Diesel Retrofits Funded in Economic Stimulus Bills

Clean Diesel Technology Brings Economic and Environmental Benefits; Webinar Scheduled February 12, 2009

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As Congress crafts the final text of its economic stimulus package, diesel vehicle and equipment owners are anticipating the benefits of upgraded equipment and cleaner air thanks to the inclusion of $300 million in funding for the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) in both the House and Senate versions of the bill.

“This funding will bring immediate benefits to the economy by supporting jobs while simultaneously improving air quality – a winning solution for all Americans,” said Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum. “Modernizing and upgrading existing diesel engines and equipment is one of the most proven and cost-effective uses of public funds,” Schaeffer added. “From manufacturers to equipment dealers and service technicians, the diesel industry is gearing up to produce and install this equipment to make older equipment run cleaner.”

In anticipation of the passage of the economic stimulus package, the Diesel Technology Forum is offering a webinar on the DERA program Thursday, February 12 on “How to Prepare a Competitive Application”. EPA representatives will discuss how proposals are evaluated and two previous award winners will provide case studies of their experiences. A recorded version of the webinar and all presentations will be posted on the DTF website for those unable to participate. Visit http://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dieselforum.org%2Fwebinars&esheet=5894095&lan=en_US&anchor=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dieselforum.org%2Fwebinars&index=1 to register, and for more information.

According to independent research done by Keybridge Associates, DERA is likely to generate approximately $6 of increased economic output for every $1 of federal funding. This economic impact is likely to be greatest in the auto parts manufacturing and heavy-duty truck manufacturing sectors, which have sustained job losses at nearly 9 and 7 times the national rate respectively.

Last month more than 300 industry, environmental and governmental organizations signed a letter to congressional leaders requesting funding for DERA, citing more than $116 million in unfunded projects after the program’s first year. The program also enjoys support from both Republicans and Democrats, as evidenced by its original passage by a vote of 92 to 1 as part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005.

To date only $49.2 million has been provided for the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act. This additional $300 million will substantially help reduce emissions from the nation’s estimated 11 million diesel engines. DERA was originally enacted as part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, and authorized for $1 billion over five years.

DERA funds can be awarded for any one of the five options available to reduce emissions, also known as the 5 Rs: refuel (using cleaner diesel fuel); rebuild (engine upgrades); repower (new engine); replace (new equipment); and retrofit (emission filters/catalysts). These solutions can be applied to both on-road and off-road diesel vehicles and equipment.

“From California to Connecticut, from school buses to skid steer loaders, our members have national experience with retrofitting a wide variety of engines, vehicles and equipment,” said Schaeffer. “Clean diesel technology provides efficient, clean power affecting virtually all sectors of the economy and all communities across the country.”

Clean Diesel Projects Get $1,378,160 from EPA

EPA Region 6 announced on Oct. 8th a total of $1,378,160 in grant money for clean diesel projects in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico and Oklahoma under the State Clean Diesel Program. Grants from the State Clean Diesel Program are direct, non-competitive assistance awards designed to allow states to build programs that reduce diesel emissions from existing fleets.

For additional information, visit The State Clean Diesel Program. Click Here.

Keep on Trucking - with Lower Emissions through EPA's $50 Million Clean Diesel Funding

To improve air quality and protect public health, EPA today announced the first $3.4 million in funding for clean diesel projects under the $50 million Diesel Emission Reduction Program. This campaign makes awards to save fuel and lower greenhouse gas and diesel exhaust emissions from the country's existing fleet of 11 million diesel engines.

"This fall, EPA is paving the way for clean diesel progress," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "These grants encourage technologies that will help truckers save over $72 million in fuel costs per year and lower their environmental impacts."

Three organizations received $3.4 million for small trucking firms to lower fuel costs and shrink their carbon footprints through innovative loans and rebates. The organizations receiving funds under the national diesel program are: the Community Development Transportation Lending Services, Washington, D.C.; Cascade Sierra Solutions, Oregon; and Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, Missouri.

EPA will also begin disbursing $14.8 million for State Clean Diesel programs. All 50 states will receive funds, and 35 states will put matching resources toward the program. Later this fall, $27.6 million in grants will be distributed by EPA's ten Regional offices. Finally, grant awards for emerging technologies totaling approximately $3.4 million will be announced this winter.

Diesel engines emit 7.3 million tons of smog-forming nitrogen oxides and 333,000 tons of soot annually. This pollution is linked to thousands of premature deaths, hundreds of thousands of asthma attacks and millions of lost work days. EPA's new diesel engine standards will significantly reduce emission from newly manufactured engines, and these grants will lower emissions from the diesel engines already in use through clean innovative technology.

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EPA National Clean Diesel Campaign

EPA Seeks to Cut International Ship Emissions

On Nov. 29th, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced plans for new emission standards for diesel engines on board large ocean-going vessels. The advance notice of proposed rulemaking reflects the approach set out in the U.S. Government's recent proposal to the International Maritime Organization and would require the use of high-efficiency aftertreatment technology and lower sulfur marine fuels to reduce NOx and PM emissions.

