During this time of social distancing, many organizations are using webinars in lieu of in-person events for the purposes of education and networking. Don't miss these upcoming educational webinars happening in the next few weeks!

LCF Webinars

WEBINAR | First Responder Safety Training: Intro to Alternative Fuel Vehicles

Tuesday, January 26th | 1:00-3:00 PM CST

Host: Louisiana Clean Fuels

In this introductory webinar, attendees will learn the basic qualities of commonly used alternative fuels in vehicles, how to identify these vehicles and tips on how to respond to incidents involving these vehicles. These fuels include: Natural Gas, Propane, and Plug-in Electric vehicles.

WEBINAR | LCF Annual Stakeholder Meeting

Wednesday, February 10th | 11:00 AM-1:00 PM CST

Host: Louisiana Clean Fuels

In this webinar, we will take a look back at our accomplishments in 2020 and how we were able to adapt to social distancing requirements due to Covid 19. You will also get to learn about upcoming funding opportunities and our plans for 2021.

Visit our YouTube page to see previously recorded LCF webinars, including our Webinar Wednesday series.

Clean Cities Webinars

We know we can’t see you in person, but our Clean Cities Network has lined up a fantastic list of webinars on alternative fuel topics. These webinars will guide you through important topics that will educate you on a wide variety of areas from EV Charging to Fleet Funding Opportunities and so much more. Please contact us with any questions! View the full spreadsheet of upcoming Clean Cities webinars here.

WEBINAR SERIES | First Responder Safety Training

Hosts: Clean Cities Coachella Valley Region & Central Coast Clean Cities Coalition

Electric Vehicles

Jan 19, 2021 | 12:00 PM CST

This FREE, ONE-HOUR online presentation by the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium, and co-hosted by Central Coast Clean Cities Coalition and Clean Cities Coachella Valley Region, will help first responders prepare for incidents involving electric vehicles. Participants will learn from a seasoned firefighter how to properly and safely identify, assess, and approach an electric drive vehicle and identify potential hazards of working with an EV.

Gaseous Fuel Vehicles

Jan 20, 2021 | 12:00 PM CST

An increasing number of vehicles on the road today are powered by gaseous fuels such as propane, compressed natural gas, and even hydrogen. To help first responders prepare for incidents involving such alternative fuel vehicles (AFV), the Coachella Valley Clean cities Region and Central Coast Clean Cities Coalition are co-hosting a FREE, one-hour online presentation that will inform participants about how to:

• Properly and safely identify, assess, and approach a gaseous-fueled vehicle
• Identify potential hazards of working with an AFV
  
  

Other Upcoming Webinars

WEBINAR | What Fleets Need to Consider When Electrifying Their Depots

January 26, 2021 | 12:00 PM CST

Hosts: ACTNews & ChargePoint

Building an electric fleet depot can seem daunting. With an array of new electric vehicles on the market with different battery sizes and ranges, the means, methods, and time to fuel your vehicles may vary. You need detailed and experienced guidance to build a smart, efficient electric depot.

WEBINAR | Let’s Talk Propane Autogas for Your Fleet: Overcoming Obstacles

January 26, 2021 | 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Hosts: PERC, Delta Liquid Energy, & AmeriGas

Hear from Phil Comstock (Delta Liquid Energy) and Jay Massey (AmeriGas) on how they overcame obstacles associated with the adoption of propane autogas for their own fleet.

WEBINAR SERIES | Ethanol Emergency Response Webinars

Upon the completion of this course, participants will have knowledge related to ethanol and ethanol-blended fuels including the use, chemical and physical characteristics, transportation modes, transfer operations, basics of foam, suggested responder tactics and strategies and environmental issues. Certificates upon successful completion will be emailed following the event.

• Tues., Dec. 8 | 8 AM-12 PM CST
• Wed., Dec. 9 | 12 PM-4 PM CST
• Wed., Jan. 27 | 8 AM-12 PM CST
• Thu., Jan. 28 | 12 PM-4 PM CST
• Wed., Feb. 24 | 8 AM-12 PM CST
• Thu., Feb 25 | 12 PM-4 PM CST
• Wed., March 24 | 8 AM-12 PM CST
• Thu., March 25 | 12 PM-4 PM CST
• Wed., April 21 | 8 AM-12 PM CST
• Thu., April 22 | 12 PM-4 PM CST
  
  

Learn from the comfort of your computer by joining in on these upcoming webinars! Have a webinar to add to the list? Email Victoria, LCF's Communications Coordinator, at [email protected].

View Webinar Archive

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 13, 2021 | Baton Rouge, LA -  Louisiana Clean Fuels (LCF), a US Department of Energy designated Clean Cities Coalition, announced today the addition of Kavin Kuriyan of United Parcel Service (UPS) to the organization’s Board of Directors. Kuriyan fills a vacancy left by retiring board member Stuart McAvoy of UPS.

