The Public Utility Commission and the Energy Association of Pennsylvania Thursday hosted a workshop focusing on the natural gas distribution company  and Commission roles in fostering the economic development and the expansion of the necessary infrastructure for natural gas vehicles.

"Continued high gasoline prices coupled with the now lower cost of natural gas due to Marcellus Shale development have brought a renewed interest in NGVs," said Commission Chairman Robert F. Powelson in a video news release. "We are being presented with the opportunity of a lifetime to harness the power of natural gas in our transportation sector, including mass transit, school bus, long-haul trucking, and really afford our citizens the benefits of cheap, abundant natural gas."

"The Energy Association and its members are pleased to partner with the Commission to provide information and insight into how natural gas utilities can foster the growth of the NGV market," said Terrance J. Fitzpatrick, President and CEO, Energy Association of Pennsylvania. "For decades our members have stood ready to assist customers in their efforts to develop the necessary infrastructure."

Robert Feldmann, co-chair of the Drive Natural Gas Initiative, set the stage for the day by providing insights on the utility role in NGV development. The Commission also heard from the Department of Environmental Protection, Department of Community and Economic Development and Department of Labor & Industry on existing state programs designed to enhance NGV usage in Pennsylvania.

The state's seven largest natural gas utilities then joined the Commissioners for a roundtable discussion that examined issues such as the effect of existing PUC policy on NGV market development; tariff matters and fuel access.

"It's a very unique opportunity for the Commission to get the regulatory alignment piece correct so we can provide the proper incentives for the marketers to come into Pennsylvania and set up this infrastructure," Chairman Powelson said.

4/22/2013