Electric Vehicles Provide Only Part of the Solution to Reducing GHG Emissions

ABBOTSFORD, BC, June 13, 2016 /CNW/ - The Canadian Propane Association (CPA) supports the British Columbia government's commitment to a practical, affordable and immediate strategy to reduce automotive GHG emissions. However, the government needs to look beyond the promotion of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and consider low-emission auto propane, a natural gas liquid, as part of the energy mix.

"We support the government's actions on fighting climate change," said Kevin O'Donnell, B.C. Committee Chair of the CPA. "However, there is so much more that can be achieved if the government looks beyond EVs and seriously considers the expanded use of auto propane. It's an energy that is ready to help reduce emissions right away."

"There are ongoing questions about affordability and practicality in relation to EVs," said O'Donnell. "If we are going to be serious about an immediate, affordable and comprehensive plan to reduce GHGs in the transportation sector, equal consideration must be given to auto propane, which has significant environmental and economic advantages over gas, diesel and other alternative transportation fuels."

O'Donnell noted that auto propane costs about 40% less than gas and diesel. Like compressed natural gas (CNG), auto propane also has a lower carbon footprint than gasoline – up to 26% fewer GHG emissions. 

The distance range of a propane vehicle is almost double that of other alternative fuel vehicles, such as CNG. Range and battery life concerns also exist for EVs, and in Canada's cool climate this is exacerbated. "There is a reason why auto propane is the most popular alternative transportation fuel in the world today," said O'Donnell. "Auto propane is perfectly suited for use in school and transit buses, high-mileage fleets such as couriers and police cars, as well as taxis and pick-up trucks."

"Auto propane is clean burning, affordable, available everywhere in B.C. and doesn't face the serious obstacles that other alternative fuels and EVs do," said O'Donnell. "Auto propane can immediately play an important role in helping meet the government's transportation strategy goals and the propane industry is ready to assist now."

About the Canadian Propane Association
With over 400 members, the Canadian Propane Association (CPA) is the national association for a growing, multi-billion dollar industry that impacts the livelihood of tens of thousands of Canadians. The CPA develops and produces industry training materials, offers an emergency response assistance plan to its members and provides advocacy services for the propane industry.

SOURCE Canadian Propane Association

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