Commissioner David Porter Hosts Workshop on Natural Gas Vehicles

AUSTIN -  Railroad Commissioner David Porter hosted the second meeting in a series of statewide events today in Midland as part of his Natural Gas Vehicle Initiative, which aims to increase the use of natural gas as a transportation fuel in Texas.

“I am excited by the overwhelming interest and positive response I’ve received since launching this initiative in October,” Commissioner Porter said. “I believe more people are realizing the incredible benefits that natural gas offers as a transportation fuel. As our state continues to produce more natural gas, these benefits will become even more apparent. Our first seminar in Austin was standing room only, and registration for this workshop was full several weeks in advance. I truly believe these workshops are beneficial and constructive and judging by the feedback, so do the participants.”

Today’s workshop not only focused on natural gas vehicles but also examined the potential for natural gas as a fuel in exploration and production activities. These workshops are designed to be working sessions, at which participants have the unique opportunity to engage experts in a dialogue regarding perceived barriers and opportunities associated with converting to natural gas vehicles in Texas.

The workshop today in Midland consisted of three panel discussions, focusing on: natural gas use in exploration and production; natural gas fleets and refueling; and regulatory issues. The workshop was moderated by Dr. Ken Morgan, Director of the Texas Christian University Energy Institute. Notable panelists included State Representative Jason Isaac, member of the House Environmental Regulation Committee, and State Representative Drew Darby, Chairman of the House Energy Caucus.

“Natural gas is less expensive and burns cleaner than other more common fuels,” Representative Isaac said.   “Adoption of this inexpensive, abundant, and domestic fuel will help us reduce our dependence on foreign oil, all while creating jobs here at home.”

The purpose of Commissioner Porter’s statewide NGV Initiative is to increase the volume of natural gas used in Texas as a transportation fuel by facilitating communication between potential consumers, existing users and regulators. It will consist of series of statewide events throughout this year. The next event will be held in Longview on March 12 at the Convention Complex, followed by Laredo on April 17 at the Uni-Trade Stadium; and a Statewide NGV Summit that will convene in late summer/early fall of 2014 in Austin.

For more information on these events, please contact Mary Bell at 512-463-9057, or by email at Mary.Bell@rrc.state.tx.us

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David J. Porter was elected to the Texas Railroad Commission on November 2, 2010. A Certified Public Accountant and successful small business owner, Commissioner Porter has worked with oil and gas producers for nearly three decades providing strategic financial advice and tax counsel. He has a long record of pro-business, free market, conservative credentials.