Oregon Pushes for Alternative Fuels, Electric Cars
Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski has signed an executive order that creates a new working group focused on developing the state’s alternative fuel vehicle infrastructure.The group will be in charge of setting up policies and creating a statewide system to support the next generation of electric and alternative fuel vehicles.
“Our reliance on foreign oil and our emissions of greenhouse gases come from dependence on gasoline powered vehicles,” Kulongoski said upon signing the order last week. “We have to move away from gasoline powered vehicles and move towards alternative power sources such as electric, natural gas and fuel cell vehicles — and Oregon is positioned to be a national a leader for this next generation of vehicles.”
One of the new working group’s goals is, over the next two years, to create a plan in which the state can work with the private sector to start building alternative fuel stations across Oregon. The group will also seek public input and launch a public awareness campaign to develop community support for alternative fuel vehicles.
“As the private marketplace transitions to new technologies, it is critical that the state, local partners and private companies work together to build a consistent and reliable refueling infrastructure so consumers can make the switch to new, greener vehicles,” Kulongoski said.
One final note: It’s nice to know electric cars are already becoming more affordable and available, as fellow Green Options writer Clayton Cornell writes in “An Electric Car You Can Buy Today.”
