TL/DR –
Pennsylvania governments could save over $360 million and reduce pollution by switching their fleets to electric vehicles, according to a recent report. The switch would reduce global warming pollution in the state by over 800,000 tons, decrease carbon monoxide emissions by 94%, volatile organic compound emissions by 92%, and nitrogen oxide emissions by 31%. Federal incentives, such as the commercial clean vehicle credit, can help offset upfront costs, while the Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment in JOBS Act provide funding for building electric vehicle charging stations.
Pennsylvania Government’s Switch to Electric Vehicles: A Boon for Taxpayers and Environment
The recent report suggests that by transitioning to electric vehicles, Pennsylvania governments can save taxpayers millions while reducing pollution. Presently, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation accounts for over 40,000 electric vehicles registered in the state.
Flora Cardoni, from the PennEnvironment Research and Policy Center, stated that the switch to electric vehicles could notably minimize fuel and maintenance costs, improve air quality, and potentially save taxpayers more than $360 million. She additionally highlighted that the transition could reduce global warming pollution by over 800,000 tons, emitting 64% less than gasoline-powered vehicles.
Besides, Cardoni asserted that the change would also diminish carbon monoxide emissions by 94%, volatile organic compound emissions by 92%, and nitrogen oxide emissions by 31%. She underscored that in the United States, transportation is the primary source of global-warming pollution.
The commercial clean vehicle credit, passed with the Inflation Reduction Act, could make the electric vehicle switch more affordable for the Pennsylvania government, according to Cardoni. “These provide savings of up to $7,500 per light-duty vehicle and can help offset upfront costs,” she said. She further underscored that the most significant cost savings come from the lesser expense in buying, fueling, and maintaining electric vehicles compared to gas and diesel-fueled vehicles.
Lastly, Cardoni noted that the Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment in JOBS Act offer government entities funding for constructing electric vehicle charging stations. The report also provides recommendations for Pennsylvania governments for money-saving, pollution reduction, and air quality improvement.
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