In February, the Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition (ACFC) joined national leaders in Washington, D.C., for the 2026 Transportation Energy Partners (TEP) Energy Independence Summit. Held February 10–11 at the MLK Jr. Memorial Library, the summit brought together Clean Cities coalitions, industry partners, and policymakers to advance practical solutions that strengthen America’s transportation energy future.
Alabama Voices at the Table
ACFC was represented by a strong delegation of leaders committed to advancing alternative fuels across the state:
- Michael Staley, President, ACFC
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Casey Foster, Executive Director, ACFC
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Hasin Gandhakwala, Electric Transportation Manager, Alabama Power
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Jason Powers, Senior Vice President, eVerged
Together, the team engaged in discussions focused on expanding access to cleaner transportation options, supporting fleet transitions, and ensuring Alabama remains competitive in a changing energy landscape.
Meeting with Alabama’s Congressional Delegation
A key part of the summit included meetings with members of Alabama’s congressional delegation. The ACFC team met with:
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U.S. Representative Gary Palmer
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U.S. Representative Dale Strong
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U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville
These conversations centered on policies that support diverse transportation energy solutions—electric, propane, natural gas, hydrogen, and biofuels—and the importance of continued federal support for programs that benefit Alabama communities, fleets, and businesses.
A Memorable Moment at the U.S. Capitol
One of the most meaningful moments of the trip came during a private evening tour of the U.S. Capitol hosted by Congressman Gary Palmer. The group had the rare opportunity to sit on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, where they continued conversations about strengthening America’s energy security through transportation innovation.
Experiences like this reinforce the importance of direct engagement between state leaders and federal policymakers. They create space for real dialogue about how national policy decisions impact communities across Alabama.
Why the Energy Independence Summit Matters
The Energy Independence Summit, hosted by Transportation Energy Partners, serves as a national forum to connect Clean Cities coalitions with industry leaders and elected officials. TEP works to advance policies that support cleaner, domestic transportation energy sources and reduce reliance on foreign oil.
For Alabama, participation in this summit ensures that the state’s priorities are represented in national conversations. It also helps build relationships that bring resources, partnerships, and new opportunities back home.
Moving Forward for Alabama
ACFC’s work doesn’t stop in Washington. The insights and connections gained at the summit will continue to inform efforts across Alabama—from supporting school districts and municipal fleets to working with utilities and private partners on infrastructure and fuel deployment.
By staying engaged at both the state and federal levels, ACFC is helping ensure Alabama remains a leader in practical, cost-effective transportation solutions.
Want to get involved?
Connect with the Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition to learn how your organization can help advance alternative fuels across the state.