"Diesel ships are a global economic workhorse. By advancing clean diesel technology, this economic workhorse can become an environmental workhorse," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "Working with the International Maritime Organization, EPA is reducing emissions from the shipping sector – making ports across the world harbors of cleaner air."

The advance notice of proposed rulemaking targets emissions from the largest marine diesel engines. These "Category 3" marine engines are used primarily for propulsion power on ocean-going vessels, such as container ships, tankers, cruise ships and bulk carriers. As foreign trade grows and new emissions controls take effect on other transportation sources, emissions from these ships comprise an increasing share of the nation's pollution inventory.

The approach described in both the domestic and international initiatives would consist of performance-based standards for new and existing Category 3 engines, including:

· Tier 2 NOx limits for new Category 3 engines beginning in 2011 that would achieve a 15 to 25 percent NOx reduction.

· Tier 3 NOx limits for new Category 3 engines beginning in 2016 that would apply when ships are operating in U.S. ports and coastal areas and that would require the use of high efficiency catalytic aftertreatment emission control technology capable of reducing NOx emissions by 80 percent or more.

· NOx limits for existing engines (those built before Jan. 1, 2000) that would achieve a 20 percent NOx reduction; these standards would phase-in beginning 2010/2012

· PM and SOx performance standards beginning in 2011 that would apply to all vessels when they are operating in U.S. ports and coastal areas and that could be achieved through the use of low sulfur fuel or the use of exhaust gas cleaning technology.

EPA is providing 60 days for comments on the advance notice of proposed rulemaking. In addition, a schedule for this rulemaking was finalized today, setting a completion date of Dec. 17, 2009.

More information about the advance notice of proposed rulemaking, the timetable for rulemaking, and the government's proposal to the International Maritime Organization (which is presented as a series of amendments to Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) is available at: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/oceanvessels.htm

Volvo Displays Carbon-Dioxide-Free Trucks

Press Release:
STOCKHOLM, Sweden - The Volvo Group is the first vehicle manufacturer to produce seven demonstration trucks that can all be driven without emitting any environmentally harmful carbon dioxide. These trucks were exhibited for the first time today in Stockholm and are equipped with diesel engines that have been modified to operate on seven different types of renewable liquid and gaseous fuels. “Volvo is part of the climate problem, but today we have shown that carbon-dioxide free transports are a possibility and that we as a vehicle manufacturer both can and will be part for the solution to the climate issue,” says Leif Johansson, CEO of the Volvo Group.

The seven Volvo FM trucks are equipped with Volvo’s own 9-liter engines that have been specially modified by the Group’s engineers to illustrate the possibilities of carbon-dioxide-free transport. According to the widely publicized Stern report, approximately 14 percent of total global carbon-dioxide emissions will come from the transport sector, with road transport accounting for a total of 10 percent. However, there is no information on the percentage of these emission levels that in turn originate from cargo transport. A calculation based on European conditions and statistics, whereby passenger cars represent 60% of carbon-dioxide emissions and cargo transport for the remaining 40%, indicates that cargo transport will account for about 4-5% of total global carbon-dioxide emissions.

Part of the solution
“As one of the world’s largest manufacturers of heavy trucks, diesel engines and buses, the Volvo Group is part of the climate problem,” says Leif Johansson, CEO of Volvo. “But environmental issues are one of the areas which we have assigned the very highest priority, and based on our resources and knowledge, we both can and will be part of the solution.”

The seven trucks exhibited in Stockholm can be operated on the same number of different renewable fuels and/or combinations of fuels: biodiesel, biogas combined with biodiesel, ethanol/methanol, DME, synthetic diesel and hydrogen gas combined with biogas. Since all of these fuels are produced from renewable raw materials, they provide no carbon-dioxide contributions to the ecosystem when combusted and, accordingly, do not impact the environment.

“The diesel engine is an extremely efficient energy converter that is perfectly suited to many different renewable fuels, liquid or gaseous,” says Jan-Eric Sundgren, member of Volvo Group Management and Senior Vice President, Public and Environmental Affairs. “With our know-how in engine technology and our large volumes, we can manufacture engines for several different renewable fuels, and also create possibilities for carbon-dioxide-free transports in such other product areas as buses, construction equipment and boats.”

However, the supply of different renewable fuels is significantly limited and there is no large-scale production or distribution for the majority of the alternatives that could be utilized in carbon-dioxide-free transports.

“With these vehicles, we have shown that Volvo is ready, that we possess the technology and the resources for carbon-dioxide-free transport, but we cannot do this alone,” says Leif Johansson. “We also require large-scale production of renewable fuels and putting such production in operation requires extensive investments in research and development, and also well-defined, common guidelines from authorities in as many countries as possible.”

