John, I'm a district co-leader. Could you please join the Delaware Congressional District group? I think having one official place is a better method.
Are you willing to work with other volunteers in your area? Willing to recruit the public? Ask your contacts to join? We need more supporters in southern Delaware. At the moment, we need to recruit people and get them to join their Congressional District pages. Later, we'll need to contact our federal (and other?) legislators. There is also a pledge which you could promote to local officials and governing bodies. Multiple people approaching them is more effective than a few, especially if they do so in a coordinated manner or together. Let me know if you'd like links to the pledge & draft resolution. I'm glad that you're in Dover- we need more organizers/leaders and supporters across the state, and both co-leaders live in the north, close to PA.
Hi John, Here is a tool for all of us to get renewable energy going. I am working the introduction into Congress a bill for US Treasury "Energy Independence Savings Bonds". Savings bonds are normally purchased in $25 increments. This gives a way for just about any American to tighten their belts just a bit by skipping a meal at McDonalds or Pizza Hut and buying an RE savings bond to support a renewable energy project and save money at the same time for themselves. I need help pushing this project, I've faxed and emailed many in Congress/Senate already.If you agree with this plan please consider passing to other people in your district as it will be a great tool to get funding for PickensPlan projects through support of Renewable Energy projects. On my web page is a link for a new group that was started today called “Energy Independence US Treasury Savings Bonds” At your discretion I encourage you to join on the link as one of “my friends” and the join the group if you agree with the goals. I have created a group on PickensPlan called “Energy Independence US Treasury Savings Bonds” . It is currently listed as the number 3 group on the PickensPlan website and I encourage you to check it out, join if you like it, and become friends on my PickensPlan page. My email address is michael.kendall@ymail.com Here is a copy of a fax sent to Nancy Pelosi the other day:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
27FEB09
Honorable Speaker of the House Congresswoman Pelosi,
I am an Electronic Technician Chief in the US Navy with 27 years service stationed overseas. I’m outlying an idea to assist and work with current plans for achieving energy independence. I urge you, as speaker of the house and the driving force to form the select committee on energy independence and global warming, consider for discussion and introduction into the house US Treasury Savings Bonds for Energy Independance.
In WWII America sold war bonds supporting the war effort. When young, my mother told me her primary school raised enough money through bonds to build a tank to support troops. I am impressed with the patriotism and purpose of our greatest generation that accomplished so much.
Selling energy bonds for RE (Renewable Energy) development would lower foreign oil imports and assist with the complex problem of funding. Bonds sold as “Energy S” could support new solar trough plants, “Energy W” to support wind farms, Energy “H” to support hydroelectric plants, Energy “T” to support RE transportation such as electric bullet train routes powered by RE, Energy "C" COOPS for small communities only needing a small quantity of turbines, and Energy “I” for needed infrastructure high voltage power lines to the RE site. Bonds will have the project name and include an artist’s perspective of the project and an American flag. President Obama had great success with the internet during his campaign. In a similar manner, using the internet, energy bonds could have a website listing current projects and an “electronic checkout” could purchase a bond $25 or higher. Simpler methods of payment such as “PAYPAL” and credit cards would be available and after an electronic purchase is complete a color print out of the bond is available with a follow up of the bond in the mail. The website would limit quantity of projects for each category until funding is complete. After a project becomes funded, a new project will be available. A tab on the site will show history and status of previous projects. Purchasers may take great pride in “collecting” and displaying bonds of various RE projects and participating at different levels of financial support. Solar trough plants in the multi-hundred MW size capacity with molten salt energy storage in California, Arizona, and West Texas can provide a major portion of electric needs. North Dakota has potential to support 1/3 of our nations electric needs in it’s class 4 wind zone areas. There are plenty of suitable proposed wind turbine farms now around the nation to significantly increase our RE if funded. Mid sized hydro-electric has not been used in America to it’s full potential. Following the example of our neighbor, Canada, it would provide a significant increase in percentage of electric production. Developing all three we could provide the majority of our electric and heating needs through renewable energy in a "New New Deal" fashion allowing natural gas for transportation as T. Boone Pickens is working for. Bullet train routes have proven a viable alternative to commercial domestic air service and when powered by electricity provided by RE suppliers America would be in the forefront of world technology. Example, I heard of discussion for a commuter train from Denver to Colorado Springs. Such a route built as a renewable energy project with charter requirement legally requiring to only purchase electricity from available renewable energy sources would be a model example. There are many train routes, city bus systems, and government vehicles that can be converted to run from alternative energy sources and fuels. Jobs created would bolster the economy, lower trade deficit, and strengthen national security. I would take great pride in print outs of bonds with graphics of each project I supported and many other Americans would also. The energy bonds could have tax breaks. BLM lands may be a viable place to start for some projects.
