GLG News by Council Members Knowledgeable on NOx Emissions

    The Dakota Minnesota & Eastern (DM&E) Railroad was recently acquired by the Canadian Pacific (CP) Railway.  The DM&E has for years been proposing an extension to the Wyoming Powder River Basin coal reserves.  This project, if commenced, would upgrade an...

Energy from Diesel fuel is a key agent of growth in developing countries.  Increased demand has seen diesel outpace gasoline as prices hit record highs for both fuels.  US refinery capacity must be rebalanced to help correct price disparity for this key fuel.

Diesel cars dominate European markets but are scarce in the US.  As fuel economy continues to drive US consumer choices diesel options will become more significant.  Regulatory issues may also favor diesels as US standards tighten.

Fleet operators are continuously seeking optimum solutions to equipment cost and fuel economy.  Various alternative fuels and hybrid drive systems are being evaluated prior to major fleet-wide commitments.   Despite the head start for electric drive-battery hybrids there are other options...

The push for alternative energy has increased competition between planted crop acreage for food vs. biofuel production.  As more regions of the world struggle with tight food supplies the UN has questioned the wisdom of increased biofuel production.

California seeks to force even the smallest truck fleets to invest in expensive upgrades to reduce diesel emissions.  These costs will be passed on as higher freight charges and ultimately as more expensive consumer goods.  Some fleets may not be able to bear the financial burden of the up-front...

    The year-to-date and outlook for many of the items transported by the U.S. railroads are down, coal transportation has been positive.  The discussions that follows list some of the positives for the railroads.

    Coal companies have issued force majeure declarations to customers due to various production-related issues.  These are discussed in the section below.

Environmental legislation requires an economic impact analysis to ensure continued viability of commerce.   California's Clean Truck Program for port operations has withstood such challenges but is now faced with litigation claiming it unlawfully regulates the trucking industry.

Starting in 2010 precious metal catalysts will be required on off-road diesel engines in the US.  This incremental demand, coupled with a rebound in automotive production, may stretch supplies thin again as seen in 2007.  With regulatory impact increasing demand through 2015 worldwide the...