Meet the Newest Board Member:

Kavin Kuriyan is a management team member of the Supply Chain Optimization and Sustainability group of UPS Customer Solutions. The optimization team reviews the needs of the customer and analyzes how its supply chain is enabling or hindering its efforts to meet those needs. The sustainability team provides carbon emissions data to help customers understand, monitor, and manage their climate impacts.

Kavin joined UPS in 2005 and has over 15 years of experience in supply chain and logistics, including solutions, marketing, and sales. He holds a BS in Information Systems with a minor in Business Administration from Carnegie Mellon University.

The 2021 Louisiana Clean Fuels Board of Directors consists of 11 members: Randy Hayden, Fred Skal, Vivian Johnson, Scott Barrios, Tokesha Collins-Wright, Calvin Ray, James Setze, Kavin Kuriyan, Paul Pratt, Dinero Washington, and Kent Meadows. The board serves in an advisory and oversight capacity in order to support the organization's goals and mission. The board, which meets on a quarterly basis, is comprised of representatives from government agencies, national, regional and local fleets as well as various stakeholder organizations. To learn more about Louisiana Clean Fuels' Board of Directors, please visit the LCF website at www.louisianacleanfuels.org.

For more information: Victoria Herrmann, Communications Coordinator | [email protected] | 225.342.7972

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About Clean Cities: As part of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO), Clean Cities coalitions foster the nation's economic, environmental, and energy security by working locally to advance affordable, domestic transportation fuels, energy efficient mobility systems, and other fuel-saving technologies and practices. Since beginning in 1993, Clean Cities coalitions have achieved a cumulative impact in energy use equal to nearly 8 billion gasoline gallon equivalents through the implementation of diverse transportation projects. More information is available at www.cleancities.energy.gov.

About Louisiana Clean Fuels:   Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition, supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. The mission of LCF is to advance the nation’s environmental, economic, and energy security by supporting local actions to diversify transportation fuel options. Learn more at www.louisianacleanfuels.org. In 2018, Executive Director Ann Vail was inducted into the hall of fame. More information is available at www.louisianacleanfuels.org.

Clean Fuel Leaders to be Honored at the Estuary on November 5th

Louisiana Clean Fuels to celebrate 20 years of reducing transportation emissions at annual awards ceremony

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 28, 2020 | Baton Rouge, LA - Louisiana Clean Fuels (LCF) will celebrate their 20th Anniversary as a Clean Cities coalition at their 20th Anniversary Gala and Clean Fuel Leader Awards. The event will be held on November 5 at the Estuary at the Water Campus. At the event, LCF will premiere their 20th Anniversary commemorative video featuring footage of Louisiana alternative fuel fleets and interviews with state leaders and valued stakeholders and share some exciting announcements and congratulatory messages from leaders such as Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards.

Awards for Clean Fuel Champion, Most Improved Fleet, Top Performing Fleets, and other categories such as Climate MVP and the 2nd bi-annual Katry Martin Award will be presented by LCF Executive Director, Ann Vail. The event will also feature pre-recorded performances by Amanda Shaw, a Louisiana singer, songwriter and musician. 

Twenty years ago, in April 2000, Louisiana Clean Fuels received official designation as a Department of Energy Clean Cities coalition. Clean Cities coalitions work in their communities to advance affordable domestic alternative fuels such as natural gas, propane, electric vehicles, and biofuels; fuel-saving technologies and practices; and energy-efficient mobility systems. 

LCF is proud to have served Louisiana for the past 20 years, helping to serve both public and private fleets, educate the public, reduce toxic emissions, reduce the nations’ dependence on foreign oil, and increase the use of domestically-produced alternative fuels. To view a summary of LCF’s achievements over the past two decades, please refer to the coalition’s 20th Anniversary Timeline highlighting their accomplishments over the last two decades.

In keeping with recommendations by health experts, the group will limit tickets sold to allow for proper social distancing. Masks will be required indoors, and the entire awards ceremony will be recorded then streamed on November 6th on multiple social media outlets for those unable to attend the in-person event. Please visit the LCF website for the complete list of precautions being taken by the organization to ensure the safety of their guests.

Tickets for the Gala are on sale now at www.louisianacleanfuels.org, and attendance is limited. Members of the media may attend at no cost.

For more information: Victoria Herrmann, Communications Coordinator | [email protected] | 225.342.7972

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About Clean Cities: As part of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO), Clean Cities coalitions foster the nation's economic, environmental, and energy security by working locally to advance affordable, domestic transportation fuels, energy efficient mobility systems, and other fuel-saving technologies and practices. Since beginning in 1993, Clean Cities coalitions have achieved a cumulative impact in energy use equal to nearly 8 billion gasoline gallon equivalents through the implementation of diverse transportation projects. More information is available at www.cleancities.energy.gov.

About Louisiana Clean Fuels:   Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition, supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. The mission of LCF is to advance the nation’s environmental, economic, and energy security by supporting local actions to diversify transportation fuel options. More information is available at www.louisianacleanfuels.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 15, 2020 -  Louisiana Clean Fuels (LCF), a US Department of Energy designated Clean Cities Coalition, announced today the addition of Paul Pratt of Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) to the organization’s Board of Directors. Pratt, added to the LCF Advisory Committee earlier this year, fills an unexpected vacancy in the board for the 2020-2021 term.

