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When adopting propane autogas, it’s not just about picking the right vehicles — you also need to figure out how you’ll fuel them. For fleet managers, it’s important to choose the best fueling setup for your organization’s specific needs to keep everything running smoothly and manage costs. Options for propane autogas fueling include onsite fuel stations, mobile fueling services and public fuel stations.
Onsite Fuel Stations: Tailored for Efficiency
With onsite fuel stations, fueling is readily available, reducing downtime and optimizing fleet efficiency. Many fleets return to a central point at the end of each day, making a private, onsite propane station ideal.
When it comes to onsite fueling, fleets can have large capacity fuel storage tanks equipped with all the necessities like pumps, meters and dispensers. It’s a convenient option for growing fleets because they can easily expand without needing any electrical or site upgrades. The setup of onsite fueling equipment will depend on the size of the fleet.
For fleets with 50 vehicles or more, the propane supplier might suggest an advanced onsite station. This type includes a high-capacity tank, canopy and multiple fuel dispensers. If the fleet owns it, they are responsible for the canopy, tank, pump, motor and dispensers with card lock and vehicle tracking capabilities. If the supplier owns it, the fleet only needs to cover the cost of site preparation like crash protection bollards and electrical work.
For fleets with fewer than 50 vehicles, the supplier will likely recommend a standard onsite station. This option is perfect for smaller fleets and still provides all the needed fueling capabilities.
According to PERC’s Director of Autogas Business Development David Walters, fueling infrastructure for propane costs much less than for other alternative fuels. In comparison, the fueling infrastructure cost for 10 buses/shuttles for propane autogas averages $50,000 to $100,000, EV charging stations are $200,000 to $500,000 and CNG stations fluctuate between half a million dollars to over $2 million.
Benefits:
- Convenience: Fuel your fleet without leaving your facility.
- Cost savings: Affordability of infrastructure.
- Customization: Develop a fueling schedule tailored to your fleet’s usage.
Mobile Fueling: Flexibility on the Go
For fleets that lack space for permanent infrastructure or require flexibility, mobile fueling is an option. A local propane supplier can visit the specified location with a bobtail truck to fuel the vehicles directly. Mobile fueling is a smart choice for fleets with variable routes or those operating in areas where space is limited.
Benefits:
- Space-saving: No need for permanent infrastructure on your property.
- Convenience: Fueling comes to you, reducing the need for trips to fuel stations.
- Flexibility: Adaptable to changing routes and schedules.
When permanent fueling infrastructure is under construction, mobile fueling and temporary fueling, which is a trailer-mounted station, are viable alternatives to consider.
Public Fuel Stations: Accessibility and Versatility
Public fuel stations provide a widespread network of fueling points, which is an option for fleets that operate over large areas or do not wish to invest in infrastructure. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, thousands of public fueling stations across the United States offer propane autogas. While public stations may be less convenient compared to onsite or mobile fueling, they provide a versatile and cost-effective option for many fleets. To find stations near you, visit the Alternative Fuels Data Center.
Benefits:
- No infrastructure investment: Use existing public stations without the need for onsite installations.
- Accessibility: Benefit from a network of stations across the country.
- Flexibility: Ideal for fleets with extensive travel routes.
Making the Fueling Choice for Your Fleet
Choosing the appropriate fueling infrastructure is a pivotal part of transitioning to propane autogas. By evaluating your fleet’s needs and consulting with a local propane supplier, you can develop an effective fueling strategy, whether opting for an onsite fuel station, mobile fueling or public stations. The key is to align your fueling approach with your operational demands and budget.
