Planning, Deployment & Lessons Learned for Medium and Heavy Duty EVs

• Watch the Full Presentation
• Features Mike Rowand, Director of Technology Development for Duke Energy, on the power and planning considerations for medium- and heavy-duty operators and how utilities can help with future transportation and infrastructure planning. Then discusses how these practices are put to work. Jim Poch, transportation manager of Duke Energy South Carolina, shares current initiatives and highlight successful collaboration with case studies from various Duke Energy service territories.

Purchasing and Policy Considerations of EVs Organizations, Fleets and Municipalities

• Watch the Full Presentation
• Webinar on factors and issues that organizations, fleets and municipalities should consider when looking to purchase electric vehicles. You’ll hear from: Bill Eaker of the Land of Sky Clean Vehicles Coalition, who helped secure funding for multiple applicants in North Carolina’s Department of Environmental Quality VW Settlement; Chris Davis of the City of Charlotte, who will share his experience electrifying the City’s motor fleet and its criteria for assessing the electrification potential of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles; and Mark McGrew with Lion Electric, who will highlight vehicle offerings from the truck and bus manufacturer, pilot projects underway across the country and purchasing opportunities in North Carolina.

Electric Transit and School Bus Initiatives in the Southeast

• Watch the Full Presentation
• In this webinar we learned how Greensboro, NC and Dominion Energy are electrifying transportation through transit and school buses in their area. Moderated by Caitlin Rose of Triangle J. Clean Cities; guest speakers included Jacob Bolin of Plug-in NC at Advanced Energy, Kate Staples of Dominion Energy, and Jay Perkins and George Linney of the Greensboro Transit Agency.

Autonomous Vehicles Considerations for Connected Communities

• Watch the Full Presentation 
•  Speakers discussed how individual travelers and our transportation landscape could potentially be impacted by emerging technologies, how communities and businesses are adapting, and what relevance an energy lens can bring to these discussions now and in a post-pandemic world. Participants heard from experts about:
  • Mike Laughlin (US Department of Energy) provided an overview of DOE vehicle technologies research for new mobility opportunities.
  • Aymeric Rousseau (Argonne National Laboratory) discussed the energy and mobility impact of smart mobility technologies.
  • Joshua Dodson (Cisco) presented on smarter, safer, and faster transportation and cities through connected roadways.

Ride and Drives

• Electric Bus Virtual Visit(opens in a new tab) - with Tampa Bay Clean Cities
• Electric Vehicle Virtual Experience – Tesla(opens in a new tab) - Join PCF and the Tesla Owners Club of Columbia to learn about various Tesla models, how to operate and maintain them, and how charging works.
• Electric Vehicle Virtual Experience – Pre-Owned Nissan(opens in a new tab) - Join PCF and a local owner of a pre-owned Nissan Leaf to learn about her experience buying a pre-owned EV, how she operates and maintains it, and how she manages charging.
•  Electric Vehicle Virtual Experience – Toyota Prius Prime(opens in a new tab) - During this time of social distancing, Palmetto Clean Fuels (PCF) and the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE) and the local electric vehicle (EV) community are offering you an opportunity to experience a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) through an Electric Vehicle Virtual Experience!

Women and the EV Experience

• Watch the Full Presentation - the Blue Ridge EV Club hosted a Zoom panel session with women from around the area telling them what they love best about EVs and what got them into sustainable transportation.

A Look at the EV Market in 2020

• Watch the Full Presentation - Join PCF, Drive Electric Columbia, and local EV owners as they virtually demonstrate their vehicles. Presentations include PCF and their new Energy Office Chevy Bolt along with a test drive along with a prospective EV buyer.

Off-Grid: Using Residential Solar and Storage to Charge Your Electric Vehicle

• Watch the Full Presentation.(opens in a new tab) - Join PCF, Duke Energy, Renu Energy, and a local Tesla owner to learn how residential solar enables resilient and off-grid charging for your EV. Covered topics will be South Carolina’s EV landscape, Duke Energy’s EV outlook, and solar and storage basics – as well as a real world example.

eTRU Charging Station Site Tour

• Watch the Full Presentation - EPA, Clean Cities and Georgia Power partnership to install power pedestals and purchase electric truck refrigerated trailers to reduce diesel consumption at idle.

