January 2026

In This Issue

  • Alt Fuel Highlight: Biodiesel

  • 2026 Fuel Economy Guide Now Available

  • Upcoming Webinars and Events

  • Member Spotlight: American Lung Association

Alt Fuel Highlight: Biodiesel

Biodiesel is a domestically produced, renewable fuel that can be manufactured from new and used vegetable oils, animal fats, and recycled restaurant grease. Biodiesel’s physical properties are similar to those of petroleum diesel, but it is a cleaner-burning renewable alternative. Using biodiesel in place of petroleum diesel significantly reduces lifecycle carbon emissions. Research shows that it also reduces emissions of toxic air pollutants in older on-road vehicles and in many off-road applications.

Biodiesel can be blended and used in many different concentrations, including B100 (pure biodiesel), B20 (20% biodiesel, 80% petroleum diesel), B5 (5% biodiesel, 95% petroleum diesel), and B2 (2% biodiesel, 98% petroleum diesel). B20 is a common biodiesel blend in the United States and engines operating on B20 exhibit similar fuel consumption, horsepower, and torque to those running on conventional diesel.

Biodiesel is an important alternative fuel that can improve air quality and the environment, provide safety benefits and contribute to a more resilient transportation system.

Learn more about Biodiesel and other alternative fuels by visiting the DOE’s, Alternative Fuels Data Center.

2026 Fuel Economy Guide Now Available

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have just released the 2026 Fuel Economy Guide. The guide provides detailed fuel economy estimates for model year 2026 light-duty vehicles, along with estimated annual fuel costs and other information for prospective car buyers.

The 2026 Fuel Economy Guide will be available in electronic format only. You can download the latest Fuel Economy Guide at https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/printGuides.shtml and print copies from the electronic file as needed.

Visit DOE and EPA’s FuelEconomy.gov website to learn more and access additional resources.

Upcoming Webinars


Drop-in Renewables for Diesel Vehicles

Tuesday, February 17 | 11:00 am PT

Leading adopters and technology providers from Optimus Technologies, Penske, and ADM will share how renewable fuels are delivering immediate, cost-effective benefits as diesel replacements. This discussion will break down the practical differences between renewable diesel (RD) and biodiesel (BD), how fleets use both year-round at low or no additional cost, and how to replace nearly 100% of conventional diesel without operational disruption.

Register


Cost, Operational, and Sustainability Benefits of Renewable Natural Gas (RNG)


Tuesday, February 24 | 11:00 am PT

Hear from advanced fleet adopters and fuel providers on how RNG delivers stable fuel costs, diesel-like performance, and industry-leading emissions reductions. This session will highlight how fleets of all sizes are using RNG to meet sustainability goals while maintaining reliability and uptime. 

Register

Optimizing Transportation with RNG and the 15L Natural Gas Engine


Tuesday, March 3 | 11:00 am PT

Learn how fleets are optimizing high-horsepower operations using RNG and the 15L natural gas engine to achieve strong performance, improved maintenance outcomes, and positive total cost of ownership. Speakers will share real-world lessons from operating natural gas vehicles across demanding routes and conditions.

Register

MAG- North Valley Corridor Study Public Survey

The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) is conducting a project called the North Valley Corridor Study. The study aims to understand the function of I-17 and Loop 101 freeway and ramps, and to identify and address any traffic flow and safety challenges along the corridor. The North Valley corridor runs along I-17 from north of Carefree Highway (State Route 74) down to Loop 101 and then along the Loop 101 from I-17 over to Cave Creek Road.

As part of the study, MAG is asking for public input from residents, commuters, and businesses through an online survey.

Take the Survey

Upcoming Events

Register now for the annual National Propane Education and Training Conference that is being held on February 25-26, 2026 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in Fort Lauderdale Florida. During this two-day event, propane professionals interested in industry-specific safety, education and resources will gather to hear the most up to date information to help keep safety a priority across the country.

