Going Green with Propane Vehicles: How Ohio Fleets Save MillionsGoing Green and Saving Millions

Thank you for attending the OPGA’s Propane Vehicle Workshop. To begin with, our panel of experts included city and school propane fleet operators, manufacturers, and conversion experts. In addition, we also reviewed OPGA’s $20,000 propane vehicle rebate program and available state and federal funding options.

Furthermore, attendees engaged in a productive discussion about how propane supports the financial and environmental goals of cities and schools, and how easily fleets can integrate it into their operations. Specifically, the discussion covered three stages, and below are details about the Early Stage.

Early Stage: Should I convert my fleet to propane?

At the Early Stage, OPGA’s Joe Ross can arrange a visit to a local propane fleet operation similar to yours. Through these visits, fleet owners/managers can share their propane experiences for research. Additionally, we can take you to a propane conversion supplier to watch them convert vehicles in real time.

Initially, fleet managers may buy a few propane vehicles for company testing. That includes drivers, mechanics, and sometimes passengers. In many cases, the results will make you happy. This stage also involves selecting a propane conversion company that matches your demands. At first, you can fill your rigs at a public propane station. Notably, there are over 60 public stations in Ohio.

Middle Stage: Converting your fleet to propane

Once you’ve completed initial testing, the next step is to convert vehicles to propane, which can be purchased directly from the factory or converted by after-market companies based in the Midwest.

If you are converting an existing gasoline vehicle, you can run it as a bi-fuel. In this case, conversion companies can guide  you through the process.

Remember, the OPGA offers up to $20,000 for propane-fueled vehicles. For more information, see research incentives and grants for switching to alternative fuels.

Fleet cars can run on propane or feature a duel-fuel system that lets drivers switch between propane and gasoline. As a  tip: You can convert gasoline-powered fleet vehicles to bi-fuel. Diesel fleets need dedicated propane engines. Moreover, fueling a vehicle with propane is just like filling a car with gas. Importantly, there’s no personal protective gear required. The nozzle locks in, and it’s quick to fuel.

Final Stage: Fueling and Infrastructure options

After scaling up your fleet, it’s time to fuel it. Generally speaking, the most popular option is owning a fleet-owned pump facility or having your propane fuel provider furnish one. A typical private station is suited for fewer than 50 vehicles, while an advanced one is best for 50 or more vehicles. Ask your local supplier for the best fleet option.

Find Pump Facility Suppliers or Contact Your Local Propane Retailer.

Currently, approximately 30,000 propane fleet vehicles operate in Ohio.

To highlight your success, the OPGA would like to do a news release about you and your fleet to let the public know about the tremendous savings from both a financial and environmental emissions standpoint.

More testimonials here

Propane’s positive environmental benefits: