APEA (The Association for Petroleum and Explosives Administration)
Publications Information
Unused Roof Space: The Untapped Potential for Forecourt Owners
Cost Effective New Fuel Management System Pumptronics FC20i
The Development of the Petrol Pump
A New Environmentally Friendly Wooden Canopy
Alternative Fuels: The Benefit of Staggered Switching
Leveraging Tech Integration: A $1-Billion Opportunity for Fuel Leaders
Power Up with the TSG EV Charge Point Service and Maintenance Programme
It’s Not Just About The Cover. Are your Access Chamber Covers Safe; Are They Correctly Rated For The location That They Are Fitted In & Do You Regularly Check & Log Their Condition!
Fire and Safety Matters – Or Does It!
Maldives Island Marina Projects
OAMPS Hazardous Industries – Specialist Insurance Advisors to Specialist Clients
“Petrol” Pumps with a Difference
Getting the Project Concept Right when Upgrading a Site
The Greener Forecourt of the Future is Here
News
Press Releases
Branches
Training
APEA Live 2024 Conference, Exhibition and Awards Dinner
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.
Welcome
Michael O’Connell APEA Chairman
Welcome to the December edition of The Bulletin. As always seems to happen (particularly as I get older!), this year has flown by with a lot of activity and hard work done by our APEA National Council, Local Branches and volunteers. As I write this, APEA Live is nearly upon us and we are all once again looking forward to a great event in Milton Keynes on the 14th November. The exhibition and trade area is fully booked where we will see how the fuel industry has evolved since last year.
We will also have a number of workshops and open forum discussions during our daytime conference programme, where our guest speakers and hosts will provide us with an insight into the technologies, challenges and policies that impact our industry now and into the future. Our annual evening awards dinner is also fully booked and will as always be a great way of closing off the event.
I hope you enjoy this edition of The Bulletin, which is full of interesting articles relevant to our industry. We are in a sustained period of change and the supporting technologies are progressing at pace. The Bulletin is always a great source of information on how the industry is innovating and reacting to this changing landscape. I hope you also take the time to look through our advertisements, as their continued support contributes to the high quality of this publication.
The publication of the 5th edition of the Blue Book is imminent
APEA Business Manager
(contact for all APEA Business. 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
Find us on Linkedin and Twitter
and we hope will be complete in time for APEA Live. There has been an enormous amount of time and effort invested in this review, and I would like to express our gratitude to all the working groups who gave their time to assist in this undertaking. A reminder again to everyone that all current APEA members will be provided with a copy of the new 5th Edition of the Blue Book.
With the move away from fossil fuels continuing, one issue I have noticed cropping up with increased frequency, is the installation of EV charging into existing fuel stations. There is often not enough or indeed any consideration given to the existing fuelling infrastructure and its associated hazardous zones. Once EV charging is installed (usually at great cost) in an existing fuel station the remedial works required to retrospectively comply with the requirements of the Blue Book and the IET Code of Practice, can be considerable and indeed unnecessarily costly.
With this in mind, firstly consider the location of both the EV charger and the vehicle charging at the maximum extent of the cable. They must both be located outside the hazardous zones associated with the existing fuelling infrastructure onsite. Furthermore and from a fire safety viewpoint please consider that an electric car, should it catch fire, will be difficult to extinguish and will burn at a very high temperature. This extreme heat will impact on everything in the immediate vicinity of the EV on fire, and consideration should be given to locating the EV charging infrastructure in an area that gives maximum protection to the existing infrastructure onsite.
There is quite a lot to consider when designing and installing an EV charging infrastructure in an existing site. It is, I believe, a worthwhile exercise engaging beforehand with consultants/petroleum officers to ensure the best outcome is achieved, without incurring the added inconvenience and costs of retrospective compliance works. As mentioned, the Blue book and the IET Code of Practice provide excellent guidance for EV installations at fuel stations.
Finally, I would like to wish all our Bulletin readers a Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2025, from all of us on APEA National Council.