Triangle Clean Cities is proud to be the lead of the TEST Program—Team-based Evaluation, Surveying, and Training for Real-World Charging—a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving the reliability, accessibility, and effectiveness of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the United States.

This multi-year effort is a joint collaboration between Triangle Clean Cities, the National Energy Technology Laboratory, Idaho National Laboratory, the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, and East Tennessee Clean Fuels, along with 26 Clean Cities and Communities coalitions spanning 23+ states.

Project Goals & Impact

The TEST Program is designed to address critical aspects of EV charging deployment, including:

•  State Officials Training – Establishing ongoing testing procedures and ensuring best practices for replicability.
• Workforce Development – Equipping participants with hands-on skills in EV charging evaluation, creating transferable career opportunities in the clean transportation sector.
• Troubleshooting & Standardization – Identifying and addressing issues with EV charging stations while developing a consistent, scalable framework for network deployment.
• EV Charging Friendliness – Enhancing the effectiveness and accessibility of charging infrastructure to support widespread EV adoption and deployment.

Project Timeline

The TEST Program will take place over three years with specific phases designed to develop standards, train personnel, and create long-term impact:

Phase 1 

• Establish baseline standards for EV charging evaluation
• Develop testing equipment and a standardized rubric

Phase 2 

• Implement training programs and conduct real-world testing
• Collect and analyze data on charging station performance
• Provide training for State Departments of Transportation

Phase 3

• Expand State DOT training and develop a structured curriculum
• Finalize reporting, replication strategies, and long-term program sustainability

By the conclusion of the TEST Program, the project will have established a replicable model for evaluating and improving EV charging infrastructure nationwide, ultimately supporting the transition to an energy independent and reliable transportation future. 

The Southeast Region Alternative Fuel Corridor interactive map shows locations of refill and charge stations for various alternative fuel types in the Southeast. These alternative fuels include liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), compressed natural gas (CNG), and electric (EV). Using corridor-ready criteria established by the Federal Highway Administration, drive-distance zones were created to identify gaps in station infrastructure along interstate corridors. These buffer drive-distance zones were calculated only for stations within 5 miles of an exit along interstate corridors in the Southeast region. New stations can therefore be considered for installation in areas of the corridor network not overlapped the drive-distance zones.

History of Alternative Fuel Corridors

With the designation of alternative fuel corridors, the U.S. Department of Transportation is establishing a national network of alternative fueling and charging infrastructure along major highways. This includes plug in electric vehicle charging, hydrogen fueling, propane (LPG) fueling, and natural gas (CNG, LNG) fueling.

These corridors allow for inter- city, regional, and national travel using clean burning fuel while also addressing range anxiety. An integrative approach was used to ease these corridors into existing transportation planning process.

Drivers are notified of accessible fueling stations with proper signage along the highway. Among the first to install proper signage were South Carolina along I-26, and Minnesota along I-94.

Our Maps

Click on each fuel name to go to its designated page for a larger view of the maps.

DRIVE Electric USA developed 14 state-based “Drive Electric” programs that engaged individuals, utilities, legislators, dealerships and others towards removing adoption barriers and accelerating plug-in electric vehicle use in our states.

Project leaders and implementers educated consumers, utilities, utility regulators, and government officials while engaging auto dealers and fleet leaders, conducting EV infrastructure planning, and developing local EV chapters. All of this occurred under the banner of each branded, statewide EV initiative which was guided by that state’s stakeholders.

The project ran from October 2020 through December 2023 and was comprised of a group of diverse stakeholders, including Clean Cities Coalitions from fourteen states, electric vehicle and EVSE OEMs, and other committed partners who are dedicated to raising awareness and adoption of EVs across the United States.

Priorities

• Statewide Branded EV Programs
• Consumer Education
• Utility and Regulator Education
• EV Charging Infrastructure and Planning
• Education of State and Local Government Officials
• Dealership Engagement
• Fleet Engagement and EV Adoption

TCC's Involvement

Triangle Clean Cities served as the project lead for the state of North Carolina and worked closely with project partners to implement DRIVE Electric USA programs. In coordination with Plug-in NC, North Carolina’s statewide EV advocacy organization, the project team worked to educate consumers, policymakers, regulators, auto dealerships, and fleet managers about the benefits of electric drive technology.

