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ALTERNATIVE FUELS

Powering American Progress: A Roadmap to Diverse Energy

The strength of our economy depends on a reliable, affordable, and secure transportation network. At the Columbia-Willamette Clean Cities Coalition, our mission is to provide fleet owners and communities with a diverse "toolbox" of fuels.

By diversifying our fuel sources, we reduce our dependence on foreign oil, support American farmers and workers, and ensure that our regional economy remains resilient in a changing global market

Strengthening Our Domestic Supply Chain

We believe in using American-made energy to power American-made vehicles.

  • Renewable Diesel & Biodiesel: These fuels represent a massive win for the American heartland. Produced from domestic crops, animal fats, and even recycled cooking oil, they allow us to fuel our heavy-duty trucks with home-grown resources.

    • The Pragmatic Advantage: Renewable Diesel is a "drop-in" fuel, meaning it works in existing engines with zero modifications—saving businesses money on new equipment while reducing maintenance costs.

  • Ethanol: Made from domestic biomass, ethanol provides a high-octane boost to our fuel supply. It has been a cornerstone of American energy policy for decades, helping to lower prices at the pump and support thousands of rural jobs.

 

Innovation & Market Competition

A competitive market requires options. We support the expansion of infrastructure that allows consumers and businesses to choose the fuel that fits their bottom line.

  • Electricity: As the grid becomes more diverse—incorporating everything from natural gas and hydro to wind and solar—electric vehicles offer a way to power our commutes using local resources. This reduces our vulnerability to global oil price spikes.

  • Propane (LPG): Propane is a domestic success story. It is the world’s third most common transportation fuel because it is cost-effective and reliable. With a higher octane rating than gasoline, it’s a proven performer for school buses and delivery fleets across the country.

 

Turning Waste into Wealth

One of the most fiscally responsible ways to power our future is by capturing value from things we used to throw away.

  • Renewable Natural Gas (RNG): While traditional natural gas is a reliable pillar of the U.S. energy sector, RNG takes it a step further. By capturing methane from landfills and livestock waste, we turn a byproduct into a high-value "Advanced Biofuel."

    • The Bottom Line: RNG helps turn local waste management into a local energy source, keeping investment dollars right here in our communities.

Your Partner in Energy Transition

Whether your priority is cutting operational costs, meeting new standards, or ensuring your fleet is never dependent on a single fuel source, we provide the technical expertise to help you succeed. We don't just advocate for a cleaner environment; we advocate for a stronger, more self-reliant Northwest.

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