Register

2026 ACT Expo

May 4-7, 2026

Las Vegas Convention Center

Now in its 16th year, ACT Expo is where the commercial fleet industry comes together to navigate what’s next. With 12,000+ stakeholders, 2,400+ fleet operators, 500+ exhibitors, and 300+ speakers, it’s the premier event for fleet leaders looking to evaluate technologies, benchmark strategies, and connect with peers shaping the future of transportation.
Core Topics Include
AI & Autonomy • Safety Innovations • Battery-Electric & Hydrogen Fleets • Clean Fuels & Infrastructure • Advanced Vehicle & Tech Adoption • Digital Frontier • Policy & Market Landscape
Save more than 30% with Value Rates through February 6, 2026.

Register

VSCCC is proud to have the American Lung Association as a new member as we work towards our shared goal of improving air quality. Founded 120 years ago, the American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease, through research, education and advocacy.

Our coalition is also excited to promote the Lung Association’s Biobased Academy program. This free, comprehensive training program is designed to educate professionals on the operational, health, safety, and environmental benefits of bio-based fleet, facility, and grounds products. This program is offered by the American Lung Association in partnership with the United Soybean Board.

VSCCC strives to provide alternative fuel information to all people within our region. In order to increase our outreach abilities we are working with local agencies to share our newsletter and clean fuel resources with an even greater audience. We are proud to partner with the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona's Air Quality Department, ASU's Sustainable Cities Network and Maricopa County Air Quality Department.

December 2025

In This Issue

  • Clean Cities and Partner Updates

  • Technical Assistance and Learning Opportunities

  • Upcoming Events

Clean Cities and Partner Updates

Clean Cities and Communities Now Part of New Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation

There has been a recent organizational realignment of several DOE offices, including the one where Clean Cities and Communities (CC&C) is housed. Clean Cities and Communities is now a part of the new Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation. This reorganization does not affect the main goals of our coalition and the Clean Cities and Communities network. Our coalition continues to work toward our goal of improving air quality in our region through the use of alternative fuels and transportation. You can see the press release about the organizational realignment as well as a new organizational chart at https://www.energy.gov/articles/energy-department-announces-organizational-realignment-strengthen-efficiency-and-unleash.

National Renewable Energy Lab Renamed National Lab of the Rockies

The U.S. Department of Energy has renamed the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) the National Laboratory of the Rockies. The mission of the lab is to be a leader in research, innovation, and strategic partnerships in order to deliver integrated solutions for an affordable and secure energy future.The renamed lab continues to perform important energy research and provide access to useful data, technical resources and other programs.

Technical Assistance and Learning Opportunities

NLR’s 2026 Executive Energy Leadership Academy

The Executive Energy Leadership Academy, hosted by the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR), formerly known as NREL, provides energy industry professionals and community leaders with exclusive, in-depth information about the laboratory’s research and programs so they can better design energy technologies at their organizations. Participants travel to NLR's main campus in Golden, Colorado, for four multi-day sessions held June–September. There is no cost to participate in the program; however, participants are responsible for their own travel and lodging expenses. Applications due Jan. 9

Learn more

Salt River Project’s Clean Current Webinar

“Power Up Your Business: Panel on EV Charging & Demand Response”

January 13, 2026 at 11:30 AM MST

As electric vehicles (EV) become more mainstream, businesses have a unique opportunity to lead the charge. Join SRP for a 1-hour webinar featuring an expert panel discussion on EV charging strategies and utility programs designed to help save costs and future-proof infrastructure. Learn how to align EV charging with business goals, leverage demand response programs, and take advantage of rebates and incentives.
Panelists include leaders from Evolve EV Charging Solutions, Breathe EV, and SRP, moderated by Ian Cooper of ICF.

Register

Webinar - Future of Autonomous Mobility in the U.S.

Jan 22, 2026 11:00 AM 

Join EVNoire and the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA) for a timely discussion on the current state and future trajectory of autonomous vehicle deployment in the United States. This webinar will share key findings from EVNoire’s first-of-its-kind national AV attitudes and awareness study, examine emerging trends and community impacts, and highlight best practices for operators, OEMs, utilities, cities, and regulators. Participants will engage in a practical dialogue focused on building public trust, safety, accessibility, and cross-sector collaboration as AV adoption continues to scale nationwide.

