“With many non-petroleum technologies competing for space in the transportation sector, [Energy Vision ‘s] new report presents a strong case for RNG as a cost-effective, low carbon, drop-in fuel for municipalities, private fleet operators, DOE Clean Cities affiliates, and state and federal officials grappling with clean fuel and climate change challenges,” says Marianne Mintz at Argonne National Laboratory.
The big “aha” moment for Energy Vision, reflects Matt Tomich was in looking at all lifecycle emissions data, particularly on particulate matter and NOx, and realizing that potential value of any option is about more than tailpipe emissions.
“Having no tailpipe emissions is a great benefit for communities where these vehicles work. But the reality is every fuel and vehicle type generates emissions somewhere in its lifecycle, from raw material or fuel extraction/production to energy consumption. So, I think unless you are assessing on a full environmental lifecycle basis you aren’t doing that apples-to-apples comparison that deserves to be done.” More >>