Project Overview:

Triangle Clean Cities, in partnership with the City of Durham, is working to increase awareness and accessibility of electric mobility solutions through the Clean Energy to Communities (C2C) program. This initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and managed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), supports community-driven clean energy goals by providing expert guidance, tools, and data-driven analysis. Our goal is to create a community hub at city events to educate and engage residents on electric vehicle (EV) financing, charging infrastructure, and workforce development opportunities in the region.

Project Objectives:

• Increase Public Awareness: Address barriers to EV adoption by providing education on costs, incentives, and benefits of electric mobility.
• Community Engagement: Host interactive events where residents can test drive EVs and provide feedback to inform future infrastructure planning.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Connect local organizations, property managers, charging providers, financing entities, and workforce development programs to streamline EV adoption efforts.
• Workforce Development: Highlight training and certification opportunities in clean energy sectors to expand job access.

Community-Driven Approach:

In Fall 2023, the City of Durham and Triangle Clean Cities conducted outreach to gather input on e-mobility needs. One key finding was that underserved communities showed limited interest in EVs due to high perceived costs and lack of exposure. To address this, Durham will integrate EV displays and test-drive events at city gatherings, ensuring accessible information and engagement opportunities for all residents.

Key Activities:

• Attend 2-3 city-hosted community gatherings to refine project strategies.
• Establish agreements with EV manufacturers and local dealerships for vehicle showcases.
• Extend invitations to stakeholders, including EV charger providers, utilities, financing entities, and workforce training providers.
• Develop bilingual marketing and translation materials.
• Coordinate event logistics, including Spanish and English presentations.
• Conduct post-event surveys to collect community insights.
• Analyze survey results to inform future deployments of EV infrastructure and outreach initiatives.

Regional Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing:

This initiative will foster partnerships across the Research Triangle (Durham, Raleigh, and Chapel Hill) to facilitate knowledge exchange on best practices for EV adoption and infrastructure deployment. Insights gathered will help shape future transportation electrification strategies and funding allocations.

Final Deliverable:

Triangle Clean Cities and the City of Durham hosted two "Ride and Drive" events to provide hands-on experiences with electric vehicles and gather community feedback.  These events were held at the City of Durham Earth Day Festival in April 2025 and Durham's Bimbé Block Party in May 2025.

These events featured EV test drives, educational sessions, and opportunities to connect with industry stakeholders.  Feedback collected through surveys informed the city's electrification planning and future deployments of EV infrastructure.  A final report summarized event outcomes, survey findings, and actionable recommendations.

The Basics

Biodiesel is a renewable, biodegradable fuel produced from organic feed sources such as soybeans, cooking oil, and animal fats. Biodiesel can be used in its pure or “neat” form (B100) or blended at any ratio with petroleum diesel to achieve cost efficiency and improve cold weather performance. Typically blends with smaller percentages of biodiesel perform better in colder temperatures. The most common form of biodiesel is B20 – a blend of 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel.

Biodiesel can be used in any diesel vehicle without modification. It is used extensively in parts of Europe and is gaining support in the United States. Applications include buses, delivery trucks, waste disposal and recycling trucks, construction and farm equipment, heavy-duty freight hauling, boats and passenger vehicles.

Advantages

• Ecologically Friendly - Soybeans or other forms of biomass used for biodiesel absorb carbon dioxide as they grow, offsetting the carbon dioxide that is released from burning the fuel. A study complete by Argonne National Laboratory found that b100 use reduces carbon dioxide emission by 74% compared to petroleum diesel.
• Energy Independence - Biodiesel is produced in the US and used in conventional diesel engines directly substituting the use of diesel or extending supplies of diesel.
• Increased Safety - Biodiesel is much safer to handle, store, and transport compared to petroleum diesel. The flashpoint for biodiesel is much higher than petroleum diesel making it a safer fuel option. Biodiesel’s flashpoint is over 130 degrees C whereas petroleum diesel is 52 degrees Celcius.

Considerations

Biodiesel contains less energy on a volumetric basis than petroleum diesel. The higher the biodiesel content the lower the energy content per gallon. In colder weather biodiesel can crystalize, but a cold flow improver can be added to a blend to prevent this.

Local Partners

Southeast Diesel Collaborative - The Southeastern Team Reducing the Impacts of Diesel Emissions (STRIDE) Collaborative is part of EPA’s National Clean Diesel Campaign, a program combining regulatory measures with voluntary initiatives to reduce the pollution emitted from diesel engines across the country. It includes leaders from industry, academia, and government at all levels from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.  The collaborative was formed in April of 2006 and was originally called the Southeast Diesel Collaborative (SEDC).