Editor Brian Humm
Mobile: +44 (0) 7507 478533
email: b.humm@outlook.com
Editorial
Brian Humm Editor
Welcome once again to another freshly produced edition of the APEA Bulletin. As usual, we have searched high and low for the news and articles that we have produced for our members to enjoy, and as usual we have struggled to gather the information that we have today. It’s always a challenge and we welcome the input from both individuals and companies who are keen to promote their good deeds and wares. If any members, and I am thinking more of corporate members, have anything they would like to share then please feel free to send it to me. I’ll consider anything, especially good news and innovation; it’s up to you. I look forward to receiving the incoming avalanche of copy! So, get your thinking caps on and surprise me!
Sitting here writing this it is strikingly warm for this time of year, the sun is beaming into my office window and the sky is a lovely shade of blue. Having had a middling summer with a fair amount of rain this year, it now decides to be sunny and warm; let us all hope that this winter is a mild one, for everyone’s sake. I’m not usually bothered about being cold but with age creeping up on me I do now feel a tad chilly on winters days. It’s nothing to do with the cost, honestly ;) Being semi-retired I have to watch the pennies now.
Hopefully, when you are reading this you will have received your copy of the 5th edition of the Blue Book. The review took longer than expected this time as there was a lot of work involved and a lot of people to get together, both in person and online meetings. Needless to say the final draft was sent to the UK HSE for comment and the book was deemed fit for printing. This is a much needed and used document within our industry; I still use mine on the odd occasion and I can always find what I am looking for. It’s a very useful tool for regulators and contractors alike, I’m sure you will agree. I personally would like to offer my thanks to the APEA members that participated within the review. It was a long process,
but I believe that the time took ensured that the final finished version captured any new requirements and changes to the chapters involved perfectly. Now for the next one in another few years!
APEA Live, once again, was a success this year, a great conference with excellent topics, a very well attended exhibition (it was good to see more regulators here this year) and the various break out areas were well attended. I was somewhat disappointed that the APEA AGM wasn’t that well attended. This meeting is where the national council is elected and the numerous roles report on their work that was undertaken over the year. It is also members’ chance to find out what is going on and if need be “throw rotten fruit” at the council. Perhaps next year will be different, after all it’s the members that the council volunteers represent. As usual the dinner was superb and the entertainment was very well received. Congratulations to all the award winners; well done, well deserved to all of you. You can download appropriate finalist and winner badges for addition to letterheads or websites that lets everyone know that you were a finalist, a great achievement on its own, or a winner. Details will be emailed to everyone in due course.
Training features once again in this edition. You will see a Q&A within this edition in regards to the route to becoming a petroleum officer; we schedule a certain amount of courses per year and these are usually well attended but lately we have produced a fair amount of bespoke courses. This is where a group of local authorities or an individual company decide they would like some training and if they supply the venue and facilities then the Association just supplies the trainer and training materials. This can work out cheaper that booking the scheduled courses, a great way for local authorities to save a little bit of money in these hardpressed days. If you would like to know more about this type of course then you can contact Tom Daly, training chairman, whose details are elsewhere within this publication.
Finally, I would like to thank a few people. Firstly the council members who send me copy for inclusion or links to news items that they believe could be interesting for our members, namely Jamie Thompson, Gareth Bourhill and Anton Martiniussen. Also, John Thompson for his proof reading and ensuring that all this makes sense, Mel who looks after our social media and finally Jane, our business manager who puts this all together and makes sure that it looks this good every time. I appreciate everybody’s input and the Bulletin would not be as good without all your help. Until next time…
Business Manager
APEA Live 2024
Jane Mardell Business Manager
I hope everyone enjoyed APEA Live this year. Well done to Five Senses Media and Alex Boudry and the Events and Marketing committee.
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 - 2025 Advertising
I am currently taking bookings for advertising in the 2025 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 6th January. More information about advertising can be found on page 12.
2025/2026 Yearbook
You should have all received your 2025 Yearbooks. They were sent out at the end of 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 2026 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 email address is up to date by logging onto your membership record at www.apea.org.uk.
