening remarks will be delivered by H-GAC Executive Director Jack Steele and City of Houston Council Member Oliver Pennington.
The conference will include interactive panel discussions and workshops, as well as clean vehicle displays and ride-and-drive demonstrations. Topics include smarter driving and maintenance for alternative fuel and advanced technology fleets, and funding and financing opportunities for vehicles and infrastructure projects. Testimonials shared by transportation professionals who currently have alternative fuel fleets are also among the activities to be presented at the conference.
The annual Clean Fleet Technologies Conference is a part of H-GAC's Clean Vehicles Program, which offers special grant opportunities for the purpose of improving our regional air quality, helping stimulate the local economy, reducing petroleum consumption and enhancing energy independence and diversity. To learn more about how H-GAC has helped fleets in the region, visit the Success Story page.