Energy
DNR participates in Energy Awareness event
Saving energy and saving money on energy is a popular topic, not only in Louisiana, but from coast to coast.
In the month of October, Energy Awareness month, the U.S. Department of Energy encourages states to provide instruction and education on alternative energy sources like wind, solar, and geothermal and other clean-burning fuels. State Energy offices also take this time of year to push for citizens to get motivated and get involved in the movement to become more energy efficient.
During this past month, a Blue Bird Propane School Bus has been touring across the state, making stops in Lake Charles, Eunice, and Minden. The tour will stop in New Orleans on November 5th. Calling the event the “Breathe Easy Tour”, the final stop will be in Baton Rouge on November 6th. The tour originated with the Blue Bird Bus company showing its new propane bus and soon expanded to include other propane-powered vehicles for use in large business fleets, like schools and government agencies, and lawn service companies.
The state Department of Natural Resources’ Technology Assessment Division and Energy Office work on a consistent basis with the Clean Cities programs in the state to inform citizens on ways to save on energy and encourage utilization of available clean energy sources. Together, these partners are rallying along side these companies to demonstration the workings and advantages of alternative fuels in the community.
“The Department of Natural Resources has roles not only in supporting and regulating the industry that fuels our nation, but also in helping provide guidance on how to make use of those fuels most efficiently,” said state Natural Resources Secretary Scott Angelle. “I feel it is very appropriate that we participate in events such as this to keep people informed and talking about making efficient energy choices.”
Propane, known as LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), is used by many fleets, allowing propane fueled vehicles excellent driving range and costing about $1.50 a gallon less than gasoline. The Blue Bird Corporation began in 1927, and today offers and manufactures the propane powered bus as part of its Alternative Fuels Strategy in the U.S.
According to DNR Energy Manager Paula Ridgeway, “We educate decision-makers and fleet managers on various types of alternative fuels and vehicles. There is not a one-size-fits-all approach but rather options for their particular fleet.”
LSU’s Center for Energy Studies official Mike McDaniel also notes, “At a time when we are confronted with increased fuel costs, urban air quality problems, and concerns about the nation’s energy security, we are glad to have available clean, affordable, and locally-produced transportation fuel like propane.”
Ridgeway, McDaniel, and other special guest speakers will join the Department of Environmental Quality, CleanFUEL USA, Blue Bird Bus Corporation, Dixie Chopper Company and the Louisiana Propane Gas Association for a school bus, truck, and mower demonstration that is free and open to the public on Thursday, November 6th, at BREC Independence Park from 8:30 am to Noon.
Blue Bird Bus fueled by propane on display in Baton Rouge on Nov. 6, 2008.
Matt Land of the Dixie Chopper company speaks to crowd about this lawn-mower powered by propane gas.
Reed Gas Tank Truck, Blue Bird School Bus, and Dixie Chopper vehicle as featured at BREC Independence Park.
L to R: Carl Corley and Albert Burleigh of Blue Bird Corporation, Mike McClung, former School Transportation Director from San Antonio, Texas; Tammy Morgan of the Greater BR Clean Cities Coalition, and David Reed of the La. Propane Gas Association give presentations to participants at the tour sponsored in part by DNR Technology Assessment Division and Energy Office.