Houston METRO CNG Implementation Study (TTI-2011-8)
Author(s):
S.M. Sandidge, J.H. Overman
Publication Date:
November 2011
Abstract:
This study provided case study research and technical assistance to the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) in evaluating and implementing a compressed natural gas (CNG)-fueled bus fleet. Researchers conducted a state-of-the-practice scan, review, and peer research; estimated life-cycle cost (LCC) of a CNG fleet; and assessed financial planning considerations for CNG implementation. Among many findings, researchers found:
- Agencies began using CNG?fueled vehicles largely to reduce emissions. All peer agencies stated that emission reduction was the driving force behind switching to CNG.
- Peer agencies typically have a contract for fuel and are able to negotiate the CNG price based on purchase quantities.
- Modern CNG transit vehicles have a total operating range similar to that of diesel vehicles-between 350 and 450 miles between refueling.
- Maintenance costs for 40-foot CNG would need to increase 58 percent to $0.76 per mile for the CNG scenario to have the same LCC as the diesel scenario. Maintenance costs for 45-foot CNG would need to increase 74 percent to $0.75 per mile for the CNG scenario to have the same LCC as the diesel scenario.
Report Number:
TTI-2011-8
Electronic Link(s):
Document/Product: http://tti.tamu.edu/documents/TTI-2011-8.pdf
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