Promote Alternative Fuel and Advanced Technology Vehicles and Supporting Infrastructure (TLU Action 1.C.2)

Promote development and deployment of alternative fuel vehicles, advanced technology vehicles, and associated fueling and powering infrastructure in order to speed market penetration of such vehicles and reduce transportation related greenhouse gas emissions. Alternative fuel vehicles (AFV), which will require adequate fueling infrastructure, include vehicles powered by fuels such as natural gas, propane, ethanol and biodiesel. Advanced technology vehicles, such as hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), plug-in hybrids (PHEV), advanced electric vehicles, and fuel cell vehicles (FCV), will require infrastructure in the form of electric plug-in ports, pricing and load signals from the grid. While these technologies promise dramatic reductions in greenhouse gas emissions associated with the transportation sector, planning across energy sectors will be needed to ensure that emission reductions in the transportation sector are not offset by increases elsewhere. For example, plug-in hybrid vehicles could increase peak electrical loads that draw from high-CO2-emitting generators. Use of "Smart Grid" technology would allow plug-in hybrids to be recharged at optimal times.  Although government is well positioned to promote the use of alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles, the demand for these vehicles will continue to be driven at least in part by the economy. New Hampshire can hasten their deployment by investing in research and development where needed, seeking early adoption for state vehicle fleets, and providing financial resources and incentives to develop the required refueling infrastructure.