I believe it began in 2005, and was coined a “low cost alternative” to letting your truck’s engine idle all night. The system offers drivers grid-based electricity and allows them to access the Internet, watch cable television, and heat and cool their rig.
By using Shore-power technology (at any truck-stop where it is offered), drivers take an active role in both conserving fuel and cutting down on air pollution. According to The History Channel, 1.7 billion gallons of diesel are burned from idling tractor-trailers every year.
But, the fact that the average truck stop in the U.S. takes in $7.8 million in revenue each year makes me wonder if there is a cost built in to using a truck stops’ electric alternative? Heck, maybe an over-the-road driver is out there right now reading this blog? If so, please enlighten me… How much does it cost you to hook your rig up to this electronic alternative? And, how much does it save you?