The Bulletin
MAGAZINE - December 2023
APEA (The Association for Petroleum and Explosives Administration)
Inside
Inside 4
Welcome
6
Editorial
8
Business Manager
10
New Members
10
Publications Information
14
Electric Vehicles vs Hydrocarbon Vehicles Some Myths Explained
18
The Biggest New Charging Projects and their Impact on the Economy
20
Alternative Fuels: How Will these Impact the Future of the Forecourt?
22
Electric Vehicle Sales
23
United for Safety: UAE’s Drive for Secure Summer Fueling
25
Ask the Experts
27
Through The Pipeline How did it all Begin?
28
Through The Pipeline What Does that Petroleum Interceptor Do?
30
The New Public Charge Point Regulations
34
Why Getting Fuel Management Right Really Matters
36
EV Case Study
38
LNG - A Cleaner Fuel to Rule Truckstops
44
Bever Innovations introduces the IC-Smart: Empowering Petrol Stations for an Electric Future
47
News
60
Press Releases
76
Branches
77
Training
80
APEA Live 2023 Conference, Exhibition and Awards Dinner
Front cover: An old Wayne Dispenser looking lonely in Rhayader Wales Published by the APEA (The Association for Petroleum and Explosives Administration) A company Limited by Guarantee Registered in England No. 2261660.
Opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the Association. The technical content is not an official endorsement by or on behalf of the APEA and are entirely the views of the authors.
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Welcome
Welcome Doreen Pooley APEA Chairman As this is my last article as Chairman, I wanted to focus on what is going on in our industry now and what better way to do that than to highlight some items from this edition of The Bulletin? Hopefully many of you will have seen Graeme Warnell present on EV fires at APEA Branch Meetings which would have given you the opportunity to question, query and discuss amongst yourselves. If not, you can read all about it. We also have articles from Dover Fueling Solutions on EV Charger installation projects and on alternative fuel impact on the Forecourt. There is also an interesting article by Evenlode Roadside regarding Public Charge Point Regulations. There is a case study from Wyeth Project Services on the EV installation. There is also an article from Bever Innovations on integrating EV and POS. Jamie Thompson has also provided an article on EV sales so this is certainly a popular topic at the moment. With these and a number of items in the Press Release section hopefully any questions you have surrounding EV will be answered in one article or another! It has been interesting to watch the drive towards EV over the last few years. As this is my final Bulletin, I’m going to offer a personal opinion. I don’t think any one “alternative fuel” will take over the market. There needs to be a mix of solutions and, in my humble opinion, a proper analysis of the true environmental cost of each. As far as I can tell all of the proposed alternative options require
APEA Business Manager (contact for all APEA Business and Bulletin advertising, design and typesetting) Jane Mardell APEA, PO Box 106 Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 3XT Tel: +44 (0) 345 603 5507 Mobile: +44 (0) 7815 055514 email: admin@apea.org.uk
the use of electricity at some point. Electricity needs to be generated somewhere somehow. I don’t believe there is any one impact-free solution to electricity generation. What will be the true impact of providing sufficient wind farms or solar farms? There is an environmental impact in the building of those things as well as an environmental impact on the removal of that energy from our global environment. Which precious metal will we run out of first? What is the environmental impact of trying to recover precious metals from “waste”? How are we going to efficiently store that energy? I’ll get off my soapbox, but my simple contention is that the most environmentally friendly vehicle you can drive is the one you own right now. Don’t waste the world’s resources disposing of it and manufacturing a replacement. On a completely different topic I find it really interesting to see an article on fuelling safety in the UAE. That health and safety message is important everywhere and is starkly contrasted by several news articles on fires involving petrol and LPG. I also enjoyed reading two historic articles by “Otto” from The Bulletin in the 1960s. In particular the description of the brick built 3-stage “standard petroleum interceptor”. All of these things just show what a dynamic world we live in and how important keeping up to date is – through The Bulletin, of course. Finally, I would like to thank all members for their continued support of the APEA. As Jane mentions in her item, we have been having a few problems with the membership renewal section of our website but please do bear with us and let Jane know of any problems. I would also like to thank National Council for their support during my time as Chairman and, once more, encourage members to get involved at National Council or local Branch level. I look forward to seeing many of you at APEA Live and would encourage all members who can to attend the AGM at lunchtime.
Publications Chairman Andy Kennedy Mobile: 07469 212063 email: andykennedy@apea.org.uk Editor Brian Humm Mobile: +44 (0) 7507 478533 email: b.humm@outlook.com
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Editorial
Editorial Brian Humm Editor Welcome to this brand-new edition of The Bulletin. It seems only yesterday I wrote the introduction to the last edition, time certainly seems to be flying by. As I write this, I’m looking out of my office window at the rain persistently falling; ironically, I actually live somewhere that is known as the sunshine coast! Still, mustn’t grumble as we have had some nice sunny weather this year and I hope all the members took advantage of this and had a break from work - we all need a break to recharge our batteries. My break was in a caravan in Cambersands with my wife and grandchildren, aged 2, 7 and 10, the words never again spring to mind! But the kids enjoyed it and that’s all that matters. Members will know that every edition I plead for copy to be included in The Bulletin. This is an opportunity to highlight your company and employees, show the members something new, praise an employee for a job well done. We do prioritise our advertisers for inclusion, but we consider any copy! Please get your thinking caps on and see if you can come up with something, anything. If you would like me to assist then contact me at Brian.humm@outlook.com, and I’d gladly help anyone. I’ll even travel to you and write the copy if you’d like! The Association would cover my expenses and it would be of no cost to you at all. APEA Live is coming soon and I hope to meet as many members this year as possible. It is your Association and I am somewhat surprised at the attendance of the AGM. Details were within the last edition of The Bulletin and it is a chance for members to see and meet the national council, you could also learn how to get involved. As I just mentioned, the Association belongs to the members and the council are just the guardians that freely give their time and commitment to ensure that things go to plan. It would be lovely to see more members there, it’s only 30-40 minutes so why not give it a go this year, you will be more than welcome. Following on from the success of APEA Live 2022, this year will 6
be even better. We have a great line up of speakers for the conference, the break out areas with various topics will once again be held and the exhibition will be full with interesting exhibitors. It would be lovely to see more regulators attending as well; a great place to learn/garner knowledge and to find out those answers that have always niggled at the back of your mind. I can guarantee that you will find someone to answer any query that you may have. You can also get continued professional development hours for your attendance if your authority requires you to undertake this. Ask for details at the APEA Live registration desk if you require more information. The highlight of the APEA Live event is always the dinner and awards in the evening, a great event to network and see old colleagues and possibly make new contacts in this amazing industry. If you have never attended then you have missed out, it really is the event to attend. Details of the event and booking information is on page 80 of this issue and trust me you will not be disappointed if you attend. The awards, that are held in high esteem throughout the downstream world, are once again going to be held at the dinner. May I wish every entrant all the luck in the world and may the best entry win; the winners are always obviously delighted to receive the award, but to be honest, if you are shortlisted then that is a major achievement as well. I’m looking forward to that part of the event. The revision of the Blue Book is nearing completion. I believe that all the chapters are either finished or are close to being completed, following all the reviews, and very hard work by all the groups. Once completed the chapters go out to all stakeholders within the industry for comment and any proposed alterations are discussed and either implemented (or not) as is seen fit. Here’s hoping that the 5th edition will be coming to fruition soon. The Blue Book has come a long way since its first inception, it is now used worldwide as a guide, especially in the middle east, and it somewhat makes me proud to be part of an organisation that produces guidance like this and helps to make the petrol filling station world” a safer place, something that members should also be positive about. I would like to finish with a few thank you acknowledgments. Jane for her help in compiling and production of The Bulletin, with her gentle cajoling and chasing for the news etc, without Jane this wouldn’t be happening. Another supporter of the APEA I would like to acknowledge is Jeff Simms, lead petrol specialist at Sainsbury’s supermarkets, who regularly supplies their filling stations for use by APEA training delegates during the 3 day audit course. Jeff, your help and assistance is greatly appreciated and thank you. Until next time…
APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
Business Manager
Business Manager email address is up to date by logging onto your membership record at www.apea.org.uk.
Jane Mardell Business Manager I hope you all managed to have a break over the summer/autumn period, I had sometime away in Crete which was beautiful, a much needed break. APEA Live 2023 Not long now until APEA Live Conference, Exhibition and Awards Dinner on 16th November at Stadium MK. I hope those of you attending enjoy the day/evening. For details go to page 80 of this issue. For more information and how to book please go to www.apealive.co.uk/2023/. The Bulletin We are always looking for press releases and articles for The Bulletin. If you have anything you think would interest our readers, please email it to me at admin@apea.org.uk and I will forward it to the editor, Brian Humm to approve. Please send any interesting photos you may have too and we can consider them for the front cover. Bulletin advertisers can benefit from submitting multiple press releases and articles for free so if this interests you please look at how to advertise on page 12. Bulletin - 2024 Advertising I am currently taking bookings for advertising in the 2024 issues of The Bulletin. All current advertisers have been contacted and invited to renew their bookings. If you wish to secure the best position for your advertisement, please email me as soon as possible, as all bookings are on a first come first served basis. All artwork should be emailed to me by 8th January. More information about advertising can be found on page 12. 2024/2025 Yearbook You should have all received your 2024 Yearbooks. They were sent out mid September, so if you have not received your copy please email me at admin@apea.org.uk and I will follow this up. I will be starting work on the 2025 Yearbook in February. Instructions will be sent to members on how to be included with the March Bulletin and sent by email so please make sure your 8
The website enables you to update your Yearbook profile at any time of the year so you can keep your contact information up to date live on the website. There will be a deadline date of 1st May of each year when I will use this information for the printed version. Membership information/Your membership account Please go to your membership account at www.apea.org.uk where you can do the following: • • • • • •
Download a membership certificate in pdf format View previous purchases and invoices Change your membership Change your email address, contact details and password Change your Yearbook entry View your downloads
Unfortunately, we are having a few glitches with the website which are being worked on, so please bear with us. Any problems please email me at admin@apea.org.uk. We had to ask you to manually complete your membership renewals from 14th March 2022 for one year due to new SCA regulations so all auto renewals should now be automatic. All members are emailed a payment notification one month before their payment is due including details on how to cancel the auto renew if preferred. Training Courses All training courses can be viewed and booked on the APEA website at www.apea.org.uk. If you are interested in booking a bespoke training course please email Tom Daly (Chairman of Training Committee) at thomasdaly@apea.org.uk. Online training courses Please go to the training page on the APEA website at www.apea.org.uk or go to: https://apea.org.uk/pages/training or https://apea.mykademy.com/ New Members There have been 14 new members joining during July and August and details can be found on page 10. General Assistance If you need any assistance with general or technical matters, please do not hesitate to contact me at admin@apea.org.uk or on 0345 603 5507. There is comprehensive contact information on the APEA website too at www.apea.org.uk. Best wishes Jane
APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
New Members/Publications Information
New Members (July - August) Corporate Membership Dominic Betteridge Pipeflex Systems Ltd Ansis Zviedris Britteco LTD
Marta Kafel AIUT SP. Z O.O. Stephen O’Hanlon OHanlon Electrical Ltd
Individual Membership
Joe Fee Forecourt Services Irl.
Grant Miller Asda Supermarkets Ltd
Adam Buxton Fast Fuel Services Ltd
Siobhan Keogh PUMPWATCH Ltd
Laura Williams Petropolis Limited
Ursula Clarke Ingeni Renewables Limited
Tom Glenn
Richard Apaloo National Petroleum Authority
Richard Walters West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service Anthony Norris GILBARCO VEEDER-ROOT
Publications Information 4th Edition of the Guidance for Design, Construction, Modification, Maintenance and Decommissioning of Filling Stations “Blue Book” (Revised 2018) ISBN 978 0 85293 888 1 Price for hard copy APEA Member rate - £75 Non APEA Member rate - £150 Price for pdf version (please note the pdf version is licensed to the purchaser only and cannot be shared or printed) APEA Member rate - £75 Non APEA Member rate - pdf £150 If you wish to purchase the guide please go to the APEA website at www.apea.org.uk and click on the “Publications” page. You can select to pay by credit/debit card. The APEA also publishes the Code of Practice for Ground floor, multi storey and underground car parks. This can be downloaded directly from the APEA website and is available to members at £11.00 and £21.00 to non APEA members. 10
APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
Publications Information
This Code of Practice is an authoritative guide to all installations of electric vehicle charging equipment. It has been updated in line with recent changes in BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) and reflects some major developments in this area including vehicle to grid, smart integration and inductive charging. As part of the rapid growth and development of the whole electric vehicle charging infrastructure, filling stations are seen as an obvious place to provide charging facilities. However, it is recognised that difficult safety and logistical issues are linked to such installations.
Electric Vehicle Charging Installations at Filling Stations Price for hard copy APEA Member rate - £32.50 Non APEA Member rate - £50 Price for pdf version (please note the pdf version is licensed to the purchaser only and cannot be shared or printed) APEA Member rate - £32.50 Non APEA Member rate - pdf £50
When the 4th Edition of the Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation was published, significant technical discussions were still underway about this area to help finalise and clarify the safety issues that needed to be addressed. The work behind these meetings was led by APEA (the Association for Petroleum and Explosives Administration) who represent the major stakeholders in this sector. APEA and the IET are therefore now issuing this joint publication to help provide important guidance in this area. ISBN-13: 978-1-83953-315-0 Publication Year: 2020 Pages: 30
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Publications Information About The Bulletin and how you can submit copy to be included • The Bulletin is published four times a year with a print run of 2200 • Free issue to APEA members (approx 1200 members worldwide) • Has international distribution and readership • Respected source of industry specific news and information
The editor of The Bulletin, Brian Humm, is always on the look out for new material, so if you have something you want to be included, please email it to the APEA office at admin@apea.org.uk and it will be forwarded to Brian for approval. Please email the text in Word format and any images as separate high resolution pdf or jpeg files to admin@apea.org.uk.
• Contains relevant articles, news items, press releases and reports from UK and overseas
We are always pleased to receive contributions from our members and it ensures that The Bulletin remains an interesting and informative read.
• Individual, Fellow and Retired members receive one copy each and Corporate members receive 5 copies each per quarter
Priority is given for press releases and articles submitted by Bulletin advertisers to be included.
Deadline dates for copy and advertising artwork 2024 Issue
Copy deadline date
Posting date
March 2024
8th January
16th February
June 2024
26th March
11th May
Sept 2024
2nd July
9th August
Dec 2024
2nd September
2nd November
Please note the deadline date for the March 2024 issue is early due to Christmas and New Year holidays.
Bulletin Advertising If you would like to book advertising in The Bulletin, please email your requirements to admin@apea.org.uk or call the office on 0345 603 5507. Please ensure you send your artwork to admin@apea.org.uk. Priority is given for press releases and articles submitted by Bulletin advertisers to be included. Discounts are available for booking in more than one issue, please contact Jane Mardell at admin@apea.org.uk for more information. Bulletin advertisers that book in 3 or more issues in one year also receive a 50% discount off rates for advertising in the annual Yearbook, see table below.
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Size of advert (all rates exclude VAT)
Advert fee in 1 issue
Advert fee in 4 issues (includes 25% disc
Full page (210mmw x 280mmh with 10mm border or with 3mm bleed)
£498.00
£1494.00
½ page (185mmw x 125mmh)
£249.00
£747.00
¼ page (90mmw x 120mmh)
£125.00
£375.00
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Articles
Articles Electric Vehicles vs Hydrocarbon Vehicles Some Myths Explained By Graeme Warnell, Director, EV-EXBOX If you have flicked through any social media recently you cannot have failed to see the concerns surrounding lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicles.
responders tackling car fires globally. All modern cars now take longer to extinguish and require more water than they ever did before.
In the instances of fires caused by e-bikes, e-scooters and disposable vapes the concerns regarding lithium-ion battery safety are well founded. There is not a day that seems to go past without a fire, resulting in severe damage to property, personal injury or, tragically, death.
At EV-EXBOX we look at the typical risks associated with both EV and ICE vehicles, and we find that in many respects they are pretty similar.
For e-bike and e-scooters the guidance is clear; do not leave them to charge unsupervised, do not charge overnight and if possible do not charge indoors. If there is no alternative to indoor charging, ensure the equipment being charged is not blocking a safe exit route. However, for electric vehicles the situation is more complicated, and the available data is harder to accurately assess and analyse. As a result of this society seems to have polarized itself into taking extreme views regarding the safety of EV’s and ICE’s. The extreme pro EV camp believes an EV can do no wrong and the EV poses no risks when compared to an ICE vehicle. The extreme anti EV camp believe lithium-ion battery vehicles are mobile time bombs waiting to explode at any minute.
Myth 1 - EV’s catch fire less than ICE’s To begin with we need to understand that the frequency of EV fires compared to ICE fires is very difficult to factually record with any degree of accuracy on a global basis. To date I have seen figures published that state, “You are 24 times more likely to be involved in an ICE fire than an EV fire” or, “0.3% of EV cars caught fire globally compared to 1.05% for ICE cars”.