Register

Upcoming Events

Register now for the annual National Propane Education and Training Conference that is being held on February 25-26, 2026 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in Fort Lauderdale Florida. During this two-day event, propane professionals interested in industry-specific safety, education and resources will gather to hear the most up to date information to help keep safety a priority across the country.

Learn more

VSCCC strives to provide alternative fuel information to all people within our region. In order to increase our outreach abilities we are working with local agencies to share our newsletter and clean fuel resources with an even greater audience. We are proud to partner with the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona's Air Quality Department, ASU's Sustainable Cities Network and Maricopa County Air Quality Department.

November 2025

In This Issue

  • ChargeWest- Ride Your Range EV Resource

  • Technical Assistance Opportunities

  • American Lung Association Bio-based Academy Program

ChargeWest- Ride Your Range EV Resource

A new EV trip planning resource is now available from the ChargeWest project that VSCCC is participating in. ChargeWest is an EV corridor collaborative across eight states in the Intermountain West region that is committed to improving Electric Corridors throughout rural gateway communities, state and national parks, and scenic byways. The states involved are Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming.

The new “Ride Your Range Scenic Byways” resource helps EV drivers explore each state’s scenic byways. Each route is matched with EV charging and sorted by trip distance so drivers can choose their own range length, Home (short range), Long, and Wide Range, for easy road trip planning. The Arizona resource highlights the Apache Trail, Red Rock, Route 66 and Grand Canyon Scenic Byways.

View this new resource using the link below. https://heyzine.com/flip-book/f93fa06b2c

Technical Assistance Opportunities

NREL Expert Match for Short-Term Energy Support

DOE’s Energy to Communities (E2C) program offers free, short-term technical assistance through Expert Match to help communities tackle near-term energy challenges. Eligible stakeholders—including local governments, Tribes, planning organizations, nonprofits, utilities, and higher education institutions—can receive 40–60 hours of support over 3–4 months from national lab experts and partner organizations. Expert Match is ideal for communities facing time-sensitive energy decisions and seeking guidance to explore their options. NREL also offers other technical support services.

Learn more

Tribal Energy Navigation Support

The office of Indian Energy is offering Energy navigation support to federally recognized Indian Tribes, Alaska Native corporations, Intertribal organizations (including Tribal consortia), Tribal energy development organizations, and Tribal colleges and universities. This support includes:

  • Finding federal project assistance

  • Identifying project financing

  • Technical feasibility analysis

  • Financial feasibility analysis

  • Partner engagement and coordination

  • Permitting assistance

  • Planning assistance

  • Capacity building

  • Training

Contact the office at indianenergy@hq.doe.gov with questions.

Learn more

American Lung Association’s Bio-Based Academy Program

The American Lung Association in partnership with the United Soybean Board offers a training program for fleet professionals. The Biobased Academy® is a comprehensive training program designed to educate professionals on the operational, health, safety, and environmental benefits of bio-based fleet, facility, and grounds products.

Two Courses are available:

1. Biobased Certified Fleet Professional (BCFP)™

Upon completion of the Biobased Certified Fleet Professional (BCFP)™ course, participants will

have a firm understanding of how and why biobased fleet products are safe, renewable, and

reliable alternatives to traditional and petroleum-based products that improve operational,

health, safety, and environmental performance. Participants will understand the type and variety

of biobased products and fuels available, and how to procure them. Professionals will also have

a general understanding of operational, health, and safety best practices and fleet sustainability

best practices and certification programs.

2. Biobased Certified Facilities and Property Professional (BCPP)™

Upon completion of the Biobased Certified Property Professional (BCPP)™ course, participants

will have a firm understanding of how and why biobased facilities and grounds products are

safe, renewable, and reliable alternatives to traditional and petroleum-based products that

improve operational, health, safety, and environmental performance. Participants will

understand the type and variety of bio-based facility and grounds products available, and how to

procure them. Professionals will also have a general understanding of the basics of green

building best practices and common green building certification programs.