I contacted the US treasury department and was told that the marketing department for savings bonds closed several years ago. I was told there would be problems because savings bonds are at the federal level while the projects will be at the state and local level. I disagree and believe that these can easily be figured out in the way of grants to the state and local level using money from the bonds for those specific projects. I was told to check out auctions on the www.treasurydirect.gov website and found them to not apply to citizens wanting to buy savings bonds to support a cause such as energy independance. I was told by the treasury department to look into CREB (Clean Renewable Energy Bonds). I found CREB to be large scale funding that a citizen would not be able to participate in as a US Treasury Energy Independance Bond would provide. If given the tools to participate directly, the power of the citizens of the United States to help achieve energy independance could not be denied. Americans mean well and the Energy Independance Savings bond program will give citizens the power at their level to make it happen. If marketed through a web page, commercials, and to federal employees the word would get out and participation would spread like wildfire.
Mr. Paul Gipe, a resident of Bakersfield CA, an author of several books about wind energy, and recipient of multiple awards as a pioneer in the industry since the 1970's has put a letter I wrote to Senator Dorgan on this subject as well as an older letter I wrote on wind COOP in JAN07. These websites are:
http://www.wind-works.org/coopwind/RenewableEnergyBondsforEnergyIndependence.html
and
http://www.wind-works.org/articles/AmericanEnergyIndependencethroughCooperativeInvestmentinWindEnergy.html
Sincerely and very respectfully,
ETC(SW/AW) Mike Kendall USN
Mailing address: PSC 476, Box 879, FPO AP, 96322 USA
Telephone (803) 265-4756, Email: michael.kendall@ymail.com
At 10:17am on September 21, 2008, Charles Jones said…
Hi John. How do you feel about plasma fusion? I saw a doc on it and it seemed almost to good to be true! I'll be researching this to find out more because I'm not sure how it would effect the environment. A power plant that powers itself by burning trash..? And if it it so great we would anyone invest so much and get so little in return?
I really want to get involved and do something about this problem we all share. But I feel a responsibility to inform myself about all the options before I fight for whats not right! I also believe that we need to take action for ourselves. But who will fund all of this? I think we should tax the wealthiest and have them do their part! IDK just a thought.
John.
You are Right on the money with so much of what you are saying.
Especially about private industry taking the lead as opposed to government intervention. With freedom comes responsability, and I am very proud to see so many exercise both.
Private industry does however need some of the tax incentives that help spur investment in renewables. this is the first step in my own opinion. Here in Kentucky we have more hurdles to jump than most of you in other states. but we're jumping them, one at a time.
Thank you so much for the add, and for your efforts.
If you ever want to discuss any ideas or if you think there is a way I could help in any way, never hesitate to drop a line.
Seth
John,
What exactly do you want done by way of an event? I'd be glad to help in any way I can, and I have alot of local connections here in Dover. Also, what steps have we taken with our local legislators?
We can make a difference if we keep applying pressure to the legislators. I have sent emails to all of the committee members and will send them again on monday. Keep them on their toes with constant communications. They will eventually be forced to listen to our concerns. The discussion forum section of the legislation tracking is for the states. If you wish you can start your state legislation tracking there.
John I saw your post on Communications Support: I offer this -
Ron - & John (below) - I just got the same comment – PLAN – WHEN? I was able to push past it - by answering: “The new reveals are the interviews on: CNN, NBC, CBS, MSNBC, appearance before Congress, etc.” – get involved – Boone is all over the place explaining His plan.
But I agree – The AD Problem is: If you only HEAR it – Not SEE it – Audience doesn’t SEE/READ the points of the plan.
The next commercial, almost certainly, is “in the can” - ready to go & will resolve the issue - but sure is frustrating for us - out here recruiting.
