Ozinga and the City of Hobart Laud Compressed Natural Gas Vehicles

Ozinga and the City of Hobart Laud Compressed Natural Gas Vehicles
By: Contributor Last Updated: July 18, 2018

New innovations have revolutionized our world’s industries, but none more than the sustainable and clean energy industry that has created fuel-efficient and climate friendly cars, technology, and more. While this industry has proven to be beneficial, there is a narrative surrounding these innovations that say they are not cost-efficient or feasible for all communities. Luckily, cities like Hobart and companies like Ozinga are on a mission to prove that this narrative is simply not true, and that alternative energy sources are reliable and important in our world.

Since the invention of modern engines and technology, gasoline and diesel made from fossil fuels has been vital to making them work. Though accessible around every corner, this modern technology comes with a downside that has rapidly caused more problems. The continued use of gasoline and diesel has polluted our air, causing a greenhouse effect in our atmosphere that traps gases and depletes the natural ozone layer that protects us from the Sun’s rays. This depletion has led to a rise in Earth’s temperature, a domino effect that threatens every aspect of life.

In recent years, alternative energy technology has been on the rise. From electric cars, wind, hydro-energy, natural gas, to new fuel sources, clean and sustainable energy is abundant and ready to be used.

So why are alternative energy solutions not being used at the same rate as diesel and petroleum? Simply put, there is very little knowledge and understanding about alternative energy sources. But that is quickly starting to change.

Right here in Northwest Indiana, the City of Hobart has begun using an energy source called Compressed Natural Gas, or CNG, in their vehicles. CNG is methane gas, which is used in heating, cooking, and more; the only difference is that it has been compressed at a high pressure, stored in a tank for compacity, and then used for fuel.

“In the trucking industry for fleet use, it is fairly common to use compressed natural gas as a transportation fuel,” said Rich DeBoer, a manager at Ozinga. “As I mentioned, this is mainly fleet vehicles: delivery service, refuse service, or contracted service fleets. This can be used with most any vehicle, big trucks or small cars, that has the necessary provisions, including an upgrade kit with the proper engine.”

More cities are turning their attention to this energy source.

“It is slowly but surely catching on,” DeBoer said. “Many are seeing the benefits. The City of South Bend has gone in the direction as well.”

This also includes Hobart, a community that is already seeing the benefits of the switch to CNG.

“The city is transitioning their trucks, refuse fleet, snow plows, and more to CNG vehicles. Each new one they bring in will be spec’d out as a CNG vehicle,” DeBoer explained. “Hobart will benefit from huge economic savings—saving as much as $2-$3 per gallon. The trucks also run quieter. They run quieter than diesel trucks. Plus, these trucks burn cleaner, so the engines do not have the carbon buildup of a normal gas-burning engine, so they will last longer and have a fuel system life of 30 years.”

The largest benefit?

“Cleaner air for Hobart,” DeBoer said. “Nearly zero emissions are coming from these natural gas engines.”

When comparing methane molecule to gas or diesel molecules, less carbon is present in methane gas—one carbon atom in a molecule of methane compared to 14 carbon atoms in a molecule of diesel fuel. Carbon is one of the many gases that can pollute the air and become trapped in the atmosphere, warming the earth. Less carbon molecules, less pollution in the air.

The City of Hobart has been joined by companies like Ozinga to show the public the benefits of CNG. With expertise and a dedication to provide safe, reliable alternative energy solutions, Ozinga is prepared to bring those benefits to Northwest Indiana.

“Ozinga has the knowledge and expertise. We have a fleet of more than 180 concrete mixers that are all running on CNG and 6 fueling stations, not only for our fleet but also for the public to use,” DeBoer said. “The easiest way to start the process of switching to CNG vehicles is to call Ozinga. They have the information, training, and experience to help anyone in this process.”

Turning to clean energy solutions is an easy step with clear benefits: it’s better for our communities and it’s better for the Earth.

For more information about Ozinga, please visit www.ozinga.com.