Governor Rell Directs State Agencies to Examine State’s Alternative Fuel Strategy

May 3, 2007 -- Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced she is asking three state agencies to recommend the best way for Connecticut to continue meeting and exceeding new federal goals for energy independence and clean air.

The federal Energy Policy Act (EPAct) requires that at least 75 percent of state motor pools consist of alternative-fueled vehicles – for example, vehicles that are fueled by natural gas or by an ethanol-gasoline blend known as E85. While Connecticut is in compliance with this law, largely by purchasing E85-powered cars, Governor Rell has taken the lead in regional efforts to encourage the U.S. Department of Energy to allow states greater flexibility in achieving the goals. Under recently announced regulations, states can also meet the goals by buying other gas-saving vehicles such as hybrids.

Governor Rell is asking the Departments of Environmental Protection, Administrative Services and Transportation to examine the state’s alternative fuel strategy and decide whether it should continue focusing on E85-powered cars, turn to more natural gas-powered vehicles or use more hybrids.

“With today’s fuel prices, any way the state can diversify its fuel consumption will mean saving taxpayers money as well as improving our environment,” Governor Rell said. “Analyzing our current mix of alternative fuel vehicles and investigating other ways of meeting the federal requirements can only benefit our state.”

One issue that will factor into the decision is development of the infrastructure for fueling the state vehicles. Currently there are two E85 fueling stations in Connecticut, and agency officials will need to consider whether to convert certain pumps at existing DOT fueling sites to E85 or build new facilities. Similarly, additional natural gas fueling sites may be needed if the state chooses that option.

Costs must also be considered: E85 is currently about twice as expensive as gasoline but may become cheaper as supplies increase; hybrids typically cost about $10,000 more per vehicle than cars powered by gasoline or E85. Moreover, considerable record-keeping is required to prove that the state is meeting the goals if it pursues an alternative method, while sizable fines are possible if the state does not make the grade.

“As technology changes and new developments arise in alternative fuels, we must be on the lookout for new ways to cut fuel consumption while increasing mileage and saving money,” Governor Rell said. “We have an opportunity to make great strides in two important areas – energy and the environment – and I want to be sure we are making wise decisions.”

The Governor has asked the agencies to report back to her by July 15.

Source: Connecticut Governor