The website enables you to update your Yearbook profile at any
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A new contact form has been created to make it easier to contact the APEA. Be it help required with purchasing publications or training courses, technical queries, how to use your membership account or issues on the website you need help with, you can use the contact form.
Please go to the Contact page at https://apea.org.uk/contact/. Enter your contact details and use the pull-down menu to select the relevant subject and your query will be directed to the correct person.
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 24 new members joining during July, August and September, details 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.
Jane
tel: 0345 603 5507 www.apea.org.uk
Corporate Membership
Robert Campbell Intake Developments Ltd
Individual Membership Adam Powell Mitie
Alex Coxell VIVO Defence
Colin Doyle LCM Ireland Ltd
Damian Cawthorne Forward EV
David Wright LCM Ireland Ltd
Gareth Jones G Jones
Ian Allardes The Moray Council
New Members (July - Sept) Publications Information
Ivan Smith
Jane Longley Cheshire East Council
Justin Watkins EG On The Move
Kennedy Madziyire
Kevan Throgmorton Marlands Consultancy Limited
Kieran O'Driscoll JK Services Ltd.
Mark Fleming BP Pulse
Paul Graham West Lothian Council
Rita Lambe Lambe Oil Limited
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.
NB 5th Edition of this guidance is due for publication in 2024. Check the latest version at www.apea.org.uk/about-publications/
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.
Ruth Smith Comhairle nan Eilean SiarTrading Standards
Samuel Tizard Kobina Ansah Association of Oil Marketing Companies
Steve Gauci Butyl Products Ltd
Thomas Lewis Hartnell Taylor Cook LLP
Tom Holder NICEIC
Tom Manchester Nigel Brunt Properties Limited
Zubin Thomas Mathew Moosa Waleed Services Co. LLC
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
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.
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
About The Bulletin and how you can submit copy to be included
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Deadline dates for copy and advertising artwork 2025
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Please note the deadline date for the March 2025 issue is early due to Christmas and New Year holidays.
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fee in 1 issue
fee in 4 issues (includes 25% disc
Unused Roof Space: The Untapped Potential for Forecourt Owners
By Magdalene Robinson, Director, Ingeni Renewables Limited
Forecourt magazines are no strangers to articles promoting renewable energy to filling station owners. The increase in electric and hybrid vehicles on the road will only continue with the government-imposed Zero Emission Vehicle mandate raising thresholds year on year, until the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles is prohibited completely by 2035.
In their quest to satisfy customer demand, forecourt owners and developers consider the costs and benefits of EV chargers and amid widespread advertisements promoting EV chargers, it's understandable why they garner attention. However, another green energy initiative available to petrol stations, that should not be underestimated, is the installation of solar panels.
Forecourt owners often overlook this simpler method of leveraging the benefits of renewable energy– using the wasted space on top. Petrol station canopies and shop roofs are otherwise unused spaces on which owners could consider installing solar panels to lower the cost of their own electricity and provide operational support to their site.
Benefits of Solar PV Installations
Cost benefits
Solar panels are a long-term, low-risk investment, with manufacturers warranting the efficiency of the panels for between 20 and 30 years. They can substantially reduce electricity costs by generating a substantial portion of the energy required for daily operations. By producing their own energy, petrol stations can lower their dependency on the grid, leading to considerable savings on energy bills. Those savings can then be re-invested in the business elsewhere.
Several petrol stations in the UK have successfully implemented solar panels, resulting in significant cost savings and operational efficiency. 1Ingeni Renewables Ltd, part of a group of companies specialising in forecourt re-development, share some of their casestudies: Swift Service Station in Staffordshire installed 120 large panels on its 26m x 8m canopy and shop roof. In less than a year since installation, with summer months still ahead, the site has produced nearly 38MWh of energy representing more than £7000
in electricity savings for the owner. Another smaller site in Staffordshire, accommodating only 40 panels on its canopy, has produced over 20MWh of energy since its installation last spring, which has supplied over 20% of the site’s consumption.
Looking to the long term, installing solar panels adds value to the property by incorporating sustainable infrastructure. This increase in property value can be a significant benefit if the business decides to sell or lease the property in the future.
