The Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA) and Dominion Energy Utah have signed a joint cooperation statement aimed at reducing air pollution and improving energy efficiency within the UIPA jurisdictional area.
The partnership will explore the use and development of innovative programs and technologies associated with natural gas development, including renewable natural gas (RNG), alternative fuels and energy efficiency.
“The pressure for companies to transfer to sustainable energy is coming from customers and investors, but that switch takes time and resources,” says Jack Hedge, executive director of UIPA.
“Collaboration is key to getting over those hurdles, and UIPA is dedicated to helping harness these emerging and innovative fuel and energy opportunities,” he adds.
The four-year agreement will focus efforts in two areas: alternative fuels and innovative energy technologies. That includes the study and development of pilot programs aimed at converting or replacing conventional vehicles – including short line railroad engines; heavy-, medium- and light-duty trucks; forklifts; and other cargo transport vehicles – to operate on natural gas using renewable natural gas or other clean sources. New technologies designed to use natural gas more efficiently and reduce air pollution emissions will also be evaluated.
Dominion Energy Utah is working to reduce its methane emissions by 65% over the next decade, 80% by 2040 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Advancing renewable energy and new technology are specific strategies outlined in UIPA’s Strategic Business Plan.
The development of additional agreements and programs are anticipated as this work goes forward.
Photo: UIPA’s landing page