Meet the Newest Board Member:

Paul Pratt, director of Customer Services & Marketing at SWEPCO, is responsible for bringing efficient electric technologies to homes, businesses and communities, energy efficiency programs and customer service.

Pratt most recently served as manager of Energy Efficiency and Consumer Programs for Louisiana and Texas. He joined SWEPCO in 2006 as an energy efficiency and consumer programs coordinator. Pratt earned a bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University Shreveport and an MBA from Louisiana Tech University.

The 2020 Louisiana Clean Fuels Board of Directors consists of 11 members: Randy Hayden, Fred Skal, Vivian Aucoin, Scott Barrios, Tokesha Collins-Wright, Calvin Ray, James Setze, Stuart McAvoy, Paul Pratt, Dinero Washington, and Kent Meadows. The board serves in an advisory and oversight capacity in order to support the organization's goals and mission. The board, which meets on a quarterly basis, is comprised of representatives from government agencies, national, regional and local fleets as well as various stakeholder organizations. To learn more about Louisiana Clean Fuels' Board of Directors, please visit the LCF website at www.louisianacleanfuels.org.

Contact: Victoria Herrmann | [email protected] | 225-342-7972

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About Clean Cities: As part of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO), Clean Cities coalitions foster the nation's economic, environmental, and energy security by working locally to advance affordable, domestic transportation fuels, energy efficient mobility systems, and other fuel-saving technologies and practices. Since beginning in 1993, Clean Cities coalitions have achieved a cumulative impact in energy use equal to nearly 8 billion gasoline gallon equivalents through the implementation of diverse transportation projects. More information is available at www.cleancities.energy.gov.

About Louisiana Clean Fuels:   Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition, supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. The mission of LCF is to advance the nation’s environmental, economic, and energy security by supporting local actions to diversify transportation fuel options. Learn more at www.louisianacleanfuels.org. In 2018, Executive Director Ann Vail was inducted into the hall of fame. More information is available at www.louisianacleanfuels.org.

Louisiana Clean Fuels is excited to announce that we were recently awarded grant funding to support our new Drive Electric Louisiana program. We are one of 14 Clean Cities coalitions, led by Tennessee Clean Fuels, that will receive the grant award.

The project, appropriately named Developing Replicable, Innovative Variants for Engagement (DRIVE) for Electric Vehicles in the USA, is funded through the US Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. With these funds, participating coalitions like LCF will develop strategies to advance electric vehicle adoption in their respective states.

This will include:

• Development of statewide EV programs; 
• Statewide, grassroots consumer education;
• Utility, regulator, and local and state government official education;
• EV infrastructure planning;
• Dealer engagement to establish preferred EV dealers;
• Fleet engagement to facilitate EV deployment. 

If you are an EV driver interested in getting involved with EV outreach, stay tuned for information on our Drive Electric program.

About Clean Cities: As part of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO), Clean Cities coalitions foster the nation's economic, environmental, and energy security by working locally to advance affordable, domestic transportation fuels, energy efficient mobility systems, and other fuel-saving technologies and practices. Since beginning in 1993, Clean Cities coalitions have achieved a cumulative impact in energy use equal to nearly 8 billion gasoline gallon equivalents through the implementation of diverse transportation projects. More information is available at www.cleancities.energy.gov.

About Louisiana Clean Fuels:   Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition, supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. The mission of LCF is to advance the nation’s environmental, economic, and energy security by supporting local actions to diversify transportation fuel options. Learn more at www.louisianacleanfuels.org. In 2018, Executive Director Ann Vail was inducted into the hall of fame. More information is available at www.louisianacleanfuels.org.

Clean Cities Coalition Network Honors Louisiana Leader with Benjamin Watson Leadership Award

Louisiana Clean Fuels Coordinator Ann Vail Receives Benjamin Watson Leadership Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 12, 2020 - In the world of alternative fuels and vehicles, Ann Vail, Coordinator and Executive Director of Louisiana Clean Fuels, is known for her energy and passion that animate her work in advancing affordable, domestic transportation fuels and technologies in the state of Louisiana., 

On Tuesday, August 11, Vail’s admirable character was recognized by peers in the Clean Cities Coalition Network. During the network’s annual Training Workshop, the Coordinator Council presented Vail with the Benjamin Watson Inspirational Award, given once a year in honor of a long-time coordinator who enriched the Clean Cities community with his/her spirit and engaging personality.

“Ann is very deserving of this peer award,” said Stephen Russell, formerly of Massachusetts Clean Cities who won the award himself in 2019. “The energy she puts forth in her work with Clean Cities is remarkable.”

By sharing opportunities for growth and collaboration outside her own coalition, Vail—who also holds a place in the Clean Cities Hall of Fame—excels at elevating the entire Clean Cities network, comprised of nearly 100 local coalitions that work in their communities to help fleets and drivers transition to economic, environmental transportation options.