Both courses has been approved by NAFA Fleet Management Association for hours of

Continuing Professional Education (CPE) which may be applied towards CAFM recertification

credit.

*Enter discount code USB25 at checkout for complimentary access to Biobased Academy Courses.

Program Brochure

VSCCC strives to provide alternative fuel information to all people within our region. In order to increase our outreach abilities we are working with local agencies to share our newsletter and clean fuel resources with an even greater audience. We are proud to partner with the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona's Air Quality Department, ASU's Sustainable Cities Network and Maricopa County Air Quality Department.

October 2025

In This Issue

  • ADOT Requests Proposals for EV Charging Construction

  • Maricopa County CFI Grant, EV Infrastructure Program Applications Open

  • National Drive Electric Month Phoenix Ride and Drive Event

  • Partner Spotlight: ASU Sustainable Cities Network

ADOT Requests Proposals for EV Charging Station Construction

 The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) released a Request for Proposals (RFP) on October 17, 2025, seeking qualified developers to design, build, operate and maintain Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program.

The NEVI program is a federal program that provides funds to states with the goal of creating a national network of publicly accessible EV charging stations along designated roadways. Over the five years of the NEVI program, Arizona is set to receive $76.5 million to fully deploy the program.

This request for proposals is part of the second phase of ADOT’s EV deployment plan and includes 31 locations along designated state roads as well as three locations from Phase 1 (Interstates) that were not previously awarded. A detailed map is included in the Request for Proposals.

All stations will be privately owned and operated, with federal funds covering up to 80% and the private developer covering a minimum of 20% of eligible project costs. No state funds will be involved in the construction of these stations. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 and take about one year.

Proposals are due Jan. 16, 2026.

Learn more

Maricopa County CFI Grant, EV Infrastructure Program Applications Open

The Maricopa County Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Funded Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure Program Application is now open.

The Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) has been awarded $15 million in funding from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) under the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Program.

The Maricopa County CFI Funded Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure Program is designed to reimburse qualifying Maricopa County Travel Reduction Program (TRP) participants up to 80% for the installation of new EV charging stations (EVCS) for public use at their facility.

There is a two-stage application process. Stage 1 applications are due January 16, 2026. If eligible, organizations will receive an invitation to proceed with a Stage II Application by email.

Learn more
 

VSCCC booth at Phoenix EV Ride and Drive with event volunteer Anthony Phillips and VSCCC board member Mike Heath.

 

National Drive Electric Month, Phoenix EV Ride and Drive Event

Valley of the Sun Clean Cities Coalition was glad to be a part of a National Drive Electric Month EV Ride and Drive event on October 4th. The event was presented by Valley of the Sun Electric Vehicle Association in partnership with the city of Phoenix, SRP, Drive Electric Arizona, VSCCC and Gateway Community College. This year’s event was held at Gateway Community College and featured over 20 different types of EV’s for display and test drives and over 100 registered attendees.

Ride and Drive events like this are one of the best ways to promote the adoption of EV’s. They offer attendees the chance to test drive EV’s without any sales pressure and get all their questions answered by real EV owners. It was a great event and we look forward to doing it again next year.

To learn more about EV’s and future ride and drive events please check out DEAZ’s website and take a minute to read their October Newsletter!

The ASU Sustainable Cities Network connects ASU’s research and technical capabilities in sustainability with the challenges facing cities, towns, and Tribal communities across Arizona. The network is a way for communities to share knowledge, identify best practices, and coordinate efforts to better understand and solve local issues. Learn more about ASU’s Sustainable Cities Network on their website. https://globalfutures.asu.edu/sustainable-cities/

VSCCC strives to provide alternative fuel information to all people within our region. In order to increase our outreach abilities we are working with local agencies to share our newsletter and clean fuel resources with an even greater audience. We are proud to partner with the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona's Air Quality Department, ASU's Sustainable Cities Network and Maricopa County Air Quality Department.

