Sales of compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquified natural gas (LNG) are surging in Texas, as measured by sharp increases in tax revenue from the alternative fuels, according to the state Comptroller's office.

State forecasters projected fiscal 2014 natural gas motor fuel tax revenue of $992,000 from 6.6 million gallon equivalents. Actual sales came in at 220 percent above that estimate for the period ending July 31. The state collected 15 cents per gallon equivalent on 14.5 million gallon equivalents, which brought in $2.17 million in tax revenue.

“Natural gas vehicles are becoming mainstream faster than expected,” said Texas Railroad Commissioner David Porter.  “And there’s plenty of room for growth. These excellent sales figures represent only a fraction of potential sales, as more and more fleet operators take advantage of the cost savings, lower emissions and energy-security benefits of Texas natural gas.”

In Texas, state, county and municipal fleets must all pay the tax. Federal vehicles are exempt.