Operational Benefits
Another relevant point for petrol station owners to consider is that of combatting site overload. Tripping breakers due to combinations of simultaneous pump usage and fridge-freezer defrost mode is a common experience for many site owners whose electrical installations were completed long before the addition of modern appliances and plant. Ingeni Renewables Ltd has found that solar PV can help mitigate these issues. They report that forecourt owners frequently enquire about battery backup options to keep pumps and tills running for those precious few extra minutes. While UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems and generators are options, they can be expensive and rewiring the entire site to accommodate larger cables and breakers is no small undertaking.
Ingeni Renewables Ltd has observed that solar PV systems can alleviate the site load and further assist by utilising the inverter’s inherent ability to balance phases. As a result, many stations with solar PV systems no longer experience regular tripping, and the need for generators or UPS systems has all but gone away for them.
What’s Keeping Petrol Stations from Utilising Their Roof Space?
There are over 8000 operating petrol stations in the UK. So, what is preventing them from fully utilising their roof space for renewable energy? The most obvious obstacle is capital outlay and the lack of government grants available for commercial renewable energy projects. Many businesses that inquire about installing EV chargers are told by their Distribution Network operator that a site supply upgrade is needed, often costing over £150,000 for the upgrade alone. However, this is rarely the case for solar panel installations on sites with a 3-phase supply.
Furthermore, businesses shouldn’t underestimate the significant tax savings available to them. The Annual Investment Allowance (“AIA”), still at £1,000,000, enables businesses to claim 100% of the cost of their solar PV installation against their taxable profits in the year of purchase. Additionally, for those businesses operating outside of the AIA, solar panels qualify as Special Rate Assets for First Year and Writing Down Allowances, offering a 50% cost offset in the first year and 6% writing down per annum. Eligible plant and machinery used in onsite renewable energy generation and storage, including rooftop solar panels and battery storage, are exempt from business rates until 31 March 2035.
Another area of concern voiced by interested businesses is the load-bearing capabilities of their canopies. Ingeni Renewables Ltd acknowledges this as a valid issue, and all structures must be assessed by qualified engineers to determine whether they can support the weight of a solar PV system. This is a standard part of the planning process. However, in their experience, the majority of canopies are assessed as suitable. Since the mid-1990s,
designers and engineers of mono-pitch canopies have been required by BS 6399 to consider loading requirements of snow, wind and maintenance personnel and plant.
While a ballasted system is unlikely to be feasible, most canopies can support the weight of solar panels when fixed using systems designed for trapezoidal roofs and installed by knowledgeable contractors, who are familiar with the correct approach to moving around on these canopies. In fact, a railed system fixed directly to the internal steel to produce an area weight can actually have a stabilising effect on the canopy structure.
Clearly, integrating solar panels on the unused roof spaces of petrol stations offers a straightforward opportunity for owners to adopt
a renewable energy solution that can significantly cut costs through reduced bills and increased operational efficiency. Forecourt retailers that have embraced the potential of solar panels are now reaping the rewards. All savvy and forward-thinking retailers and developers should consider doing the same.
1Ingeni Renewables Ltd, alongside its sister companies, combines 60+ years of industry experience in forecourt development and commercial electrical installations. As a member of the NICEIC with MCS certification and Competent Person Scheme status, Ingeni Renewables Ltd ensures compliance with rigorous industry standards. Its installers, holding Compex and SPA/UKPIA safety Passport Scheme training for petrol forecourts, promise safe and effective project execution.
Cost Effective New Fuel Management System Pumptronics FC20i
By Nathan Morgan, Hytek
Hytek (GB) Ltd trade distributor and installer Ideal Tanks & Pumps based in Northampton took a call from their customer G & K Logistics who required a refuelling facility on site however cost was a consideration.
Mark Robinson at Ideal Tanks identified a 50,000-litre tank that would meet their diesel bulk storage requirements. Mark kept the cost down by supplying a fully refurbished tank with a brand-new tank cabinet to house the dispensing pump and fuel management system behind a security roller shutter door.
