Alternative Compliance Option Available for State, Fuel Provider Fleets
Using alternative fuels is one way covered fleets can reduce petroleum consumption through the new Alternative Compliance option.
In March 2007, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) published a final rule that offers state and alternative fuel provider fleets a new way to comply with their Alternative Fuel Transportation Program requirements. The new rule was mandated by Section 703 of the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 2005.
Known as Alternative Compliance, this new rule allows state and alternative fuel provider fleets covered under EPAct’s Alternative Fuel Transportation Program to apply for a waiver from its AFV acquisition requirements. The waiver lets fleets reduce petroleum consumption, in lieu of acquiring AFVs, by using methods such as energy-efficient technologies or fuel blends.
Alternative Compliance—which applies to light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles, as well as certain non-road vehicles—does not limit the technologies or ways a fleet can reduce petroleum use. For example, fleets can reduce petroleum consumption through the use of hybrid electric vehicles, more efficient internal combustion engines, or fleet management practices. The expanded use of alternative fuels in AFVs will also continue to be encouraged.
“The rule making opens new doors to fleets that don’t have alternative fueling infrastructure in their areas or can’t find AFV technologies that meet their needs,” says Linda Bluestein, Regulatory Manager for the Alternative Fuel Transportation Program.
The DOE provides guidelines, a tutorial, and a user-friendly Web tool at: www.govinfo.bz/6777-105.