Tools & Links

• Biodiesel AFDC Page 
• NREL Biofuel Atlas - is an interactive map that allows users to view and compare the locations of biomass feedstocks, biofuels production facilities, bioenergy plants, biofuels stations, and densities of vehicles that can run on biodiesel
• National Biodiesel Board
• U-Michigan Biofuels 1 pager - provides simple explanations of Biofuels

The Basics

An electric vehicle (EV) is any car, truck, bus, or van that is partially or fully propelled by an electric motor that receives power from on-board batteries rather than using conventional fuels like gasoline and diesel. Electricity is stored in the battery, which must be recharged periodically through plugging the vehicle into outside power sources. This can include electricity from the utility grid, or stationary renewable resources like solar cells.

Manufacturers currently offer numerous EVs, including electric cars, light trucks, service vans, and buses. While availability is limited to specific geographic areas, the Electric Vehicle Association of America estimates that over 4,800 electric cars and light trucks have been delivered to consumers over the last four years. Technology initially developed for electric vehicles is now used in gasoline powered hybrid vehicles that use electric motor assisted propulsion and regenerative braking.

Types of Electric Vehicles (EVs)

There are three different models of electric vehicles: Hybrid (HEVs), Plug-in Hybrid (PHEVs), and All Electric (EVs):

• Hybrid (HEVs) - HEVs use both an internal combustion engine and a battery to power an electric motor. HEVs cannot be plugged into the grid to be charged, rather the electricity in the battery is generated from the internal combustion engine and regenerative breaking.
• Plug-in Hybrid (PHEVs) - PHEVs use both a battery to power an electric motor and conventional fuel to power an internal combustion engine. To charge the battery one must use regenerative breaking, an internal combustion engine, or plug the vehicle into the grid. Unlike the HEV, Plug in Hybrids are able to be plugged into the grid to charge the battery. When the battery is depleted the internal combustion is used, otherwise the primary source of fuel is electricity. The vehicles normally run on the battery for 10-40 miles before the internal combustion engine is used.
• All Electric Vehicles (EVs) - EV’s are completely electric and use electrical energy stored in a battery to power their motors. To charge the battery one must use regenerative breaking or plug the vehicle into the grid at a charging station. Battery sizes are typically very large to produce further traveling capacities on a single charge. A fully charged EV has a range of 70-90 miles, depending on driving conditions and habits.

Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEV’s) are used for short distances like that of everyday commutes, light hauling, delivery, and have limited speeds of around 35 mph.

EV Stations in the Southeast Alternative Fuel Corridor

Click here for an interactive map detailing locations of EV stations (black points) in the southeast with a 25-mile buffer (seen in blue). Toggle on/off different layers in the legend for more specificity.  Click the double arrow in the left-top corner for more details.

Advantages

• Ecologically Friendly - Diesel and gasoline produce many harmful pollutants. Electric vehicles do not produce any emissions while driving on electricity. If renewable energy is used to charge the vehicle it is truly emissions free.
• Energy Independence - Rather than relying on imported fuel, electric vehicles offer energy independence while using domestic energy sources. The costs associated with importation will no longer be needed to be accounted for.
• Economic Benefits - The prices associated with diesel and gasoline are much higher than that of electricity. An electric vehicle also has reduced maintenance costs with fewer moving parts and fluids to change.

Considerations

While there is zero tailpipe emissions, there is inherent pollution associated with upstream construction of the vehicle. This indicates that the vehicle is not completely net zero. Electric vehicles also tend to have a smaller mileage range and can take longer to charge/ fill up than conventional vehicles. Electric vehicles also tend to have higher purchasing prices, but with the implementation of federal and state incentives, cheaper fuel costs, and lower maintenance costs this can be offset.

Local Partners

Plug In NC - Plug-in NC has been working since 2011 to establish North Carolina as a leader in electric transportation. We are a statewide program that promotes electric driving through education and outreach, consulting and resource development. We also strive to provide a collaborative opportunity for stakeholders to work together to ensure a seamless integration of electric vehicles into our local communities.

