PA DEP Issues Technical Guidance on Natural Gas Vehicle Conversion Systems

HARRISBURG, PA--Dec. 1, 2011: The Department of Environmental Protection today issued technical guidance clarifying that natural gas conversions are authorized under the Pennsylvania Clean Vehicles Program.

New passenger car or light-duty truck conversion systems certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the California Resources Air Board may be installed on vehicles in Pennsylvania.

"Using affordable domestic natural gas for transportation fuel will help clean our air while reducing our reliance on foreign oil," DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said. "This opportunity is here, and we need to jump on it. This is a big step in the right direction because it makes clear that the state's new vehicle emissions program allows for certification under either standard."

Used as a transportation fuel, natural gas emits fewer pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxide, compared with traditional fuels, such as diesel and gasoline. Based on current fuel prices, natural gas would provide cost savings to drivers.

The technical guidance document, to be published in the Dec. 3 Pennsylvania Bulletin, was among the recommendations the Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission made to Governor Corbett. It will provide manufacturers, sellers and consumers of passenger cars and light-duty trucks with information about the requirements to ensure that converted vehicles comply with the Pennsylvania Clean Vehicles program.

In 2006, the state adopted low-emission vehicle standards based on the California Air Resources Board regulations. DEP is issuing this technical guidance because the Pennsylvania Clean Vehicles program did not address alternative fuel conversion systems.