For the purpose of this article, I would like to focus on the sensible “middle ground” on which we should base any risk assessments and also to dispel some of the common myths regarding both EV’s and ICE vehicles as both for and against camps try to play one vehicle type off against the other.
The problem we face as an industry going through a huge transition is we still do not have enough data to make a true statistical comparison that is meaningful to identify the differences between the fire frequency of EV’s and ICE’s.
Setting the scene When we look at the nature of ALL vehicle fires, we have to understand that in the last 20 years car design and the materials used for car construction have changed significantly regardless of whether they are EV’s or ICE’s. ALL vehicles now contain far more electrics and volatile organic materials than ever before.
The challenge with the current data is the huge disbalance in the numbers of EV’s vs ICE’s. Just reporting the numbers is not enough as for a true analysis we must consider vehicle age profiles, vehicle type, vehicle use, vehicle power, vehicle mileage, vehicle usage, frequency of servicing, previous crash history etc with regards to both sets of vehicles in the data set.
The use of these materials means that ALL cars will burn more fiercely than they ever did before in the event of a fire. The intensity of a modern-day car fire ensures that any fire will spread more quickly from vehicle to vehicle. The use of more volatile organic materials will also mean that a modern car will give off more toxic fumes and result in the creation of more highly polluted fire water run-off.
Thankfully there is some great work currently being undertaken by EV Fire Safe in Australia and the NIPV, Dutch Institute for Safety, and with time (probably at least another 10 years), we could have enough data to compare EV fire frequency with ICE vehicle fire frequencies using truly comparable data sets.
These facts are confirmed from feedback from firefighters and first 14
A petrol car has the inherent risk of fire, a release of explosive fuel vapour, emitting toxic fumes and creating a serious pollution event. Likewise, an EV car can catch fire due to thermal runaway, emit explosive and flammable vapour, emit toxic fumes and result in a pollution event. With this in mind we struggle to understand why the design of EV charger locations are not as onerous or well defined as those for petrol filling stations when the risks attributed to both EV’s and ICE’s is comparable.
However, maybe we should even challenge the relevance of the EV vs ICE comparison, especially when new ICE vehicle manufacture stops 2030-5. At some point we will reach a tipping
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Articles
point in the balance between EV’s and ICE vehicles and in another 20 years, we may only have EV fires to worry about. As we clearly understand the fire risks of ICE cars surely it is better to just focus our attention on EV and hybrid data to assess where, when, and how they catch fire. If you believe the current data that EV’s catch fire less, then let’s understand why they burn at all and try to eliminate this through design of both vehicles and charging infrastructure. If we can do this, we achieved something meaningful through the data analysis for the future safety of EV’s. Myth verdict – stop comparing EV and ICE fire frequency as it will be an ever-moving target. What is inevitable with any mechanical device is the risks of failure resulting in fire increases with usage and time. If we add to this our demand for more powerful batteries and faster charging the problem will grow but hopefully be
balanced by some advances in battery technology. As we move to battery storage systems in charging poles, we must now also consider not just the EV’s but also the charging infrastructure supporting them. EV fires are more difficult to extinguish than ICE fires With the true unknown probability of an EV or ICE fire set to one side we should perhaps focus on what happens when we do have a vehicle fire (already knowing that all car fires are harder to deal with than they were 20 years ago). For ICE cars the emergency services have had over 100 years of practice in extinguishing fires, so the risks are known, the training is in place and the equipment carried is fit for purpose. For EV’s there is more of a challenge as the emergency services and the entire fire industry is still innovating to try and make lithium-ion battery fire suppression in vehicles more effective. The biggest challenge still sits with the car design itself where the battery packs are very inaccessible. The secondary challenge is that the exothermic reaction, that is “ thermal runaway,” does not behave like a traditional ICE fire. A lithium-ion battery in thermal runaway emits highly flammable and explosive gas. When the gas ignites there can be a vapour cloud explosion or the violent burning off of the electrolyte gas as it is released from the battery pack. But is that not the same as petrol vapour which can explode or burn as well? In some ways the answer is YES, however, with a petrol fire once
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Articles you starve the fire of oxygen or remove the vapour you have effectively controlled the fire. With a lithium-ion battery fire starving the fire of oxygen can be challenging as the battery creates its own oxygen during thermal runaway. What you may do during an EV fire is extinguish the flames that were the result of all the burning volatile organic materials, plastics, rubber etc but the thermal runaway in the battery will continue. As long as the thermal runaway continues the battery will continue to emit flammable and explosive gas and so we enter the cycle of EV fire re-ignition, which can persist for days.
let’s not debate if it was EV or ICE until the investigations are completed), it seems innovation is now looking at water misting as a more effective cooling solution than water drenching. Water misting using an added encapsulation agent to promote rapid cooling may take us even a step further in the effective suppression of a thermal runaway event using less water. Myth verdict – all modern cars create more toxic firewater and smoke than they ever did before which has been overlooked in terms of pollution control mechanisms where any cars park or are charged. The EV has the potential to release more heavy metals and PFA chemicals if the battery pack is flushed. The use of excessive amounts of water used to combat EV fires will make the EV firewater run off harder to contain.
Myth verdict – Yes, in today’s world an EV presents a bigger challenge to firefighters than an ICE vehicle due to the nature of a lithium-ion battery fire. Aside from the battery the burn characteristics of an EV and ICE are pretty much the same. An EV fire creates a bigger environmental incident than an ICE fire What you will often hear regarding an EV fire was the fact that tens of thousands of litres of water had to be used. This is often the case and sometimes the EV can end up in a total submersion container. When we look at the volumes of water used, we should ask ourselves how much of this water was used effectively? All cars will create highly toxic fire water pollution. An EV vehicle fire will, however, release more pollutants if we use more water and if the battery pack splits and is flushed as part of the firefighting process. When we look at innovation the key to controlling an EV fire is around cooling the battery as this slows down and eventually stops thermal runaway. Simply turning a fire hose onto the battery and using water alone may not be the best use of such a large volume of water. New equipment on the market allows the battery to be punctured or cut into allowing the battery compartment to be flooded with water. The difficulties with this arise with locating the best place to create a successful battery penetration. We have to consider all the various differences between the makes and models of EV’s. In terms of personal safety directly trying to access the battery pack puts the emergency services closer to the burning vehicle. If battery penetration can be successfully achieved then yet less water will be used; however, as we mentioned before, if the battery pack is flushed then this will result in the highest release of toxins into the firewater. Having reviewed a number of high-profile ship fires recently (and 16
There are fire extinguishers for lithium-ion battery fires When we consider risk assessment, we cannot ignore the behaviours of our customers and how they interact with our safety systems. For a petrol spill they may grab a sand bucket and happily throw its contents over a spill. In a fire they might grab a fire extinguisher as they are typically located next to the pumps, and we are happy for them to do that. So, what does a customer or site operator do in the event of an EV fire? On the marketplace today there is an array of fire extinguishers that profess to be suitable for lithium-ion batteries, but not all of them. A typical fire extinguisher may contain between 9 – 50 litres of firefighting medium. This may be enough for laptops, phones, e-bikes, or mobility scooters but it will have no effect on an EV battery fire. There is simply not enough medium to cool the battery
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Articles
and probably not enough to extinguish all the organic materials once they are fully alight. It is important to remember a lot of EV charging is unmanned and unsupervised so a fire may be well established before any alarm is raised and action taken. Myth verdict – there is no fire extinguisher suitable for an EV battery fire. The desire of an EV driver to save his own vehicle should not be encouraged through the use of fire extinguishers; leave it to the professionals. A fire blanket will put out an EV fire If we look at fire blankets then the application of these is really a job for between 2-4 people, not an individual. One of the key challenges in deploying a blanket is you need to get close to the vehicle and the EV can jet out flames from the battery pack up to 2-3m and if it’s a hybrid or petrol car there is the risk of explosion from the petrol tank. If a fire blanket is successfully deployed it can extinguish the flames associated with the organic material components of the car through oxygen starvation. However, as discussed before, the battery can generate its own oxygen and if not cooled it will continue to emit highly flammable electrolyte gas. To smother a fire the fire blanket must be impermeable so therefore you also run the risk of allowing the explosive electrolyte gas and toxins such as hydrogen cyanide and hydrogen fluoride to build up under the blanket. Myth verdict – At EV-EXBOX we have seen fire blankets deployed
at EV charging hubs and in car show rooms which makes us very nervous. What we know about EV fires is they should only be tackled by the fire service who will be fully trained and wearing breathing apparatus and fire-retardant clothing. The desire of an EV driver to save his own vehicle should not be encouraged through the use of fire blankets; leave it to the professionals. EV’s are heavier than ICE’s - this is a problem for the future For now, let’s forget the EV vs ICE debate and just focus on cars in general. All cars are getting heavier for two main reasons. First, people want a much higher equipment specification, more luxurious seating and bigger interiors for more space and comfort. There is also the perception that bigger is safer although ironically
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Articles heavier means harder to stop and slower to escape from in a potential accident scenario. The rise of the SUV and uptake of 4x4’s in urban areas means average car weights have been increasing for some time, with or without the uptake of EV’s. Yes, an EV battery can weigh over 500kgs but most EV’s are weight comparable to most small non-EV SUV’s. The real weight factor only really comes into play when you put massive batteries into massive cars which tends to be at the more luxurious end of the car market and therefore, they are typically less common. Myth verdict - Our obsession with owning bigger vehicles in general is the issue. Heavier cars could pose a problem for some very old structures as time goes on, but this is not uniquely an EV issue. If we think there is unfair wear and tear on roads use weight as a taxation metric. Let’s face it, the vehicle taxation metrics have changed at least twice in my lifetime which means they are not fixed. Conclusion In a world where we are still struggling to understand the long terms risks of EV’s we must firstly acknowledge the fact that EV’s and modern ICE’s have brought new challenges to public, fire and environmental safety management and risk assessment. Much of our infrastructure today has not taken into account how these risks have changed over the last 20 years. If we look at a petrol filling station with EV charging the risk profile is still really focused on the hydrocarbons and not the EV facility. If we look at an EV only charging facility the design typically ignores all of the common risks shared by both EV’s and ICE’s namely fire, risk of explosion and an increased toxicity of firewater run-off. In this article we have covered some of the most common challenges, but the list goes on and gets infinitely more
complicated in locations such as below ground and multi-story carparks. Additional considerations must also be given to public safety as EV chargers are now located in areas where there can be a high concentration of people such as shopping centre car parks. As EV charging is pushed to the boundaries of petrol filling stations then boundary risk assessments should consider the risk of adjacent material flammability such as cladding and the risk of fire spreading through wooden fencing or landscaped areas. Having watched the electric vehicle and clean energy transition for many years EV-EXBOX has devised a range of sensible and cost-effective risk assessment services, fire suppression and firewater pollution control measures to mitigate risk across a wide range of premises. We are all on a learning curve when it comes to understanding the risk differences between ICE’s and EV’s as the clean energy transition gathers pace. Do not be afraid of the risks but equally do not be complacent or ignore the risks. Our industry has been at the forefront of designing out risks and it all starts with sensible risk assessment. If safety itself starts with a conversation please reach out to the EV-EXBOX Team to discuss how we can help you to mitigate the risks of fire, public safety and environmental pollution for the future. Email info@ev-exbox.com www.evexbox.com.
The Biggest New Charging Projects and their Impact on the Economy By Dover Fueling Solutions The battery-powered vehicle charging revolution is moving at an electric pace, with global investment predicted to pass $100 billion and large-scale ‘mega charging hubs’ popping up across Europe. These new energy “superhubs” such as in Oxford in the UK and Southern Spain are having a dramatic impact on their respective areas – decarbonizing transport and super-charging the local economy. Oxford’s new hub alone offers ultra-rapid charging for up to 42 vehicles at once and is expected to be scaled up to 400 vehicles when at full capacity. Dover Fueling Solutions (DFS) explore the expansion of EV 18
charging networks - and explain how investing in sustainable transport infrastructure can put a spark back in the European economy. Where is investment happening? In addition to these super-sized stations, investment in other countries continues apace, especially in western Europe. The Netherlands and Germany remain market leaders with 29.4% and 19.4% of EU charging points respectively. So, despite making up only 10% of the land mass of Europe, the two countries contain 50% of its EV charging points - with Eastern Europe lagging behind. In countries such as Lithuania and Estonia, infrastructure remains in its infancy with just 207 and 385 charging points respectively.
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Articles Some experts predict that these stations will initially sit alongside major ‘trunk’ roads, which experience a high traffic volume per day with few having the luxury of home charging. How are networks expanding? EV infrastructure has long been a “chicken and egg” scenario – should adoption follow infrastructure or vice versa? Investment is underpinned by a mix of public and private sector spending. In 2022, the EU poured 292.5 million euros of funding into 24 greener mobility projects while BP is pledging £1 billion to triple its number of charging points by 2030. Generally, the biggest barrier to adoption remains access to convenient charging points; however Germany does show that bigger infrastructure increases EV adoption. David McGuinness, Director of Product Management and Electric Vehicle Charging at DFS, explains: “While Europe is certainly making strides in electrifying its transport, more needs to be done by authorities to improve access to ‘the plug’. “Dependable, renewable energy infrastructure is required to feed the grid with a need to create a consumer-centric recharging model that serves the practical needs of EV drivers. “As local governments begin to embrace this, companies can deliver high-quality fast chargers to market.” How does EV infrastructure affect the economy? Investing in infrastructure can bring huge economic benefits too. The UK government highlights five key areas it can affect the economy – planning, regeneration, business growth, tourism and inward investment. Benefits not only include the initial cost of installing hubs and the job creation this entails but can also benefit the economy for years to come. The increased dwell time associated with EV charging for instance, can positively impact revenue on a community. Just as fueling solutions are hubs for generating revenue, new charging networks will have a ripple effect on the economy. Workers and business owners will be more inclined to frequent fast-food restaurants, convenience stores and local shopping. Job creation benefits are significant due to installation and maintenance processes requiring skilled labour such as electricians, engineers and technology experts. Other nonmechanical jobs can open up, too, including customer service, marketing and environmental. In developing countries, the effects are even more pronounced. A new World Bank report provides a compelling economic argument for the increased use of new technologies in developing countries. Advantages range from improved air quality to less traffic congestion and decreased dependence on fossil fuels, all of which cause less strain on the economy. In addition, EV adoption can help develop an environmentally friendly image – attracting eco-conscious individuals and businesses to visit and trade. Dover Fueling Solutions with the https://www.doverfuelingsolutions.com/
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Alternative Fuels: How Will these Impact the Future of the Forecourt? By Dover Fueling Solutions
As Europe moves towards its decarbonisation targets with sales of internal combustion engine (“ICE”) cars being banned between 2030 and 2035 and alternative fuels no longer optional, station owners are pausing to reimagine the future of the forecourt. With changing driving habits, our collective approach to driving is changing too. Service stations across the EU will likely be revamped to provide drivers with a whole new consumer-friendly experience. This raises several questions. Will city centres stop selling petrol and diesel entirely? Might subscription model pricing mean drivers stay loyal to their preferred forecourt? How will retail options change with the increased dwell time of EV charging? As local governments invest in EV infrastructure and other clean fuelling options, it’s clear that the traditional “Stop and Go” service stations may transform into multi-purpose destinations replete with new-look retail and leisure options. Fuelling experts, Dover Fueling Solutions (DFS), consider what the service stations of the future may look like. An evolved consumer experience? It’s forecast that the European EV infrastructure boasts the most mainstream motoring potential of all clean fuelling options, with 1,390,000 units sold across the continent per year. This is sure to increase dwell times across the forecourt as even the most rapid EV public chargers take 10 minutes to charge. Forecourt station owners can capitalise on this uptake in dwell time by enhancing retail and entertainment offerings. Convenience stores will likely be transformed into multi-purpose hubs with fresh food and a fast, easy and digitally enabled shopping experience. 20
This could include easy payment through apps, cashless stores and whole-basket scanning. Whereas convenience drove earlier generations, it’s likely that sustainability concerns will underpin the buying habits of the future. It’s likely stations will have to carefully curate their product assortments, while building out shops and cafes could offer further opportunities to improve profit margins. 66% of prospective EV drivers, for instance, reported they’d frequent retailers more regularly should they provide usable charging facilities. Additional services will also likely assume centre stage including children’s play areas, click & collect departments and co-working spaces. Pump modernisation As stated, the forecourt is likely to include a mix of EV charging and other alternative fuels, so spaces in between the pumps will need to be bigger. One of the biggest threats to the fuelling industry at the moment is petrol skimming, with consumers increasingly falling prey to both thieves swiping their cards and fraud schemes. Enhanced security software at the pump can protect against this. Other areas of pump modernisation will likely be technologically led too. This could include a consumer-friendly interface with EU languages, the ability to pay by card, app or in-car and digital pricing transparency. Drivers may also soon be able to order refreshments and other items at the pump before collecting in-store. This is currently an emerging trend in the North American market and will likely soon hit EMEA.
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Will traditional pumps still be required? 2030 will not signify the complete demise of ICE vehicles. Traditional petrol and diesel pumps will still be required long after the switch and will still have demand in the marketplace.
services will surely become commonplace. The rise of the alternative fuelling forecourt offers massive opportunities for fuel retailers and businesses should look to double down by offering access to the plug – and the pump.