“Ann is the kind of person who is ready to help at a moment’s notice,” wrote one colleague who nominated Vail. “She is always ready with a warm smile and a genuine willingness
to help.”

To spread the word on learning opportunities to her peers in 2020, for example, Vail took the initiative to coordinate webinars among coalitions that keep stakeholders across the country informed and engaged. The effort has since been enthusiastically embraced by coalitions from around the nation, taking shape as what Vail calls a “master calendar” of Clean Cities webinars, a one-stop-shop to help fellow coordinators promote events covering topics ranging from electric vehicle charging infrastructure to propane school buses.

It’s one example among many where Vail steps in to support others in their work, whether by offering a list of webinars or sharing insight with her peers during Coordinator 101, a training workshop for people new to Clean Cities.

“I was so inspired by her energy, passion, and ability to achieve her goals despite any obstacles,” reflected another anonymous nominator on learning from Vail during Coordinator 101. “Ann is not only focused on building up her own coalition but also supports other coalitions by reaching out to share opportunities for growth and collaboration.”

"This award means a lot to me as it is from my peers in Clean Cities. I’ve never worked with a more passionate, fun and knowledgeable group of people, and I am truly honored."

Contact: Victoria Herrmann | Communicaitons, Louisiana Clean Fuels | [email protected] | 225-342-7972

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About Clean Cities: As part of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO), Clean Cities coalitions foster the nation's economic, environmental, and energy security by working locally to advance affordable, domestic transportation fuels, energy efficient mobility systems, and other fuel-saving technologies and practices. Since beginning in 1993, Clean Cities coalitions have achieved a cumulative impact in energy use equal to nearly 8 billion gasoline gallon equivalents through the implementation of diverse transportation projects. More information is available at www.cleancities.energy.gov.

About Louisiana Clean Fuels:   Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition, supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. The mission of LCF is to advance the nation’s environmental, economic, and energy security by supporting local actions to diversify transportation fuel options. Learn more at www.louisianacleanfuels.org. In 2018, Executive Director Ann Vail was inducted into the hall of fame. More information is available at www.louisianacleanfuels.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Victoria Herrmann
[email protected]
225-342-7972 

Natural Gas Technician Training Moves Online in Response to COVID-19 Concerns

Critical workforce development training for Louisiana fleets will now be offered in a virtual format 

Baton Rouge, LA | August 5, 2020 - Louisiana Clean Fuels (LCF) and the Natural Gas Vehicle Institute (NGVi) have partnered to offer online and virtual Natural Gas Vehicle technician training in lieu of the previously scheduled in-person classes at the BRCC Automotive Technology Center. These classes offer advanced training for skilled workers to help them qualify for high-paying jobs that are in high demand by dealers, OEMs and national fleets. Due to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic, LCF made the call to cancel the in-person training out of an abundance of caution and concern for the health and safety of its stakeholders. 

Louisiana Clean Fuels has arranged to offer these essential courses that cover three levels of natural gas vehicle training: NGV Essentials and Safety Practices (Level 1), CNG Fuel System Inspector Training (Level 2), and Heavy-Duty NGV Maintenance and Diagnostics Training (Level 3) to support the growing need for qualified technicians. Students may also select to take the CNG Fuel System Inspector Certification exam with NGVi at the conclusion of their training. 

Louisiana Clean Fuels and Cummins are sponsoring the Level 2 and Level 3 training classes, respectively, in order to offer discounted rates to Louisiana fleets. These discounts are available to the first five LCF stakeholders registering for either of these classes. Interested persons should contact Louisiana Clean Fuels at [email protected] to inquire about the discount codes and to see if they qualify for the discounted rates.

For more information, visit www.LouisianaCleanFuels.org. Registration is available at https://www.ngvi.com/training-schedule/

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About Natural Gas Vehicle Institute:  Established in 1989, NGVi has worked with hundreds of companies and government agencies throughout the U.S. and worldwide to help successfully integrate natural gas into their transportation mix. NGVi's clients span a vast number of refuse companies, transit fleets, truck operators, commercial fleets, government fleets, school bus fleet operators, vehicle manufacturers, fleet leasing companies and NGV industry members. Learn more at www.ngvi.com. 

About Louisiana Clean Fuels:   Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition, supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. The mission of LCF is to advance the nation’s environmental, economic, and energy security by supporting local actions to diversify transportation fuel options. Learn more at www.louisianacleanfuels.org. 

About Clean Cities: As part of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO), Clean Cities coalitions foster the nation's economic, environmental, and energy security by working locally to advance affordable, domestic transportation fuels, energy efficient mobility systems, and other fuel-saving technologies and practices. Since beginning in 1993, Clean Cities coalitions have achieved a cumulative impact in energy use equal to nearly 8 billion gasoline gallon equivalents through the implementation of diverse transportation projects. More information is available at www.cleancities.energy.gov.

June 4, 2020 | Baton Rouge, LA - Louisiana Clean Fuels is pleased to announce that Olivia Montgomery has been selected for the 2020 Clean Cities Workforce Development Program Summer Internship. The Clean Cities University Workforce Development Program is an initiative of Clean Cities, a government-industry partnership sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy's Vehicle Technologies Program. Since the creation of the CCUWDP in 2010, Clean Cities has hosted more than 300 interns in more than 60 Coalitions.

The Clean Cities internship gives students studying communications, public relations, business, marketing, engineering, or environmental sciences the opportunity to grow public awareness and expand the markets of advanced vehicle technologies, alternative fuels, and practices that reduce emissions and help advance our nation's energy security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil. Students have participated in research, outreach activities, public education, K-12 outreach, fleet events, and a vast array of transportation-related environmental projects.

Olivia is pursuing a law degree at the Southern Univerisity Law Center in Baton Rouge, and she also has a passion for clean and renewable energy that led her to apply for the intern position with LCF. Long-term, Olivia hopes "to work in environmental law in a way that advances sustainability. I am driven to pursue a career that puts sustainability and public health first," she says. She thought the LCF internship would be a good fit for her because "I hope that LCF will give me a better understanding of the clean transportation sector so that I can work as an attorney in that field in the future." She hopes her experience working with the Lands and Environmental Division at the Louisiana Department of Justice in addition to her work on environmental policy research will aid her in helping LCF with communications, legislative education, and electric vehicle research and outreach.

Olivia will join two additional interns, Jacob Holt, who interned with LCF last summer, and Samantha Breaux, to work on projects such as legislative education, data collection and trend analysis, EV research and outreach, workplace charging outreach, along with assisting LCF staff with events and other duties. These interns were selected from a field of many highly qualified candidates from all over the country who applied for the honor of being the recipient of this internship. 

Jacob Holt was also a summer 2019 intern for LCF, and he is returning to the coalition to continue his work with various levels of data analysis and compilation. Jacob, a self-described "data nerd" and former Intelligence Analyst in the US Navy, is currently pursuing a BS in engineering from LSU. Last summer, Jacob was instrumental in helping LCF publish its DC Fast Charging Master Plan, which offers guidance for the best placement of DC Fast Chargers for electric vehicles along Louisiana's interstate corridors. "I'm honored and excited to be back working with LCF," Jacob says. "Even in the last year, it's amazing to see how much progress Louisiana has made building the infrastructure that will support the nationwide increase in electric vehicles. In the coming months, I hope to be able to amplify the success LCF has had facilitating that change."

Samantha Breaux, an environmental science student at Rice University, says she was interested in working with Clean Cities because she wants to be "part of this movement to transition to clean transportation." Her passion for environmentalism, she says, stems from her childhood growing up near Louisiana's infamous "Cancer Alley." "I'm really grateful to have this opportunity to be back in my home state working with LCF," she says. "My internship this summer will show me even more ways that I can play a role in making positive changes to the environment, and I am excited to be a part of this change that is actively occurring in Louisiana."

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About Clean Cities: As part of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO), Clean Cities coalitions foster the nation's economic, environmental, and energy security by working locally to advance affordable, domestic transportation fuels, energy efficient mobility systems, and other fuel-saving technologies and practices. Since beginning in 1993, Clean Cities coalitions have achieved a cumulative impact in energy use equal to nearly 8 billion gasoline gallon equivalents through the implementation of diverse transportation projects. More information is available at www.cleancities.energy.gov.

About Louisiana Clean Fuels:   Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition, supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. The mission of LCF is to advance the nation’s environmental, economic, and energy security by supporting local actions to diversify transportation fuel options. In 2018, Executive Director Ann Vail was inducted into the Clean Cities Coordinator hall of fame. Learn more at www.louisianacleanfuels.org. 

For more information: https://www.transit.dot.gov/HOPE

Via NAFA's March 20th Mobility Insights + Innovations Newsletter

Publication of Self-Driving Car Rule Anticipated

On March 13, the Administration has finished its review of a forthcoming proposed rule on how to regulate cars without human controls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The NHTSA rule is expected to amend crashworthiness regulations that may be necessary to facilitate the certification of motor vehicles equipped without driver controls.

NAFA is closely monitoring developments related to federal standards for AV technology. Hopefully, NHTSA’s proposal will impact AV development in a way that positively advances the safe testing and deployment of these technologies that have the potential to create a shift in the future of mobility.

Visit NAFA's website

You are receiving this notification because you are subscribed to the Louisiana Clean Fuels newsletter. Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. We are a non-profit organization serving fleets for nearly 20 years.

NEW JAGUAR I-PACE OFFERED FOR HOLE-IN-ONE

Friday the 13th may be a lucky day for one Clean Fuels Classic golfer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 2, 2020 | Baton Rouge, LA – Instead of finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow this St. Patrick’s Day weekend, one lucky golfer at the Clean Fuels Classic may find themselves driving home in a new Jaguar I-PACE. Baton Rouge’s Paretti Family of Dealerships is offering a brand new all-electric Jaguar I-PACE SUV to a golfer who gets a hole-in-one at their sponsored hole at the Clean Fuels Classic Golf Tournament on Friday, March 13th at Pelican Point Golf & Country Club in Gonzales. The charity golf scramble kicks off the St. Patrick’s Day weekend and raises money for Louisiana Clean Fuels, a non-profit U.S. Department of Energy designated Clean Cities Coalition that promotes cutting air pollution through clean and sustainable transportation. 

