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As more organizations adopt electric vehicles (EVs) into their fleets, the demand for reliable and efficient charging infrastructure is at an all-time high. As stress on the electric grid becomes an everyday reality, an innovative solution that’s catching on is mobile EV charging stations powered by propane.
When you combine the standalone capabilities with the ability to charge an EV anywhere, anytime, mobile EV charging stations powered by propane have notable advantages. These charging stations are flexible and can be installed in remote or off-grid locations, which means they provide a self-contained charging option for EV fleets.
“We’ve seen it time and time again — the grid fails, the wind doesn’t blow, the sun doesn’t shine, and an electric vehicle fleet is grounded because it can’t recharge. Propane can be there in those moments to provide a clean, reliable power solution,” said Mauricio Morafiallos, CEO of Propane Fueling Solutions.
“Historically, EV fleets have relied on diesel generators for a portable charging solution. In those cases, all the good you’re doing with EVs is going out the window when those diesel emissions are released. Propane eliminates that issue.”
Powered by Propane
For organizations that may lack the necessary infrastructure for high-voltage EV charging, portable propane-powered charging stations offer a practical answer. Propane Fueling Solutions’ skid infrastructure combines an efficient 60kW propane generator with wind and solar power to create a microgrid that allows fleets to affordably implement drop-in charging.
Pioneer eMobility’s e-Boost propane-powered charging stations range in power from 30kW to more than 600kW and the company offers containers, skids, trailers and trucks. The units can also run on renewable propane without requiring changes to any equipment.
These systems can be easily expanded as fleets grow, with the potential for transitioning to permanent grid-connected charging stations and keeping propane as a reliable backup option. Plus, using propane could help significantly reduce carbon emissions and other environmental impacts associated with charging EVs through the grid.
Reduced Infrastructure
Mobile choices for EV charging infrastructure, like skids, pods and trailers, are a cost-effective alternative to traditional options, significantly reducing expenses by eliminating the need for extensive site preparation, permanent structures and other costly charges. Propane Fueling Solutions reports that its skid can lower costs by up to 75%, making it a practical choice for fleets looking to explore propane autogas and EVs without the financial burden of permanent infrastructure investments.
The widespread availability of propane in the United States makes it a convenient and affordable option for EV charging nationwide. EV Power Pods’ dual-purpose standalone fueling system provides users with an economical and environmentally friendly option for their energy needs, allowing them to evaluate different energy source capabilities without the need for expensive infrastructure.
A Reliable Solution
There are many advantages to using propane-powered EV charging systems. For one, they can be more cost-effective, especially in areas where upgrading the electrical grid would be very expensive or maybe even impossible. Using the existing propane distribution network means that these systems can be set up quickly and efficiently, reducing the overall investment required.
In light commercial microgrid applications (100kW generation system), propane offers environmental benefits with minimal nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide emissions, along with a 24% decrease in carbon dioxide emissions. Furthermore, propane can also fuel propane autogas vehicles.
Unmatched for fleets incorporating both propane autogas and EVs, propane-powered EV charging systems are portable, scalable, and can be established within 24 hours, making them a convenient option for fleet operations.
Propane autogas vehicles can quickly fuel up and return to the road, while EVs can be consistently charged using power generated by propane. In a time when resilient energy sources are crucial for fleets, propane provides reliability.
Sustainable EV Charging with Propane
As more organizations adopt EVs, propane-powered EV charging systems are shaping up to be a promising, sustainable option for America’s future infrastructure needs. They are likely to play a pivotal role, offering a versatile and practical solution for both EV and propane autogas vehicle fleet operators alike. By leveraging the power of propane, organizations can work toward a cleaner, more cost-effective and efficient future in electric vehicle charging.