The average lifespan of a European car is 12 years, which would mean traditional pumps could still be needed beyond 2040. As ICE cars become less mainstream, it’s likely that these pumps will be set apart from cleaner refuelling, especially with an expected emphasis on sustainability across all areas of the forecourt, not just in terms of charging and refuelling but in the retail and leisure offering too. Some experts predict the future may see a revival in the vintage sports car market which would mean petrol pumps will still be needed to service these. Whether these will be housed on the same site as clean fuels or on a different complex entirely remains to be seen. The Future of Fuel? In summary, while for the foreseeable, traditional petrol and diesel pumps are likely to remain fixtures of the forecourt, it’s likely that the traditional petrol station will become a completely evolved consumer experience. Station owners can take full advantage by offering bespoke food, beverage and entertainment options, while forecourt and pump modernisation and recharging subscription APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Electric Vehicle Sales By Jamie Thompson, Chairman of the Technical Committee The UK Government had until last month insisted that it was sticking to its policy to ban all new petrol and diesel sales by 2030. But an announcement by Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister, in September, pushed this ban back to 2035 and has received criticism from many environmentalists, but this policy is more in line with other countries in Europe.
A fire on a cargo ship carrying almost 3,000 cars off the coast of the Dutch island of Ameland in July has left one sailor dead and 22 other crew members hurt. Some of the crew leapt 30m (100ft) into the sea to escape the blaze. A major salvage operation occurred in the North Sea and rescue teams fear the fire could burn for days.
However, the roll out of EV’s in the UK is still far behind most of its European neighbours with Electric Vehicles making up around one in six (16.6%) new registrations in 2022 compared to almost four in five in Norway. The share of EV’s in new car registrations in 2022 were:1 Norway 79.3% 2 Sweden 32.1% 3 China 19.9% 4 Germany 17.7% 5 UK 16.6% 6 France 13.3% 7 USA 5.3% 8 Spain 4.4% 9 Italy 3.7% 10 Japan 1.4%
Members of the crew initially tried to douse the flames themselves, but were overwhelmed and were eventually forced to flee. Seven of them jumped into the water, said the captain of the Ameland lifeboat, Willard Molenaar. “One by one, they jumped and we had to fish them out of the water,” he told the press. “They were really desperate so they had to jump - you don’t just do that for the sake of it.”
The Hidden Risk of EV’s In the 1940s to 1950s the Government was very keen to ensure that petrol driven cars were kept safe, and when underground and multi storage garages were first developed mainly in London a risk of fire and explosion was envisaged as a major problem. The Home Office, which was the Government department responsible at the time, introduced the “Home Office Code” for construction of Underground Car Parks. This included requirements for ventilation, fire protection of these car parks and also the need at the time to have Petroleum Licensing Authorities issue a licence to them for the safe storage of petrol in the car tanks within the garage. Control at the time depended on the level of ventilation, fire protection, the need for sprinklers, drainage and all the items to keep the users (the general public) safe. It was only much later when the HSE became the Government department responsible for petroleum that they decided that car parks should no longer be licensed under the Petroleum Consolidation Act 1928. As the most recent changes to electric vehicles progresses, we now see new problems in both underground and multi storage car parks in the country as electric chargers are installed in these car parks to charge the cars while they are parked. We had previously required electric points to be at a higher level due to hazard areas created by petrol driven vehicles; it may be that in the future electric vehicles and petrol driven vehicles should be segregated in the parking areas to avoid this risk. A number of articles published within The Bulletin (Graeme Warnell, June 2023) and the general press have issued warnings about the risk of fires in Battery driven vehicles, including electric bikes, scooters and cars. It is unfortunate that the risk to life from such equipment which is now heralded as an environmental saviour will I am sure have to be regulated in some way and the Fire Authorities are correct in drawing this to everyone’s attention. 22
Photos shared by the coastguard showed the Panamanian-flagged Fremantle Highway engulfed in smoke, with flames licking the deck in an area of the North Sea. The coastguard told Dutch news agency the fire could continue for days. The sides of the ship were being doused with water to cool it down, but rescue boats avoided pouring too much water on board because of the risk of sinking. The coastguard said the cause of the fire was unknown, but had earlier suggested it is likely to have been an electric car. About 25 of the vehicles on the ship were electric. The immediate challenge for emergency crews at the scene is to extinguish the fire and keep the cargo ship afloat. Salvage boats have been circling the ship in preparation for all possible scenarios and an oil-recovery vessel has been sent to the scene in case of a leak. Air traffic officials have barred planes from flying near the ship.
This more recent incident in July follows a large ship fire and loss of vehicles off the Azores last year when a cargo ship carrying 4,000 luxury cars caught fire and sank off the Azores. Lithium-ion batteries in the cars caught fire on board the Felicity Ace. Although water was ineffective in putting out the fire, firefighters eventually brought it under control before the ship went down while being towed. These incidents once again draw attention to the changing of risks using battery powered vehicles. The maritime industry is still learning and needs to adapt to these new sets of risks and mitigate them accordingly. Scientific evidence is essential to develop effective risk mitigation strategies, which will also apply the storage in car parks and other enclosed spaces.
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United for Safety: UAE’s Drive for Secure Summer Fueling By Hamdan Al Doukhi, HSE Manager, Emirates National Oil Company Limited (ENOC) LLC Every year, as part of this initiative running until September 25th, there’s a concerted effort to heighten the awareness around the best practices to be observed at gas stations. By ensuring that users are aware of the correct protocols, from the basic act of switching off the engine while refuelling to adhering to a cautious 20 km/h speed limit when entering, the campaign goes beyond mere information dissemination. It is an embodiment of a proactive approach to prevent potential mishaps and ensure the well-being of both customers and staff.
With the temperatures soaring and the roads bustling, summer in the UAE marks a significant rise in the use of petrol stations. This yearly upsurge makes it crucial to revisit and remind ourselves of the importance of safety and security at these fuelling spots. This year, the Joint Committee for Security and Safety’s fourth edition of the “Five for Your Safety” campaign serves as a timely beacon for this very message.
So, who are the architects behind this drive? A collaborative brainchild, the campaign brings together representatives from the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the General Command of Civil Defence, as well as major oil giants like ENOC, ADNOC, and Emarat. This union of governmental bodies and corporate entities speaks volumes about the nation’s commitment to safety. This initiative isn’t just about immediate results. With the UAE charting a vision for the next half-century that puts the safety of
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Articles its citizens at the forefront, the “Five for Your Safety” campaign seamlessly aligns with this future-facing strategy. And it’s not just about preventing the occasional spill or ensuring orderly queues. At its core, this campaign seeks to enshrine a culture of security, where every individual recognises their role in fostering a safe environment. Safety is more than just a concept; it’s a way of life. This sentiment was echoed fervently by HE Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure for Energy and Petroleum Affairs and Team Leader of the Joint Committee for Security and Safety. “Our campaign isn’t just a set of guidelines. It is an embodiment of our nation’s dedication to preserving lives and ensuring that every individual steps into a secure environment each day,” stated Al Olama. Diving deeper into the significance of this initiative, Al Olama emphasised the campaign’s inherent role in augmenting social responsibility, stating, “In the vast expanse of our nation, we’re anchored by our collective sense of duty towards each other. This campaign is a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to not just safeguard its citizens but to also fortify a culture of safety. In a world where fuel is indispensable, it is essential that its handling becomes synonymous with caution and care.” Al Olama’s passion for the cause resonates in his call for collective efforts. “Our goal extends beyond mere awareness. We strive to inculcate a deep-rooted understanding of the significance of safety protocols at petrol stations,” he shared. His message to the community is clear and compelling — to assimilate, advocate, and abide by the campaign’s principles. “By being vigilant, by recognizing the importance of every safety measure, we can collectively ensure a summer that is not only memorable for its moments but also for its security,” Al Olama fervently added. United for Safety — Visionaries Talk Petrol Station Safety When it comes to the security and well-being of a nation, unity in action and purpose becomes paramount. Major General Dr. Jassim Mohammed Al Marzouqi, Commander-in-Chief of Civil Defence at the Ministry of Interior, emphasised the role of collective action in furthering safety agendas. “Our goal goes beyond isolated efforts. By embracing a unified approach, we aim to secure our communities more robustly,” he remarked. Highlighting the significance of awareness, he added, “A nation informed is a nation protected. Our collaboration with various authorities through this campaign aims to protect our community’s heartbeats — its citizens and their assets.” Eng. Bader Al Lamki, Chief Executive Officer, ADNOC Distribution, echoed the sentiment. “Safety isn’t an option; it’s a mandate. At ADNOC, we continuously strive to uplift our safety standards, ensuring they align with our company’s vision.” Al Lamki further highlighted the campaign’s role in enhancing public safety understanding. “By joining forces in this campaign, we aim to mold a society that isn’t just aware but is also well-equipped to ensure safety first.” Taking the baton, H.E. Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, Director General of Emirates General Petroleum Corporation Emarat, shared a similar ethos. “Safety and sustainability are not mere bullet points in our organisational goals; they form the very bedrock. While we are unwavering in adhering to international standards and best practices, we also believe that our commitment to safety 24
transcends the boundaries of our operations.” He shed light on Emarat’s rigorous safety training for employees and continuous dialogue with governmental entities in the UAE. With a nod to the “Five for Your Safety” campaign, Al Shamsi affirmed, “We stand committed to amplifying the campaign’s message, ensuring that our community is acutely aware of the hazards of neglecting safety at petrol stations.” Safety First — An Unwavering Commitment When we talk of safety, it isn’t a mere checklist or a passing phase — it’s a commitment, a lifestyle. HE Saif Humaid Al Falasi, CEO of ENOC Group, said: “For ENOC, safety isn’t a byword, it’s an ethos,” he noted. “As a national oil powerhouse, we bear a responsibility that extends beyond our organisational boundaries. We stand as guardians to the safety and well-being of our community.” He went on to highlight ENOC’s proactive role in enhancing safety awareness, “Year after year, our partnership with this campaign is a testament to our pledge — a promise to keep our community informed and safe.” His heartfelt gratitude to the Joint Committee on Security and Safety was palpable, crediting them for their consistent endeavors that have undoubtedly bolstered UAE’s position as a beacon of security on the global stage. “Our collective efforts, as showcased by such campaigns, help solidify UAE’s well-deserved reputation for safety,” Al Falasi opined. The previous year’s campaign, “Commit...Get Protected”, wasn’t just a theme; it was a call to action that resonated with many. And the numbers tell a story of success — a quantum leap in safety adherence from 54% to 74%, coupled with a significant boost in awareness rates. But beyond these impressive statistics, the campaign gave birth to valuable insights. It underscored the importance of collaborative action — be it sharing findings from unfortunate incidents or aligning safety standards across stations. A call for a dedicated day for gas station safety speaks volumes of the gravitas attached to this mission. The push for joint training and drills is indicative of a nation that believes in ‘preparation meets opportunity’.
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Ask The Experts By Brian Humm, Editor of The Bulletin My query is this; when I look at a petrol forecourt there are lots of signs that instruct people in what to do and obviously what not to do. What is the significance of the colours attributed to the signs, i.e., blue, red, and yellow etc? The provision of signage in use everyday is covered by the following: The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals Regulations) 1996 This is the regulation that covers all signage that alludes to health and safety on the petrol forecourt, they have a colour coding, which is as follows: Red Sign – Prohibition – you must not carry out this action. Blue Sign – Mandatory – you must do this. Yellow Sign – warning – this may be present/happen. People, be it at work or not, see these types of signs daily, for instance Disabled parking, Blue Mandatory, Danger of Death on
electricity substations, yellow warning, they will register as important and the need to follow them, We cover the forecourt of a petrol filling station with signage as part of the controls that allow for self-service to be carried out, for instance, No Smoking (Red sign) Switch off engine (Blue sign) Petroleum Spirit Highly Flammable (yellow sign) this is all in addition to the colleague that controls the forecourt from the console that can address the forecourt using the tannoy system and isolate the dispenser if required. Also, in addition there is the Green colour coded signage, for safety, that indicates a means of escape from a building in case of fire and where first aid facilities are located. Red safety signs Most people associate red with danger, which is why traffic lights and stop signs on the road use the colour red. Fire safety signs are usually red and can provide information on emergency escape routes. They are used in areas that are more susceptible to fire, to provide information.
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Articles Prohibition signs are also red and show that a certain act is prohibited. Red prohibition signs often have a black symbol on a white background with a red crossed circle, to show what item is prohibited. You may see these most commonly as no-smoking signs. In psychology, red is a dangerous colour and usually means you should stop doing something. When it comes to signs that are vital for safety, red should be used to attract attention. Blue safety signs Blue safety signs are mandatory signs that must be followed. These must always be blue and tend to have a white picture within a blue background. They tell the user what to do next and are used most commonly in the workplace. Standard mandatory safety signs notify employees to wear protective footwear, helmets or high-visibility jackets. These are most often found on construction sites. Some mandatory signs provide instructions, such as reporting to the site office. Blue is not seen as a threatening colour, but does attract the eye. As mandatory signs have been blue since the law was set out in 1996, many people associate blue with instruction.igns makes them easier to see. Yellow safety signs When used in health and safety, a yellow sign shows a specific danger that could occur when using a certain substance, or within a certain area of a workplace. They indicate a danger or hazard and are often known as caution signs. They must always be yellow or amber and usually have a black symbol. Sometimes they also have a black border and text.
and is meant to highlight instruction or precautions. In psychology, yellow is the first colour that the human eye can notice, drawing immediate attention. Using yellow for hazards and warning signs makes them easier to see.
Common yellow safety signs indicate trip hazards, the danger of death, or high voltage. As well as the 1996 Safety Signs and Signals regulations, yellow safety signs can be required by the Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites) Regulations 1990. Yellow is a very eye-catching colour
Green safety signs Green is often seen as a welcome colour and one that symbolises safety. As with red, green is used on traffic lights across the world, to let you know when it is safe to go. Safety signs that are green are either first aid signs or emergency escapes. They indicate a safe place or a safe route to take. Green safety signs have a white symbol and/or text, with a green background, and are used to direct people or highlight an important feature.
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Through The Pipeline How did it all begin? By Otto We are told that the sum of human knowledge is doubling every seven years. Consider in this light that the development of the petroleum industry has taken eons. Perhaps it all started in 1850 when Dr Young took out a patent for obtaining paraffin (or oil containing paraffin) from the slow combustion of bituminous coal. The company he formed, Youngs Paraffin Company, started the Scottish Oil industry. With the finding of oil in the North Sea this industry now appears ready for rebirth. In 1865 the first successful pipeline was constructed in America. In that year the total number of petroleum products exported by the USA was approximately 25 million gallons of which more than half was for illumination purposes. Seven years later in 1872 the Brayton Engine was patented in the USA. The moving spirit of that engine was kerosine. It was not until the following year that Hock patented his gasoline engine in Vienna.
