Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin aiming to increase CNG options

“An example of great state leadership,” he wrote. “Washington, it's your turn to step up.”

The CNG agreement was made public Wednesday as part of the “Oklahoma First” Energy Plan, which Fallin called a comprehensive blueprint for the state's energy future.

The plan calls for increased energy efficiency efforts and continued development of renewable energy options such as wind power.

Fallin said the plan is meant to create jobs, increase state energy production and build new markets for Oklahoma natural gas.

Oklahoma Energy Secretary Mike Ming, who led development of the plan, said natural gas accounts for 81 percent of the state's production.

Oklahoma Sierra Club Chairman Charles Wesner praised the governor's plan for creating a “pathway” for Oklahoma to transition away from coal for electricity generation in favor of energy efficiency, renewable energy and natural gas generation.

“This plan is a good starting point for complying with the much-needed U.S. (Environmental Protection Agency) pollution safeguards that protect human health and the environment,” he said.