Trucker wins state environmental energy grant

SHOHOLA — Flipping through a trucking magazine, tractor-trailer operator Charlie Worzel came across an advertisement that could potentially save him thousands. The publication featured an application for a state environmental-conservation grant for an auxiliary power unit. The unit generates heat to a truck’s engine when stopped over night, as an alternative to idling and burning excessive fuel. He filed the application and was awarded almost $5,000. His was the only award from the state program made in Pike County. “When you’re out on long hauls, it’s a matter of survival when you’re idling,” said Worzel, a ten-year veteran in the business. Long hauls have accounted for more than one million miles on his seven-year-old, Freightliner tractor. The unit also provides heating and air conditioning to Worzel’s truck, since he frequently transports produce throughout a range of temperatures and currently uses only a propane heater. After researching various generator models, Worzel said his final decision on which to purchase should be credited to Wal-Mart. He noticed that the corporate trucks used the same model he was considering, “so they must be good.” Worzel inquired and received the appropriate application papers for the Small Business Advantage grant. He will be granted $4,820 by the state; the remainder of the $9,640 total must be paid by Worzel. The driver said all twenty of these types of units have been on the market for at least four years, but poor credit had hindered him from purchasing one in-full in the past. “Some guys just go out and buy [the power units],” Worzel said. “They don’t know the grants are out there.” Statewide, 48 small businesses will receive similar grants, totaling $300,000 to “incorporate innovative technologies that improve energy efficiency and reduce pollution,” according to Governor Edward Rendell. Though he is still currently filling out additional paperwork and literature, Worzel expects to have the generator on his truck by the end of the winter.