The Clean Fuels Classic is a golf scramble open to the public, celebrating Louisiana Clean Fuels’ 20th Anniversary as a Clean Cities Coalition. Funds raised will help the non-profit offer much-needed technical training to support Louisiana’s natural gas fleets, promote the installation of electric vehicle charging stations throughout the state, provide free safety training to first responders, and work with local school districts and public transit companies to find funding for new and cleaner buses.

The tournament will feature excellent food, a Bloody Mary bar, and, for players, a shot at driving away in a new Jaguar SUV! The event also features a raffle that includes a cuff bracelet from local artist Mimosa Handcrafted and a 60” flat-screen TV donated by Covington Orthopedics. Registered golfers wearing green to the Clean Fuels Classic will be given a free raffle entry at check-in.

Team and player tickets are available online at www.CleanFuelsClassic.com as well as at the door between 7:00-7:30 AM on March 13, 2020.

To learn more about the golf tournament, purchase tickets and see the schedule, visit www.CleanFuelsClassic.com.

Contact: Stephanie Keen | [email protected] | 225-342-7972

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About Louisiana Clean Fuels:  Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition nonprofit agency supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. The mission of LCF is to advance the nation’s environmental, economic, and energy security by supporting local actions to diversify transportation fuel options. Learn more at www.louisianacleanfuels.org.  In 2018, LCF Executive Director Ann Vail received the national group’s highest honor by being inducted into the Clean Cities Coordinator Hall of Fame. More information is available at www.louisianacleanfuels.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Ann Vail | [email protected] | 225-281-7353

Louisiana Clean Fuels Calls for Entries for 2020 Clean Fuel Leader Awards

Public and private fleets in Louisiana are encouraged to share their 2019 fuel-saving measures and alternative fuel usage

February 10, 2020 | Baton Rouge, LA - Louisiana Clean Fuels (LCF), a US Department of Energy designated Clean Cities Coalition, is requesting information on 2019 fleet efficiency updates and alternative fuel use from public and private fleets in Louisiana to be included in LCF’s 2020 Clean Fuel Leader Awards. The awards ceremony, held each fall, honors top-performing fleets in Louisiana for their efforts to reduce both their fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions which contribute to poor local air quality and climate change. 

“The data we collect is used as a benchmark to gain an accurate picture of alternative fuel and vehicle usage in Louisiana,” explains LCF Executive Director, Ann Vail, “which will help both LCF and the Department of Energy understand the current alternative fuels market.” Louisiana Clean Fuels has been collecting data from fleets in their territory since 2009. “Our Annual Report helps to show our progress and the progress of stakeholders in Louisiana in shifting to domestic energy sources, eliminating harmful emissions and improving fuel efficiency,” says Vail. 

LCF and its stakeholders have cumulatively reduced over 165,500 tons of greenhouse gas emissions since the organization began collecting data in 2009. Fleets in the LCF territory recently reported reducing their NOx emissions (which contributes to the production of ground-level ozone), by 262,000 lbs in 2018 alone. The coalition assures participating fleets that all information provided in the survey will be aggregated to show the overall usage of alternative fuels from all participants. Fleets or fuel providers wishing their data to be kept confidential may opt-out of consideration for an award.

Previous award categories include Clean Fuels Champion and Runner-Up, Best Performing Municipality, “Top in Class” Awards, Most Improved Fleet, Dealership of the Year, and Corporate Leadership Award. The 2019 Clean Fuel Champion was Republic Services for reducing more than 19,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions in 2018 through the use of compressed natural gas and other fuel- and emissions-reducing methods. Other 2019 award winners include UPS, SWEPCO, the Paretti Family of Dealerships, Stone Oil, Entergy eTech, Amerigas, Ferrel Gas, Waste Management, and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. View photos from the 2019 Clean Fuel Leader Awards in our photo gallery.

Who should enter?

Any on-road or off-road, light or heavy-duty fleet that uses alternative fuels such as: 

• natural gas (CNG & LNG)
• propane
• electric vehicles
• hybrid vehicles
• other alternative fuels such as biodiesel, RNG, E85, etc.

Public or private fleets that are employing fuel reduction practices such as: 

• fewer miles traveled by employees utilizing carpooling, telecommuting, compressed workweek, mass transit or bicycles
• shorter routes
• driver education on fuel reduction driving
• idle reductions
• cylinder deactivation
• tire auto air inflation
• low rolling resistance tires
• trailer aerodynamic packages
• Replacing older vehicles with more fuel efficient ones

What information do fleets need to provide?