Tools & Links

• Electric AFDC Page
• Plug-In Electric Readiness AFDC Page 
• Plug-In NC  
  • Offers a variety of information regarding electric vehicles. Specific content related to the adoption of electric vehicles in North Carolina is also provided. Benefits of electric vehicles.
•  Map of Local Preferred EV Dealerships
• Dealership Trainings on EV's can be found in the link above
• Vehicle Cost Calculator
• Fuel Economy Calculator

The Basics

Ethanol is a renewable naturally oxygenated fuel produced by fermenting organic materials known as “biomass” like that of corn, grains, crop waste materials, and forestry waste materials. Biomass is grown, collected, and transported to a facility where it is converted to ethanol. Then the fuel is transported to a fuel terminal where it is blended with gasoline and distributed to fueling stations. It is a colorless liquid and is usually blended with gasoline at different levels to create E10, E15, and E85. In the US more than 98 percent of gasoline contains some ethanol.

Types of Ethanol

E10 is a premium high-octane gasoline for cars and E85 (85% ethanol 15% gasoline) is used as an alternative fuel for light-duty vehicles. E10 can be used in any gasoline vehicle without modification. E85, however, offers a higher octane rating and must be used in specified vehicles. All major domestic automakers offer E85 compatible vehicles, or flexfuel vehicles (FFVs), at prices comparable to gasoline vehicles. Applications for E85 include non-diesel fleet vehicles, buses, light-duty vehicles and delivery trucks.

Advantages

• Ecologically Friendly - Ethanol is a non toxic alcohol that burns cleanly, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 59 percent. The carbon dioxide released when it is burned is offset by the carbon dioxide absorbed by the biomass when it is growing for ethanol production.
• Energy Independence - The import of gasoline reduces energy security, but with the contribution of ethanol in 2019 only 3% of the consumed fuel in the US was imported. This number would have been much higher without the contribution of ethanol. The fuel also has a higher octane number than gasoline which increases its performance and power.
• Economic Benefits - This fuel in particular engages the rural audience and allows for the creation of jobs ultimately contributing to the economy. According to the Renewable Fuels Association, ethanol production in 2019 accounted for more than 68,600 jobs throughout the country.

Considerations

High percentages of ethanol lead to lower energy content than gas which lowers the vehicle’s fuel economy. If engines were to be optimized for the level of ethanol desired then the fuel economy would increase, but unfortunately engines are optimized to a different level currently.

Tools & Links

• Ethanol AFDC Page

The Basics

Hydrogen (H2) is an alternative fuel that can be produced from domestic resources. Although in its market infancy as a transportation fuel, government and industry are working towards clean, economical, and safe hydrogen production and distribution for use in fuel cell vehicles. Fuel cell vehicles are beginning to enter the consumer market in localized regions domestically and around the world. The market is also developing for buses, material handling equipment, ground support equipment, medium and heavy duty vehicles, and stationary applications.

The interest in hydrogen as an alternative transportation fuel stems from its ability to power fuel cells in zero-emission electric vehicles, its potential for domestic production, and the fuel cell’s potential for high efficiency. In fact, a fuel cell is two to three times more efficient than an internal combustion engine running on gasoline. In North Carolina the demand is currently low and this fuel is not cost effective. With advancements in technology and research this fuel will become more commonly used.

Advantages

• Ecologically Friendly - The emissions associated with gasoline and diesel vehicles are not produced with hydrogen, only water and warm air are released with hydrogen.
• Energy Independence - Hydrogen can be produced from numerous domestic resources decreasing our dependence on foreign products.
• Engine Benefits - Fuel cell electric vehicles are two to three times more efficient than conventional internal combustion engine vehicles running on gasoline.

Considerations

Hydrogens energy content by volume is low causing storage problems, especially because high pressures, low temperatures, and chemical processes are needed. To make hydrogen fuel cells competitive in the fuel market, prices will need to be reduced dramatically.

Local Partners

OneH2 - OneH2 delivers hydrogen fuel that’s ready for “immediate use” – already converted to high-pressure gaseous fuel that takes only minutes to dispense.  Their system monitors your daily fuel usage through web-based telemetrics to alert them when to schedule the next fuel delivery and trailer swap-out. With OneH2, you only pay for what you use.

Tools & Links

• Hydrogen AFDC Page
• The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Nexus - a free and detailed business-to-business directory to help connect suppliers in the hydrogen and fuel cell industry together to advance the market for these technologies. U.S. Suppliers can add themselves to this list, and interested folks can gain contact information for the industry from this list.