The carburettor, so essential to modern engines, had already been invented but its use had been limited to the enrichment of town gas with ‘0.680 spirit’ to improve the lighting properties of the gas. Strangely enough the refiner associated with the development of the carburettor also introduced the word “petrol” into the English language. The word was used as a trade name for the ‘launch’ (or motor spirit) spirit of Carless Capel and Leonard Ltd. The company still occupied its original premises in the East End of London in the 1970s. Traditionally 1859 is named as the year when petroleum oil was first introduced into Britain for illumination purposes. 1862 saw the passing of the first Petroleum Act and one of the purposes of the Act was to protect the public from the ‘deadly’ low-flash oils which were occasionally sold for use in lamps. Many deaths had been attributed to this cause and there had, not surprisingly, been a great outcry in the press. A petroleum conference held in Baku in 1886 supported the view
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Articles that low flash oils were ‘deadly’ and opined that Russian Kerosine of specific gravity 0.930 should be distinguished as follows: Safe Oil Unsafe Oil
Flash Point not less than 77ᴼ F Flash Pint below 77 ᴼF
The low flash content of petroleum was largely a waste product in the nineteenth century. Nor did the loss of the dealer end here. Removal of low flash fraction at the lighter end meant that some of the heavier fractions also had to be removed in order to get a kerosine which would burn satisfactorily. The heavier fractions were as difficult to sell as the light fractions. Thus rose the great temptation to flout the law. Perhaps flouters of the law were consoled by the views of such well-known authorities as Sir Frederick Abel and Sir Bovington Redwood, who as late as 1890 (in a report to H.M. Chief Inspector of Explosives) doubted whether lamp explosions were mostly caused by low-flash oils. This was the same as Sir Frederick Able who devised two statutory test which bear his name – firstly, the open cup (100ᴼF) test and latterly the comparable closed cup test (73ᴼF) which is still
used for statutory purposes in this country today. In these random facts one sees the simple beginnings from which has grown a complex international industry. Legislation in this country has kept pace with developments within the industry because the temptation to control by regulation has been largely resisted. Wisely, use has been made of the ‘empowering’ of which the Petroleum (Consolidation) Act 1928 is the latest. These empowering Acts have enabled local authorities to consider each case and proposal on its merits and save them having to impose rigid restrictive conditions which often become out-dated and outmoded as rapidly as they are framed. This paper was first published in The Bulletin in the 1960’s and was part of a regular column by Otto which I hope will be of historic interest to present Members. Otto was in fact the head of the Petroleum Department in the Public Control Department of the LCC and later the Licensing Department of the GLC. His name was Bill Dale. Jamie Thompson
Through The Pipeline What Does that Petroleum Interceptor Do? By Otto The standard petroleum interceptor comprises three liquid retaining chambers connected to each other by “water seal” pipes and is interposed between gullies liable to receive spilled petrol and the public sewers. A drawing of a typical 3 chamber interceptor is shown below. Petrol is lighter than water and floats on top of it. As the seal pipes in the interceptor are carried down the inflow will displace from a chamber the heavier water gathered at the bottom whereas petrol will be retained at the top. Because petrol and water rapidly find their respective levels the interceptor works most efficiently as a petrol/water separator. However, as our commercial friends are wont to say there is a bonus! Accepting as a reasonable approximation that the specific gravity of petrol is 0.725, it follows that to displace a 1foot head of water requires a head of petrol in excess of 1÷0.725 feet or approximately 1 foot 4½ inches. To overcome the water head in the 2-foot-long seal pipe of the first chamber petrol must rise up in the chamber to a height of 2 feet 9 inches above the bottom of the seal pipe, i.e., 9 inches above the invert level. At that time since the chamber has a cross section area of 9 square feet, 155 gallons of petrol would be retained in the first chamber. Before the 2-foot 6-inch water seal in the third chamber is broken petrol would have to rise up to a height of 11¼ inches above the invert level in every chamber and that would require 580 gallons of petrol. There are, however, no free gifts with the bonus and it is regrettably true that the moment the water seal is broken there is an immediate of approximately 160 gallons as the 28
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Articles level of petrol in all chambers returns to invert level. The purist might say the invert level of the interceptor should never be more than 11 inches below the level of ground at the lowest gulley connected to the interceptor so that there is a show at the gulley before the water seal on the second and third chamber is broken although in practice this is extremely difficult to arrange. The seal pipe in the first chamber is shorter than the other two because of the mud and grit which this chamber receives; it avoids the pipe being consistently blocked. If the pipe becomes blocked it might be possible for liquid to flow from the first to the third chambers through the connected vent pipes without anyone being the wiser. To overcome this, vent pipes have to be joined at a height above ground at the lowest connected gulley; there will then be a show at that gulley before the interceptor is by-passed. It would be useful if one could omit the vents altogether but without them the interceptor will not work properly. If the vents terminate at a suitable position in the open air not less than 8 feet above ground this should reduce the risk of ignition of retained petrol. The first chamber might find a ventilation path via the inlet pipe and it is therefore important that every gulley connected to an interceptor should be of trapped type. The inlet pipe to the interceptor has a smaller bore than the outlet pipe and the purpose of this is to prevent possible siphoning of the contents of the third chamber. There are other ways of stopping this siphoning and if these are adopted there is no reason why the pipes should not be of the same size. Note This paper was first published in The Bulletin in the 1960s and part of a regular column by Otto which I hope will be historic as well as technical interest to present Members. Otto was in fact the head of Petroleum Department in the Public Control Department of the LCC and later the Licensing Department of the GLC. His name was Bill Dale. This is how the industry first used oil/fuel interceptors and they still exist at a number of old sites, and they worked well until the design of petrol stations grew in size. Larger sites would increase the flow of water and as the road tanker compartment became bigger and the risk of spillages during delivery grew. New oil separators designed and tested to EN 858‐1 will now have a fuel storage capacity of at least 10,000 litres with automatic closure devices which prevents pollution and alarms to indicate that oil capacity is close to full. Jamie Thompson
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The New Public Charge Point Regulations By Philip Reese, Director, Evenlode Roadside Will they deliver the reliability and Payment convenience expected? There are two new requirements for payment accessibility. Contactless payment, and If you have been following the rise of EV accessibility to “roaming” payment. charging, you will no doubt have caught on Contactless payment: to some of the trends surrounding their perceived reliability (or lack thereof). By mid-2024, “a charge point operator must ensure that a person using that charge point is able to pay by contactless payment to charge an electric vehicle.” These requirements will Much has been made of the reliability of the early EV charging infrastructure, and governments across the world have been taking steps to address this through legislation. In the UK there are two main pieces of legislation intended for either Workplace Chargers, or Public Charge Points. The Evenlode Roadside Team have been monitoring EV availability and reliability closely over the last 6 months so we thought it would be good to explain what the Public Charge Point Regulations will mean, both for the intended benefits for drivers, and the impact they will have on landowners and retail operators (including the charge point operator). The new regulations will require anyone operating a network of chargers to make significant advances in both how they operate and report on the reliability of their EV charging offer. Definitions The regulations define the following: “Charge point operator” means the owner of a charge point or any person operating a charge point on behalf of the owner. For any retail site operator, they will need to think carefully about whether or not they choose to be the operator themselves or leave this to a third party charge point operator (CPO). There will be pros and cons to both approaches and ought to be considered on a case-by-case basis. “Public charge point” means a charge point which is intended for use primarily by members of the general public. As a general rule, charge points which are provided at a PFS or convenience store will in almost all cases be subject to the new Public Charge Point Regulations, although specific parts of the legislation will not apply to micro-businesses. What will the Regulations mean? 30
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also apply retrospectively meaning that not only new equipment will need to comply, but they may need to retrofit older equipment. Accessible and reliable payment? – Some chargepoints sadly present a blank screen
Whilst most retailers have long worked on the integration of payment systems, Evenlode Roadside’s reviews of EV charge points have identified that many CPOs do not yet have reliable payment systems, and this will be a key area of development in the next months as the deadline for compliance draws near. One particular area of concern which Evenlode Roadside has identified in its Charge Point reviews is the need for drivers to carry or download various different Apps or to pre-register with CPOs to gain access to charging networks, but this will no longer be acceptable, as all equipment will be required to accept normal contactless payment means. APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Articles Of course, to the retail site operator, the accessibility and ease of payment is a matter of obvious importance and being able to both authorise and pay for charging quickly, as well as interact with other retail transactions and sales data will also be invaluable to site owners. The ability to do so might have a strong influence over their choices for deploying EV charging. Roaming Payment By mid-2025, operators will also need to ensure that “a person using any of its charge points is able to pay to charge an electric vehicle using a payment service provided by a third-party roaming provider”. They must also report which Roaming Providers can access their network to the Secretary of State. Whilst this requirement may initially seem confusing, given that contactless payment is required, the provision of roaming payment is often favoured by companies and fleets because they offer various back-office accounting and expense functions. Both of these new payment requirements are likely to have a profound impact on some CPOs, whose business models have not been designed to provide for widely accessible payment options in this way. Payment issues are regularly some of the key complaints of EV drivers, and which still pervade across many networks. If the payment system is down, then the charger point is effectively unusable. Time will tell which CPOs and which equipment manufacturers are able to offer a seamless payment provision. Performance & Reliability Given the importance of a reliable network, the regulations cover three aspects: the reliability of the charge points, the reporting of that reliability, and the provision of reliable and accessible customer helplines. Reliability. This requirement is quite significant. For some operators this will present a significant challenge. By mid-2024, operators must “ensure that its network of rapid charge points is, on average, reliable for 99% of the time during each calendar year.” As explained in a previous Evenlode Roadside article, 99% is not necessarily a very high reliability figure for equipment in most sectors, but for many charge point operators, it will be significantly higher than they are currently delivering. (The reasons for the current levels of reliability are many fold, and these have been described in our previous articles.) One potential loophole in the regulations however is the definition of what is meant by reliability. There are exclusions for both “unknown” status or blocked charge points. Both situations are surprisingly common. “Unknown” typically refers to charge points which do not share their status, and regularly reflects 32
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Articles more or less reliable. This information will no doubt be valuable information for anyone considering an investment, especially if the reliability of the equipment impacts on their own revenue potential. Evenlode Roadside has decades of experience in utilising reliability data to inform investment strategies. A customer helpline. The final reliability requirement is going to be a change for many operators, and reads as follows: “A charge point operator must provide a staffed telephone helpline available free of charge for 24 hours per day for each day of the year to allow persons using or intending to use one of its charge points to seek assistance regarding the functionality of the charge point.” Given the range of complaints that are noted in the Evenlode Roadside charge point reviews, this is not something which is widely provided for, at least not always very effectively, at the moment. It will present both a cost and administrative challenge to operators, especially as networks continue to scale at pace.
a large portion of the public network. Blocked charge points are those which you cannot access because someone else is already parked there. (The possibilities to skew the figures could be endless.) It is also not clear who will be allowed to perform the reliability measurements, save that operators will need to report their latest statistics on their own websites. We can probably expect to see a range of reliability figures being reported therefore, which do not all follow the same criteria. In essence this could well mean that an operator reports high reliability figures for chargers which are not actually reliable. Most CPOs claim very high reliability figures, but, the Evenlode Roadside charge point reviews regularly find much lower average availability levels, so something clearly does not tie-up. A good example of this is where an operator may define their own level of reliability to be based on the location rather than the individual charger. There is a very good example of this in the current market, whereby only 50% of the chargers at the location need to be available to justify the location being considered as “available”. (Yes, you read that correctly, just under half the chargers could be out of action all year long, and they could still achieve 99% reliability across their network – at least, as it currently stands in their own eyes.) Reporting The first reliability reports are due to be submitted before 14th January 2026, so this gives operators just a couple of years to get on top of their equipment reliability. As well as the average % reliability of all charge points in a network, and contrary to the way that some networks are currently selfmeasured (see above), the new regulations will also require that the annual performance of each charge point is also reported. Come the first quarter of 2026, there is likely to be a lot of good data around therefore to demonstrate which charge points are
The first helpline resolution reports will be due in late 2024 and will require detailed data and information about the speed of resolution, down to 10 minute increments. Of course, speed of resolution is something most PFS operators will long be familiar with and is readily achievable with good planning, procurement and management, but will all CPOs have systems and engineering teams in place to effect resolution in such prompt timescales? All of this data will need to be made publicly available too in a readily accessible format. Pricing Transparency A common complaint in recent years has been the cost of public charging, and more specifically, the lack of information about the costs of charging. Signage displaying pricing is often lacking. You will rarely see a MID sign at an EV charging hub. The Regulations will now address this, meaning that drivers will soon have access to the rate of pricing before they start to charge. The Current Provision of Reliable EV charge points Evenlode Roadside has been performing weekly reviews of charger reliability by region, against four retail factors which have long stood the test of time in determining what customers expect when they buy a service and supports our assertion that these new regulations will provide the impetus for a step change, where operators are prepared. (These reviews are regularly posted on social media.) We have produced a comprehensive “How-To” guide for the management of a reliable network, which can be obtained on our website. For any operators who now need to seriously consider what parameters they will use for their reliability and uptime performance reports Evenlode Roadside has a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping companies define meaningful reportable metrics. www.evenloderoadside.com/customersatisfaction
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Why Getting Fuel Management Right Really Matters By Andy Seal, Hytek, Commercial & Marketing Director At Hytek, we have been providing fuel management advice and solutions for many years. It’s a key part of what we offer and something we believe is crucial for our customers to get right. Over the last 18 months or so we have seen an enormous (it really is enormous) increase in both enquiries and orders for fuel management systems. So, we thought it made sense to provide our thoughts on why fuel management is so important and how your customers can make the most of the solutions on the market. Given what we’ve all been through, and indeed continue to go through, in recent times, it comes as no surprise that the industry at large has become increasingly focused on maximising their approach to fuel management. With fuel costs having risen dramatically on the back on various world events, ensuring customers get the most from their fuel is naturally a high priority. It often helps to make the point using a pounds and pence example (not that fuel ever really allows us to deal in pence these days). As we are sure you are aware, fuel management systems are connected to the fuel pump/dispenser via a pulser and the pulser is connected to the pump/dispenser meter. This means that the fuel management system is only as accurate as the meter it takes its reading from. And, of course, it goes without saying (but we will anyway) that the
NEW FMS system with integral O.L.E. T5020 Tank Gauge HYTEK’s 4 strong FMS support team left to right: Dean, Chris, Mikey, and Scott
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more fuel your customers use, to say that commercial fuel pumps and meters are cheap, it doesn’t take many months of inaccuracy the more important the accuracy for your customers to easily recoup the costs on the better kit. And that’s just the cost. Better systems is. allow customers to do so much more. FMO-Screenshot image: FMS Fuelling Transaction Report
Here comes the maths, please bear with us. An entry level pump normally has a nutating disc meter that is accurate to +/-2%. But a cabinet hosted commercial pump that tends to use a 4-piston meter provides an accuracy of +/0.5%. That means it is four times more accurate than your run of the mill pump. So, if for example all their refuelling needs adds up to 10,000 litres per month, then they actually need between 9,800 and 10,200 litres for the standard pump. That gives them an uncertainty of a whopping 400 litres each and every month. At 112 pence (we tried to get those pence in) per litre, this means an uncertainty of £448 per month. Fairly significant, to say the least. Whilst it would be disingenuous APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Articles Our own comprehensive systems, the FC10 and the FC20 can probably make the tea for you if you ask nicely. Allow us to tell you why your customers would need them. The housing is stainless steel for use in the toughest environments, matching our market-leading Pumptronics cabinet pump range. This, of course, also provides extra levels of security. They offer incredibly flexible reports writing, as well as accepting off-site fuelling data from most fuel card companies. The data can be exported into other file types, allowing users to easily identify uneconomical drivers and vehicles. The reporting includes CO2 readings, a must for the bus and coach sector when they look to claim a rebate. Other options include automatic Odometer capture, eliminating mileage input capture mistakes, with links via the vehicles’ on board existing telematics.
sites all over the country with our advanced, cloud-based software. And, finally, a small plug for our latest fuel management system that will be released shortly, the FC20 IT. It offers the FC20 wall mount system with a built-in high accuracy O.L.E. Tank Gauge with an accuracy of +/-0.25%. In addition, it will connect to two fuel pumps as standard. We have developed this solution after a customer asked us to do so. Finally (we really do mean finally this time) for convenience, customers can monitor all the reports our system generates from their PC, a phone, or a tablet. Messages can be sent for drivers and vehicles and displayed on the unit. You can set limits, like maximum Odo distance, and pre-set an amount in litres per vehicle - both can be used to keep a tighter track on the driver or vehicle. And tags can be locked out remotely for extra security.
They have an automatic vehicle recognition system (AVR), which is especially useful on mobile bowser applications/field refuelling, as it means there is no need for a vehicle/driver tag. There’s a sudden loss alarm, useful to detect unauthorised fuelling, and your users can choose several levels of security: tag entry only, tag and pin code or tag, pin and odometer.
We think that’s more than enough for now. In order to help you understand more, we have produced a free guide to fuel management that can be downloaded. We are even happy to produce a version that can carry your own branding if you wish to share it with your customers. Find our ad in this publication to find out more.
We also offer an MID/MIR approved version that enables your customer to resell their fuel. These systems can connect to multiple
With us, fuel transfer solutions, technical support and product expertise for the trade comes as standard.
EV Case Study By Wyeth Projects Services
Wyeth Project Services Ltd. (WPSL) has become increasingly involved in installing electric vehicle charging points at Motor Fuel Group’s (MFG) service stations. This is part of MFG’s campaign to have ultra-rapid chargers installed at over 500 sites across the country by 2030 as part of their investment in their electric vehicle strategy to fuel a greener world. WPSL designs the EV area layout, ducting and drainage, surfacing and ancillary items (often combined with valeting schemes) and coordinates the POC/mains installs for the MFG sites. All comply with APEA’s 4th Edition of Design, Construction, Modification, Maintenance and Decommissioning of filling stations (otherwise known as the Blue Book) and the IET/APEA Electric Vehicle Charging Installations at Filling Stations supplemental Code of Practice. WPSL currently install several types of chargers for MFG, predominantly 50, 150 and 300kW Alpitronic and 50/75kW Tritium chargers. West Suffolk Service Station The site was brownfield and part of a larger NTI PFS development which is further part of a larger industrial area scheme to improve facilities alongside the A14. This site was initially intended to be equipped with two EV 36
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chargers but was subsequently expanded to six charging bays, each with its own charger, utilising power from a 1500kW substation/LV panel installation. Chargers installed were Alpitronic 150kW. The development was completed on the 7 December 2022 and opened on 15 December 2022. Meads Service Station The scheme was to install an eight-bay charging area on the grassed area between the existing site’s access and exit crossovers onto Arterial Road at one of MFG’s busiest sites. This project took 13 weeks to complete. A large number of existing services were encountered which provided a challenge for the team to adapt the design during the build to accommodate the previously unknown services whilst adhering to the correct design guidelines. The bays have a fulllength canopy and are equipped with valeting facilities at both ends including jetwash, combi air water and vac machines. Power to the site is provided via a 1500kW substation which also powers the rest of the PFS site. APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Articles Childsway Service Station Before work began, the site consisted of a single-story sales building and forecourt set out with six pump islands fed from below-ground fills. There was also six customer parking spaces and valeting facilities. Following development works, the site now offers five new EV charging bays with a new substation and LV panel installed to feed them. All units were installed on specific formed concrete bases and the whole arrangement was fenced in and made secure. Uplighters were installed with an overarching canopy placed behind the chargers. The concrete EV bays were subsequently painted out blue and the site was branded to MFG EV specifications. The EV at Childs Way went live on 25 January 2023.
