Connection Spring 2014 | Page 28

SUPPLY EVENTS Fuel for the future The grand opening of United Ag and Apache’s CNG station marks progress in closing the CNG gap in Texas and promotes a better option for the future. photos and story by Rachael Eilts u nited Ag and Apache came one step closer to closing Texas’ CNG gap with the opening of the first compressed natural gas fueling outlet between Houston and Corpus Christi. The two new fuel dispensers were official unveiled at the grand opening, held January 14, 2014. The event included several speakers and a display of a variety of CNG vehicles. United Ag’s own fleet now includes CNG trucks, which were also on display. Speakers included representatives from United Ag and Apache, as well as Texas Railroad Commissioner David Porter, who has launched a natural gas vehicle initiative. “As part of this initiative, I have been working to bring together fleets who want to own and operate natural gas vehicles and station developers who can fill in the gaps in the fueling 28 infrastructures,” Porter said. Porter said his goal is to encourage increased usage of natural gas as transportation fuel, citing that these fuels can cut emissions by up to 30 percent when compared to traditional diesel and gasoline vehicles. He said the opening of United Ag’s station is an important step in bringing natural gas to consumers. “Owners of natural-gas vehicles should be able to travel the state with complete confide