The annual Clean Fuels Summit was hosted in Lake Charles, La. this week, offering a space for professionals in the sustainable energy field to work together toward a better future for fueling. 

The Louisiana Propane Gas Association attended to keep our reliable gas strong among the new fueling developments including hydrogen and electric vehicles.

This conference is put on by Clean Cities and Communities coalition, a partner of the U.S. Department of Energy, to educate others on the current projects and technologies developing that will enable America’s shift off of diesel fuel into more efficient and clean transportation, as well as more health safety for Louisianans. 

A popular, clean mode of transportation, especially for trucks, that is cleaner than diesel fuel are propane-hybrid vehicles used for fleet and public transportation. 

Kevin Coggin, executive director of the Coast Transit Authority since 2003, has enforced propane fleets for decades, notably during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and recently for airport shuttles in New Orleans. 

Why propane? 

Coggin argument for propane is supported by the cost-effectiveness of propane: cheaper repairs compared to other options, little to no costs in changing fueling infrastructure, and no maintenance costs, unlike diesel transportation. 

He also notes that, from the environmental aspect, propane provides a significant carbon emission reduction when transitioning from diesel and is safer overall for the environment and individual users. 

Louisiana’s Clean Fuels Summit shows inspiration from Louisiana’s perseverance as a state to create better lives for its citizens using alternative fuel and energy. 

Dr. Shawn Wilson, former 2023 candidate for governor and former AASHTO president, was in attendance to reinstate his love and hope for Louisiana’s cleaner future. 

In his keynote speech, Wilson said Louisiana will become a big player in the new age for fuel with the workforce, pipelines and geographic location our state was blessed with, partnered with its existing infrastructure and expertise in renewable energy innovations. 

“Imagine how much better Louisiana could be with a sustained collaborative effort and an approach that drives sustainable and impactful changes for the families of Louisiana,” Wilson said in his closing remarks.