New Ultra-Low Emission Fleet Fueled by Biogas in Southern California

(Southern California Gas/NGV Journal) Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas), officials from the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District and Western Milling, one of the largest and most diverse manufacturers and suppliers of nutrient solutions for plants, animals, and people in the U.S., unveiled the first of a planned 30 ultra-low emissions trucks the company will deploy at its operation in Goshen, California. The near-zero emissions trucks will be fueled with renewable natural gas that can virtually eliminate smog-forming pollutants and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions linked to climate change by as much as 80%.

These new trucks are powered by a 12-liter Cummins Westport engine, the first engine of its kind to meet the California Air Resources Board (CARB) optional low NOx standard. In addition, Western Milling revealed plans to open a new public fueling station supplying renewable natural gas in the city of Goshen later this year.

Western Milling’s investment in its new natural gas trucks was supported by the San Joaquin Air Pollution Control District’s Truck Replacement Program, an initiative to replace on-road diesel trucks with cleaner technology units or to expand fleets with the cleanest technology available – particularly in low income and disadvantaged communities experiencing greater air quality impacts. “Through the use of heavy-duty renewable CNG trucks, we’re becoming more sustainable,” said Kevin Kruse, CEO at Western Milling. “It’s good for everyone involved; us, our customers, and the communities in which we serve.”

“As a public health agency serving the San Joaquin Valley, we are committed to improving the health and quality of life for all Valley residents through efficient, effective and entrepreneurial air quality management strategies. We are proud to support local companies investing in switching their diesel trucks to clean natural gas trucks,” said Samir Sheikh, executive director of Air Pollution Control Officer for the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. “We applaud Western Milling’s commitment to clean air and public health.”

“At SoCalGas we are committed to raising awareness on how near-zero emissions natural gas trucks can help improve air quality and reduce GHG emissions,” said Gillian Wright, senior vice president of customer relations at SoCalGas. “A huge congratulations to Western Milling as they invest in their future and cleaner air for the San Joaquin Valley.”

Last month, SoCalGas opened a new biomethane fueling station in Bakersfield. The new facility extends the network of clean natural gas stations across a key regional goods movement corridor in the San Joaquin Valley, which experiences the worst particulate matter pollution in the state, according to CARB. READ MORE