Volvo has carried out its own analyses of the renewable fuels that are most suitable for carbon-dioxide-free transports. In these analyses, Volvo considered important aspects such as the impact on the environment, energy efficiency, the efficiency level in the use of the land for cultivating crops for the respective fuels, the amounts of the different fuels that can potentially be produced, the level of vehicle adaptation required in purely technical terms, the costs of the fuels and how easy it is to distribute the fuels.

“We know that in the foreseeable future there will be insufficient biomass or renewable fuels to fully replace fossil fuels,” says Jan-Eric Sundgren. “That is why it is important that decisions on the production of future fuels are preceded by such comprehensive assessments – otherwise there is the risk that we focus on too many and quite simply unsuitable alternatives, which will delay the introduction of carbon-dioxide-free transport.”

Despite the current shortage of both biomass for the production of renewable fuels, and finished fuels, the Volvo Group does not view carbon-dioxide-free transport as a utopian idea. One of the reasons for this is the second generation of renewable fuels that are produced through gasification and that generate both large volumes and a greater number of fuels to choose between.

“Gasification is a promising line that may lead to a significantly larger substitution than today’s technology,” says Leif Johansson. “Our own history has taught us that much of what we once thought impossible we have since been able to solve a few years later. This can be applied to such important areas as energy efficiency and exhaust emission control. I am an optimist and believe in a similar trend in carbon-dioxide-free transport.”

Seven different cars – seven different fuels
The trucks exhibited in Stockholm were operated on the seven following renewable fuels/fuel combinations:

Biodiesel is produced by the esterification of vegetable oils. Rapeseed oil and sunflower seed oil are the most common raw materials in Europe.

Biogas is a gaseous fuel that is largely comprised of hydrocarboned methane.
Biogas can be extracted in sewage treatment works, at garbage dumps, and at other sites at which biodegradable materials are found.

Biogas + biodiesel are combined in separate tanks and injection systems. A small percentage (10 percent) of biodiesel, or synthetic diesel, is used for achieving compression ignition. The biogas in this alternative is in a cooled and liquid form that increases its range.

DME – Dimethyl ether Dimethyl ether is a gas that is handled in liquid form under low pressure. DME is produced through the gasification of biomass.

Ethanol/Methanol is produced through the gasification of biomass and ethanol through the fermentation of crops rich in sugar and starch.

Synthetic Diesel is a mixture of synthetically manufactured hydrocarbon produced through the gasification of biomass. Synthetic diesel can be mixed with conventional diesel fuel without problem.

Hydrogen gas + Biogas - this vehicle operates on a combination of hydrogen gas and biogas whereby the hydrogen gas is mixed in small volumes with compressed biogas (8% volume). Higher mixture levels are also possible. The hydrogen gas can be produced through the gasification of biomass or electrolysis of water with renewable electricity.

Information about renewable fuels is available at:

http://www.volvo.com/group/global/en-gb/Volvo+Group/ourvalues/environment/renewable_fuels/

The Dirt on Diesel: CleanAIR on America the Green

The founder of CleanAIR Systems, a manufacturer of emissions control equipment, was recently interviewed by America the Green for their weekly environmental podcast. The discussion centered on the new resurgence in diesel vehicles and how diesel has cleaned up its act to become “green”.

Topics included why diesel is much more acceptable in Europe than the U.S., why diesel is now considered the “interim” fuel to help reduce greenhouse gases, and how diesel has changed to become a cleaner vehicle option.

To listen to the Podcast entitled: Diesel Cleans Up its Act with Michael Roach, Founder of CleanAIR Systems, go to: http://www.americathegreen.com/diesel-cleans-up/. America the Green can also be downloaded on iTunes.

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America the Green

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More about diesel emissions control at CleanAIR Systems

green news
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The Clean Diesel Technology Tour

The Clean Diesel Technology Tour, the largest gathering ever of clean diesel executives, vehicles and technologies, takes place today at the Sacramento Convention Center, spotlighting diesel’s role in meeting California challenges regarding clean air standards, climate change and fuel efficiency. Sponsored by the Diesel Technology Forum (DTF), the tour offers industry, government officials and representatives from the environmental community the opportunity to interact and exchange ideas while reviewing the impressive improvements of modern diesel technologies.

During the tour, results of a recent survey commissioned by the DTF will be released, showing current California residents’ attitudes toward the impacts of their personal vehicle choices on climate change, and their perceptions of the diesel industry’s environmental progress over the past two decades.

Tour topics include discussing the importance of clean diesel technology to California today and its future potential; environmental challenges at the ports and in goods movement; the state’s low-carbon fuel initiative; and Governor Schwartzenegger’s views regarding climate change issues that industries need to address.

Executives from the diesel industry will discuss plans for the introduction of new clean diesel vehicles, engines and related technology in the near future.

The event will feature an opportunity to see and drive some of the cleanest, most fuel-efficient clean diesel vehicles made, including several brought from Europe to demonstrate the state-of-art in light-duty diesel technology. There will also be displays of 2007 emissions-compliant Class 8 trucks, Tier III off-road equipment and a wide array of emissions-control technologies that are making new and older diesels the cleanest ever, and ready for use in California’s strict regulatory environment.