Desford Crossroads Service Station This project was broken down into Phase One and Phase Two. Phase One consisted of a knockdown and rebuild project which extended to the removal of all existing underground tanks and interceptors. After 24 weeks of construction, Desford Crossroads Service Station was equipped with a new retail building with a food to-go offering constructed within. The site also offers valeting facilities including four car wash bays as well as two combi units. Upon completion of Phase One in March 2022, Phase Two commenced. This site was fitted with a substation and seven EV charging bays, which went live on the 8 December 2022. MFG liaised directly with Western Power and Sinewave to complete this project. Email: admin@wyethprojects.com Website: https://www.sevansolutions.com/en-gb/
LNG - A Cleaner Fuel to Rule Truckstops By Dover Fueling Solutions As we move towards decarbonisation, the benefits of liquified natural gas (LNG) are widely apparent. It’s clean and quiet burning, abundant and easily stored. Its simple dispensation is truck-refilling convenience with the most traditional familiarity. It is a potentially £100 billion industry in the USA, but despite the pressures on oil supply in Europe, the continent has not yet harnessed the potential, with only 635 LNG fuelling stations across Europe. Dover Fueling Solutions (DFS) offers fuelling retailers a highly total cost of ownership (TCO)38
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effective model with its LNG dispensers and LNG fuelling technology. They share how investing in LNG can play its part in the decarbonisation mix as part of a consumer-centric model and why it may be a savvy choice for station owners. The current state of LNG adoption Despite almost doubling in size in the last two years, LNG still significantly trails its big brother compressed natural gas (CNG) which boasts around 4200 stations across the continent. The bulk of LNG stations are concentrated in Germany, which hosts 162 stations, followed by Italy with 130 and Spain with 90. So, what is contributing to this slower uptake and why aren’t more new LNG-powered vehicles being registered by fleet owners? APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Articles Can LNG become the odourless, colourless, non-toxic, clean fuel of the future, and what infrastructure will be required to enable this? Seemingly, soaring gas prices and economic uncertainty are the main barriers to adoption. Fuel retail businesses and fleet owners appear reluctant to invest in new, clean fuels until the market settles and prices start to reduce. Europe has also recently reached a saturation point whereby countries are unable to process all the LNG arriving on these shores. Boil-off gas – cost-effective solutions If choosing to adopt LNG then, station owners must pay close attention to how the gas is stored. One of the challenges of storing LNG is the accompanying boil-off gas (BOG). When heat enters the cryogenic storage vessel, BOG is continuously evaporated. Releasing this into the atmosphere must be avoided at all costs. BOG contains methane – a harmful greenhouse gas. This will soon become illegal as part of the European green deal. Typical practices, such as venting or flaring methane, are soon to be banned. Evaporated BOG – which is simply vented away – will also result in stock loss which will hurt businesses fiscally too. Joost Jansen, Business Development Manager for DFS, comments: “To combat this, we offer a unique BOG treatment unit that converts BOG back to its harmless liquid form – the LIQAL Boil-Off Gas Treatment UNITI (BTU). “The benefits of this are threefold: the process is environmentally-friendly; it ensures unlimited shelf life of LNG in the tank, and has a low total cost of ownership (TCO). “Environmentally, the LIQAL BTU system eliminates the venting of BOG in a cost-effective way that doesn’t impact LNG deliveries or demand active management from forecourt operators.” Another perk of a bespoke BOG solutions is the ability to provide cold LNG to trucks. Ultimately, the temperature of the LNG will affect the range output of the vehicle. Excessive LNG temperatures will cause shorter vehicle ranges so it is important for forecourt owners to install solutions that can help keep LNG as cool as possible. Station after-care Station owners will also need to invest in a bespoke ‘after-care’ package with no ‘sell and forget’ mentality. One main concern for station owners amid fluctuating market forces is staying informed of day-to-day operations through KPIs and other metrics. This can include availability, sales info, fuelling process data and dispenser usage. Station owners need user-friendly dashboards with strong functionality for report generation. This can help them access real-time information with an intuitive overview of the station right at their fingertips. This can include monitoring storage tanks and controlling 40
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Articles At the heart of this new LNG forecourt should be the state-of-the-art fuel dispenser. These should be reliable for everyday use, assembled from corrosive-proof materials to withstand even the harshest weather conditions and suited to all extremities of the European climate. Their modern design should be compatible with the customer able to choose their own filling conditions – namely, cold or saturated LNG fuel. This should be coupled with a user-friendly, modern interface at the pump. This can include a euro-centric, touchscreen display where truck drivers can select their preferred language and pay quickly at the pump for ease of convenience. Thousands of Britons voice complaints about being ‘short changed’ at the pump, so real-time pricing transparency will likely be introduced to address this. This will provide drivers with a full breakdown at point of purchase for the resources they’re being charged for. Modern problems require modern and safe solutions. LNG dispensers will be engineered with safety in mind. This includes a patented nozzle docking bay, heated and purged for tension-free connectivity and a long hose and nozzle life, limiting the occurrence of leakages. The inherent robustness of these materials will also enable use in the most demanding of environments, which should mean a low total cost of ownership for the fuelling retailer. Is this the future of commercial transport? Clearly, from the advent of this cutting-edge technology, it’s apparent that LNG will be a part of the decarbonisation mix alongside fellow market leaders, electricity and hydrogen. unloading and refilling. In keeping with modern working patterns, this can be accessed The market has been buoyed recently by the launch of Volvo’s new bio-LNG truck, which it via web browser from anywhere at any time. claims can reduce CO2 emissions by 100%. The Remote performance is managed by a skilled team of engineers with customer vehicle also boasts a 10% larger gas tank that support keeping an eye on fuelling performance to ensure a reliable and consistent makes it up to 4% more fuel efficient and contributes to a longer range. This has enormous experience. potential for the commercial transport sector. This service means that station owners don’t need to be actively involved at all times Clearly, the forecourt will have to be prepared for and can rely on experts to manage operations. this new model to roll onto the market with “Volvo ready” functionality to handle venting and Creating a consumer-centric model If – like its benefits would suggest – LNG is going to play a big part in the future of filling through the same connection. commercial transport, dispensing needs to be intuitive and consumer friendly. To make the mainstream, LNG infrastructure As demand for greener energy grows higher every day, so will the need for bespoke needs to improve. For forecourt owners looking LNG service stations. This includes standard LNG and the fully sustainable variant, to make the switch, looking to partner with experts who can construct the ideal station can bio-LNG – renewable LNG made from waste materials. lay the foundation for development of this infrastructure. But what could this LNG model look like in practice? Well, it’s clear that, much like its traditional petrol and diesel counterparts, LNG has the potential to become a mainstream retail fuel. This would however require a very The road to decarbonisation may well be partly consistent and reliable fuelling performance. paved by LNG. 42
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Bever Innovations introduces the IC-Smart: Empowering Petrol Stations for an Electric Future By Mieke van Chastelet, Marketing Manager, Bever Innovations As the world sets its sights on a greener future, the demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations is on the rise. However, integrating accurate EV price information with traditional petrol pricing has posed challenges for petrol station owners. Addressing these hurdles head-on, Bever Innovations has proudly announced their groundbreaking solution - the IC-Smart, offering a fast, cost-effective, and easy-toimplement approach. Bridging the gap to EV protocol integration The IC-Smart serves as a cutting-edge interface converter, seamlessly bridging the gap between petrol station POS data and online EV protocol standards. Now, with minimal investment, petrol station owners can effortlessly display EV kWh price information on their existing or new LED price signs. This innovation ensures customers have access to transparent and up-to-date pricing for both conventional fuel and electric charging. Key features of the IC-Smart include the integration of POS and EV protocol data streams, ensuring accurate pricing
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The Bever Dashboard enables remote price changes in EVO Energy’s HyperHubs, meeting the essential requirement of simultaneous price changes across all sites. It also provides a straightforward solution for operators to futureproof their sites.
A recent project with Shell Recharge in Fulham, London, showcases the successful integration of EV charger availability on LED screens, alongside additional dynamic content, offering an enhanced customer experience.
information is displayed on LED Price Displays in the sign. Moreover, the real-time charger availability feature lets EV drivers conveniently identify available charging spaces, reducing waiting times and enhancing the overall customer experience. Streamlined management and integration The Bever Dashboard complements the IC-Smart, revolutionising how petrol stations manage their products integrated with Bever Smart Technology. It offers centralised management of multiple locations, remote and manual price adjustments, dynamic content programming on LED screens, and back-office system integration for streamlined asset management and operations. Diverse EV integration options Bever Innovations provides various EV integration possibilities, such as converting existing LED Price Displays into EV price displays by adding the IC-Smart and expanding monoliths with new LED displays to showcase EV prices prominently. Additionally, they offer dedicated LED displays to inform customers about available charging spaces and dynamic promotional LED screens for an 46
enhanced customer experience with combined EV price information, charging space availability, and dynamic content. Rutger van Dierendonck, Technical Director Bever Innovations: “Not only do we make asset management easier for oil companies, but we are also committed to a sustainable future by seamlessly integrating EV pricing. Bever Innovations is ready to transform your station and lead the way into an electric future.” Leading the way With the IC-Smart and Bever Dashboard, Bever Innovations is leading the way into an electric future, transforming petrol stations into dynamic hubs catering to the evolving needs of both traditional fuel and electric vehicle users. As the world embraces greener mobility, Bever Innovations stands at the forefront, empowering petrol stations to adapt and thrive in the everchanging landscape of sustainable transportation. More information: https://fuel.beverinnovations.com/evintegration/
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UK News
News Man fighting for his life in hospital with severe 90% burns after ‘setting himself on fire’ on Manchester petrol station forecourt • The unnamed man is said to have suffered burns across 90% of his body • Emergency services sped to a Tesco petrol station in Blackley, Manchester • Police are expected to work through the night to figure out why this happened A man is currently fighting for his life in a life-threatening condition after he reportedly set himself on fire at a petrol station. Emergency services sped to a Tesco petrol station in Blackley, Manchester, at 7:35 on 4th September after the as-yet-unnamed man set himself alight on the forecourt. He is reportedly in hospital suffering with burns across 90% of his body. A 'burnt out suitcase' could be seen at the site of the incident, as APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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UK News over the scene of the incident, with a forensic officer being spotted taking swabs from across the forecourt. The petrol station is usually open till midnight but was closed off from 7:40pm onwards. It is believed investigation work will continue through the night. A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: “At around 7.35pm, officers were called to reports for the concern of the welfare of a man on Victoria Avenue East, Manchester. “A man was taken to hospital with serious injuries, where he remains in a life-threatening condition. A cordon remains in place.” A spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “At 7.30pm this evening, firefighters were called to a supermarket on Victoria Avenue, Manchester. well as two fire extinguishers and a large empty bottle. A burnt shoe could also be seen at the scene, though it is not known who it belonged to. It is not currently known why the man reportedly set himself on fire, and detectives are working to figure this out. Crime scene investigators from Greater Manchester Police were seen poring
“Two fire engines from Philips Park and Whitefield fire stations arrived quickly at the scene. “Fire crews helped a male casualty at the scene, including trauma care, before they were conveyed to hospital via our colleagues at Northwest Ambulance Service. GMFRS remain at the scene.”
Aldi adds more Shell rapid EV chargers A total of 11 stores have been equipped with chargers across the country with more locations to be upgraded based on customer feedback. Aldi has installed new electric vehicle (EV) fast chargers across 11 UK stores in partnership with Shell. A total of four 50kW rapid chargers will be rolled out in areas such as Hinckley, Cambuslang, Chapel-en-le-Frith, Paignton, Ulverston, Welshpool, Deal and New Malden. According to a report by local news site Grocery Gazette, the retailer plans to explore the further roll out of chargers across the UK based on customer feedback. “Our ambition is for 90% of UK drivers to be within 10 minutes of a Shell rapid charger by 2030, whether on one of our forecourts or at other convenient destinations. Now Aldi customers will be able to charge up while they shop,” said Bernie Williamson, General manager of Shell Mobility UK. Drivers will be able to use the chargers without any subscription. Information such as availability, location and estimated cost of a charging session will be available through the Shell Recharge app. This is part of a deal announced back in 2020, which saw both parties announce the addition of approximately 140 new chargers to the UK’s public charging network. “We are committed to being an environmentally responsible retailer and we want to help our customers live more sustainably. We are pleased to be partnering with Shell for this trial, to provide our customers with access to rapid charging while they shop our high-quality, affordable products in store,” added George Brown, Real Estate Director at Aldi UK. 48
Aldi announced earlier this year that it will make an effort to reduce its carbon footprint through several energysaving measures. These include not only installing new EV chargers but also integrating chiller doors, air source heat pumps and energy-efficient fridges and lights.
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UK/International News
ReFuels is building first Bio-CNG station in Southeast England The site is a joint venture with Foresight Group and is being built to expand Waitrose’s fleet of biomethane-powered heavy goods vehicles. ReFuels has commenced construction of a new public access BioCNG refuelling station at Aylesford in Kent, to be operated under the CNG Fuels brand. The facility is set to open additional transport routes for Southeast England, a region with a population of approximately 9.3 million. Owned by a joint venture with Foresight Group, the new site will feature 12 fuel pump islands, which will allow over 500 trucks to be refuelled per day. Construction has begun on land acquired from the John Lewis Partnership adjacent to Waitrose’s southeast distribution centre. This will enable the retail giant to rapidly grow its fleet of
biomethane-powered heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), which is already the largest such fleet in the UK. “Well over one hundred fleets across the UK are now adopting the fuel en masse and our new site in Aylesford, built on land acquired from one of the UK’s biggest retail HGV fleets, is a testament to this growing demand and the value fleet operators place on Bio-CNG refuelling infrastructure”, said Philip Fjeld, CEO of ReFuels. The current CNG Fuels network in the UK can refuel more than 6,000 HGVs daily. This equals an annual dispensing capacity of more than 264,000 tonnes of biomethane annually and a potential saving of more than 750,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually when compared to diesel. Refuels’ year-end 2026 target of 30-40 stations in operation equals a total capacity of up to 15,000 HGVs per day and more than 600 million kg of biomethane annually.
Bitcoin Depot grows presence Bitcoin Depot is expanding its BDCheckout program into Iowa and Louisiana through its ongoing partnership with InComm Payments. Initially launched in 2022, BDCheckout is an app-based experience facilitating a convenient way for users to load cash to their Bitcoin Depot digital wallets right at the cash register. Through this association, BDCheckout is now available at 246 total locations in Iowa across a variety of convenience store partners
such as Kum & Go, Kwik Trip and Pilot Travel Centres. BDCheckout is also expanding into 166 locations in Louisiana. “We launched BDCheckout last year to provide users with another layer of ease and convenience when managing their Bitcoin Depot digital wallets,” said Brandon Mintz, Founder and CEO at Bitcoin Depot. Before the launch of BDCheckout in these states, Bitcoin Depot successfully acquired its money transmitter “MTL” license in Iowa and Louisiana.
Gilbarco Veeder-Root Middle East and Africa expands Recently inaugurated to meet customer needs in the country, the brand-new location further expands the company’s presence in the region and represents a further step in its growth strategy. Gilbarco Veeder-Root Middle East and Africa (MEA) has opened a new office in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking a step forward in the company’s growth plan. The recently inaugurated location has been established to cater to local clients as well as expanding the reach of Gilbarco’s solutions across the region. Located in Riyadh, the Kingdom’s capital, at the SADA Premium Building 6676, the new opening represents a milestone for the company amidst its expansion strategy across several markets. It also strengthens the firm’s footprint in the regional market after a successful 2022, in which the firm participated in several events and rolled out numerous solutions throughout the region. “With this new opening we are not only expanding our reach but also enhancing our relationship with local clients as business throughout the region keeps growing,” says Yemi Fatunla, Managing Director MEA. “A dedicated hub in Saudi Arabia is a most welcome addition to Gilbarco’s portfolio, furthering our commitment to support our partners’ growth by expanding our operations even 50
further thanks to this new addition.” The inauguration also represents Gilbarco Veeder-Root’s growing role across the Middle East and Africa. As the company consolidates its position as the global leader in technology for retail and commercial fuelling operations, a new location is proof of the firm’s continued efforts to achieve this goal. “A new office means new opportunities across the region! We are excited to strengthen our existing relationships and also welcome potential new partners into our portfolio,” says Adnan Al Otiebi, Regional Sales Director MENEA at Gilbarco Veeder-Root Middle East & Africa. The new office will join Gilbarco Veeder-Root MEA’s regional office recently relocated to Johannesburg, South Africa, as well as other offices located in the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Morocco. “The opening of a new office in Saudi Arabia resonates with Gilbarco Veeder-Root Middle East and Africa’s dedication to provide our partners’ businesses for success. This new facility will help fulfil our mission to support their growth,” comments Allen Youssef, Regional Marketing Manager MEA at Gilbarco VeederRoot Middle East & Africa.
