Report: Conn. in on CNG bid

Connecticut reportedly is one of more than 20 states teaming up to solicit bids on vehicles that run on compressed natural gas (CNG), in hopes of spurring development of the sector ”“ and saving money.

The initiative was launched by the governors of Oklahoma and Colorado and announced at a governors’ conference in Oklahoma City, according to the Associated Press. Besides Connecticut, Maine and Vermont were the only other Northeast states singled out by the AP as participating in the initiative.

Vehicle dealerships in 28 states have submitted 100 bids, according to the report, with the consortium seeing discounts between 4 percent and 16 percent depending on models.

Connecticut has only a small number of stations at present that pump CNG, including in Bridgeport. Prices for natural gas are currently at about 35 percent the level of those for regular gas.

Under a law that took effect in January, in addition, all cars and light trucks purchased or leased by Connecticut must by hybrid electric or capable of using alternative fuels; and the Connecticut Department of Administrative Services must report annually on the composition of the state fleet, including the volume of alternative fuels used.