In light-duty cars, trucks and SUVs, diesel yields up to 40 percent more miles per gallon than unleaded gasoline, an important benefit with the challenge of today’s high fuel prices. Diesel became even more attractive with rollout of ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel in California last September and nationwide last October. The sulfur content of this new, clean diesel is 15 parts per million, down previously from 150 parts per million in California, reducing emissions from diesels and enabling a new generation of clean engines for the entire spectrum of diesel-powered equipment. These new engines are up to 90 percent cleaner than the previous generation of diesel engines. Cars and SUVs expressly designed to burn clean diesel, which will make them as clean as gasoline-powered engines, are expected to be introduced in California starting in 2008.

About the Diesel Technology Forum
The Diesel Technology Forum (DTF) is an association of companies that manufacture diesel engines, components, fuel, and emissions control systems. The DTF brings together the diesel industry, the broad diesel user community, civic and public interest leaders, government regulators, academics, scientists, the petroleum industry and public health researchers to encourage the exchange of information, ideas, scientific findings and points-of-view about current and future uses of diesel power technology.

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Diesel Technology Forum

Peterbilt, Eaton and Wal-Mart Partner on Hybrid Electric Aerodynamic Model 386 Development

Denton, Texas -- March 15, 2007 -- Advanced hybrid technologies developed jointly by Peterbilt Motors Company and Eaton Corporation have been integrated into an aerodynamically styled heavy-duty vehicle for superior fuel efficiency and greater environmental stewardship.

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., which operates the nation’s second largest private fleet, is supporting development of new hybrid technologies by helping to validate the concept and refine the final design. Wal-Mart recently announced its “Sustainability 360” program that will aggressively promote environmental stewardship among customers, suppliers and associates through a number of global innovation projects.

Peterbilt and Eaton have previously partnered to develop hybrid electric Class 6-7 vehicle platforms and Class 8 hybrid hydraulic vehicles. With a successful test and evaluation program, the heavy-duty hybrid electric power system will be available in 2009.

“We are pleased to partner with Peterbilt to produce a heavy-duty hybrid truck that we believe delivers a strong value proposition,” says Jim Sweetnam, Eaton Senior Vice President and President - Truck Group. “During the past five years, we’ve clearly demonstrated our leadership in the hybrid marketplace with the success of our patented hybrid power system in the medium-duty marketplace. We’re excited that Wal-Mart’s fleet is now seeing the value of our hybrid technology.”

“Peterbilt and PACCAR Inc are leaders in developing solutions that help customers improve fuel economy through superior aerodynamic designs and advanced technologies. We continue to design products, improve processes and develop technologies that are environmentally responsible,” says Bill Jackson, Peterbilt General Manager and PACCAR Vice President. “As we refine our heavy-duty hybrid platform for future production, we are fortunate to have Eaton and Wal-Mart as partners to help develop the best possible vehicle system for both customers and the environment.”

“Wal-Mart is careful to consider the civic and environmental impact its operations have in the communities it serves around the world,” says Tim Yatsko, Senior Vice President of Transportation. “We are continually looking for new, innovative ways to improve the fuel economy and reduce the emissions of our fleet. We currently operate the Peterbilt Model 386, and we anticipate that the hybrid version will help us move toward our goal to increase our fleet efficiency by 25 percent over the next few years.”

During third-party testing, the Eaton Hybrid Power System has routinely achieved a 5-7 percent fuel savings versus comparable, non-hybrid models. It may result in a savings of one gallon of fuel per hour when idling.

At the current average diesel price of almost $2.50 per gallon, those savings equate to about $9,000 to $10,000 a truck per year in operation.

Advanced Hybrid TechnologiesThe heavy-duty hybrid electric power system features an automated manual transmission with a parallel-type “direct” hybrid system, incorporating an electric motor/generator located between the output of an automated clutch and the input to Eaton’s Fuller® UltraShift® transmission. The system captures energy generated by the diesel engine and recovers energy normally lost during braking and stores the energy in batteries. That electric torque is then sent through the motor/generator and blended with engine torque to improve vehicle performance, operate the engine in a more fuel-efficient range for a given speed and/or operate only with electric power in certain situations.

In this heavy-duty application of Eaton’s hybrid power technology, fuel efficiency and emissions reductions are best achieved both while the truck is rolling or standing still. The system’s batteries power the heating, air conditioning and vehicle electrical systems while the engine is off. When the idle reduction mode is active, engine operation is limited to battery charging, an automatically controlled process that takes approximately five minutes per hour to fully charge the system. In the proposed system design, a proprietary feature minimizes engine vibration during start-up and shutdown during the recharge periods, allowing the driver to rest without interruption.

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Peterbilt

Cleantech 2007 Call for Venture & Partner Award Set at $10,000

Call for Venture & Partnering Presentations Now Open for Cleantech 2007, May 23-24, 2007 in Santa Clara, Calif.

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--TechConnect.org, producers of Cleantech 2007, today announced the Cleantech 2007 Ventures & Partner awards.