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International News
First hydrogen refuelling facility opened by BP H2 powered vehicles are now able to refuel at one of Brisbane’s busiest service stations in a first for an Australian retail fuel site. BP has opened Australia’s first hydrogen (H2) refueller at its Lytton service station pilot project opened for drivers who have signed up for access to refuel via their BP Plus card. The site has been built in partnership with BOC and with support from the Queensland Government and ARENA. The refueller will dispense H2 produced by BOC at its Bulwer Island production site, with a capacity to refuel a hydrogen car in 3-5 minutes. “The refuelling station is part of BP’s global commitment to provide
customers and partners with the energy and mobility they want, where they want it. By safely integrating a hydrogen refuelling station into our service station network, we’re showing that existing infrastructure can be used to facilitate hydrogen vehicles,” said Frédéric Baudry, President at BP Australia and SVP fuels & low carbon solutions for Asia Pacific. The Queensland Government’s fleet of hydrogen-powered Hyundai NEXOs were the first to use the new facility. Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said Queensland’s renewable hydrogen industry is the next frontier in energy.
Walmart to create first industrial green hydrogen plant in Latin America The project developed collaboratively with the generating company Engie will mark $15 million investment in replacing lead-acid batteries. Walmart Inc. CEO Doug McMillon attended the grand opening of a green hydrogen plant at Walmart’s Quilicura Distribution Centre in Santiago, Chile, representing the company’s continued investment in and commitment to renewable energy. Industrialscale and renewable, the project was developed collaboratively with the generating company Engie. Once converted, the plant is the first of its kind in Latin America and will play a key role in Walmart Chile’s path to net-zero emissions. “We see tremendous potential for our business and want to expand the use of this technology to all distribution centres in the company’s logistics network throughout the country, with the aim of operating 100% with green hydrogen by 2025.” In its first stage, the green hydrogen plant will allow the Quilicura
Distribution Centre to replace the lead-acid batteries of 200 forklift cranes with hydrogen energy cells, cutting 250 tons of toxic waste per year. Over the course of the 15-year project, Walmart expects it to reduce the release of CO2 into the atmosphere by 17,100 tons, the equivalent of planting 34,200 trees. “Walmart first embraced the potential in hydrogen fuel in 2012, with a fleet of 50 vehicles and forklifts in the U.S., which we have since grown to over 9,500 forklifts. Now, with over a decade of experience and progress, Walmart is well-positioned to invest in Chile’s potential as a producer of clean energy, including green hydrogen,” said McMillon. The Chilean government has made renewable energy a priority, and as a result, Chilean solar- and wind-power sectors have increased their generation capacity fivefold over the last few years, with up to 70% of the country’s electrical grid projected to be renewable-powered by 2030.
MOL and INA sell 39 OMV service stations to Shell in Slovenia The sale follows the acquisition of OMV Slovenija’s network announced back in July, which positioned MOL as the second largest retailer in the local fuel market.
The handover of the 39 divested stations is planned to start in October, while the rebranding of the first ex-OMV, now MOL&INA station in Murska Sobota is o begin in in September.
MOL Group has closed the sale of 39 service stations to Shell, in which 19 locations are from the company’s own retail brand and 20 from the former OMV Slovenija, now a combined network between MOL and INA. The transaction was a condition set by the European Commission for the Group’s recent takeover back in July.
The full rebranding process is set to be completed within the first half of 2024, with all MOL&INA stations being rebranded, out of which 27 will operate under the INA brand. Customers on the Slovenian market will also benefit from this joint acquisition, including transit customers who travel through Slovenia, also Croatia, who will have more locations with recognisable brands that they are used to.
After the purchase of OMV’s subsidiary, MOL’s footprint, alongside INA’s as a member of the group, grew to 130 outlets in Slovenia. The company positioned itself as the second largest retailer in the country and is now set on improving supply security across the nation. 52
According to plans, upon completion of Rijeka Refinery Upgrade Project, INA will become the first-choice fuel supplier of the whole MOL Group’s service station network in Slovenia.
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International News
Puma Energy targets 300 stations with solar panels by end 2023 A total of 244 sites across the world are already equipped with the photovoltaic technology as part of the company’s net zero efforts. Puma Energy plans to equip 100 service stations across its worldwide network with solar panels, adding to the 200 already equipped by the end of last year.
This development is part of Puma’s sustainability strategy to reduce Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions and be operational net zero by 2050. To achieve this ambition, the energy company first needs to complete a two-step goal: decrease emissions by 15% by the end of 2025 and by 35% by the end of 2032.
As stated by the company in its results for the second quarter of 2023, it had a total of 244 locations retrofitted with the technology. All completed projects have a combined capacity of 8,875 kW.
Furthermore, it is also in talks with several customers to install and operate clean energy projects at their facilities. This builds on its experience from installing clean energy at its own footprint of 3,000 service stations across the world.
Petropar adds new mobile lab for quality control across stations Petropar has added a second mobile lab to increase the coverage of quality fuel controls across all its service stations in Paraguay. The state-owned company’s priority is that all outlets that retail fuels meet the highest quality standards. This is why the firm’s fuels go through a strict quality control system, from their arrival on barges at the Villa Elisa plant until they reach the vehicle’s tank at service stations.
This vehicle is a combined tool of advanced technology and human resources specialised in the determination of fuel quality. The new addition allows Petropar to carry out periodic quality and quantity controls throughout its network across the country. The new mobile lab will start its journey soon and cover Petropar service stations with ease. This investment reflects the firm’s commitment with its customers to ensure that they continue to fill up with the best quality fuels and the exact quantity.
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International News
New GasNet LNG station established near Prague As the company’s second location in the Czech city, this new construction is set to continue expanding its refuelling capabilities for the transportation industry. GasNet has opened its fifth filling liquefied natural-gas (LNG) station for trucks near Prague, Czech Republic, to continue developing this low-emission fuel retail network throughout the country. This is the company’s second filling station in the Prague area, and currently operates other sites established in Klecany u Prahy, Mladá Boleslav, Nýřany and Kaplice, all located near major highways. The newly built facility is equipped with a classic stone pump that allows for refuelling liquefied gas to all types of LNG
vehicles in operation today, whether they are trucks or buses. “The burden of emission allowances will be lower for LNG than for diesel engines. LNG will thus bring transport and logistics companies financial benefits in the long term. Even greater savings are offered by liquefied biomethane, abbreviated as bioLNG,” says Filip Dostál, Head of Business Development at GasNet. In addition, the firm is working to improve the convenience for drivers and logistics companies. Drivers can pay at all filling stations with bank cards or Eurowag and DKV fuel or refuelling cards. There are currently 144 registered LNG trucks operating in the Czech Republic and seven public filling stations. Five of these are operated by the GasNet Group.
Eni rebrands to mark industry transformation Italian energy company Eni Sustainable Mobility is launching a new brand and logo to accompany the industry’s transformation. Eni Sustainable Mobility is a company dedicated to bio-refining, biomethane production, smart mobility solutions, and the marketing and distribution of all energy carriers for mobility through more than 5,000 Enilive stations in Europe. In this network, a wide range of products are available, including regular fuels, biogenic fuels such as HVO, bio-LPG and biomethane, as well as hydrogen and electricity. The network of Enilive stations also supports other mobility-related services, among them restaurants, convenience stores and other services that support people on the move.
Enilive’s goal is to provide progressively decarbonised services and products for the energy transition, accelerating the process of emissions reduction along their entire life cycle, according to Eni. The company plans to expand its bio-refining capacity from over 1.6 million tonnes/year today to over 3 million tonnes/year by 2025 and to exceed 5 million tonnes/year by 2030. Enilive represents a step change in communicating Eni Sustainable Mobility’s role in transforming mobility. The six-legged dog logo maintains its central and iconic role, but the flame icon is replaced, symbolising a flexible and innovative “living mobility”.
Casey’s acquires 63 convenience stores from EG America Certified Oil and Minit Mart locations will now be part of the buyer’s network across the United States as part of EG Group’s strategy to reduce total net leverage announced last year. Casey’s General Stores announced an agreement to acquire 63 convenience stores from EG America, a subsidiary of EG Group. The stores are in Kentucky and Tennessee, and currently operate under the Minit Mart and Certified Oil banners. Both companies anticipate the deal will close later this year, subject to customary regulatory approvals. “One of the key pillars in our strategic plan is to accelerate our store growth over the next three years and bring Casey’s to more communities. This opportunity is an excellent strategic fit as we look to add locations in Kentucky and Tennessee, which are both within our existing distribution footprint,” said Darren Rebelez, President and Chief Executive Officer at Casey’s. 54
The buyer is expected to retain the impacted employees at each store, with EG America cooperating to make their transition as seamless as possible. This initiative is one of the main five points of its three-year growth plan, which targets 350 new locations by the end of fiscal year 2026. “We have built a strong and successful business over the years in these Certified Oil and Minit Mart stores, and we are proud of the hard work and dedication shown by our team members there. Casey’s is an excellent operator, and we believe these stores and team members will continue to thrive under their ownership,” added Nick Unkovic, President of EG America. EG Group has been reorganising its retail strategy in the U.S. after announcing its ambition to reduce total net leverage through debt reduction and free cash flow generation. Since then, the British company has been divesting different assets to streamline operations through its EG America subsidiary.
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International News
Explosion, huge blasts at fuel station kill two and injure dozens At least two people died and 56 were injured after two blasts at a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) station in Romania. The injured included 39 firefighters who went to the scene following the first explosion near the capital Bucharest on Saturday evening. Shortly after, a second blast sent a mushroom cloud billowing into the sky, rocking the forecourt in Crevedia. Several people are in critical condition with severe burns, authorities said. The two people who died were a couple, Raed Arafat, the head of Romania’s emergency department, reported in a press conference. They sent four people who were injured, including two firefighters, to hospitals abroad and said others would follow. Two police
officers and two gendarmes are among the injured. Authorities do not yet know what caused the blast. Mr Arafat said the station was no longer in use and “did not have a permit to function”. People within a 700-metre radius were initially evacuated from the area, with Mr Arafat warning there was a risk of another explosion. But, by mid-morning, all the fires had been contained although cooling of the area continued. Romania’s President Klaus Iohannis described the explosions as a “tragedy” and said he was “profoundly saddened” by what had happened. “An investigation must quickly be launched to see if rules were broken. I ask the authorities to take urgent measures for the injured so that these tragedies won’t happen again.”
At least 35 killed in inferno at petrol station in Dagestan, Southern Russia The blast occurred in the Dagestan regional capital, Makhachkala, on the coast of the Caspian Sea.
discovered. Russia’s Interfax news agency quoted doctors as saying three children were among the dead.
Pictures showed a large fire lighting up the night sky and a number of fire engines at the scene. According to local media, the fire began at a car repair centre near the petrol station.
It added that the fire had spread over an area of 600 sq m (6,460 sq ft) and that there was a danger of further explosions. An unnamed witness said the fire had started at a car park opposite the petrol station.
Russian President Vladimir Putin offered his sincere condolences following the deadly blast. A state of emergency was introduced in the Kumtorkalinsky district in Dagestan, according to regional head Sergei Melikov. Some 260 emergency workers have been deployed, while the most seriously injured have been evacuated to Moscow by air, according to the emergencies ministry. Rescue operations are ongoing, the ministry said. As emergency services clear through the rubble, more bodies are being
“After the explosion, everything fell on our heads. We couldn’t see anything anymore,” the witness said. Russia’s Investigative Committee said the fire had broken out during some car maintenance work and had been “followed by a bang”. A criminal case has been opened to establish the circumstances leading up to the incident, the committee said. The Republic of Dagestan is one of 83 constituent parts of the Russian Federation and is the southernmost part of the country. Makhachkala is about 1,600km (1,000 miles) from Moscow.
Shell opens 37th LNG station This new opening joins the opening of Austria and Hungary’s first site this year to provide refuelling services for the transportation sector.
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France, Belgium and Poland, the company currently operates six LNG stations each.
Shell has commissioned its 37th liquefied natural gas (LNG) station in Germany, located in Florsheim, Raunheim, to supply the transport sector near Frankfurt Airport.
“With this location, we are closing an important gap in the network for the supply of LNG and, in the future, bio-LNG along the main traffic routes for road haulage,” said Sönke Kleymann, Managing Director of euroShell Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG.
The mobility firm has one of the largest LNG networks in the country and the new location marks another milestone for its growing network in Europe. In Austria, the brand opened its first LNG site in April 2023, and another one is already being planned. This expansion is also progressing in other European countries, with another inaugural station opened in Hungary this year. In
Shell has also invested in the construction of a gas liquefaction plant at its Energy and Chemicals Park Rhineland, which will produce bio-LNG once operational. The plant is another step in the firm’s road to becoming a net-zero CO2 emissions energy company and makes an important contribution to the decarbonisation of heavy-duty transport in Germany.
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International News
Circle K expands HVO refuelling capabilities Three new HVO pumps have been opened across the brand’s fuel retail network to support the transition of the heavy transport industry into alternative fuels. Circle K Ireland is opening three new milesBIO HVO100 pumps across its fuel retail network. This addition comes after the launch of the brand’s first Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) renewable diesel pump in Dublin Port at the end of 2022. As reported by Renewable Energy Magazine, milesBIO HVO100 is a fossil-free biofuel made from waste, by-products and derived products not intended for human consumption. The fuel offers up to 90% reduction in carbon emissions over regular diesel. The fuel has been implemented across the chain’s fleet of fuel
delivery vehicles and has already identified other locations within its footprint with high traffic of heavy goods vehicles. “The addition of these new HVO renewable diesel pumps to our network, along with our commitment to have HVO available on all national road routes in 2023, will help our customers to reduce their carbon footprint, with a 90% reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional diesel,” said Jonathan Diver, Fuels Director at Circle K Ireland. Although milesBIO HVO100 is new to the retailer in the country, it has been available across locations in Norway, Sweden and Denmark during the last years. This is just one of the ways Circle K is betting on the transition into cleaner forms of fuel and supporting the Irish Government’s plan to reduce transport carbon emissions by 50% in 2030.
Google Maps to favour charging sites over service stations for EV drivers The company’s Android Auto built-in software for cars has been updated to prioritise e-mobility services and points of interest. Google has confirmed that its Android Auto app for electric vehicles (EV) is prioritising charging stations over conventional service stations. The company has acknowledged these changes after German Android blog SmartDroid reported the news and has also stated that the update has been available since last year. Petrol stations have been reportedly demoted for drivers using Google Maps through the Android Auto service. Except the option to prioritise charging sites over gas stations is nothing new to the software, it has only been made more evident recently. “To help people get the most relevant information when navigating, last year we added the ability for EV drivers to see a shortcut for
charging stations instead of petrol stations on Google Maps for Android Auto,” Google spokesperson Pearl Xu confirmed to tech news site The Verge. The company representative also mentioned that the feature has been available since 2020 for vehicles equipped with Google built-in vehicle software. According to a list of Google Maps’ EV-centric capabilities that Xu shared with the media outlet, these include real-time charging port availability, charging speed filters, plug type filters, adding charging stops to trips, and charging stations in search results. Nevertheless, the site also reports that most EVs don’t operate on Google’s built-in software and there’s still a strong number of drivers who still rely on using their phones to guide them during their journeys.
Hydrogen Systems to establish first H2 station in 2024 The company has been awarded a contract by Shell Oman to design, develop and install the first hydrogen refuelling station in the country. Shell Development Oman has awarded Hydrogen Systems a contract to design, develop and install the country’s first hydrogen refuelling station. The Saudi Arabia-based company will be responsible for the detailed engineering, procurement, quality assurance and control of electrolysers, compression, storage, chilling and dispensing. It will also oversee all associated subsystems – utilities, interconnecting piping, safety, communications, electrical, control and instrumentation – for a green hydrogen generation and refuelling station in Muscat. The station’s construction is part of the partnership signed 58
between Shell and Oman Airports for the development of several green hydrogen projects announced back in March. “This collaboration with a leading global energy company like Shell further consolidates Hydrogen Systems’ position as a leader in the hydrogen technology sector, leveraging its expertise and innovative solutions to advance the adoption of hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy source,” said Sattam Alsuwailem, CEO of Hydrogen Systems. The site is expected to be operational by 2024 and Walid Hadi, VP and Country Chairman of Oman Shell, also announced that it is set to be partially solar-powered and include multiple mobility solutions. These include electric vehicle charging equipment alongside hydrogen fuelling units and other fuelling products and non-fuel retail products and services.