The Basics

Natural gas is made up primarily of methane with trace amounts of other gases. It occurs naturally underground and is extracted through gas wells or in conjunction with crude oil production. For storage purposes it can be stored as compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquid natural gas (LNG).

Natural gas vehicles (NGV) are the most advanced alternative fuel technology available commercially. Both light and heavy-duty vehicles can use CNG. According to the Natural Gas Vehicle Coalition, more than 20% of new transit bus orders are for natural gas buses. Some vehicles come already equipped to run either entirely on CNG (dedicated) or on both CNG and gasoline or diesel (bi-fuel). Additionally, many vehicles can be converted to run on CNG. All U.S.-based, full-sized transit bus manufacturers offer CNG buses. Applications include transit and school buses, refuse trucks, light-duty vehicles, vans, passenger cars and taxis. LNG is not suitable for light-duty vehicles but is an ideal fuel for large (class 8) trucks, transit buses, and medium-duty fleet trucks. There are over 150,000 NGVs on the road in the U.S. fueling at 1,500 locations. Over half of these sites are commercially accessible.

The Southeast Alternative Fuel Corridor

Click on these links for interactive maps detailing locations of LNG (liquified natural gas) and CNG (compressed natural gas) stations (black points) in the southeast with a 100 mile buffer (seen in green) and 75 mile buffer (seen in orange). Toggle on/off different layers in the legend for more specificity, search locations in the top right bar, and click the double arrow in the lefthand corner for more details.

LNG Stations Map

CNG Stations Map

Advantages

• Ecologically Friendly - Light duty vehicles running can reduce life cycle greenhouse gas emissions by 15% (or 84% if running on RNG). CNG fuel systems also are completely sealed causing these vehicles to produce no evaporative emissions
• Energy Independence - Nearly 90% of natural gas is domestically produced increasing the country’s energy security.
• Economic Benefits - Natural gas typically is cheaper than that of the conventional fuels of diesel and gasoline. Average natural gas costs are one-third less than gasoline at the pump.

Considerations

The driving range of NGVs are generally less than that of gasoline and diesel vehicles, however extra storage tanks or the use of LNG can help increase range for larger vehicles.

Local Partners

NGV America - NGV America represents more than 200 companies, environmental groups, and government organizations interested in the promotion and use of natural gas and biomethane as transportation fuels. Their member companies are those that produce, distribute, and market natural gas and biomethane across the country; manufacture and service natural gas vehicles, engines, and equipment; and operate fleets powered by clean-burning gaseous fuels.

Tools & Links

• Natural Gas AFDC Page
• Natural Gas Vehicle Institute - provides educational resources,  trainings, and certifications
• Triangle Clean Cities RNG 1 pager

The Basics

Propane also known as liquefied petroleum gas or LPG is a clean burning alternative to diesel. It is non-toxic, colorless and virtually odorless produced from liquid components that are recovered during natural gas processing. Propane becomes a liquid under moderate pressure (150-200 PSI) and is stored and dispensed in its liquid state. When the pressure is released the liquid propane vaporizes into gas that is used in combustion. Propane is the third most commonly used fuel in the world behind gasoline and diesel and is the dominant alternative motor fuel in more than 38 countries. Approximately 85% of the propane used in the U.S. is produced domestically.

Propane can be used in light and heavy-duty vehicles. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, there are currently over 200,000 vehicles running on propane in the US and about 9 million in use around the world. Most propane vehicles are currently duel-fuel, large trucks and vans, though after-manufacture conversions for many vehicles are possible and original equipment manufactures are beginning to offer more factory ready models. Applications include cars, pickup trucks, forklifts, transit and school buses, delivery trucks, trolleys and vans. Propane can also be used for home and water heating, cooking and refrigerating food, clothes drying, and powering farm and industrial equipment.

LPG in the Southeast Alternative Fuel Corridor

Click here for an interactive map detailing locations of LPG stations (black points) in the southeast with a 75 mile buffer (seen in blue). Toggle on/off different layers in the legend for more specificity. Search locations in the top right bar. Click the double arrow in the left-top corner for more details.