“Clean and sustainable technologies reflect the ability for innovators to bring together new perspectives and new technologies to improve today’s products, services and manufacturing processes. By making these awards, Cleantech wants to showcase leading-edge companies, as well as their go to market strategies,” said Matthew Laudon, Executive Director of TechConnect.org.

The Cleantech 2007 Ventures & Partnering Presentation Awards acknowledge business plan and partnering presentations that contribute to the goal of accelerating the flow of clean technologies to the viable market phase. The Awards are a part of the Cleantech 2007 conference, a multi-disciplinary and multi-sector conference on global sustainability addressing advancements in traditional technologies, emerging technologies and clean business practices.

The Cleantech 2007 Ventures & Partnering Presentation Awards will applaud commercialization achievements within these technology areas:

Renewable Energy
Enabling Transmission, Geothermal, Hydro, Photovoltaics, Solar Thermal, Wave, Wind

Clean Technologies
Clean Burning Fuels, Electric Vehicles, Fuel Cells, Hybrid Electric, Hydrogen, Zero Emissions, Pollution Reduction

Bio Energy
Biodiesel, Biofuels, Biomass

Novel Technologies

Advanced Materials, Biomimetics, Catalysts, Construction Materials, Distributed Power, Emerging Fuels, Energy Efficiency, Fuel Additives, Microreactors, Microturbines, Nanotechnology, Smart Grid

Environmental
Bioremediation, Desalination, Phytoremediation, Recycling, Smart Fertilizers, Waste, Water Purification, Water Treatment

Traditional Industries - Clean & Green Advancements
Agriculture, Automotive, Building, Chemical, Coal, Food, Nuclear, Oil & Gas, Paper, Semiconductor, Transportation

Cleantech 2007 has officially opened its Call for Venture Presenters submissions. Cleantech will be held May 23-24, 2007, at Santa Clara, Calif.

Judges will select the winner from proposals submitted to speak at Cleantech 2007. The deadline to apply for the Cleantech 2007 Venture Award Presentations is March 10, 2007. To submit or learn more visit: http://www.techconnect.org/Cleantech2007/participate/Venture/

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Cleantech 2007

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About current clean technology to reduce diesel and power plant emissions from CleanAIR Systems

Los Angeles County Ports Issue RFP for Emissions-Reducing LNG Trucks

RFP Workshop Slated for February 20th at the Port of Los Angeles

SAN PEDRO, Calif.--(February 15)--The San Pedro Bay ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach -- the nation’s two leading containerports -- have issued a joint Request for Proposals (RFP) to seek qualified applicants for a new Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Truck Program. The effort is a component of the milestone San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan approved last November. An LNG-powered truck fleet could help the world’s fifth largest port complex reduce particulate matter (PM) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) by 80 to 90 percent.

Financial incentives through this Program will fund up to a maximum of $144,000 per truck. The Program is open to fleets of any size, including independent operators.

Proposals will be accepted through 5:00 p.m. on March 19, 2007, and an applicant workshop will be held February 20, 2007, at the Port of Los Angeles Administration Building, 425 S. Palos Verdes St., San Pedro, CA, 90731. Detailed information and proposal requirements are available on the Port’s website at www.portoflosangeles.org.

“Replacing the thousands of dirty diesel trucks that call at our ports on a daily basis is a major component of the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan,” said Geraldine Knatz, Ph.D., executive director at the Port of Los Angeles. “Nearly 22,000 truck trips occur at the port complex in a single day, and the more we can do to make sure these are clean, non-polluting trucks, the better it is for all of us. No port in the world has committed to a project like this – and in Southern California, you have two ports sharing a commitment to significantly reduce port-related air pollution by implementing fleet programs which promote LNG, electric and clean diesel technologies.”

Under the LNG Truck Program, heavy-duty diesel trucks older than 1989 would be scrapped and replaced with a 2006 model year, or newer, heavy-duty LNG truck. The Ports have allocated a total of $8 million each to the project, and the South Coast Air Quality Management District has allocated $6 million, for a total of $22 million for the LNG Truck Program.

All vehicles funded under the LNG Truck Program are required to have electronic monitoring units with global positioning system capability installed prior to delivery of the vehicle, and verification must be provided to the Port of Los Angeles prior to releasing the vehicle. The minimum requirements to receive the maximum award under the Program include 48,000 annual miles with at least 75% of these miles occurring within the South Coast Air Quality Basin, and trucks must make at least seven trips to the Ports per week. Contract term will be a minimum of three years.

This RFP does not cover the costs for fuel, maintenance, infrastructure, or consultant services. Specifics on the gross vehicle weight rating, engine parameters, tilting, maintenance, insurance, electronic monitoring unit, warranty and vehicle scrapping are found in the RFP, which is available at http://www.portoflosangeles.org/.

