Revolutionizing Trucking: How Paper Transport is Driving Change with Renewable Natural Gas
The shift toward sustainable trucking is accelerating, and Paper Transport, Inc. (PTI), based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is at the forefront of this transformation. By embracing renewable natural gas (RNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) as alternatives to diesel, PTI is leading the way in creating a cleaner and more efficient future for the trucking industry.
A Legacy of Innovation
PTI has been a trailblazer in natural gas technology for over a decade. Early adoption wasn’t without challenges—assembling tank systems and chassis configurations required considerable effort and ingenuity. Yet, PTI persevered, fueled by a vision of cleaner, cost-effective transportation. Fast-forward to today, and advancements in RNG production and the arrival of Cummins’ powerful 15-liter natural gas engines are redefining what’s possible.
The Case for RNG
RNG offers significant environmental benefits, with many sources, such as dairy farms and landfills, achieving net-zero or even negative carbon emissions. In Wisconsin, where PTI is headquartered, RNG derived from dairy farms is a particularly valuable resource. This renewable energy source not only reduces methane emissions but also aligns with the sustainability goals of PTI’s customers, many of whom are under pressure to meet rigorous environmental benchmarks.
“RNG is not just about reducing emissions; it’s a practical solution that’s available right now,” said Jared Settle, Chief Commercial Officer at PTI. “It fits seamlessly into our operations while offering substantial environmental and cost advantages.”
Economics and Sustainability: Striking a Balance
Switching to natural gas requires an initial investment. However, PTI calculates the total cost of ownership (TCO) over the vehicle’s lifecycle—typically 500,000 to 600,000 miles—and finds the costs comparable to diesel. With RNG prices often well below diesel (e.g., $1.99 per gallon-equivalent for RNG versus $4.50 for diesel), the long-term savings are substantial, particularly when diesel prices spike.
Customer demand is driving much of this shift. PTI collaborates with businesses that prioritize sustainability without compromising cost efficiency. RNG enables these customers to achieve both goals.
Routes and Reliability
Today, 10% of PTI’s fleet operates on natural gas, with trucks running dedicated routes in regions such as the Midwest, Northeast, and Southern California. Route planning is crucial to ensuring fueling infrastructure aligns with operational needs. While the current 12-liter engines handle most routes effectively, the more powerful 15-liter models promise to expand capabilities, enabling natural gas trucks to navigate more demanding terrains and heavier loads.
Driver Lee Pierson, a 10-year veteran at PTI, shared his experience: “Over time, the technology has really advanced. The trucks now have the same power and torque as diesel models, and they’re quieter and smoother to drive. It’s a better experience all around.”
Scaling for the Future
PTI’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its fleet. The company works with customers to manage RNG credits and incorporate these savings into their overall carbon reduction strategies. With public infrastructure for natural gas fueling expanding, PTI no longer needs to invest in proprietary fueling stations—a testament to how far the industry has come.
Looking ahead, PTI plans to grow its natural gas fleet well beyond the current 10%, leveraging new technologies and customer partnerships. “With the new 15-liter engine, we’re poised to scale up and serve more diverse routes while maintaining our focus on cost and sustainability,” Settle explained.
A Business Case for Sustainability
As the trucking industry grapples with its environmental footprint, solutions like RNG offer a path forward that balances ecological responsibility with economic viability. PTI’s experience illustrates how early adoption, perseverance, and innovation can lead to significant rewards.
“Natural gas is not just an alternative—it’s a strategic choice,” said Dan Depper, Vice President of Maintenance at PTI. “We’re solving real problems for our customers while contributing to a cleaner future.”
With RNG production increasing and infrastructure improving, the shift to natural gas in commercial trucking appears poised for exponential growth. PTI’s leadership in this space serves as a model for other carriers looking to make the switch.
Conclusion
As the industry awaits the full deployment of Cummins’ 15-liter engines, PTI’s journey underscores the promise of renewable energy in commercial trucking. It’s not just about reducing emissions—it’s about creating a sustainable, scalable, and economically sound future for freight transportation.
By pioneering the adoption of RNG and CNG, PTI demonstrates that sustainability and profitability are not mutually exclusive but complementary goals that can drive the trucking industry toward a brighter future.