Advantages

• Ecologically Friendly - If spilled or released from a vehicle this fuel does not present any threat to soil, surface water, or groundwater
• Energy Independence - Nearly 2% of the U.S.’s fuel consumption is propane. This has helped to power transportation fleets in the US, ultimately diversifying fuel and driving options.
• Economic Benefits - Propane costs much less than that of traditional gasoline per gallon. There is also less maintenance involved with Propane vehicles reducing associated costs.

Considerations

Propane vehicles can cost thousands more to purchase however, the cost of fuel itself is much lower than that of gasoline so the return on investment can be faster. Propane also has a lower fuel economy than gasoline, however the costs are offset by the higher price of gasoline.

Local Partners

Alliance Autogas - Alliance AutoGas, founded in 2009 to promote autogas as the leading alternative fuel for fleet vehicles, has experienced a steady growth that continues today. Alliance AutoGas is an international network of more than 120 independent propane and autogas companies that provide a comprehensive autogas solution to medium and heavy-duty fleets. Alliance’s partners are aligned to provide propane and autogas for fleet vehicles throughout North America. This group of partners is also engaged in offering EPA certified small engines systems through our small engines division, Alliance Small Engines.

NC Propane Gas Association - The North Carolina Propane Gas Association was founded in 1957 in order to promote, protect, and encourage the growth of the LP-Gas industry in the State of North Carolina. For the past 56 years this non-profit association has been working to protect the interest of our industry, our members, and our consumers. Currently, in the United States, over 15 billion gallons of propane are sold and approximately 60 million customers utilize propane annually.

Tools & Links

• Propane AFDC Page
• Propane Education and Research Council - provides educational resources, trainings, and case studies

Click below for opportunities from the federal government via Grants.gov with the search already done for you.

Federal Opportunities for Energy and Transportation Projects

Clean Fuels Advanced Technology (CFAT)

The North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center seeks proposals from both public and private entities for transportation-related projects that reduce emissions in North Carolina’s non-attainment and maintenance counties for National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Eligible projects include:

• Alternative Fuel & Advanced Technology Vehicles (AFVs) Leases
• Alternative Fuel & Advanced Technology Vehicle (AFV) Conversions
• Mobile Idle Reduction Technologies
• Diesel Retrofits Maximum per project award: $400,000
• Minimum per project award: $5,000

Low or No Emission Program (Low-No Program)

The main purpose of the Low-No Program is to support the transition of the nation’s transit fleet to the lowest polluting and most energy efficient transit vehicles. The Low-No Program provides funding to State and local governmental authorities for the purchase or lease of zero-emission and low-emission transit buses, including acquisition, construction, and leasing of required supporting facilities.

Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA)

The Diesel Emission Reduction Program (DERA)  grant supports projects aimed at reducing emissions from the nation’s existing fleet of older diesel engines. Under this competition, the DERA program is soliciting applications nationwide for projects that achieve significant reductions in diesel emissions and exposure, particularly from fleets operating in areas designated by the EPA Administrator as poor air quality areas. Learn more here.

Rural Energy for America Program Guaranteed Load Program (REAP) Loan

The program provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Agricultural producers may also apply for new energy efficient equipment and new system loans for agricultural production and processing.

• Program Fact Sheet
• Application Details and Deadlines

Qualified Electric Plug-In Electric Vehicle (PEV) Tax Credit (Federal)

A tax credit is available for the purchase of a new qualified PEV that draws propulsion using a traction battery that has at least five kilowatt-hours (kWh) of capacity, uses an external source of energy to recharge the battery, has a gross vehicle weight rating of up to 14,000 pounds, and meets specified emission standards. The minimum credit amount is $2,500, and the credit may be up to $7,500, based on each vehicle’s traction battery capacity and the gross vehicle weight rating. The credit will begin to be phased out for each manufacturer in the second quarter following the calendar quarter in which a minimum of 200,000 qualified PEVs have been sold by that manufacturer for use in the United States. This tax credit applies to vehicles acquired after December 31, 2009. Learn More.

Alternative Fuel Tax Exemption (Federal)

Alternative fuels used in a manner that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) deems as nontaxable are exempt from federal fuel taxes. Common nontaxable uses in a motor vehicle are: on a farm for farming purposes; in certain intercity and local buses; in a school bus; for exclusive use by a non-profit educational organization; and for exclusive use by a state, political subdivision of a state, or the District of Columbia. This exemption is not available to tax exempt entities that are not liable for excise taxes on transportation fuel. Learn More.