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International News
Large explosion at refinery A state of emergency has been lifted after a fire and petrol leak at a petroleum plant in Louisiana. Officials had urged those within a two-mile radius of Marathon Petroleum in Garyville, about 40 miles west of New Orleans, to evacuate the area as the fire continued to burn for about seven hours before officials got it under control. The company is in the process of shutting down the plant - the third largest in the U.S, and responsible for three percent of the nation’s total petrol consumption. Emergency crews responded to the scene at the St. John the Baptist Refinery, where footage shows a huge mushroom cloud in the sky. The chemical released is naphtha - a flammable liquid hydrocarbon mixture associated with crude oil that can be used as fuel. “The release and fire are contained within the refinery’s property and there have been no injuries,” Marathon said in a
statement. “As a precaution, air monitoring has been deployed in the community. No off-site impacts have been detected. All regulatory notifications have been made.” St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff Mike Tregre said officials are blocking highways and roads near the plant. Schools in the Parish, including ESJ Prep Academy, Fifth Ward Elementary and ESJ High School, have been put under a shelter in place order. An investigation into the chemical release is ongoing, Officials are not sure how long the fire is expected to run; “We’re doing everything possible to get the fire out,” said a Marathon official. Precautionary evacuations are mandatory for all residents within the two-mile radius, This is the third blaze to erupt at the plant this year: the Garyville plant produces about 265,000 gasoline barrels and 230,000 diesel barrels a day.
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Press Releases
Press Releases Heavy trench covers are history Once in a while, a product will come along whose performance will drive a change in standards across entire industries. Like stainless steel. Or concrete. Or a trench cover which is over 80% lighter than the cast iron traditionally used, eliminating the need for costly specialised lifting equipment and the accompanying health and safety hazards. And, unlike metal and concrete infill covers, it’s engineered from a GRP composite material which is inert and impervious to corrosion from water and salt, as well as many other corrosive constituents. Changing the Standard for Health & Safety Fibrelite’s GRP composite trench and manhole covers are fast usurping metal and concrete covers to become the standard for high-performance industries like airports, commercial ports, leisure cruise terminals, military and defence, power generation (both traditional and renewables), and data centres, with companies like Magnox, The National Grid, all branches of the UK armed forces, and the world’s largest technology brands specifying Fibrelite covers for new build and retrofit projects. 60
Recent Installation: Port Cruise Terminal Upgrade, UK As part of this Southern English Port’s cruise terminal upgrade project, Fibrelite was approached by the enduser, who was providing the Onshore Power Supply (OPS) systems. The port had previously considered installing cast iron trench covers to cover the 500 metres of trench housing the high-voltage power cables, but due to their weight (approximately 350 kg) and the additional associated overheads, they approached Fibrelite for a lighter alternative. Fibrelite developed a bespoke covering solution made up of dozens of custom-sized F900 (90-tonne) loadrated GRP composite trench covers in varying dimensions to suit the specified trench rebate dimensions, which were 65 kg, 82% (285kg) lighter than the cast iron alternative. The Fibrelite covers are light enough for safe removal with the site dolly, complying with the load rating requirement of the site. APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
Press Releases Recent Installation: Major Southern UK Airport Off-Apron Lighting Pit Upgrade At one of the UK’s busiest airports, Fibrelite designed and manufactured a retrofit replacement for manhole covers over off-apron runway lighting pits where onsite staff have a window of approximately two minutes to effect maintenance and/or repair works between take-offs and landings, including removing and replacing the F900 load rated access cover. The new lightweight GRP composite Fibrelite covers now allow safe, fast access to the lighting pits, maximising time for maintenance and minimising the risk of injury.
Bespoke Fibrelite GRP composite trench covering solution, 82% lighter than cast iron
A Bright Future for Fibrelite I’ve been a part of the Fibrelite journey since 2011, and it’s been exciting to play a part in driving the upgrade from traditional concrete and metal trench and manhole covers to GRP composites in myriad industries, especially those where manual handling is critical, and seeing how we’ve helped increase health and safety and performance in those industries. We expect to see more and more industries make the upgrade to Fibrelite composite covers, especially in mission-critical areas. Jo Stott, Marketing Director, Fibrelite Explore Fibrelite’s technical case study library here: https://fibrelite.com/all-case-studies/
Trade body changes name to reflect move towards more sustainable fuels The downstream oil sector’s leading trade body today begins its new phase as Fuels Industry UK to demonstrate its evolving remit to champion low carbon fuels as well as traditional petroleum products. Previously known as the United Kingdom Petroleum Industry Association (UKPIA), the change reflects its members’ ambition to manufacture and supply the biofuels, low carbon hydrogen and other low carbon fuels needed to meet the UK’s ambitious net zero targets. Fuels Industry UK CEO Elizabeth de Jong said: “Our name change reflects that the sector is essential to UK Government achieving its net zero targets by manufacturing and supplying the low carbon fuels needed. “Fuels Industry UK members are increasingly manufacturing and supplying low carbon fuels such as renewable diesel, biofuels and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which use nonpetroleum feedstocks.” Fuels Industry UK aims to shape an energy secure, low carbon fuels future for the UK that benefits everyone. Fuels Industry UK members are at the forefront of SAF delivery and are investing in future manufacturing capability in the UK. 62
As principal users of hydrogen in the UK, the downstream sector can also be major first customers for low carbon hydrogen projects, to help fund their start-up and make them viable for other companies to use. In addition, Fuels Industry UK members have global expertise in Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) projects, which will be vital in the transition to net zero. • Fuels Industry UK represents eight manufacturing, supply and marketing companies that operate the six major oil refineries in the UK and source over 85% of the transport fuels used. Our nine associate members comprise a wide range of companies: from heating fuel supply and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) imports, renewable and sustainable fuel producers, to terminals and pipelines. • The United Kingdom Petroleum Industry Association (UKPIA) was incorporated in 1978. • Find out more about www.fuelsindustryuk.org
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Press Releases
Bever Innovations empower petrol stations for an electric future Integrate EV pricing and charger availability into your monolith sign – a cost effective, fast and easy solution. Zierikzee, the Netherlands - 28/8/2023. As the world moves towards a greener future, the integration of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations into petrol stations is becoming increasingly common. However, displaying accurate EV price information alongside traditional petrol prices poses significant challenges, especially when a local POS system is already in place. To address these obstacles, Bever Innovations proudly presents its latest breakthrough - the IC-Smart - a fast, cost-effective, and easy-to-implement solution.
• Real-time charger availability: The IC-Smart enables the display of currently available charging spaces, providing convenience to EV drivers.
The IC-Smart: Seamlessly integrating POS and EV protocol information The IC-Smart is a cutting-edge interface converter that bridges the gap between petrol station POS data and online EV protocol standards. With minimal investment, petrol station owners can now effortlessly display EV kWh price information on their existing or new LED price signs, ensuring that customers have access to transparent and up-to-date pricing for both traditional fuel and electric charging.
• Centralised management: Easily view and manage multiple locations with installed Bever products from one user-friendly dashboard.
Key features of the IC-Smart include: • Integration of POS and EV protocol data streams: The IC-Smart unifies the diverse data streams, ensuring accurate pricing information is shown on the LED Price Displays in the price sign.
Bever Dashboard: Empowering remote management The Bever Dashboard is a cloud-based online system that revolutionises how owners and maintenance parties manage their petrol stations equipped with Bever Innovations’ products integrated with Bever Smart Technology. In addition to integrating EV price information and charger availability from EV standard protocols, the Bever Dashboard offers a host of other benefits:
• Manual price adjustment: Remote and manual adjustment of fuel and EV prices, even without a connection to a POS system. • Dynamic content programming: Effortlessly customise and program pricing and marketing information on LED Screens, enhancing customer engagement. Back-office system integration: The connection with a customer’s back-office system can be established upon the customer’s request, enhancing asset
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Press Releases management and simplifying operations. The API software interface enables efficient data exchange, eliminating the need to check multiple maintenance systems. Now, all information is centrally logged in the client’s familiar system, making Bever products remotely manageable.
4. Dynamic promotional LED Screen: Enhance customer experience and promote your offerings using a versatile LED Screen that combines EV price information, charging space availability and dynamic promotions.
Multiple integration possibilities to suit every need: To cater to the unique requirements and budgets of our valued customers, Bever Innovations offers various EV integration possibilities:
Rutger van Dierendonck, Technical Director at Bever Innovations, states:
1. Convert existing Bever LED Price Displays: Easily transform existing Bever LED Price Displays into EV price displays by only adding the IC-Smart. 2. Add a new EV LED display to monoliths: Expand your existing monolith with a new LED display and ICSmart to prominently showcase EV prices. 3. Display charging space availability: Use a dedicated LED display to inform customers about the number of charging spaces available.
“With our EV integration solution, we are making it simple and cost-efficient for petrol stations owners to embrace the EV revolution while providing customers with transparent and accurate pricing information. Also, asset management is made much easier for oil companies, and we are committed to a sustainable future by seamlessly integrating EV pricing and charger availability. Bever Innovations is ready to transform your station and lead the way into an electric future.” More Information For more details or to explore the diverse possibilities, visit https://fuel.beverinnovations.com/ev-integration/ or contact our sales team at info@beverinnovations.com / +31 (0)111 74 54 00.
Shell announces Executive Committee change Ronan Cassidy, Shell plc’s Chief Human Resources and Corporate Officer, will step down with effect from 31 December 2023, and leave Group service thereafter. Rachel Solway, currently Executive Vice President, Human Resources Organisation Development & Learning, will succeed Ronan with effect from 1 January 2024 and will be based in London. Shell CEO Wael Sawan said: “I’d like to thank Ronan for his 35 years of distinguished service to Shell. In his eight years on the Executive Committee, Ronan has helped steer us through transformational
change and several exceptional events, including the Covid-19 pandemic, with wisdom, integrity and foresight. He has championed employee engagement, ethical leadership and diversity, equity, and inclusion, and will leave having helped change Shell for the better. “Rachel will bring a deep commitment to performance culture, and great energy and care for people, to this role. As we deliver more value with less emissions in the coming years, through a focus on performance, discipline and simplification, Rachel will help us collectively realise Shell’s full potential.”
Electric vehicle charger design: Bigger doesn’t always mean better As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) continues to grow, the need for better designed EV chargers and charging stations becomes increasingly important. As of last year (2022), the global count of public charging points reached 2.7 million, with over 900,000 installations occurring during that year alone – a substantial 55% increase in comparison to 2021 figures. When it comes to EV charging, most drivers want a charger that is safe, secure, and functional – not to mention efficient. But have you ever thought about the design features of the charger itself and what benefit these could bring to a forecourt? Larger EV chargers don’t equal more power or faster charging. In fact, when it comes to EV chargers, bigger doesn’t actually mean better… EV Chargers Should be Safe, Secure and…Slim? 64
It used to be that the bigger footprint you had, when it came to service station layout, the more space fuel retailers had to fill. Large pieces of equipment dominated the forecourt, drawing attention from the competition to attract customers. Now, as the world journeys to carbon-neutrality, while motorists continue to embrace greener transport, service stations are having to adapt to meet changing consumer demands. With conventional fuel dispensers still required, as the market slowly transitions towards clean energy, existing forecourt layouts need to adjust. But at what cost? With little to no space to add alternative energy options at service stations, existing equipment and forecourt layouts could be seen as potential barriers to adoption – not to mention the investment costs involved to increase a site’s footprint.
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Press Releases
With the Power UX 180™ Electric Vehicle Charging System, space isn’t a problem. The slim, compact, and functional design of this DC-fast charger makes it ideal for space-saving applications with height limitations. In fact, its footprint is significantly smaller than other DC-fast chargers available on the market. The complete Power UX 180 EV Charging System has been designed with space limitations in mind, making it suitable for commercial parking areas, service stations, workplace environments and parking lots, to name a few. As well as the charger itself being incredibly slim, the EV cabinet – the system powerhouse – can also be fitted in a separate location to the charging posts. Further reducing the amount of space required on site for EV installation; thus, increasing space for drivers on site, while reducing noise levels. APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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Press Releases
With the Power UX 180 EV Charging System, there is no need for: • • •
Large investment Large installation areas Noise pollution concerns
Engineered to deliver power output performance and superior charger availability, the sleek design and intuitive user interface of the Power UX EV Charging System provides a premium experience for customers, while enabling fuel retailers to invest in an EV charging system without having to redesign or relocate their existing infrastructure. With its ability to provide up to 180kW of energy to one EV post or share it between two posts in power stacks of 90kW, this Red Dot Design Award winning charging system can deliver up to 100km of driving from less than 10 minutes of charging. It might be small, but the Power UX 180 EV Charging System is mighty. To learn more visit: www.doverfuelingsolutions.com/ev-chargers
Dover Fueling Solutions launches Advanced Fusion Prizma Automation Server in MEA Region AUSTIN, TEXAS – June 29, 2023 – Dover Fueling Solutions (“DFS”), a part of Dover Corporation and a leading global provider of advanced customer-focused technologies, services, and solutions in the fuel and convenience retail industry, is thrilled to announce the launch of Fusion Prizma – a trailblazing automation server that combines our industry leading DFS forecourt controller (“FCC”) and point-of-sale (“POS”) system to provide seamless connectivity between forecourt equipment. Building on the proven success of the Wayne Fusion® automation server version 3, Fusion Prizma enables dispensers, tank gauging systems, price signs, and back-end reporting to seamlessly interface with HOS and ERP systems. With Prizma software fully integrated, this automation server enables POS and remote connectivity in one compact but powerful package. 66
“The Fusion Prizma automation server represents durability, quality and reliability,” said Jenthe Govaerts, Product Manager, DFS. “It efficiently connects the entire forecourt offering, including the POS system, via one automation server to provide increased visibility and control for fuel retailers.” Specifically designed for the Middle East and Africa region, Fusion Prizma has been manufactured with dedicated and durable hardware to ensure it is more robust in hot weather climates, to withstand increased temperatures and dust. It also makes use of both standard and proprietary protocols and is future proofed to easily accept new devices and protocols as they’re needed. Designed and packed with performance-enhancing technology, Fusion Prizma features faster speeds, better responsiveness, and expanded connectivity options, which help reduce deployment,
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Press Releases
implementation, and maintenance costs. This advanced automation server also provides one single point of control, and with remote accessibility and POS built-in, it doesn’t matter where a fuel retailer is located, they can find the information needed, effortlessly. Peter Van Nauw, DFS Senior Director, Automation & Payment
Solutions, added, “Fusion Prizma provides fuel retailers with the best of both worlds. Not only do they get an excellent forecourt controller, but it is now equipped with Prizma software, peripherals, and cloud solutions, to make all site and shop operations as seamless as the rest of their forecourt activities.”
Digital transformation at service stations: What does this mean for fuel retailers and the industry? Digital Transformation is no longer “just around the corner”, it was here yesterday and is happening right now, globally. The fuel and convenience retail industry is a great example of an industry where digital transformation can make a huge impact to overall business performance. The opportunities and value it can bring to a fuel retail business and its customers now and in the future are limitless…if implemented correctly. So, what drives digital transformation on the forecourt? Well, the answer is simple: it is driven by both the fuel retail business and consumers. One of the primary drivers of digital transformation was the COVID-19 pandemic (BlueOptima, 2022). It 68
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drastically changed how society functioned, which eventually led to changes in consumer behaviour, highly influencing their wants and needs when it comes to service stations. For example, many consumers found contactless and online payment to not only be faster, but also safer (Global Payments, 2021). As a result, online shopping grew, and so did the advertising spend from companies worldwide, which according to Statista reached growth rates as high as 16% in 2021, compared to -3.7% in 2020 (Statista, 2023). To be a successful business during such a challenging time was incredibly difficult. No service station could afford to sit back and simply wait to see what happened, ride out the storm so to speak. Continuing day-to-day operations with their long-standing and traditional business model, just wasn’t going to cut it. Instead, fuel retail businesses had to re-evaluate their position and adapt their business model to meet the changing business environment and consumer trends. That is, if they wanted to be successful, stay competitive in the market, or to simply survive. While society and unforeseeable events can play a huge role in shaping and creating how businesses operate, it’s important to remember that for most fuel retailers, it’s in their ‘nature’ to innovate and look for opportunities that could keep them one step ahead of the competition. It’s no secret technology is transforming fuel retail business at a rapid pace, as smart, cloud-enabled connected solutions and products create differentiating opportunities for both retail and commercial fleet fuelling owners and operators – something that Dover Fueling Solutions (DFS) is no stranger to, and has been delivering for many years, to many customers worldwide.