I am, Kathy Lee Hart, actor – performing artist - I have started a group (see: above link) dedicated to producing a “real time” documentary of the phenomenon we are all living. Would all of you, My Friends, & fellow group members – help by passing this info to others in your circles, who may have an interest – tech insight - and/or are in related occupations? The Actors for this project – are – all of us. I need to talk & coordinate with others of like mind. I have no doubt – it can be done! The Web media market alone is vast.
I would appreciate you placing a comment @ the Actors, Directors & Production Artists for TBP PLAN group/page (you don’t have to join to leave a comment – or Join) – and tell me what you think about the viability of the idea. As I say, on the page, someone else must be thinking about this idea – right now – I need to find them or they need to find me. Please help in any way you can. (LOL – Just think – 50,000 + “little people” walking up on stage to accept the Oscar! – Come on – Laugh Out Loud - Al Gore did it.)
Senator James M. Inhofe of Oklahoma Introduces Drive America on Natural Gas Act
My reading of the act.
There will be many business opportunities if this legislation is passed. Maybe we can dissect this bill so others can understand how much impact it will have on the economy. Millions of additional jobs and thousands of new companies will develop due to this legislation.
The tax credits for dual use are restored, meaning a conversion leaving the gasoline operation for long trips – The tax credits for that configuration was removed in 2005.
NATURAL GAS VEHICLE RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS – This is a big deal it is directing the EPA to develop alternatives to the present certification procedures to streamline and centralize the process.
Expanding product availability by assisting manufacturers with the certification of the engines or vehicles described in paragraph – EPA is directed to release propriety data to manufacturers so they do not have to figure out the OBDII system by guesswork (A very big deal)
CERTIFICATION OF CONVERSION SYSTEMS = COOPERATION AND COORDINATION WITH INDUSTRY – This is designed to streamline the certification process and remove the adversarial system now in place.
Waive all fees applicable to small volume manufacturers for the certification and conversion of alternative-fueled vehicles – Dramatically reduces the cost of a conversion kit.
Waive requirements for recertification of kits for the conversion of vehicles in any case in which, as determined by the Administrator – More cost reduction
The kit has been previously certified for the model of vehicle to be converted; and neither the kit nor the design and specifications of the model of vehicle to be converted have substantially changed – More cost savings = less expensive conversion kits.
Modify such regulatory requirements relating to OBD systems as the Administrator determines to be appropriate to provide flexibility to small volume manufacturers in reprogramming OBD systems to be compatible with the use of alternative fuel – Huge savings and allows many more companies into the industry = less expensive kits.
Permit small volume manufacturers to include more vehicles and engines in a single engine category to improve the cost-efficiency of emission testing of converted vehicles – less expensive kits and more competition = dramatic savings
OLDER VEHICLES — the Administrator shall waive emission certification system requirements for a vehicle that is over 10 years old or has over 120,000 miles that is powered by natural gas – I really like this one because it is designed for the working poor and the youth with older vehicles. The cost of these kits would be astronomically low.
Why is The Drive America on Natural Gas Act important?
Currently a 2,000.00 to 4,500.00 dollar conversion cost and average of 12,000.00 dollars in the United States. It is time to do away with the regulations that caused this debacle.
The cost of a conversion (retrofit) must become lower for market acceptability. Only fleet operations can afford the cost at the present rate. Support Senator James M. Inhofe of Oklahoma as he Introduces Drive America on Natural Gas Act and reduce these cost of conversions for everyone..
For example, none of the light-duty SVMs currently offer EPA- or CARB-certified conversion systems for vehicles earlier than 2006. However, if a fleet operator requested the retrofit of 30 of their 2005 pick-up trucks, the SVM with the specific 2005 certification might be persuaded to incur the cost of re-filing with EPA or CARB. A more common occurrence is the retrofit of a new vehicle. Conversion of new vehicles provides the greatest opportunity to save fuel cost and, thereby, pay back the conversion cost and generate life-cycle savings. While NGVAmerica recommends that potential customers contact the appropriate SVMs directly about vehicle conversion costs, the following are general “ballpark” estimates of retail light-duty vehicle conversion costs provided by SVMs. Specific quotes will vary based on fuel capacity, number of vehicles, wheelbase, etc. Crown Vic/Lincoln Town
Car/Mercury Marquis with 13-gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE): $13,500
E350 Cargo/Passenger Van with 20 GGE fuel: $15,500
F150/250/350 Pick-up Truck with 20 GGE: $16,500; with 30 GGE: $18,500
E450 Cutaway Shuttle Van with 24-38 GGE: $18,500-22,500
Sierra/Silverado 1500/2500HD Pick-up Truck with 11GGE: $12,500; with 20GGE: $15,500
Savanna/Express G1500/2500 Cargo/Passenger Van 12-20GGE: $12,500-16,000
The regulations for certification must be reduced so it is acceptable to the general public. Even with incentives an older car would have difficulty with a reasonable payback period.
