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Natural gas vehicles (NGVs) fueled by compressed natural gas (CNG) can have a positive impact on environmental air quality. Natural gas is a clean, cost-effective alternative fuel choice. Compared with conventional vehicles, NGVs produce only 5 to 10 percent of allowable emissions, which means far less greenhouse gases.*
The use of NGVs not only helps the environment, it decreases U.S. dependence on foreign energy sources and relies on the abundant supply and reliable distribution network of natural gas within the U.S.
Natural Gas Vehicles Fueled by CNG
What are natural gas vehicles (NGVs) and how do they work?
A natural gas vehicle is a car, truck, van, bus or even forklift that runs on compressed natural gas (CNG). Natural gas is compressed so that it can be stored in safe, secure aluminum, fiberglass, steel or carbon-fiber cylinders within the vehicle.
NGVs work like traditional vehicles, burning a gaseous blend of fuel and air in an engine. However, natural gas vehicles run cleaner, as the more efficient natural gas does not require the conversion of liquid fuel. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has called the natural gas Honda Civic GX the cleanest internal-combustion vehicle on Earth.
Get more details on NGV emissions.
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How safe is an NGV?
Within an NGV, the compressed natural gas cylinders are significantly stronger than gasoline tanks, and they meet or exceed U.S. Department of Transportation safety standards. Although highly unlikely, should a leak occur, CNG will not produce flammable liquid on the ground, but rather will rise and disperse if released, because it is already a gas.
How do I get an NGV?
The Honda Civic GX is the only factory built automobile available in the U.S. using CNG. It is a dedicated vehicle meaning it only runs on natural gas. Currently, the Honda is only in limited production, so there may be a long waiting list. Learn more about the Honda Civic GX or locate a dealer in your area.
Many vehicles may be converted to use natural gas, but only with an EPA certified conversion kit, which are limited in number. However, the EPA ruled that vehicles built before model year 2000, or those with over 80,000 miles, are exempt from the certification requirement. Please visit NGV America, for a listing of vehicles that can be converted.
PSNC Energy does not sell CNG conversion kits for vehicles.
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What is the CNG equivalent to a gallon of gasoline?
1.3 Therm = 1 Gallon equivalent of gasoline
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What are the refueling options for NGVs?
CNG is put into vehicles similar to the way gasoline is used to refuel. There are two refueling options: "fast fill" and "time fill."
"Fast fill" can be done at a natural gas refueling station and takes about five to seven minutes. "Time fill" refueling takes from four to eight hours, and is intended for home and commercial refueling where the vehicle will sit unused overnight, or for an extended period of time. Residential refueling appliances and commercial refueling stations may be installed wherever natural gas is available. There are several CNG stations available for public use in North Carolina.
Locate a CNG station near you.
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How do I set up an account to purchase CNG through PSNC Energy?
If you are interested in enrolling in PSNC Energy’s CNG program, contact Lisa Faulkner at 1-800-222-1034 to establish your CNG account. You must currently own a CNG vehicle to set up an account.
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Does PSNC Energy install CNG home refueling stations?
PSNC Energy is currently an approved dealer for the Phill Home CNG refueling unit by Fuelmaker in North Carolina. Our sales area is currently limited to areas that are within 20 miles of our service centers. Per our agreement with Fuelmaker, Phill must be sold, installed and maintained by PSNC Energy or its approved agent. No sales can be made to other companies or individuals outside of North Carolina without express permission from Fuelmaker, and PSNC Energy is still responsible for the proper installation and maintenance of the Phill.
To purchase a Phill Home CNG refueling unit for residential use, please contact us:
Asheville Region:
Mark Brewer
828-670-3532
mbrewer@scana.com
Gastonia Region:
Bobby W. Gaddis
704-810-3337
bgaddis@scana.com
Raleigh/Durham Region:
Matt Koehl
919-501-7669
mkoehl@scana.com
What about CNG stations for commercial fleets?
Commercial fueling stations designed to provide CNG for larger single vehicles or multiple vehicles in a fleet are available and will vary in design and cost, depending on the needs of the customer. Stations can be designed for either fast fill, slow fill or a combination of both. The cost for a commercial station will vary depending on the number of vehicles or the need for “fast fill” stations.
For information about NGV fleet accounts and services, please contact Lee McElrath at 828-670-3525 or wmcelrath@scana.com.
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What about funding and incentives for NGVs?
If you are considering buying an NGV for personal use or using natural gas vehicles within your fleet, you may be eligible for grants, tax incentives or other funding opportunities. For fleets, these grants can help offset the purchase price of new NGVs or help fund the construction of a fueling station. NGV America provides a current list of tax incentives and grants available.
Tax Incentives
The Federal government allows for several tax benefits for NGV station and vehicle owners. Check out NGV America’s government policy section for more details on tax incentives. Learn more about North Carolina's state tax incentives for NGVs.
Disclaimer: The above tax information is for general information only. Please contact your tax advisor or the tax codes for details.
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Where can I find more information about NGVs?
American Clean Skies Foundation
Clean Vehicle Education Foundation
Fuelmaker
NGV America
U.S. Department of Energy – Fuel Economy
Want to learn more about clean fuel in North Carolina?
Centralina Clean Fuels Coalition
Triangle Clean Cities
Land of Sky Regional Council
Source:
Department of Energy (Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy).
*Emissions reductions may vary by make/model of vehicle.
Disclaimer:
PSNC Energy appliance sales, installation, maintenance, and repair, and CNG sales are not a part of the regulated services offered by PSNC Energy and are not in any way sanctioned by the North Carolina Utilities Commission. There is no advantage to customers of PSNC Energy if they buy these products or services from PSNC Energy. A customer does not have to buy such products or services in order to continue to receive the same safe and reliable natural gas service from PSNC Energy.
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