New CNG Solid Waste Trucks
Posted/updated on: February 21, 2014 at 4:46 pm
TYLER — Tyler residents may have noticed some new solid waste trucks on the streets. According to city staff, they not only have a new paint job, but also make an impact on the city’s budget and air quality as they are fueled by compressed natural gas.
“The City of Tyler is leading the way throughout East Texas in CNG use,” said Mayor Barbara Bass. “The city will save thousands of dollars on fuel and operating costs through the use of Texas-produced natural gas instead of imported oil. Not only do these natural gas vehicles save money, but they also reduce exhaust soot by 99 percent, which is much more environmentally friendly.”
The CNG conversion project is an outcome of the Industry Growth Initiative, a plan adopted by Tyler to enhance industry growth. One of the major industries that is identified in the plan is 21st Century Energy, due to the prevalence of natural gas in the Barnett and Haynesville Shale that are in close proximity to Tyler. It is estimated that the Haynesville Shale contains enough natural gas to fuel our country for the next 100 years.
In March 2012, the city opened a compressed natural gas station for city vehicles as a pilot program. Funding for the program was partially provided by community sponsorships from companies such as EOG Resources, Tanos Exploration, Centerpoint Energy, SECO and Parkway Chevrolet. The city currently has 25 vehicles operating on natural gas, seven of which are garbage trucks. Three more garbage trucks are due after June 2014.
“We have saved the city vital financial resources during this pilot program,” said Russ Jackson, Solid Waste manager. “We will benefit even further once we implement other planed phases with our CNG infrastructure. Additionally, the citizens have benefited from the quieter and cleaner engines.”
