Flooding in Vermont
Vermont Gov . Phil Scott on July 13 made a formal request to President Joseph R . Biden for federal disaster funds to assist individuals and communities in recovering from floods that occurred from July 7-12 . The Major Disaster Declaration would provide relief to individuals and communities .
“ Vermonters have faced incredible loss as a result of this historic and catastrophic flooding event ,” Scott said . “ While we ’ re still focused primarily on the immediate response , as we transition to the recovery phase , federal assistance will be critical to support families , businesses and infrastructure . With support from Washington , and the inspiring resiliency of Vermonters , we will be able to rebuild and recover .”
The Fuel Line , the newsletter of the Vermont Fuel Dealers Association , reported July 14 that the Governor had signed an Emergency Declaration that speeds recovery and rebuilding . “ It waives hours of service requirements for Commercial Vehicle Operators who are supporting the emergency relief effort with goods , materials , equipment and fuel ,” Fuel Line reported . “ It also provides professional service licensing flexibility , allowing residential contractors who are certified in another state to work in Vermont during the declaration . It does not address heating techs , although we expect the Department of Public Safety to issue a similar exemption soon .” The Fuel Line also advised fuel dealers : “ If your home or business has been impacted by the flooding there may be resources available in the near future . In the meantime , what is important is to document any damage with photos and to write down your experience . Be sure to capture all losses , including the loss of business income , inventory , equipment , and property .”
STEPHEN BENNETT
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A Fuel Dealer and a School Join Forces
Bradigan ’ s Inc ., a fuel dealer in Pennsylvania , teamed with a local technical high school to establish an elective CDL course for members of the senior class . A dozen students completed the course and received their permits . The project is the subject of this issue ’ s cover story .
Andy Bradigan , owner of Bradigan ’ s Inc ., a fuel dealer in Kittanning , Pennsylvania , approached school officials about creating the course , which launched in September 2022 .
Bradigan and Wes Kuchta , administrative director of Lenape Technical School in Ford City , Pennsylvania , said they hope that the program can serve as a template , for replication in school districts , to get more young people interested in driving .
The program is being fine-tuned for the upcoming school year , and 30 or so students have expressed interest in enrolling
The EPA issued a proposal to limit the Energy Star certification to heat pumps exclusively , potentially excluding furnaces and boilers from the program , reported the National Energy & Fuels Institute . Central air conditioners would also be affected . An EPA memo was sent to Energy Star stakeholders in May , and public comments were due by June 22 . The proposal is “ part of the administration ’ s broader plan to discourage continued use of liquid fuel and gas appliances and push consumers towards heat pumps ,” Jim Collura , NEFI ’ s vice president of governmental affairs , wrote in an email to members .
Irving Oil is conducting a strategic review of the company and “ a series of options are being evaluated related to the company ’ s future ,” it said in a statement dated June 7 and posted on its website .
“ No decisions have been made about where this strategic review may lead ,” the company said . “ Consideration will be given to a new ownership structure , a full or partial sale , or a change in the portfolio of our assets and how we operate them .”
Finally : Diane E . Quesnelle , executive director , Energy Marketers Association of Rhode Island , noted that , effective July 1 , 2023 , Rhode Island ’ s Biodiesel mandate is 10 %. Quesnelle emailed members , advising , “ Please take the time to ensure your business website and literature reflects this mandate . Also , please educate your staff and ensure you communicate that our industry is part of the solution and that Rhode Island recognizes the importance of renewable energy .” l FON
4 JULY 2023 | FUEL OIL NEWS | www . fueloilnews . com
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