Under the LNG Truck Program RFP, applicants are required to secure their own fueling through construction of a fueling station on fleet property or through an agreement with an independent mobile fuel provider. A related RFP is currently being issued by the Ports seeking construction of a centralized LNG fueling and maintenance facility; however, this facility will not be in place before the operation of the LNG Truck Program begins. For more information on the San Pedro Bay Ports LNG Truck Program RFP, please contact Kevin Maggay at (310) 732-3947 or kmaggay@portla.org.

Celebrating its Centennial in 2007, the Port of Los Angeles is America's premier port. As the leading seaport in the nation in terms of shipping container volume and cargo value, the Port generates 259,000 regional jobs and $8.4 billion in annual wages and tax revenues. A proprietary department of the City of Los Angeles, the Port is self-supporting and does not receive taxpayer dollars. At the Port of Los Angeles, high priority is placed on responsible and sustainable growth initiatives, combined with high security, environmental stewardship and community outreach. For its industry leading environmental initiatives, the Port received two Environmental Protection Agency awards in 2006. The Port of Los Angeles – A Cleaner Port. A Brighter Future.

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The Port of Los Angeles

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More about reducing emissions on off- and on-road diesel vehicles using the CleanAIR PERMIT Filter

EPA's FY 2008 Budget Focuses on Next Phase of Environmental Progress

(Washington, D.C. - Feb. 5, 2007) Pointing to 36 years of progress under both Republican and Democratic administrations, EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson today released his agency's $7.2 billion fiscal year 2008 budget. The new budget emphasizes using more citizen-partners as EPA shifts into the next phase of environmental progress – the green culture.

"As our nation shifts to a green culture, Americans are realizing that environmental responsibility is everyone's responsibility. Today, EPA has 300 million citizen-partners in our efforts to accelerate the pace of environmental protection," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "President Bush's budget request will fund EPA's role as our country enters this next phase of environmental progress."

The proposed 2008 spending plan includes $549.5 million for enforcement operations, the largest amount ever dedicated to that agency responsibility. It is a $9.1 million increase over the fiscal year 2007 amount.

This budget also features a major effort to restore, improve and protect four of the nation's most important water assets.

Chesapeake Bay: An additional $2 million, for a total of $28.8 million, to build on the continuing efforts of Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, increase the pace of restoration, and implement the most cost-effective nutrient and sediment controls and key habitat restoration strategies.

Puget Sound: $1 million to focus on the highest-priority environmental challenges such as improving water quality, lifting shellfish harvest restrictions, and cleaning up contaminated sediments.

Gulf of Mexico: $4.5 million to assist the Gulf States and other stakeholders in developing a framework for restoring and protecting the Gulf. EPA is working with 12 other federal agencies and five states in the Gulf of Mexico Alliance to implement the 2004 U.S. Ocean Action Plan.

Great Lakes: $56.8 million to continue working with states and local communities to reduce PCB concentration by 25 percent in predatory fish and keep monitored beaches open 95 percent of the time during the summer season.

The budget also requests an additional $687.5 million for clean water grants and $842.2 million for drinking water grants.

With a focus on improving air quality, the president's budget includes:
· $117.9 million for EPA's climate change programs to build upon partnership efforts to achieve reductions in US greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to the president's plan to reduce greenhouse gas intensity by 18 percent in 2012;
· $44 million for Energy Star programs for the commercial, residential and industrial sectors to continue voluntary government/industry partnership programs designed to capitalize on the opportunities that consumers, businesses, and organizations have for making sound investments in efficient equipment, policies, and practices;
· $5 million for the Asia Pacific Partnership to support international efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and
· $4.4 million for Methane to Markets to promote methane recovery and use at landfills, coal mines and natural gas facilities.

The budget also includes $35 million for National Clean Diesel Campaign grants to help meet the mandates of the Energy Act and promote more energy efficient technologies. The $35 million is estimated to leverage an additional $72 million in funding assistance and reduce particulate matter by approximately 5,040 tons, which will achieve $1.4 billion in health benefits.

With a focus on promoting scientific research, the president's budget includes:
· $123.8 million for Clean Air and related research, a $7.5 million increase to improve research related to cyclical review of criteria air pollutants, study near-road air pollution, and support work with NOAA to develop the Community Multi-scale Air Quality (CMAQ) modeling system;
· $10.2 million for Nanotechnology Research, an increase of $1.6 million to identify potential uses and study nano-scale materials that are subject to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) requirements.

In addition, the budget requests a total of $1.245 million for Superfund (including a $3.2 million increase over FY 2007 Request for the Superfund Remedial program) and $162.2 million for the Brownfields program.

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The President's FY 2008 budget request for EPA

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How CleanAIR Systems is cleaning up diesel emissions

All Major Manufacturers Receive Approval For Emissions-Slashing Technology

WASHINGTON, Jan. 25 /PRNewswire/ — The Diesel Technology Forum today announced that all major heavy-duty truck and engine manufacturers have met new Environmental Protection Agency standards for emissions cuts and have been certified by EPA for full production.

