“This truck represents a cost effective investment of state dollars that will save Plains Township thousands of dollars in fuel costs for years to come,” said the senator. “As the Democratic Chairman of the Senate Environmental and Energy Resources Committee, I’m also pleased to see the township take the initiative to secure a vehicle that also reduces emissions and allows for a more efficient collection of recycling materials.”

The truck runs on Marcellus Shale natural gas from UGI, which also helped install a CNG station at the township’s Department of Public Works garage. The new NGV is expected to save taxpayers about $8,000 a year on fuel costs alone, according to Plains officials.

It is the first vehicle of its kind put into service in the region. "We're happy Plains Township has set the standard. The town now has the first natural gas vehicle in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Not only is better for the environment, but it's certainly better on the wallets of taxpayers," said Yudichak.

Source: Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus