Alliance AutoGas Receives Clean Air Excellence Award
Asheville-area based Alliance AutoGas (AAG) recently received from the Western North Carolina Regional Air Quality Agency (WNCRAQA) a Clean Air Excellence Award the Special Award category. Board chairman, Brit Loving presented the award to Tom Cheatham, business development manager with Alliance Auto Gas and Matthew Parsons, business development specialist with Alliance AutoGas.
Since 2004, the Western North Carolina Regional Air Quality Agency (WNCRAQA) has been giving special recognition to local businesses and other organizations that have gone above and beyond air quality rules and regulations to implement voluntary, innovative programs that reduce air pollution in our region. In 2012, with the assistance of the Agency’s Advisory Committee, the awards program was updated and expanded to include more detailed guidelines and generate more interest from the local community.
Autogas produces significantly fewer pollutants than gasoline, including 25 percent less carbon monoxide, 40 percent less nitrogen oxide and 12 percent less carbon dioxide. The 105 octane rating of autogas means vehicles produce equivalent performance and maintenance is also improved as fewer oil changes are required.
In 2013, 116,208 gallons of gasoline was displaced in Buncombe County in AAG vehicles, reducing harmful emissions by 30% from each of these vehicles and saving the participating organizations and businesses tens of thousands of dollars over a period of years in fuel costs. Partners in Buncombe County include Buncombe County Sheriff’s Department, Biltmore Estate, Mountain Mobility, and Blossman Gas.
In September, 2014 Blossman Services will be holding the grand opening of its Autogas Research & Development Center. The world- class center will focus on testing and development of propane autogas systems and also provide vehicle technician training.