Across the United States, local distribution companies have stepped up to promote natural gas vehicles. In cities as large as Atlanta and as small as Hamilton, Oh., they are converting their vehicles and building public-access fueling stations that will enable fleets and private vehicles to run on domestically produced, affordable and clean-burning natural gas. Like oil and gas producers, these pioneering utilities have much to gain by increasing natural gas demand. As state and federal regulations have tightened efficiency standards, and businesses and consumers alike have sought ways to trim their heating and electricity bills, many utilities' sales have declined. With lower sales supporting the same infrastructure, these utilities often have been forced to cut their staffs or raise their rates.
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