There may be relief in sight. We need to track this legislation and make sure the American people are protected as it moves through congress. This could open up the conversion market if we hold our representatives and senators feet to the fire.
Here is a piece of legislation that proposes to deal with the natural gas regulations on the federal level.
Senator James M. Inhofe of Oklahoma Introduces Drive America on Natural Gas Act and we need to show our support. This is a first step on the road to energy independence.
Below is the contact page.
http://inhofe.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.ContactForm
The regulations of certification are addressed in a way to open up the market. Finally!!!!!!!!!
David Baker contributed this section.
We have to drown out the foreign oil Lobbyists in Washington. Collectively We have to become the VOICE for changing our reliance on foreign oil, by Vocalizing our Support for the wide scale use of Alternative Energy Producing Systems.
The ACTION we can take Today is to influence our LEGISLATURE. We must change the thinking in Washington. This is accomplished by CONTACTING your Senator, Representative, Governors.
The following links to Websites are one way of Contacting Congress. I find these links to be the quickest at getting to the "contact web form" used by most of Washington.
SENATORS:
http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm
and look for the link to their web form
John's Comments
Comment Wall (29 comments)
You need to be a member of PickensPlan to add comments!
Join this Ning Network
Are you willing to work with other volunteers in your area? Willing to recruit the public? Ask your contacts to join? We need more supporters in southern Delaware. At the moment, we need to recruit people and get them to join their Congressional District pages. Later, we'll need to contact our federal (and other?) legislators. There is also a pledge which you could promote to local officials and governing bodies. Multiple people approaching them is more effective than a few, especially if they do so in a coordinated manner or together. Let me know if you'd like links to the pledge & draft resolution. I'm glad that you're in Dover- we need more organizers/leaders and supporters across the state, and both co-leaders live in the north, close to PA.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
27FEB09
Honorable Speaker of the House Congresswoman Pelosi,
I am an Electronic Technician Chief in the US Navy with 27 years service stationed overseas. I’m outlying an idea to assist and work with current plans for achieving energy independence. I urge you, as speaker of the house and the driving force to form the select committee on energy independence and global warming, consider for discussion and introduction into the house US Treasury Savings Bonds for Energy Independance.
In WWII America sold war bonds supporting the war effort. When young, my mother told me her primary school raised enough money through bonds to build a tank to support troops. I am impressed with the patriotism and purpose of our greatest generation that accomplished so much.
Selling energy bonds for RE (Renewable Energy) development would lower foreign oil imports and assist with the complex problem of funding. Bonds sold as “Energy S” could support new solar trough plants, “Energy W” to support wind farms, Energy “H” to support hydroelectric plants, Energy “T” to support RE transportation such as electric bullet train routes powered by RE, Energy "C" COOPS for small communities only needing a small quantity of turbines, and Energy “I” for needed infrastructure high voltage power lines to the RE site. Bonds will have the project name and include an artist’s perspective of the project and an American flag. President Obama had great success with the internet during his campaign. In a similar manner, using the internet, energy bonds could have a website listing current projects and an “electronic checkout” could purchase a bond $25 or higher. Simpler methods of payment such as “PAYPAL” and credit cards would be available and after an electronic purchase is complete a color print out of the bond is available with a follow up of the bond in the mail. The website would limit quantity of projects for each category until funding is complete. After a project becomes funded, a new project will be available. A tab on the site will show history and status of previous projects. Purchasers may take great pride in “collecting” and displaying bonds of various RE projects and participating at different levels of financial support. Solar trough plants in the multi-hundred MW size capacity with molten salt energy storage in California, Arizona, and West Texas can provide a major portion of electric needs. North Dakota has potential to support 1/3 of our nations electric needs in it’s class 4 wind zone areas. There are plenty of suitable proposed wind turbine farms now around the nation to significantly increase our RE if funded. Mid sized hydro-electric has not been used in America to it’s full potential. Following the example of our neighbor, Canada, it would provide a significant increase in percentage of electric production. Developing all three we could provide the majority of our electric and heating needs through renewable energy in a "New New Deal" fashion allowing natural gas for transportation as T. Boone Pickens is working for. Bullet train routes have proven a viable alternative to commercial domestic air service and when powered by electricity provided by RE suppliers America would be in the forefront of world technology. Example, I heard of discussion for a commuter train from Denver to Colorado Springs. Such a route built as a renewable energy project with charter requirement legally requiring to only purchase electricity from available renewable energy sources would be a model example. There are many train routes, city bus systems, and government vehicles that can be converted to run from alternative energy sources and fuels. Jobs created would bolster the economy, lower trade deficit, and strengthen national security. I would take great pride in print outs of bonds with graphics of each project I supported and many other Americans would also. The energy bonds could have tax breaks. BLM lands may be a viable place to start for some projects.
