Hundreds meeting in Charleston for natural gas expo

Hundreds of natural gas and automotive professionals from across the nation are meeting in Charleston this week for the Appalachian Basin NGV Expo and Conference.

Executive Director of the West Virginia Oil and Natural Gas Association Corky DeMarco said this weeks event is about informing the public about natural gas vehicles.

“We want to make sure that people are aware that you can convert vehicles, the state has an aggressive tax incentive program, not only for personal size vehicles but also large vehicles,” said DeMarco. “There’s incentive to put in stations that the state has in the way of tax incentives and we just want to raise the awareness.”

The event that started Monday and will run through Wednesday night is hosted by Governor Earl Ray Tomblin and the West Virginia Oil and Natural Gas Association and features numerous energy innovators, business leaders, researchers and entrepreneurs all meeting in one place to discuss the difference natural gas can make in West Virginia and in the transportation industry.

Philip Pfister with Chesapeake Energy said the United States is behind in this area.

Truck filling up at natural gas fueling station in Charleston

“Countries like Pakistan are near the top when it comes to fueling with natural gas. Companies in the Middle East where they have the most oil, they also have a lot of natural gas,” said Pfister. “These third world countries are fueling with natural gas, they get, they realize it, we are a little slow on the learning curve.”

Pfister adds that the nation is finally getting on the bandwagon.

During the three day expo, participants will get the opportunity to see conversion kits, equipment and compressed natural gas derivative-fueled vehicles first hand.

Pfister said natural gas is better than traditional fuels.

“It’s a much cleaner fuel, it doesn’t have to be refined, it’s made right here in North America, we have the largest natural gas reserves in the world and it’s way cheaper than diesel and gasoline,” said Pfister.

In addition, Pfister said it’s also safer than other fuels as well.

Currently, for someone to order a vehicle equipped to run on natural gas can cost them roughly $7,000 on top of the price of the vehicle. Once converted, the vehicle could run on gasoline and natural gas and industry officials say the system could be transferred to another vehicle. 

There are currently five vehicle models that are available from dealerships that can be ordered with the conversion already completed.

Pfister said natural gas is generally 50 percent cheaper than gasoline and expects the cost of conversion to fall as the demand grows in the near future.

The expo at the Civic Center will conclude at 2 p.m. Wednesday.

DeMarco said West Virginia was once a leader in this area and believes it can become a leader once again.





More News

News
As Yeager Airport's Wildlife Patrol Dog turns 7, a new dog comes in to learn from him
The new Border Collie is getting acclimated and receiving training for his soon-to-be role.
March 28, 2024 - 6:30 pm
News
Dunlow Volunteer Fire Department closes
The Dunlow VFD did not have a valid workers compensation insurance policy.
March 28, 2024 - 6:20 pm
News
PEIA examines financial effects of new law meant to ensure local pharmacies get fair reimbursements
Gov. Jim Justice signed Senate Bill 453 into law this week.
March 28, 2024 - 4:11 pm
News
Barbour County woman sentenced after death case sent back to circuit court by Supreme Court
Carli Reed sentenced on voluntary manslaughter conviction.
March 28, 2024 - 4:11 pm


Your Comments