ROBERT DOBBS: FOSSIL FUEL FORWARD >>>

The City of Olympia has received $11,000 from the Olympia Regional Clean Air Agency to purchase its first electric vehicle. City officials say the purchase reflects the City’s commitment to look for innovative ways to lower emissions and reduce dependence on fossil fuel. Electric vehicles do not produce any greenhouse gases and cost approximately one penny a mile to operate, according to the city’s announcement.

Electric vehicles are powered by a battery that is replenished by plugging it into a common electric outlet. Although electricity production may contribute to air pollution, electric vehicles are considered zero-emission vehicles because their motors produce no exhaust or emissions. Ruth Snyder, a city inspector, will use the new vehicle for her work in the downtown area and South Capital neighborhood.

Recent national reports have indicated that the burning coal and other fuels to create energy needed to recharge electric cars may cancel out the benefits of using such vehicles. In Washington, advocates point out that most of Washington’s energy is produced as hydro-power, and that use of electric vehicles is a great way to reduce emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, at least around here.