I contacted the US treasury department and was told that the marketing department for savings bonds closed several years ago. I was told there would be problems because savings bonds are at the federal level while the projects will be at the state and local level. I disagree and believe that these can easily be figured out in the way of grants to the state and local level using money from the bonds for those specific projects. I was told to check out auctions on the www.treasurydirect.gov website and found them to not apply to citizens wanting to buy savings bonds to support a cause such as energy independance. I was told by the treasury department to look into CREB (Clean Renewable Energy Bonds). I found CREB to be large scale funding that a citizen would not be able to participate in as a US Treasury Energy Independance Bond would provide. If given the tools to participate directly, the power of the citizens of the United States to help achieve energy independance could not be denied. Americans mean well and the Energy Independance Savings bond program will give citizens the power at their level to make it happen. If marketed through a web page, commercials, and to federal employees the word would get out and participation would spread like wildfire.
Mr. Paul Gipe, a resident of Bakersfield CA, an author of several books about wind energy, and recipient of multiple awards as a pioneer in the industry since the 1970's has put a letter I wrote to Senator Dorgan on this subject as well as an older letter I wrote on wind COOP in JAN07. These websites are:
http://www.wind-works.org/coopwind/RenewableEnergyBondsforEnergyIndependence.html
and
http://www.wind-works.org/articles/AmericanEnergyIndependencethroughCooperativeInvestmentinWindEnergy.html
Sincerely and very respectfully,
ETC(SW/AW) Mike Kendall USN
Mailing address: PSC 476, Box 879, FPO AP, 96322 USA
Telephone (803) 265-4756, Email: michael.kendall@ymail.com
How should you begin to figure in Dover DE?
What about a Female Coalition up there, or is a male Coalition better?
See The Electric Vehicle Free Conversion Foundation (EVFCF).
JOIN with me to make this possible.
blog: Alternative Energy Solutions Supports New Objectives
ONLY IN AMERICA!
I really want to get involved and do something about this problem we all share. But I feel a responsibility to inform myself about all the options before I fight for whats not right! I also believe that we need to take action for ourselves. But who will fund all of this? I think we should tax the wealthiest and have them do their part! IDK just a thought.
I’m Pretty Proud of this!"POWER TO THE PEOPLE! Sign Up/Sign In" by Kathy Lee Hart
& the Members of Actors, Directors & Production Artists for TBP PLAN - Enjoy!
Find more videos like this on PickensPlan
You are Right on the money with so much of what you are saying.
Especially about private industry taking the lead as opposed to government intervention. With freedom comes responsability, and I am very proud to see so many exercise both.
Private industry does however need some of the tax incentives that help spur investment in renewables. this is the first step in my own opinion. Here in Kentucky we have more hurdles to jump than most of you in other states. but we're jumping them, one at a time.
Thank you so much for the add, and for your efforts.
If you ever want to discuss any ideas or if you think there is a way I could help in any way, never hesitate to drop a line.
Seth
What exactly do you want done by way of an event? I'd be glad to help in any way I can, and I have alot of local connections here in Dover. Also, what steps have we taken with our local legislators?
