The problem right now with NG fueling transportation is access to fueling stations. Even here in Texas there are very few NG fueling stations. If and when NG fuel stations become more abundant, I will switch over ASAP.
Even Pickens does not have enough money to build very many NG fuel stations, that is why he is lobbying the gubmit for tax breaks or whatever.
Moving from oil based to NG based transportation fuel is most definitely in USA’s best interest, no different that Brazil promoting sugarcane ethanol to get them away from OPEC.
Without a doubt, the Natural Gas vehicle fueling is a good thing. There are also companies investing in using methane for Ships, Trains and the like.
But I strongly believe, having the government select technologies, use tax payer funds to benefit some companies while excluding others, is a terrible idea.
Tell me why we should give CNG tax incentives that would not apply to a technology like Shell is using doing to turn Natural Gas into a liquid fuel like diesel?
http://www.shell.com/global/future-energy/meeting-demand/natural-gas/gtl.html
This technology is already proven and working. It requires no additional investment by a consumer.
The best thing government can do to encourage new development of technology that helps our economy and energy independence is to limit their involvement in the process.
“...no different that Brazil promoting sugarcane ethanol to get them away from OPEC...”
Sugarcane ethanol...gotta be a better deal overall than using food (corn) to make ethanol...using corn for fuel makes our food costs higher...and it downgrades the quality of the fuel. We pay through subsidies, then we pay again at the grocery store.