Ameren Illinois Unveils CNG Refueling Station and Trucks

Ameren Illinois, a gas and electric company based in Collinsville, Illinois, unveiled its new CNG refueling station in Maryville, along with seven new trucks that run on the alternative fuel, illustrating the company’s commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.

The CNG station, located next to Ameren Illinois’ operating center, is used by Ameren Illinois to refuel its trucks that run on CNG. The facility also provides fuel to CNG trailers used by Ameren Illinois for emergency response operations and system maintenance.

The new CNG-powered trucks on display at the unveiling event included six Ford F-350s that run on both gasoline and CNG, as well as a gas compressor truck that runs on CNG only.

On average, Ameren Illinois vehicles fueled by natural gas can drive 200 to 400 miles before refueling, reducing fuel costs by about $2 per gallon compared to diesel. Ameren Illinois says the deployment of CNG vehicles is expected to save the company approximately $1,000 to $2,000 per vehicle in annual fuel costs.

This year, the company committed five percent of its vehicle replacement budget to investments in alternative fuel technologies, such as natural gas, biodiesel and electric. Ameren Illinois currently operates a total of nine CNG trucks.

“By investing in CNG technology, we’re reducing carbon emissions and protecting our environment,” said Richard J. Mark, chairman and president of Ameren Illinois. “We are proud of our investment in alternative fuels, especially natural gas, which is abundant, affordable and sourced entirely from the United States.”