We can make a difference if we keep applying pressure to the legislators. I have sent emails to all of the committee members and will send them again on monday. Keep them on their toes with constant communications. They will eventually be forced to listen to our concerns. The discussion forum section of the legislation tracking is for the states. If you wish you can start your state legislation tracking there.
Ron - & John (below) - I just got the same comment – PLAN – WHEN? I was able to push past it - by answering: “The new reveals are the interviews on: CNN, NBC, CBS, MSNBC, appearance before Congress, etc.” – get involved – Boone is all over the place explaining His plan.
But I agree – The AD Problem is: If you only HEAR it – Not SEE it – Audience doesn’t SEE/READ the points of the plan.
The next commercial, almost certainly, is “in the can” - ready to go & will resolve the issue - but sure is frustrating for us - out here recruiting.
Go to EVENTS if you haven't already, and RSVP –
Actors, Directors & Production Artists for TBP PLAN (click here)To All my Friends & fellow Group Members –
A DOCUMENTRY! Yes – a documentary.
I am, Kathy Lee Hart, actor – performing artist - I have started a group (see: above link) dedicated to producing a “real time” documentary of the phenomenon we are all living. Would all of you, My Friends, & fellow group members – help by passing this info to others in your circles, who may have an interest – tech insight - and/or are in related occupations? The Actors for this project – are – all of us. I need to talk & coordinate with others of like mind. I have no doubt – it can be done! The Web media market alone is vast.
I would appreciate you placing a comment @ the Actors, Directors & Production Artists for TBP PLAN group/page (you don’t have to join to leave a comment – or Join) – and tell me what you think about the viability of the idea. As I say, on the page, someone else must be thinking about this idea – right now – I need to find them or they need to find me. Please help in any way you can. (LOL – Just think – 50,000 + “little people” walking up on stage to accept the Oscar! – Come on – Laugh Out Loud - Al Gore did it.)
Thank you,
Kathy Lee Hart
My reading of the act.
There will be many business opportunities if this legislation is passed. Maybe we can dissect this bill so others can understand how much impact it will have on the economy. Millions of additional jobs and thousands of new companies will develop due to this legislation.
The tax credits for dual use are restored, meaning a conversion leaving the gasoline operation for long trips – The tax credits for that configuration was removed in 2005.
NATURAL GAS VEHICLE RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS – This is a big deal it is directing the EPA to develop alternatives to the present certification procedures to streamline and centralize the process.
Expanding product availability by assisting manufacturers with the certification of the engines or vehicles described in paragraph – EPA is directed to release propriety data to manufacturers so they do not have to figure out the OBDII system by guesswork (A very big deal)
CERTIFICATION OF CONVERSION SYSTEMS = COOPERATION AND COORDINATION WITH INDUSTRY – This is designed to streamline the certification process and remove the adversarial system now in place.
Waive all fees applicable to small volume manufacturers for the certification and conversion of alternative-fueled vehicles – Dramatically reduces the cost of a conversion kit.
Waive requirements for recertification of kits for the conversion of vehicles in any case in which, as determined by the Administrator – More cost reduction
The kit has been previously certified for the model of vehicle to be converted; and neither the kit nor the design and specifications of the model of vehicle to be converted have substantially changed – More cost savings = less expensive conversion kits.
Modify such regulatory requirements relating to OBD systems as the Administrator determines to be appropriate to provide flexibility to small volume manufacturers in reprogramming OBD systems to be compatible with the use of alternative fuel – Huge savings and allows many more companies into the industry = less expensive kits.
Permit small volume manufacturers to include more vehicles and engines in a single engine category to improve the cost-efficiency of emission testing of converted vehicles – less expensive kits and more competition = dramatic savings
OLDER VEHICLES — the Administrator shall waive emission certification system requirements for a vehicle that is over 10 years old or has over 120,000 miles that is powered by natural gas – I really like this one because it is designed for the working poor and the youth with older vehicles. The cost of these kits would be astronomically low.
Currently a 2,000.00 to 4,500.00 dollar conversion cost and average of 12,000.00 dollars in the United States. It is time to do away with the regulations that caused this debacle.
