Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) is taking a significant step towards cleaner transportation in California. The company announced a $1.5 million initiative to provide 50 fuel cards to businesses purchasing qualifying heavy-duty natural gas trucks. This program, known as the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) Fuel Card Incentive Program, will run for 90 days, starting September 9th, 2024, and ending December 8th, 2024.
Each fuel card is valued at $30,000 and can be used at SoCalGas’ public access stations, which dispense 100% renewable natural gas (RNG). This incentive is designed to help fleet owners overcome the financial barriers associated with transitioning to cleaner vehicles, ultimately contributing to improved air quality and a more sustainable economy for California.
The program aligns with California’s ambitious climate goals, particularly the California Air Resource Board (CARB) Scoping Plan for achieving carbon neutrality. SoCalGas, as a major natural gas distribution utility, receives credits under the CARB LCFS program for procuring low-emission fuels. These credits have already led to lower fuel prices at their public access stations, and the fuel card program represents a further commitment to using these credits to support clean transportation initiatives.
“We are excited that SoCalGas is offering this fuel card program that will provide significant savings for fleet operators,” said Hal Meriwether, regional general manager for Rush Truck Centers in California. “As the nation’s leading supplier of natural gas vehicles and consulting services, we are committed to helping customers make the best decisions for their business. This initiative makes the adoption of low- and zero-emission trucks more financially attractive for California fleets.”
To qualify for the program, applicants must purchase a Class 8 Heavy-Duty natural gas truck on or after September 9th, 2024. Priority will be given to fleets with fewer than 10 vehicles. This initiative reflects SoCalGas’ commitment to sustainability, with the company aiming to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by 2045. They have already converted 38% of their over-the-road fleet to alternative fuel vehicles (AFV) and aim to reach 50% by 2025 and operate a 100% zero-emissions fleet by 2035. This program underscores SoCalGas’ leadership in promoting a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for California.
