Despite rising natural gas prices, UNM officials say they are committed to reducing air pollution in the city by continuing to run many of its vehicles on the fuel source.
The University teamed with the New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department and PNM in March 2001 to install a natural gas station on campus, said Louise Martinez, director of the natural resources department.
"UNM is really leading the way in promoting alternative fuel sources," Martinez said. "The City of Albuquerque, PNM, UNM and our department all worked together to make this project a success. Not only will all project partners benefit, but so will Albuquerque's air quality."
The department helped UNM fund the project with a $75,000 grant to build the fueling station on campus that also serves city vehicles, Martinez said.
Jeff Zumwalt, associate director of UNM's Utilities Division, said the University avoided the rising costs of natural gas by avoiding contracts with gas companies and buying its natural gas on the open market.
Natural gas prices across the nation have nearly doubled since last year and are forecasted to continue to climb for the remainder of the year, according to the National Public Utilities Commission's Web site.
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"Luckily we were able to build up our supplies of natural gas and we can hold off buying anymore until the costs go back down," Zumwalt said. "However, given the costs of the product several years ago, natural gas prices are still real high. But it's not about finding a cheaper fuel source; it's about finding a way to help with the environment."
Dupuy Bateman, associate vice president for auxiliary enterprises, said UNM uses nearly 9,000 gallons of natural gas a month at an average cost of $1.65 per gallon.
"Our objective here is not to save money, it is to help save the environment," Bateman said. "We're providing clean air for the community, which is hard to put a price on."
Josh Kavanagh, associate director of UNM's Parking and Transportation Services department, said the University has converted 17 of its campus shuttles to run off natural gas.
He said there has been a decline in the city's pollution thanks to the program and the University is benefiting from the working relationship it has established with the city and PNM.