The new big rigs are equipped with innovative new particulate matter filters that trap emissions and result in 2007 trucks being 90 percent cleaner than the previous generation of trucks. Nitrogen oxide emissions have also been reduced significantly with new technology.

“With the government certification of heavy-duty trucks now official, we can celebrate another milestone in the clean diesel transformation,” said Forum executive director Allen Schaeffer. “The nationwide availability of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel in October 2006 provided 97 percent cleaner diesel fuel, enabling manufacturers to engineer the cleanest diesel trucks ever. With government certifications officially recognizing the success of the new diesel engines in drastically cutting emissions, all Americans can celebrate a stunning clean air achievement. Truck and engine makers stepped up to the challenge, and now we’ve all met it.”

Manufacturers now certified by the EPA include Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit Diesel Corp., International, Mack and Volvo, meaning each is compliant with the most stringent diesel emissions standards in the world. The EPA predicts that these new trucks — once they fully replace the existing fleet — will reduce emissions of smog-forming gases by 2.6 million tons each year, and cut soot emissions by 110,000 tons annually.

“America’s long-haul truckers can be confident in the reliability and durability of these engines,” Schaeffer added. “The technology on these trucks has been engineered through millions of miles of testing, which has shown the performance, fuel economy and durability required to not only meet but exceed customer expectations.”

Because 94 percent of goods are shipped via diesel trucks, consumers can soon expect that many products they see on store shelves will be delivered by the advanced technology trucks.

The Diesel Technology Forum is a partner in the Clean Diesel Fuel Alliance (www.clean-diesel.org), a resource on technical issues relating to the new cleaner fuel and engine technology.

The Diesel Technology Forum is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the economic importance and environmental progress of diesel engines and equipment. Forum members represent the three parts of the modern clean diesel system: advanced engines, cleaner diesel fuel and effective emissions control systems.

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Diesel Technology Forum

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EPA Kicks Off Midwest Clean Diesel Leadership Program

CHICAGO, Jan. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 hosted the first meeting of its Midwest Clean Diesel Leadership Group today in Chicago. The group of 32 public-sector and private- industry organizations shares the goal of cutting emissions from one million diesel engines in the region by 2010.

The Leadership Group is co-chaired by Cummins Inc., Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Ohio Environmental Council and EPA Region 5.

"EPA helped form the Leadership Group to accelerate efforts toward cleaner air," said EPA Region 5 Administrator Mary A. Gade. "Cleaning up diesel emissions in this country will take a concerted, collaborative effort of public and private organizations, and this group will bring greater visibility, energy and resources to this effort."

"From schoolchildren to truck drivers, millions of Americans are exposed everyday to dangerous emissions from America's aging fleet of diesel-powered vehicles and heavy equipment," said Staci R. Putney McLennan, director of clean air programs at the Ohio Environmental Council. "The good news is that cost-effective pollution-control technologies are available. We look forward to collaborating with industry and government representatives to tackle this important challenge."

"We look forward to sharing the strategies and approaches we have used in Illinois with our colleagues from other Midwestern states," said Illinois EPA Director Doug Scott. "We are also interested in learning about strategies others have found effective, as well as how we all can maximize the clean air benefits from the ongoing technological advances."

"This initiative is about fostering a collaborative environment where we all work together for cleaner communities," said Brian Mormino, director of government relations for Cummins Inc. "Cummins is pleased to step forward with our public and private partners to lead this effort. We have made a significant investment to meet EPA's emissions standards for new engines and know that we can accomplish much more by leveraging our relationships to address those already in operation today."

EPA created the Midwest Clean Diesel Initiative to reduce emissions from older, existing diesel engines not covered by EPA's stringent standards for cleaner fuels and new, cleaner engines. MCDI estimates that more than 3 million diesel engines in the Midwest would benefit from the use of cleaner fuels and idle-reduction and diesel-retrofit technologies and strategies. These include rebuilding, re-powering, replacing, refueling and retrofitting these engines with emission control devices. Already, the public-private partnership has undertaken more than $30 million in projects, affecting 350,000 engines, and reducing air pollution by more than 3.5 million pounds per year.

Diesel emissions contain large amounts of nitrogen oxides and fine particles (soot). Nitrogen oxides are precursors of ozone (smog), which is a lung irritant, and fine particles can aggravate respiratory and heart diseases. EPA has found that fine particles from diesel engines are a leading public health risk in the Midwest.

