At FortisBC, we are committed to a clean energy future. We continually invest in projects that provide British Columbians with energy affordably, safely and reliably while, at the same time, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and driving innovation.

One innovative solution helping our customers meet the needs of a low-carbon energy landscape in a cost effective way is the use of natural gas in transportation.

On June 21, we celebrated another milestone for natural gas as a transportation fuel -  UPS Canada and FortisBC announced the launch of new compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles and a new custom built natural gas fuelling station in Richmond BC. 

Seven CNG highway tractors and 40 delivery trucks will be added to the current fleet of over 2,900 package cars, tractors and shifters. Presently, more than 40 per cent of UPS Canada’s fleet runs on alternative fuels.

“UPS Canada has shown initiative to reduce their overall carbon footprint and lower fuel costs by choosing natural gas for transportation,” says Sarah Smith, director of natural gas for transportation, Regional LNG and RNG. “FortisBC has assisted them in that transition in a number of ways.” 

FortisBC’s solution for UPS Canada included: 

• Building a $1.8 million dollar CNG fueling station. 
• Assisting in developing a business case and demonstrating the savings and fuelling options available for their operations. 
• Helping offset the initial capital cost of the vehicles through incentives.
• Supporting maintenance facilities upgrades, training, and education for all operators.

"British Columbia is the first Canadian province that UPS Canada chose to enter with natural gas vehicles and our incentive funding played a big part in the decision," adds Smith. 

Making the transition to a cleaner and more affordable fuel source

BC’s transportation industry is responsible for the largest share of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the province, 37 per cent to be exact. Natural gas-fuelled vehicles and marine vessels provide a 20 to 30 per cent GHG reduction when compared with gasoline or diesel.

Natural gas also saves money. With fuel prices being so high, many commercial vehicle fleets are looking for ways to manage their fuel costs.  For instance, natural gas used in transportation typically costs less than half-traditional diesel fuel. FortisBC natural gas for transportation customers are realizing anywhere from 25 to 60 per cent reduction in fuel costs. This means that the cost to transport the goods and packages that British Columbians use and purchase could be protected from increases if those goods were moved in natural gas powered vehicles. 

UPS Canada now joins over 800 transit buses, commercial vehicles and freight vehicles powered by natural gas here in BC.

Find out more about what is possible with natural gas for transportation.