In this article, we lay out some of the key benefits digital transformation can have on the fuel retail industry and, as we look ahead to the future, evaluate trends and opportunities that could arise as technological advancement continues and consumer behaviour alters. Digital Transformation works in the Fuel Retail Industry and We Can Prove It Many forecourts across the globe have demonstrated how digital transformation can positively impact and improve how fuel retail industry operates. Take a look at a standard fuel dispenser (image above); what once was an elegant and straightforward dispenser, years later is much more than that. Yes, its main function is to refuel a vehicle, but it also offers a digital consumer experience, enabling fuel retailers to engage with their customers during the refuelling process, which in return can help boost sales and profit margins. From digital screens at the pump, digital billboards, technologically advanced vending machines and self-checkout kiosks, it’s not only the market for retail technologies that’s booming, but also the concept of having technology-enabled personalised media and advertising. Identifying shopper characteristics (e.g., demographics, psychographics, behavioural history) through loyalty schemes and improving the shopper’s cycle through retailing innovations (e.g., multichannel marketing, in-store merchandising, digital activities etc.) has been, and still remains, a core activity for fuel retailers. In fact, personalised advertising at the pump, to some extent, is expected today. It has been proven that such marketing strategies can add excellent value for many motorists and businesses. In fact,
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Press Releases
customers of DFS have said it has helped them increase retail traffic, profits and at least a 30% increase in loyalty scheme registrations (Dover Fueling Solutions, 2021). For customers who step inside a convenience store (c-store), retail technologies such as self-checkouts are a great solution for retail businesses looking to reduce waiting times and improve the overall forecourt and refuelling experience. The fast-paced nature of a self-checkout kiosk makes the retail experience quicker, enabling consumers to avoid long queues and continue their day with minimal disruption. Today’s average consumer wants to complete their transaction in less than five minutes (CStoreDecisions, 2022), giving c-stores a short window to not only promote their latest offers, but to also help strengthen the consumer shopping experience. Now, what would be even more impressive is a forecourt that offers consumers the ability to pay for shop items, car washes, and fuel (or clean energy alternatives) in one transaction. A connected mobility and convenience hub can do exactly that – bringing new possibilities to a fuel retail business. Furthermore, this type of hub can make on-site and remote control easy, further enabling fuel retailers to optimise their customer’s experience, while ultimately presenting opportunities to maximise site profits. Leverage Digital Transformation to enhance safety and security Although “digital transformation” on forecourts is predominantly glamourised for marketing purposes (media, loyalty, payment) and enhancing the overall consumer journey, many don’t realise it can also be leveraged to improve the safety and security of retail systems, both indoors and indoors. In the first instance digital transformation can help efficiently measure and monitor fuel. Today’s technology allows for real-time analysis in case any fuel loss occurs, meaning the smallest of losses can be automatically picked up and sent to specialists for evaluation. Subsequently, providing the highest level of forecourt protection. Secondly, forecourts can utilise digitisation to facilitate a secure managed network. With a new and improved forecourt structure derives new challenges and security risks. Whether it’s 70
theft or breach of data, neither are acceptable, and should be protected with a secure network, which ideally connects c-stores, fuel dispensers, site controllers, Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers and more. A strong and secure network can quickly transmit large amounts of data, informing the station’s owner or operator of any potential concerns around the customer and business-sensitive data. A connected forecourt – whether wired or wireless – can not only enhance consumer experience, but help a forecourt become safer and more efficient. What are the trends and opportunities fuel retailers should look out for? New Forecourt Infrastructure You could say the future of fuel retail is looking clean, and with that, the fuel retail industry can expect a new forecourt infrastructure to come into play. The scale to which a service station will change will vary, as this will depend on individual fuel retailer capabilities, partnerships, market needs, as well as their personal and professional willingness to adapt to the changing times. Not only will fuel retail businesses need to follow and keep up with the ever-changing patterns in consumer behaviour, they will also have to align with government and environmental policies as they become more prevalent and the world moves towards decarbonisation and global sustainability and energy targets are set in place. On a global scale, the proliferation of clean energy offerings such as hydrogen, electricity, compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) differ from region to region. Nevertheless, as consumers become more conscious about their carbon footprint and look for ways to reduce it, fuel retailers have no choice but to modify their traditional forecourt structure and provide energy offerings to meet this demand. Further Collaboration and Partnerships Digital Transformation will continue to stimulate collaboration and partnerships. Whether the goal is to deliver powerful real-time analytics; create a connected forecourt; establish solutions that allow for remote management; or offer cleaner energy options for
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motorists, the best practice in achieving such targets will very often be through collaboration, and combining technology from two or more companies that have the same objective. With great partnerships, comes great results. Partnerships could make all the difference between delivering something new and useful to the end user, the motorist, and standing out from the competition or being left behind as the world, and your competition, continues to advance. Greater Focus on Consumer Experience From easy-to-use dispensers, contactless payment, self-checkout kiosks, personalised ads and loyalty schemes, it’s fair to say many fuel retail owners and operators have established a solid way of delivering an outstanding customer journey and a way for creating digital conversations between themselves and their customers. While none of that is expected to change – at least in the coming years – fuel retailers do need to be prepared for consumer habits suddenly changing. Expectations of the future forecourt could have
a lot to answer for. Thus, the need for products and solutions which provide convenience, and safety and security, to the everyday consumer – alongside alternative ways to power vehicles – is more important than ever before. The current and the future forecourt structure, solely relies on what digital transformation has in store, how it is integrated into the service station infrastructure and the new technologies that are yet to evolve over the years. This era of technology is no longer a surprise to the fuel retail businesses nor their customers. In fact, it could be argued, that in some cases, it’s consumers who are shaping and creating business opportunities. Consumers are having the final say in how fast or personalised their shopping experience should be and what types of products and services they expected at a service station. In order to stay relevant and be one step ahead of the competition, fuel retailers need to re-evaluate their business needs and determine how they can best utilise digitalisation. For the gap between today and tomorrow, is digital transformation.
Breaking the ICE: Are we ready for 2035 and the ‘End’ of petrol and diesel vehicles? Earlier in the year, the European Parliament approved a law banning the sale of new internal combustion engine cars in 2035, a development which has global ramifications for member states. The move has been hailed “absolutely necessary” by climate scientists, with some EU countries such as the Netherlands, Sweden, Greece, and Slovenia looking to initiate the ban by 2030. However, while strides have been made to enhance Electric Vehicle (“EV”) infrastructure across the continent with further projects 72
promised, sales of Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles remain high. So, what will the state of play be by 2035? Will ICE continue to dominate the market, or will the balance change gear towards alternative fuelling options? Dover Fueling Solutions examine the current state of the EV charging network across Europe, spotlighting which countries are
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blazing the trail and which have hit a bump on the road to carbon neutrality. Combustion reduction? Despite looming deadlines, recent data shows that Internal Combustion Engine (“ICE”) cars are still the most prevalent. Up to 2020, nearly 80% of all passenger cars sold in European markets were petrol or diesel, with the average lifespan of vehicles being 10 years. Although ICE sales are decreasing, sales remain strong into 2022, with 52.8% of passenger car sales registered as petrol or diesel across the continent. Meanwhile, ICE remains even more prevalent in the commercial transport market. Here, diesel has long been the preferred fuel, praised for its slow-burning efficiency and ability to generate the high torque required to shift heavy vehicles. In 2021 alone, diesel vehicles accounted for 90.5% of light commercial vehicle sales in the EU, which poses problems to the continent’s carbon-neutral goals. Electric dreams? Trends within EV sales do offer some cause for optimism. Europe fares well on the global stage with 1,390,000 units sold across the continent per year with every second car sold soon to be powered by electricity. Even the traditional diesel-oriented commercial transport sector is showing a massive boom in sales. 69,416 electrically chargeable vehicles were sold in the EU in 2021 compared to 24,313 just three years prior – a trend which is expected to rise significantly going ahead. Of course, an influx of new vehicles needs to be met with a reliable charging infrastructure. Presently, there are around 535,700 EV charging stations in Europe with around 130,000 charging points in America. However, further progress is needed. David McGuinness, Director of Product Management (EV Charging) at Dover Fueling Solutions explains: “While DFS continues to support ICE with advanced fueling solutions, sales of batterypowered electric vehicles are rising steadily and a lot more needs to be done to improve access to ‘the plug.’” “Dependable, renewable energy infrastructure is required to feed the grid, with a need to create a consumer-centric recharging 74
model that serves the practical needs of EV drivers.” “As local governments begin to embrace this, companies can deliver high quality fast chargers to market.” Access to the plug One of the main problems with adoption is the disproportionate distribution of EV charging points across Europe. Currently, nearly half of all chargers are concentrated in two countries – the Netherlands and Germany – with a clear divide between central and eastern Europe and western countries on the other. So, while some countries are visibly blazing a trail, many others are lagging behind. Small countries such as Cyprus and Malta boast just 57 and 98 chargers respectively, while even a larger nation like Romania houses only 0.4% of the continent’s charging points. At present, early adopters are likely to be higher wage earners with the facilities to be able to plug in at home or work. But for full mainstream adoption, significant public infrastructure will be needed. Naturally, prospective EV buyers want assurances they’ll be able to charge their new vehicle conveniently. In turn, this creates greater competition for access to public charging points. Experts estimate that as many as 65 million chargers will be needed across the continent to enable a convenient, user-centric experience. Fortunately, global investment is expected to reach $823 billion by 2028 with grid investments also on the rise. To deliver this, public authorities will have to work hand-in-hand with utility companies and national grid operators as the market moves from a phase of early adoption to one of exponential growth. The battery-powered revolution is likely to be a once-in-a-century development and governments, stakeholders, and policymakers need to grab the opportunity with both hands. While developments in EV infrastructure continues apace, there will still need to be a place for traditional fuels on the forecourt, particularly with the average lifespan of an EU car being 12 years. The ICE car is likely to remain a fixture on European roads for a little while yet.
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Branches
Branches Irish The APEA Irish Branch committee have members from both the North and South of Ireland representing the petroleum industry, the consulting/technical businesses supporting the petroleum industry, and the regulatory authorities of both jurisdictions.
October 2023 in City North Hotel, Gormanstown, Co. Meath. There is a busy agenda for this meeting covering:
A recent public transport development in the Dublin area is the Dublin Bus Depot Vehicle & Electrification project. Dublin Bus have contracted Hitachi Energy Ireland to design, supply and install electric vehicle charging infrastructures at two Dublin Bus depots. The site works have already commenced and it is envisaged that the Wrightbus Electroliner all-electric double decker buses will enter service in November 2023. By the end of Q1 2024 it is planned to have 134 of these buses providing public transport in the Greater Dublin area.
• • • • •
The Irish Branch has a committee meeting scheduled for the 5th
The agenda for this meeting covered: Our upcoming AGM is planned for the 9th November 2023 Dangerous Substances (Licensing Fees) Regulations 2023 Amendments to the Dangerous Substances Act Revision of the Flammable Fuel Store Regulations Current review of the Blue Book and Red Guide
We hope to see all our members and guests at our upcoming AGM. Michael O Connell Branch Representative
Scottish The Scottish Branch held its first face to face AGM at the Radstone Hotel, Lanarkshire, on 17 May 2023. The meeting was timed to coincide with the Petroleum Retailer’s Association Roadshow to attract as many members as possible but a disappointing number turned up compared to the last face to face AGM in 2019. Andy King, the Chair and Secretary of the branch, gave a report on the highlights of the previous year including the meeting with a representative of the Scottish Government to discuss the new Pyrotechnics legislation (Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2023). The Act will have major implications for Trading Standards Officers and fireworks distributors.
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location. The course was well attended and received excellent feedback. Ian had been in talks with the Scottish Government to discuss the timing of the changes to the existing legislation which are contained in the new Act and reported his findings to the meeting. Peter Farmer, Treasurer, presented the annual financial report and noted that, due to Covid and the lack of meetings, the branch finances were in a reasonably good position. The branch committee all stepped down in accordance with the branch rules and were reinstated without objection. Gary Green of Edinburgh City Council was elected to the committee and welcomed by the chairman.
Ian Hillier, Branch Representative, reported that there had been issues with the website membership renewal payment process and this had had a negative effect on the membership numbers. This was currently being worked on.
Gordon Bolmar, Executive Director of the PRA gave a presentation on the work of his association and the chairman expressed his thanks to Gordon and his intention of holding next year’s AGM in association with the PRA roadshow.
The branch assisted with the arrangements for a three-day petroleum officers training course which was held at a central
Ian Hillier Branch Representative
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Branches/Training
Eastern The APEA Eastern Branch Events Committee convened in August to review the last meeting held at Duxford on April 26th and to plan ahead for its autumn/winter meeting, scheduled for the first week of December. Eastern Branch members may have already read about our April event, including the interesting topics covered and the excellent presentations at this historic location. A significant amount of planning goes into these events to ensure they remain relevant and engaging for our members. All committee work is done voluntarily, which doesn't consume too much of one’s time but provides the satisfaction of providing a forum for debate to fellow members in this important industry of ours. If you'd like to join us, please let me know. You'll be pleasantly surprised by how much you'll enjoy it and the opportunity to make new friends and acquaintances. We are continuously seeking venues to host our events and meetings, whether it be local authority offices, fire stations, factories, or historic locations. If you can host us, we'll also provide a complimentary write-up on your business, including some pictures. If you have specific topics you'd like us to cover or wish to give a presentation yourself, please inform us. It's an excellent platform to practice your presentation skills, and you'll receive a warm welcome. Lastly, we rely on your support and that of your employer to
participate in our events. We sincerely appreciate all those who attend our biannual meetings, as well as employers who encourage their employees to do so. Time keeps moving forward, and we all need to set aside time for these events. Our meetings also offer valuable training and equipment updates. In particular, we encourage attendance from local authorities and their respective departments responsible for licensing and petroleum regulations. While petrol stations have never been safer, it's crucial that it remains uppermost in the order of priorities. Jamie Thompson's presentation at Duxford clearly highlighted the importance of continuous training and awareness. The APEA offers several training courses throughout the year, some even available online. With the ever-changing landscape of new technologies and energy sources entering the market, as well as the ongoing maintenance of legacy sites to ensure public and environmental safety, there has never been a better time to join the APEA or renew your subscription. If you'd like to discuss how to get involved, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to seeing you at APEA Live on 16th November. Save the date! Anton Martiniussen Branch Secretary
Training Training course dates and locations 2024 3 Day Combined Petrol Filling Stations – Construction, Audit and Inspection Course 9 - 11 April Manchester Airport 11 - 13 June Solihull 3 - 5 September Stansted Airport 2 day Electrical Installations - An Awareness Dates TBC
Wetstock Management Dates TBC DSEAR 19 April 11 September
Manchester Airport Stansted Airport
Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulations 2014 18 March Manchester Airport 6 September Stansted Airport
Explosives and Fireworks 4 October Stansted Airport Please contact the APEA office for a quotation for a bespoke course we can run at your offices, for any of the courses listed below, at admin@apea.org.uk, with an approximate number of delegates and preferred dates.
Petrol Filling Station courses on request Vapour Recovery Installations Leak Investigation Enforcement Procedures Safe Installation and Use of LPG
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Training
Course Fees 3 day course with accommodation 3 day, day delegate rate
APEA Member £1020.00 £810.00
Non member £1120.00 £910.00
2 day course with accommodation 2 day, day delegate rate
£650.00 £550.00
£750.00 £650.00
1 day course
£260.00
£310.00
Prices excluding VAT. More information and booking details on the “Training” page at www.apea.org.uk. Anyone booking a training course that is not an APEA member will automatically receive complimentary “Individual” membership to the APEA for one year.
Courses will be designed around the (4th edition) Blue Book Guidance for the Design, Construction, Modification, Maintenance and Decommissioning of Filling Stations (May 2018). A hard copy and a pdf version of the 4th Edition is available from the Publications page of the APEA website at www.apea.org.uk The hardcopy is £75.00 to APEA Members and £150.00 to non APEA members. There is no VAT charged on the hardcopy or pdf formats. The pdf version can be purchased with a licence for individual use and cannot be shared or printed. It is strongly
recommended that attendees have access to this document during courses. For details of this and any other training enquiry, please contact: Jane Mardell - APEA Business Manager email: admin@apea.org.uk Tel: + 44 (0) 345 603 5507 or Thomas Daly (Training Committee Chairman) Tel: +353 876899281 email: thomasdaly@apea.org.uk
Online Training courses To book go to the Training page on the APEA website at www.apea.org.uk for the link or to https://apea.org.uk/pages/training or https://apea.mykademy.com/ 8in1 APEA Full Course Bundle £250 Key Areas of a Filling Station £50 8 Courses The Future of Fuels £50 Key Areas of the Filling Station Drainage, Vapour Recovery and Leak Detection £50 The Future of Fuels Road Tanker Delivery and Consignor Requirements £50 Drainage, Vapour Recovery and Leak Detection Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulation 2014 £50 Road Tanker Delivery & Consignor Requirements Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulation 2014 2002 £50 Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulation Inspection Preparation Online Training £50 2002 The Red Guide £50 Preparing for Inspection The Red Guide
3 Day Training Course Stansted Airport Fourteen delegates attended the three day course for Construction and Environmental Awareness Audit and Inspection training course held at Stansted Airport in September, tutored by APEA trainers including Geoff Lee.
Delegates from diverse backgrounds attended the course, with two from Malta Air Traffic Services, three from East Sussex and West Sussex Trading standards, two from the MOD, one from Jersey Fire and Rescue Services, three from National Petroleum Authority in Ghana and delegates from Petropolis and Tennals Environmental Services. 78
The trainees had discussions regarding the Ghana accident where 150 people were killed in a fire at a filling station in Accra and other incidents in the UK and Europe. The Blue Book requirements were fully covered during the course and delegates were able to demonstrate their understanding. A visit and inspection to an operating filling station was the highlight of the course when the delegates were able to experience a real time inspection and safety audit of the site. Our thanks to Sainsbury’s for their cooperation.
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Training Delegates from the 3 day Construction and Environmental Awareness Audit and Inspection training course at Stansted Airport
APEA tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
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