The CPA and members across the country have been working with the different levels of government over the past few years, providing information about the advantages of propane-fuelled vehicles and how they can be an ideal low-cost, low-emission solution.
We are seeing an increasing number of projects – especially schools – switching to propane buses because the results support the science. Compared to diesel, propane vehicles are lower in GHGs, emit 98 per cent fewer harmful emissions, help schools, fleets, taxi and courier services save significant costs and are better for everyone’s health. The science can no longer be ignored and we very pleased to see policy makers selecting propane as the preferred fuel of choice.
The latest examples of regions choosing auto propane include the Halifax Regional Centre for Education that selected Calgary-based Southland Transportation Ltd as a provider to transport students in Halifax. Southland will operate over 140 propane-powered buses, covering approximately 129 routes starting this September. The Province of New Brunswick began piloting 18 propane-powered school buses last September and should have a report completed this fall – initial findings reveal that the propane buses have been very well received. As well, the province of P.E.I. is actively looking at the use of propane for transportation, including school buses.
In the private sector, Jean-Paul Belliveau, owner of JP’s Garage and Chris Snow of Eastern Gas Services Inc., are launching a new company called JP’s Propane as they see an opportunity to grow the auto propane market. The company will be installing a series of propane cardlock dispensing units in different regions of the province of New Brunswick. One dispenser unit has been installed in Dieppe, NB and four more should be installed by the fall.
The CPA continues to promote the auto propane industry in Atlantic Canada. Governments in particular are encouraged to consider converting their fleet vehicles to propane and show leadership in helping the environment. For more information, contact Government Relations Director for Atlantic Canada and Québec, Jean-François Duguay, at jeanfrancoisduguay@propane.ca.