FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, July 28, 2021
CONTACT: Hannah Hertlein, hannah@impactcommunications-publicaffairs.com, 513.262.6597
Nevada’s Division of Environmental Protection workshop drew overwhelming approval for the latest version of its proposed Clean Cars Nevada program and a commitment from stakeholders to work to implement complementary policies for greater ZEV adoption.
CARSON CITY — Today, the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) hosted a formal workshop about its proposed Clean Cars Nevada initiative. The workshop provided the public with the opportunity to comment on the agency’s proposed regulations aimed at reducing vehicle pollution and increasing access to clean vehicle models in the state.
Governor Sisolak announced the Clean Cars Nevada initiative on June 22, 2020 to improve air quality, expand consumer choice, boost the economy, and fight climate change in Nevada. Auto manufacturers, new car dealers, and advocates for clean energy and conservation recognize the need for sound policies and programs to support Nevada’s electrification goals. As a result of feedback from interested parties, the latest draft of the Clean Cars Nevada regulations enjoys broad support and takes an important step by including a crediting system that will assist in the transition to greater ZEV adoption.
Once adopted, Clean Cars Nevada will place new emissions requirements on model year 2025 vehicles available for sale in Nevada. With the state facing unprecedented heatwaves, drought, and wildfire, action on air pollution is taking on new urgency.
“The agreement reached in Nevada is a historic first.” said Simon Mui, Deputy Director of the Clean Vehicles & Fuels Group for the Natural Resources Defense Council. “Clean energy advocates, industry representatives, and agency officials have resolved key issues in Nevada’s proposed Clean Cars program that will serve as a model for other states considering their own programs.”
“Automakers are committed to vehicle electrification,” said Steven Douglas, Vice President of Energy and Environment for the Alliance for Automotive Innovation. “Auto Innovators appreciates the work by the agency, clean energy advocates, and other stakeholders to develop regulatory changes that we support and that support the state’s overall goal to increase electrification. These regulations are just one step, and we look forward to continuing our work to advocate for the complementary measures – such as incentives, infrastructure, building codes – necessary for Nevada families and businesses to embrace electric vehicles.”
“Nevada’s franchised auto dealers are excited to play a key role in the electrification of Nevada’s fleet.” said Andrew MacKay, Executive Director of the Nevada Franchised Auto Dealers Association. “We appreciate NDEP and the stakeholders involved in this process and for including the crediting system in the latest draft regulations. This will prove to be very helpful as we near the 2025 implementation date.”
“I am glad to see leaders come together to take a big step forward on clean car standards to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality,” said Christi Cabrera, Policy and Advocacy Director of Nevada Conservation League. “These standards move our state into a clean energy-powered future.”
“The American Lung Association ‘Road to Clean Air’ report finds that transportation electrification can save Nevadans nearly $750 million in annual public health savings benefits,” said Melissa Ramos, Manager of Clean Air Advocacy for the American Lung Association. “Advancing ZEV deployment under the Nevada Clean Cars program will help make cleaner air a reality for all Nevadans.”
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About Nevada Clean Cars Coalition: The Nevada Clean Cars Coalition consists of a diverse group of business leaders, conservationists, science and public health advocates, labor representatives, community organizations, local governments, consumer groups, and others who share the same desire to bring the many benefits of Clean Car Standards to Nevada. www.NevadaCleanCars.org