Our newsletter is also available in Spanish.

Boletines

September 2025

In This Issue

  • Mesa RNG Facility and Water Treatment Plant Tour

  • Upcoming Events

  • Learning Opportunties

  • Member Spotlight: Breathe EV

City of Mesa RNG Production Facility and Water Treatment Plant Tour

VSCCC board members, mesa employees and guests stand in front of one of the biogas processing systems at the Mesa Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Valley of the Sun Clean Cities (VSCCC) board members and guests enjoyed a tour of the new renewable natural gas (RNG) facilities at the city of Mesa’s wastewater treatment plant. VSCCC board member, Anthony Cadorin, from Mesa Utilities, was kind enough to arrange a tour for our coalition. Guests were able to learn all about how RNG is produced and processed at the wastewater treatment plant.

The process starts within the large domes at the plant. These are anaerobic digesters that hold and break down the solid wastes left over after the water treatment process. Bacteria breaks down this solid waste sludge and releases biogas. This biogas is mostly methane but also contains many other compounds that need to be removed. To do this the biogas goes through special equipment that removes the unwanted components step by step. The end product is renewable natural gas that can be sent into the pipeline to be used as energy and fuel.

By collecting and refining the biogas produced at the wastewater treatment plant, the city of Mesa is reducing harmful emissions. Without the RNG processing facilities, the biogas from the the water treatment process would be flared or burned off into the air. Now it can be collected and turned into fuel. The city of Mesa’s refuse trucks run on low emission natural gas and can now be supplied with fuel made right at the city’s wastewater plant.

Our board was so grateful to be able to learn about this process up close during our tour. It is a great example of renewable energy production and just one of the ways the city is working towards its sustainability goals. Learn more about Mesa’s sustainability and energy projects here.

Upcoming Events

National Drive Electric Month Phoenix EV Ride and Drive

Come join us at Gateway Community College this October 4, 2025 for an EV Ride and Drive! Test drive different types of EV’s, EV bikes and talk to EV owners. The event will also feature a raffle and host vendors from the area. This ride and drive is presented by Valley of the Sun EVA, City of Phoenix, Drive Electric Arizona, and SRP as part of National Drive Electric Month. National Drive Electric Month, Sep 12-Oct 12, 2025, is a nationwide celebration to raise awareness of the many benefits of all-electric and plug-in hybrid cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more. Go to https://driveelectricmonth.org/ to look up more ride and drive events in your area and learn more about EV’s.

Register

Learning Opportunities

Energy to Communities (E2C) Program: Peer-Learning Cohort

Successful Energy Project Implementation- Technical Assistance to Deployment

Cohort Description
Participants in this cohort will explore common challenges in implementing energy projects and learn strategies to turn project plans into reality. Each participant will focus on a local energy project or priority as a cornerstone for their learning throughout the series. Workshops will provide opportunities to explore strategies to build internal and external stakeholder buy-in, identify and secure funding and financing, and accelerate siting, procurement, and construction.

Expected Outcomes
Participants will have the opportunity to create a personalized action plan for a priority energy project and get feedback from experts and peers to help move the project forward.

Ideal Participants
Ideal participants include energy managers, sustainability managers, resilience managers, facilities managers, project managers, and staff responsible for implementing energy projects (from public entities and Tribes) or partnering on local energy projects (from nonprofit organizations).

Eligible Entities

  • Local governments (cities, towns, villages, counties, etc.)

  • Regional governments (councils of governments, etc.)

  • Tribes, including state-recognized Tribes

  • Local nonprofit organizations.

The next round of peer-learning cohorts will start in January 2026. E2C is accepting applications until Oct. 31, 2025.

Learn more

VSCCC is happy to welcome BreatheEV as a new member of our coalition. BreatheEV provides reservation-enabled EV charging solutions nationwide, helping property owners monetize parking assets with minimal investment. The company offers specialized charging solutions across various property types, each designed to maximize revenue and enhance user experience.