• Fleets that are utilizing alternative fuels are asked for the type and number of vehicles, annual miles driven, and the actual or estimated amount of fuel used.
• Fleets utilizing fuel economy improvements are asked for the previous miles per gallon, current fuel economy, number of vehicles and vehicle miles traveled.
• Fleets that have reduced vehicle miles traveled are asked for the method of reduction and further details on the effects of the method.

How to Enter:

• Email [email protected], or
• Call 225-342-7972 and ask about the “Annual Report”, or
• Complete this survey (https://louisianacleanfuels.org/arsurvey)

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About Clean Cities: As part of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO), Clean Cities coalitions foster the nation's economic, environmental, and energy security by working locally to advance affordable, domestic transportation fuels, energy efficient mobility systems, and other fuel-saving technologies and practices. Since beginning in 1993, Clean Cities coalitions have achieved a cumulative impact in energy use equal to nearly 8 billion gasoline gallon equivalents through the implementation of diverse transportation projects. For information on how the Department of Energy uses data collected by Clean Cities coalitions, see their 2018 Clean Cities Coalition Activity Report. More information is available at www.cleancities.energy.gov.

About Louisiana Clean Fuels:  Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition, supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. We are a non-profit organization serving both public and private fleets for 20 years. Our mission is to advance the nation’s environmental, economic, and energy security by supporting local actions to diversify transportation fuel options. In 2018, Executive Director Ann Vail was inducted into the hall of fame. More information is available at www.louisianacleanfuels.org.

For Immediate Release

October 2, 2019 | Baton Rouge, LA -  The Clean Fuels Summit is the state’s premier alternative fuels conference and expo hosted by both Clean Cities coalitions in Louisiana – Louisiana Clean Fuels and the Southeast Louisiana Clean Fuel Partnership. The event, which is being held on October 10th at NOLA Motorsports Park in Avondale, will feature an exclusive Ride & Drive on the racetrack, updates on the latest sustainable fleet technologies, and an impressive speaker lineup of clean fuel leaders from throughout the transportation industry.

Featured Presentations: 

• Future of Transportation: Bobby Hill, Vice President of North American Sales for Build Your Dreams (BYD), and Tom Hopkins, Regional Business Development Manager at ROUSH CleanTech, will discuss their respective companies’ visions of how technology is shaping and changing the industry. Attendees will get a sneak peek into what is coming in the not-so-distant future.
• Dave Schaller of the North American Council for Freight Efficiency’s (NACFE) presentation “Plugging into Trucking Trends” will cover advancements in medium and heavy duty electric trucks, NACFE’s work to double freight efficiency, and their “Run on Less” truck demonstration this October.
• A Workforce Development panel featuring Jared Schnader of CalStart and Bobby Hill of BYD, moderated by Chance McNeely, Executive Director of the Louisiana Motor Transport Association (LMTA), will address the shortage of technicians in the automotive industry as well as innovative solutions to fill this critical workforce gap in the ever-increasing alternative fuel vehicle market.
  
  

Additional Distinguished Speakers:

• Secretary Dr. Chuck Carr Brown of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) will give an update on Louisiana’s Volkswagen Mitigation Settlement funding and projects.
• The Keynote Presentation “Campus Community: Sustainability at Scale” will be delivered by Gretchen Vanicor and Terrence Chambers of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. 
• Tom Stephens of Argonne National Laboratory and Josh Schwartz of GPS Insight will explain the hidden value of Telematics data in “Gathering the Right Fleet Data & Choosing the Right Partner”.
• Joe Annotti of GNA Clean Transportation & Energy Consultants will present on the latest fleet funding opportunities in “Finding the Funds: The Role of Incentives in Clean Transportation Projects”.
  

Registration, information about speakers, as well as the full agenda for the Clean Fuels Summit are available at www.CleanFuelsSummit.com. General admission tickets are $30 online and $45 at the door. Discounts are available for students with a valid ID.   

Who Should Attend?

Business owners with sustainability goals, public and private fleet managers, elected officials, planners, corporate and university sustainability managers, transportation officials, LMTA members, students, freight stakeholders, and anyone interested in learning more about efforts to reduce emissions and conserve fuel.

The Clean Fuels Summit is sponsored by the Propane Education and Research Council (PERC), the Paretti Family of Dealerships, Ingevity, GNA Clean Transportation & Energy Consultants, South Coast Solar, the Louisiana Motor Transport Association (LMTA), GPS Insight, Stone Oil, Atmos Energy, and the Louisiana Chemical Association.

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About Clean Cities: As part of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO), Clean Cities coalitions foster the nation's economic, environmental, and energy security by working locally to advance affordable, domestic transportation fuels, energy efficient mobility systems, and other fuel-saving technologies and practices. Since beginning in 1993, Clean Cities coalitions have achieved a cumulative impact in energy use equal to nearly 8 billion gasoline gallon equivalents through the implementation of diverse transportation projects. More information is available at www.cleancities.energy.gov.

