Lt. Gov. Jim Cawley Thursday touted the positive impact that natural gas is having in Erie County. Although there are not many natural gas wells near Erie, Cawley spoke about how it is benefitting the area, through cleaner air, job growth and economic assistance.

Standing in front of a natural-gas powered bus from the Erie Metro Transportation Authority (EMTA), Cawley said the cleaner, cheaper alternative to diesel fuel is helping the authority reduce costs and protect the environment.

“Here we are, miles from the nearest well site and Marcellus Shale is providing clean, affordable energy for the people of Erie County.  Gov. Corbett and I see Pennsylvania leading our nation to energy independence,” Cawley said.

EMTA has converted about a dozen of its 80-bus fleet to compressed natural gas (CNG). EMTA has estimated its fuel costs will be cut by as much as half and emissions will be reduced by using CNG.

Cawley also pointed to CNG One Source, Inc., a local business with plans to open the first CNG fueling station in Erie County. Owner Karen Teslovich hopes to employ as many as 40 people over the next two years.

“Marcellus Shale is creating jobs in Pennsylvania and not just at the drill sites.  Good, family-sustaining jobs are being created right here in Erie thanks to the responsible development of natural gas,” Cawley said.

Cawley noted that Gov. Corbett recently announced the impact fee on natural gas drilling produced $204 million statewide, with $238,000 of that slated for Erie County. The money will be used for infrastructure, open space preservation and water and sewer projects.

“When it comes to natural gas development, Governor Corbett and I pledged to do it right.  This financial assistance shows we are meeting that commitment,” Cawley said.

NewsClip: Lt. Gov Touts Marcellus Benefits To Erie

10/29/2012