VSCCC strives to provide alternative fuel information to all people within our region. In order to increase our outreach abilities we are working with local agencies to share our newsletter and clean fuel resources with an even greater audience. We are proud to partner with the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona's Air Quality Department, ASU's Sustainable Cities Network and Maricopa County Air Quality Department.

August 2025

In This Issue

  • Revised NEVI Program Guidance

  • Upcoming Webinars

  • Upcoming Events

  • Member Spotlight: Queen Creek

Revised NEVI Program Guidance

Earlier this month, the US Department of Transportation announced its revised guidelines for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. Started in 2021, the NEVI program provides funding to states to build out electric vehicle infrastructure along designated roadways. A summary of changes from the DOT announcement states that the the revised guidelines for the program simplifies the state plan approval process, provides states with flexibility to determine distance between stations and minimizes some of the content that was required in the original guidelines. To learn more about the updated guidelines for the NEVI program visit the Federal Highway Administration website.

Upcoming Webinars

Expanding your Fleet with Electric Emergency Service Vehicles

August 21, 2025 @ 11:00 AM

The Electrification Coalition is hosting a webinar on Electric Emergency Service Vehicles. Emergency service vehicles like fire engines, police vehicles, and transport and support vehicles are electrifying across municipalities. Join them for a conversation with leaders from across the United States about how they implemented these emerging EV technologies into their current systems and see what an all-electric future looks like for fleet vehicles! This webinar will be held on Thursday, August 21 at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT.

Register

Upcoming Events

Green Transportation Summit and Expo

The Green Transportation Summit & Expo (GTSE 2025) is set to return to Tacoma, Washington on August 26-28th, bringing together the latest in clean transportation technology, policy, and fleet operations.This year’s event, running over three days, features an expanded Ride and Drive experience.

The Green Transportation Summit and Expo (GTSE) is the Pacific Northwest’s premier event for collaboration among industry professionals, fleets, public entities, and stakeholders dedicated to sustainable transportation. This year, the conference will recenter around its core: the fleets, policies, and infrastructure crucial to maintaining progress in the green transportation industry. 

Learn more

NAFA Southwest Regional Meeting & Networking Event

October 16 starting at 9:00 a.m. PT

Join your fleet professional colleagues on October 16 for an exciting and informative event hosted by the NAFA Southwest Region Council. The event will take place in the greater Phoenix area. Stay at the forefront of industry developments and network with peers, industry leaders, and vendors. 

When: October 16, 9:00 AM- 3PM PT

Where: Avion Center, 1733 E. Northrop Blvd, Chandler, AZ 85226

Registration Fee: $45 for NAFA Members and $65 for Non-Members and Guests (Includes a light breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and all educational sessions)

Registration Deadline: October 10

Tentative Agenda:
9:00 - 9:30 a.m.: Check-in
9:30 - 10:00 a.m.: Welcome, Introductions, and NAFA Update
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.: Session 1
11:00 - 11:45 a.m.: Sponsor Spotlights and Networking
11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Lunch
12:30 - 1:30 p.m.: Advocacy/Policy Update
1:30 - 1:45 p.m.: Sponsor Snack Break
1:45 - 2:45 p.m.: Ask the Experts Fleet Panel
2:45 p.m.: Closing Remarks

Learn more
 
 
 

Queen Creek is a unique community known for its friendly, hometown atmosphere, and strong sense of agricultural heritage. This culture is woven throughout the community’s neighborhoods, businesses, and recreational opportunities. Bordered by several other bustling cities and San Tan Mountain Regional Park, Queen Creek is a growing city that offers amenities as well as natural desert beauty to all those who live work or visit there.

VSCCC strives to provide alternative fuel information to all people within our region. In order to increase our outreach abilities we are working with local agencies to share our newsletter and clean fuel resources with an even greater audience. We are proud to partner with the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona's Air Quality Department, ASU's Sustainable Cities Network and Maricopa County Air Quality Department.

THANK YOU TO OUR MEMBERS!

City of Phoenix