Oklahoma National Guard Member Promotes CNG

Oklahoma National Guard member Justin Steckman gained a new perspective on energy issues while serving in the Middle East, and he turned it into a business.

Steckman and his parents have opened a company in Norman that converts motors to use compressed natural gas. He says use of CNG is common in Middle Eastern countries that export their oil to the United States.

Steckman told The Oklahoman that the state has incentives to convert vehicles and appliances to natural gas. That gives the business an advantage because the incentives are helping the industry grow.

Oklahoma offers a tax incentive for conversions and related purchases. Oklahoma Natural Gas recently won approval for a rebate program that pays up to $1,000 for conversions and home-fueling appliances.