The cost of a conversion (retrofit) must become lower for market acceptability. Only fleet operations can afford the cost at the present rate. Support Senator James M. Inhofe of Oklahoma as he Introduces Drive America on Natural Gas Act and reduce these cost of conversions for everyone..
For example, none of the light-duty SVMs currently offer EPA- or CARB-certified conversion systems for vehicles earlier than 2006. However, if a fleet operator requested the retrofit of 30 of their 2005 pick-up trucks, the SVM with the specific 2005 certification might be persuaded to incur the cost of re-filing with EPA or CARB. A more common occurrence is the retrofit of a new vehicle. Conversion of new vehicles provides the greatest opportunity to save fuel cost and, thereby, pay back the conversion cost and generate life-cycle savings. While NGVAmerica recommends that potential customers contact the appropriate SVMs directly about vehicle conversion costs, the following are general “ballpark” estimates of retail light-duty vehicle conversion costs provided by SVMs. Specific quotes will vary based on fuel capacity, number of vehicles, wheelbase, etc. Crown Vic/Lincoln Town
Car/Mercury Marquis with 13-gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE): $13,500
E350 Cargo/Passenger Van with 20 GGE fuel: $15,500
F150/250/350 Pick-up Truck with 20 GGE: $16,500; with 30 GGE: $18,500
E450 Cutaway Shuttle Van with 24-38 GGE: $18,500-22,500
Sierra/Silverado 1500/2500HD Pick-up Truck with 11GGE: $12,500; with 20GGE: $15,500
Savanna/Express G1500/2500 Cargo/Passenger Van 12-20GGE: $12,500-16,000
The regulations for certification must be reduced so it is acceptable to the general public. Even with incentives an older car would have difficulty with a reasonable payback period.
There may be relief in sight. We need to track this legislation and make sure the American people are protected as it moves through congress. This could open up the conversion market if we hold our representatives and senators feet to the fire.
Here is a piece of legislation that proposes to deal with the natural gas regulations on the federal level.
Senator James M. Inhofe of Oklahoma Introduces Drive America on Natural Gas Act and we need to show our support. This is a first step on the road to energy independence.
Below is the contact page.
http://inhofe.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.ContactForm
Here is Senator James M. Inhofes website
http://inhofe.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=PressRoom.PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=32cee86f-802a-23ad-4e25-8ceb2615ebae
The regulations of certification are addressed in a way to open up the market. Finally!!!!!!!!!
David Baker contributed this section.
We have to drown out the foreign oil Lobbyists in Washington. Collectively We have to become the VOICE for changing our reliance on foreign oil, by Vocalizing our Support for the wide scale use of Alternative Energy Producing Systems.
The ACTION we can take Today is to influence our LEGISLATURE. We must change the thinking in Washington. This is accomplished by CONTACTING your Senator, Representative, Governors.
The following links to Websites are one way of Contacting Congress. I find these links to be the quickest at getting to the "contact web form" used by most of Washington.
SENATORS:
http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm
and look for the link to their web form
Representatives:
https://forms.house.gov/wyr/welcome.shtml
To Contact Your Governor:
http://www.nga.org (national Gov. list)
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi
http://speaker.house.gov/contact/
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid
http://reid.senate.gov/contact/
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell
http://mcconnell.senate.gov/contact_form.cfm
http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml
I am running for Governor of Delaware.
From Milton.
Jill Wright
Thanks for joining the Communications Support group. Your blog clearly shows your passion, and your willingness to get involved and act.
I look forward to collaborating with you. Ron
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pushpickens: pickensplan: Boone is calling in to Fox Business in 10 minutes. Tune in to hear him talk about the NAT GAS Act .. http://bit.ly/6r9q0D
pushpickens: pickensplan: Listen to Boone LIVE as he calls into Cavuto today @ 5:25pm CST He'll be talking about the NAT GAS.. http://bit.ly/6Qcr1V
pushpickens: RT @enki09: Mother Earth News agrees wit T. Boone Pickens that wind power in the US is a no-brainer: http://bit.. http://bit.ly/5EveQe
pushpickens: RT @enki09: nat gas is the key to a green energy economy in both vehicle fuel and energy production #pickensplan http://bit.ly/7J1Iga
pushpickens: pickensplan: Are u a Pickens Plan State or District Leader? @ reply to let us know ur on Twitter so we can add .. http://bit.ly/8Ve941
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