About Louisiana Clean Fuels:  Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition, supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. We are a non-profit organization serving both public and private fleets for over 19 years. Our mission is to improve air quality and health, reduce environmental pollution and strengthen Louisiana’s economy by increasing the use of cleaner, domestic fuels and energy-saving vehicles. In 2018, Executive Director Ann Vail was inducted into the hall of fame. More information is available at www.louisianacleanfuels.org

About Southeast Louisiana Clean Fuel Partnership: The Southeast Louisiana Clean Fuel Partnership is a coalition of vehicle fleet managers and operators; alternative fuel vehicle and technology providers; local, state and federal government agencies; and other organizations interested in promoting policies and practices that diversify our transportation fuel options, improve our environment, and reduce fleet operational costs. As part of the US Department of Energy’s Clean Cities national network, the Clean Fuel Partnership provides education, technical assistance, funding information and other services to help fleets incorporate cleaner transportation options into their operations. The Clean Fuel Partnership is supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and is housed at the Regional Planning Commission serving Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. John the Baptist, St. Tammany, and Tangipahoa parishes. More information is available at www.cleanfuelpartnership.org. 

CONTACT: Ann Vail | [email protected] | (225) 281-7353 

Promotional Images:

Clean Fuels Summit Logo:	Clean Fuels Summit Ad:
Louisiana Clean Fuels Logo:	Southeast Louisiana Clean Fuel Partnership Logo:

Media Alert 

September 17, 2019

CONTACT: Ann Vail | [email protected] | (225) 281-7353 

WHAT: Over 20 local electric vehicle (EV) drivers and enthusiasts will be lining up at Tanger Outlet Mall in Gonzales to show off their electric vehicles to highlight the clean-air benefits and cost-savings of electric cars on September 21, 2019. The event is part of both the fifth annual National Drive Electric Week and the Louisiana Electric Vehicle Roadshow hosted by Louisiana Clean Fuels and the Southeast Louisiana Clean Fuel Partnership, Louisiana’s two U.S. Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalitions.

Attendees can view and learn about plug-in vehicles by Tesla, Chevrolet, Honda, Jaguar, Audi and Nissan. The staff of Louisiana Clean Fuels, a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition, will be on hand to answer questions and discuss EV information with attendees. Representatives from Entergy eTech, Tesla, Solar Alternatives, Paretti Jaguar, and the Commuter Krewe of Louisiana will be present to offer more information on EVs, charging, and sustainable driving practices.

This Gonzales event is one of more than 280 across the country (and around the world) where electric vehicle owners and their neighbors will hold electric car parades, “tailpipe-free” tailgate parties, recognition of leaders promoting EVs, launches of new public EV charging stations and other public events.

WHEN: Saturday, September 21, 2019 | 10AM-1PM

WHERE: Tanger Outlet Mall, 2410 Tanger Blvd, Gonzales, LA 70737

VISUALS: A showcase of over 20 EVs of various makes and models along with Tanger Outlet Mall’s EV charging stations.

WHO: Louisiana Clean Fuels is organizing the Gonzales National Drive Electric Week event in conjunction with their Louisiana EV Roadshow. Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO), Entergy eTech, Chargepoint, and the Commuter Krewe of Louisiana are local sponsors. Plug In America, the Sierra Club and the Electric Auto Association are national organizers. The Nissan LEAF® is the exclusive national automotive sponsor.

For a complete list of National Drive Electric Week events, visit: driveelectricweek.org

For more information about Louisiana’s Drive Electric Week, visit: https://louisianacleanfuels.org/meetinginfo.php 

About Louisiana Clean Fuels: Louisiana Clean Fuels is a US Department of Energy Clean Cities Coalition, supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and member organizations. We are a non-profit organization serving both public and private fleets for over 19 years. Our mission is to improve air quality and health, reduce environmental pollution and strengthen Louisiana’s economy by increasing the use of cleaner, domestic fuels and energy-saving vehicles. More information is available at www.louisianacleanfuels.org.

About Plug In America: Plug In America is the nation’s leading independent consumer voice for accelerating the use of plug-in electric vehicles in the United States. Formed as a non-profit in 2008, Plug In America provides practical, objective information collected from our coalition of plug-in vehicle drivers, through public outreach and education, policy work and a range of technical advisory services. Our expertise represents the world’s deepest pool of experience of driving and living with plug-in vehicles. The organization conceived National Drive Electric Week and has advanced workplace charging by pioneering ride-and-drive events at such leading corporations as Google, Mattel and Paramount Pictures. We drive electric. You can too. pluginamerica.org

About the Sierra Club: The Sierra Club is the nation’s oldest and largest grassroots environmental organization with more than 2.4 million members and supporters and chapters in all 50 states. The Sierra Club’s national electric vehicles initiative advocates for a switch to EVs as one important way to reduce emissions and cut oil consumption. Sierra Club is proud to have been one of the three national groups organizing National Drive Electric Week since its inception in 2011. www.sierraclub.org/EVGuide. 

About the Electric Auto Association: The Electric Auto Association, formed in 1967, is a nonprofit educational organization with 75 chapters worldwide that promotes the advancement and widespread adoption of electric vehicles. www.electricauto.org.

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