NGVAmerica’s 2010 annual National NGV Conference-Summit was a tremendous success, with over 190 registered delegates attending and additional guests joining us for several of the social functions. Our event immediately preceded a joint exposition of the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) WasteCon and American Public Works Association (APWA) Congress, August 15-18 at the adjacent Boston Exposition and Conference Center, where NGVAmerica coordinated a 12,500 square-foot NGV Zone featuring more than 40 vehicle, equipment and service suppliers.

The devastating consequences of America’s reliance on oil are beginning to resonate with fleet operators, policy makers and consumers, fueling a revolution in thinking about the transition to more secure, environmentally friendly and economically sustainable transportation options. The natural gas vehicle (NGV) industry leads that revolution, offering a reliable proven solution that uses America’s abundant natural gas resource, generating jobs here at home, improving air quality, reducing costs and – as a gaseous fuel - paving the way to even cleaner future hydrogen-based transportation technologies.

The momentum is palpable. An ever-more visible chorus of progressive government and business leaders is embracing NGVs. Current public and private NGV fleet operators are buying additional vehicles and stations, and new fleets - including leading national accounts - are joining the trend, affirming our message and demonstrating confidence in our technology and our fuel. As Congress considers extension of existing tax credits and grants and potential new legislation favorable to NGVs, a number of states are sweetening the pot by instituting pro-NGV policies and incentives, accelerating NGV market growth. The list of light-, medium- and heavy-duty vehicles available from OEMs and SVMs grows every week, enticing others to engage - including the “Big 3” in Detroit. Renewed gas industry participation has infused new energy into market development. CNG and LNG station development activity is picking up. Vehicular natural gas use in the past five years has nearly doubled.

The revolution is taking hold. The marketplace is demanding solutions. This year’s Conference-Summit provided an excellent forum for industry associates – both those who are actively engaged and those who are still assessing the opportunity - to discuss mutual challenges and opportunities, share ideas and best practices and strategize on new initiatives.

Thanks to all who participated.