Quotes from the Midwest Clean Diesel Leadership Group

“New clean diesel technology completely changes the way people view diesel. The Midwest Clean Diesel Initiative is taking the lead to increase the adoption of clean diesel technologies to dramatically reduce emissions by 90 percent in older trucks and buses.”
Patrick Charbonneau, Vice President of Government Relations International Truck and Engine Corporation

“We are pleased and honored to be a part of this group and share its focus on partnership and real, measurable environmental and health outcomes for the region. This kind of recognition and support by EPA is especially critical for Minnesota proactively to stay ahead of air quality problems and to comply with all federal air quality standards. We applaud EPA's foresight and dedication in launching this comprehensive effort to address a major regional air quality problem like diesel emissions.”
Bill Droessler, Clean Air Minnesota Director Minnesota Environmental Initiative

“As the crossroads of America, Indiana has a significant interest in improving air quality while facilitating the increased movement of goods necessary for our growing economy. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management is honored to be part of the Midwest Clean Diesel Leadership Group. The initiative is an excellent example of a public/private partnership to harness the power of the marketplace to improve both the economy and the environment in Indiana and the entire Midwest.”
Thomas Easterly, Commissioner Indiana Department of Environmental Management

“Our partners are making a difference in the Midwest in improving the quality of life by reducing air pollution.”
Carl Lisek, South Shore Clean Cities Inc.

“The diesel industry is proud to be an active participant in the Midwest Clean Diesel Leadership Group. The diversity of supporters stepping forward to join together for this program speaks volumes about the universal agreement that cleaner diesel means cleaner air for all of us, and the industry is committed to doing its part. Opportunities for upgrading the existing diesel fleet are now greater than ever, and diesel retrofit programs have proven time and again to be one of the most cost-effective ways we can reduce diesel emissions, help improve air quality and promote environmental progress.”
Allen Schaeffer, Executive Director Diesel Technology Forum

“The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency recognizes the importance of cleaning up diesel emissions and working in partnership with businesses and stakeholders to voluntarily reduce diesel emissions with a number of actions. As a state focused on maintaining attainment of air quality standards, strategic partnerships are the focus for gaining air quality improvement. For example, as a major partner along with several businesses and stakeholder groups, the MPCA helped establish, promote and support Clean Air Minnesota's Project Green Fleet which will retrofit 500 diesel school buses, reducing harmful particulates 30 percent by the end of 2007.”
David Thornton, Assistant Commissioner for Air Policy Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

“Continuing to release harmful diesel particulate matter into the air when available, cost-effective technologies can nearly eliminate this environmental health problem is unacceptable. The American Lung Association of Metropolitan Chicago is pleased to join the Midwest Clean Diesel Group in its efforts to quickly reduce soot pollution in order to protect the most vulnerable populations: children with developing lungs, the elderly and those suffering from pulmonary diseases.”
Brian Urbaszewski, Director of Environmental Health Programs American Lung Association of Metropolitan Chicago

“The American Lung Association supports the advancement and promotion of cleaner traditional and alternative fuels because the reduction in toxic petroleum components is good for lung health and the environment.”
Harold Wimmer, President and CEO
American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest

See the Source:
EPA – Midwest Clean Diesel Initiative

Find out:
How soot and fine particulate matter can be substantially reduced with CleanAIR diesel particulate filters.

85 Percent of Highway Diesel Fuel Meets EPA Standards

(Washington, D.C. - December 8, 2006) New, cleaner diesel fuel is producing cleaner air, according to preliminary surveys and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Surveys of retail stations since mid-October show that about 85 percent of highway diesel fuel meets Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) standards, exceeding the 80 percent regulatory mandate. 100 percent of highway diesel fuel must meet the ULSD standards by 2010. "These results show that we are making significant progress in protecting the environment and public health," said Bill Wehrum, EPA's Acting Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation. Having clean diesel fuel at the pump will help all Americans breathe easier. ULSD fuel has 97 percent less sulfur than diesel fuel produced in previous years. Under EPA's clean diesel programs, ULSD, combined with new engine emission control technology kicking in next year, will deliver billions of dollars in environmental and public health benefits by preventing nearly 20,000 premature deaths and tens of thousands of cases of respiratory ailments such as bronchitis and asthma.

Although almost all pumps contain ULSD, preliminary data indicates that some retail stations have not properly labeled their diesel pumps as such. Proper labeling is critical for consumers to know that they are using the correct fuel for new clean diesel cars and light trucks coming on the market.

EPA is working with the Clean Diesel Fuel Alliance to help provide additional public information and raise awareness of the importance of proper labeling. For more information on the Alliance go to: http://www.clean-diesel.org/

Diesel Technology Forum Releases Report: Retrofitting America's Diesel Engines

DTF has recently made available a report titled Retrofitting America's Diesel Engines: A Guide To Cleaner Air Through Cleaner Diesel. The report outlines information on how to improve emissions performance of existing diesel vehicles by using retrofit technologies.

An excerpt from Executive Summary:

America needs diesel engines and cleaner air; advanced clean diesel technology offers both. Diesel power drives the economy by building our nation’s infrastructure of roads and bridges, taking crops from the fields to food on the table, and providing vital transportation of people and goods in the most efficient and cost effective manner possible. No other technology can match diesel’s unique combination of energy efficiency, sheer power, reliability and durability across so many sectors of the economy. In all applications, diesel technology has experienced continuous improvement with increasing performance, lower fuel consumption and lower emissions, making today’s technology much cleaner and more efficient than what was available even a few years ago.

The report is available as a PDF file: Retrofitting America's Diesel Engines: A Guide To Cleaner Air Through Cleaner Diesel.