Refuse Haulers: Implementation Considerations
The following information helps fleet managers consider integrating alternative fuel and advanced technology refuse haulers into their fleets. It covers vehicles and equipment, fuel and infrastructure, and maintenance and operation. For information specific to your area, contact your local Clean Cities coalition.
Vehicles and Equipment
New or converted natural gas (compressed and liquefied) and propane refuse haulers typically cost tens of thousands of dollars more than their conventional counterparts. Check with manufacturers for specific prices. These costs can be at least partially offset by state and federal incentives and other funding sources.
Typically, biodiesel blends can be used in conventional diesel refuse haulers. Vehicles fueled with biodiesel blends might require additional maintenance, especially during the first months of use. This generally means more frequent fuel filter changes during the first year of operation.
Hybrid vehicle systems are being developed for heavy-duty vehicle applications, including refuse haulers. See the WestStart/CALSTART Hybrid Truck Users Forum and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's Advanced Heavy Hybrid Propulsion Systems project for more information.
Most U.S. fueling stations, and all stations in California, offer ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD). Although ULSD is not an alternative fuel, it provides significant emissions reductions when used in vehicles equipped with advanced emission control technologies. All model year 2007 and newer diesel vehicles (powered with model year 2007 and newer engines) are required to use ULSD. Visit the Clean Diesel Fuel Alliance for more information. Vehicles can also be retrofited with "clean diesel" technologies.
Refuse haulers can also benefit from idle reduction technologies and strategies.
Fuel and Infrastructure
Availability, cost, and implementation issues for alternative fuels depend on the fuel type, fuel suppliers, and local market and environmental conditions.
If not already available, the cost of building natural gas infrastructure can be significant. However, entering into supply contracts with local suppliers greatly reduces fuel costs. Propane infrastructure is typically less expensive to install than natural gas infrastructure.
Biodiesel normally can be used in existing diesel fueling infrastructure. It is important to avoid pitfalls related to biodiesel's properties by thoroughly cleaning, maintaining, and inspecting equipment. For more on biodiesel use and infrastructure considerations, see Biodiesel Handling and Use Guidelines (PDF 1.5 MB). Download Adobe Reader
Hybrid electric vehicles do not require special infrastructure. Most U.S. diesel fuel, and all diesel fuel in California, is now ultra-low sulfur diesel.
See the Alternative Fuel Price Report for the prices of alternative fuels versus diesel.
Maintenance and Operation
Most drivers of alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles notice minimal differences in performance compared with conventional vehicles. In some cases, they notice benefits. Natural gas and propane vehicles operate more quietly than their diesel counterparts. Biodiesel emissions contain significantly less particulate matter (soot). Hybrid electric vehicles have high torque, making them ideal for the frequent starting and stopping of refuse haulers.
When implementing new technologies, fleet mechanics must be trained to ensure the new vehicles are properly maintained. Studies show that costs for proper maintenance and operation of alternative fuel vehicles can actually be less than conventional vehicle costs. For study details, visit the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Advanced Vehicle Testing Activity Web site.
Training is available from many sources, including the vehicle manufacturers and the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium. Visit the Technician Training page for more training opportunities.
Additional Assistance
For additional assistance implementing alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles and infrastructure, contact your local Clean Cities coalition. Or ask an expert a fleet-related question.