As President Obama outlines construction and infrastructure projects ahead, the Diesel Technology Forum explains how clean diesel power can help.
The expansion of new construction programs for U.S. schools, roads, bridges and buildings in the “American Jobs Act” outlined by President Obama in his speech on Sept. 8, will require the efficient power provided by American-made clean diesel engines and equipment, according to Allen Schaeffer, the executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum (DTF), a non-profit national organization dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of diesel engines, fuel and technology.
“All of the construction and infrastructure projects outlined tonight by President Obama could begin first thing tomorrow morning thanks to the power, reliability and efficiency of America’s clean diesel engines and equipment,” Schaeffer said.
“After more than a decade of research and development, and billions in investments in cleaner fuels, advanced engines and emissions controls, the new generation of diesel technology is now at the forefront of the cleanest and most energy-efficient technologies available,” he added.
“Tonight, President Obama outlined a program to expand America’s infrastructure. Well Mr. President, America’s diesel manufacturers are ready and able to meet the challenge to rebuild our nation,” Schaeffer said. “Diesel engines and equipment have been the technology of choice for building and expanding America’s infrastructure for decades and we have state-of-the-art equipment available right now to accomplish this ambitious national proposal.”
Green construction projects can also get underway thanks to the new generation (Tier 4) of clean diesel technology machines and equipment, the ultra-low sulfur diesel fuels, and the use of advanced emissions controls. Use of high quality renewable and biodiesel fuels adds yet another green component.
Already this year, President Obama challenged commercial truck and auto makers to meet new fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions standards in the coming years. In both cases, clean diesel vehicle, engine and equipment makers clearly stated their commitment to meet these new stringent greenhouse gas and efficiency standards. “In the same manner, the diesel industry is ready to step up again to help achieve this new important challenge of providing the power and equipment needed to rebuild our nation’s infrastructure,” Schaeffer said.
A new independent study is nearing completion that examines the national impact of the clean diesel industry on the U.S. economy, employment and trade markets. The report is expected to be released in September and is expected to highlight the significance of diesel power to the nation, and the high-value jobs that this industry is creating.
“Today, 94% of all global trade is powered by diesel engines. The entire global trade network relies on diesel trucks, ships, railroads and vehicles to survive and grow. In the U.S., over 95% of commercial trucks are diesel powered. Virtually everything sold in America gets to market by diesel trucks,” Schaeffer said. “And more than two-thirds of all construction, mining and farm equipment are diesel powered. The new generation of Tier 4 clean diesel technology for off-road engines and equipment has been making its way onto the construction and industrial jobsites and farm fields around the country. The equipment used in farming, mining and construction is uniquely qualified to do demanding work. No other power source shares diesel’s reliability, durability and fuel-efficiency for these off-road applications.”