Alternative Fuel Tax Exemption (State)

The retail sale, use, storage, and consumption of alternative fuels is exempt from the state retail sales and use tax. Learn More.

The Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) features interactive tools, calculators, and mapping applications to aid in the implementation of these fuels, vehicles, and strategies. The AFDC functions as a dynamic online hub, providing information, tools, and resources for transportation decision makers seeking domestic alternatives that diversify energy sources and help businesses make wise economic choices.

• Check out national Laws and Incentives.
• Advanced Vehicle Search
• Fuel Properties Comparison 

Nearly 100 local coalitions serve as the foundation of Clean Cities by working in communities across the country to implement alternative fuels, fuel-saving technologies and practices, and new mobility choices. Clean Cities coalitions are comprised of businesses, fuel providers, vehicle fleets, state and local government agencies, and community organizations.

Each coalition is led by an on-the-ground Clean Cities coordinator who tailors projects and activities to capitalize on the unique opportunities within their communities. Nationwide, nearly 16,000 stakeholders participate in Clean Cities coalitions, and through their collective efforts they are transforming local and regional transportation markets.

Access DOE Clean Cities & Communities

Fleets for the Future (F4F) is coordinating a national procurement initiative designed to consolidate bulk orders of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) and infrastructure for public fleets across the country. Fleets interested in participating can expect reduced incremental costs on hybrids, propane, electric, and natural gas-powered vehicles, and refueling and charging infrastructure.

Types of Alternative Fuel Vehicles Available Through F4F

• Bi- fuel Police Vehicles
• Refuse Trucks
• Shuttles, school buses
• PHEV or BEV sedans (e.g. for pooled vehicles, inspectors
• Upfits to hybridize medium & heavy-duty vehicle
• Pickup trucks
• Delivery vehicles
• Utility body trucks (e.g. F-450 and up)

F4F has partnered with Sourcewell to provide public fleet managers an opportunity to purchase and lease discounted vehicles through Sourcewell’s aggregate demand structure. 

• Access Fleets For the Future
• Check out the F4F Best Practices Guide.

The Initiative for Resiliency in Energy through Vehicles (iREV), supports state and local emergency management decision makers by providing customized tools, information, and strategies about alternative fuel vehicle technologies, infrastructure, and potential uses in emergency scenarios. In preparing for large-scale disasters, an often overlooked risk is the disruption in supply of conventional fuels.  Integrating AFV’s into emergency response fleets helps mitigate this risk. Learn more with the iREV FAQ 1 pager.

The iREV Tracking Tool is a mapping application that displays where alternative fuel vehicles and on-the-ground fueling infrastructure are located in your community.  The tool can help develop emergency response plans and make decisions of how to best integrate AFVs into emergency response fleets.

Create an account and use the tool or watch a webinar  presenting a demo of the Tracking Tool.

To get involved, enter your contact information in the form and the iREV staff will reach out within 1-5 business days to discuss available tools and resources.

• iREV will provide assistance to fleets and communities interested in incorporating alternative fuels into their emergency response planning efforts.

Fuels Fix is a collaborative effort of all the U.S DOE Clean Cities Coalitions. They work together to spread the word about actions to reduce oil dependence and advance in alternative fuels technology.

NCSEA Squeaky Clean Energy 

• The podcast covers solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, bioenergy, electric vehicles, energy storage, and the whole nine yards.

The Energy Gang

• A weekly digest on energy, cleantech and the environment.

Quick Charge by Electrek

• Quick Charge is a recap podcast bringing you the latest in Tesla news and the top green energy stories every Monday through Friday.

This resource is designed for dealers, those who want to learn more about selling Electric Vehicles to potential buyers. 

1. Free Training for Dealer Teams - a training sent to your email each week on the basics of EV's, selling considerations. This resource is backed by the National Science Foundation and hosted by Recurrent.

2. Dealer and Consumer Video Trainings - a bank of videos and resources created out of California

3. Blog: Tapping into North Carolina's EV Potential - writings created by the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association

The North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center offers on-demand courses: The Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Infrastructure Series is comprised of four 1-hour courses that cover the topics of siting, working with utilities, navigating permitting, and ADA considerations relating to EVSEs. The series is intended to provide foundational information on each topic for architects, planners, and construction professionals.

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - provides an overview of autonomous vehicles including the history, safety, and future of these vehicles
• U-Michigan Fact Sheet