Onsite G & K Logistics has 19 vehicles, a mixture of vans and up to 44-tonne car transporters. Mark knew this customer was a serious player and needed a high-speed, accurate 90-litre-perminute dispensing pump to prevent downtime when refuelling and accuracy discrepancies. Mark recommended the Pumptronics high speed ALPHA diesel dispensing pump, which would connect
straight to the Pumptronics FC20i fuel management system (FMS) with its built-in pulsed output.
This FC20i (FMS) only allows authorised personnel to dispense fuel. This allows G & K Logistics to know precisely which drivers have refuelled and which vehicles have been refuelled. The FC20i cloud-based reports are easy to access and report MPG, allowing easy identification of vehicles requiring servicing or drivers who would benefit from training.
Mark identified the Pumptronics FC20i (FMS) as it has a comprehensive reporting system with an integral O.L.E. T5020 electronic diesel tank gauge with an accuracy of +/-0.25%, matching the accuracy of the Pumptronics ALPHA diesel dispenser meter. Mark added that the advantage of this FC20i with an integral tank gauge is that it saves the customer installation time and the cost of a separate tank gauge interface unit. The gauge
data is also fed back to the FC20i cloud reporting software, identifying tank deliveries, low tank warnings and alarms.
G & K Logistics also needed a tank for AdBlue®. Ideal Tanks & Pumps supplied and installed a 5000-litre AdBlue® tank with a SUB.4 submersible pump from Hytek that sits inside the tank. This pump is connected to a Hytek Piusi pulse meter that connects to a HYTEK ENGINEERED remote nozzle hanger pedestal, which has a nozzle switch that controls the submersible tank pump directly and is connected to the FC20i (FMS), allowing G & K Logistics to see which drivers have refuelled and exactly which vehicles have been refuelled with AdBlue®.
In conclusion, it was clear G & K Logistics needed a heavy-duty refuelling solution that would be reliable while also offering full remote reporting capabilities, so they knew where their diesel and AdBlue® were going with 24hour access to their data/reports.
Mark added that we had achieved this at a sensible price with reliable and future-proof equipment; the Pumptrionics FC20i(FMS) offers a CO₂ reporting function. Hytek Sales Manager Clare Lovesey added that Hytek has been working with Ideal Tanks for well over 35 years, and they, like us, have embraced the changes in our industry, and we are excited to see where the future takes us all.
The Development of the Petrol Pump
By Jamie Thompson, APEA Technical Committee Chairman
Historically the petroleum industry and their marketers have consistently over the years challenged both Engineers and Regulators by changing the way they have designed and built their filling stations, one such aspect that has seen much change has been the petrol pump.
Looking through some old papers recently I came across an “innovation” from 1960 which was proposed by BP as a “way forward” for dispensing fuel for motorists.
It was a pump design called the “Autovista” and was claimed to be able to deliver various grades of fuel from one position without having to choose which grade pump to drive to - in other words the first multi-product dispenser (MPD) which we eventually seemed to adopt across the industry.
It was designed by The De Havilland Engine Company from Leavesden, Hertfordshire, but manufactured by Avery Hardoll and to be installed in many of the BP sites.
Here the marketing people were demonstrating the progress of fuelling over the years and the disadvantages of having the then common methods of pumping fuel
The engineering design at that time was quite forward thinking and before the days of standards for pumps they had to rely on the Petroleum Licensing Authorities to agree such an arrangement.
In London at that time the London County Council Public Control Department had the Petroleum Inspectors who examined the plans, visited the factory and reported to a committee before a letter of approval was sent to both BP and the design company and Avery Hardoll for permission to install such modern equipment.
The engineering manager for Avery Hardoll was a Fred Wilson who was an experienced petroleum engineer and eventually became influential in working with industry to produce the first British Standard for Petrol Pumps BS7117 in 1988 before he retired.
BP launched the new system at Leavesden in Hertfordshire and the new systems would be installed in Italy and the UK during 1961.
The press release at the time stated that since the introduction of the petrol pump at the end of the nineteenth century there had been little change in its basic design.
The days had gone when the pump attendant had to pump fuel through by hand and in the mid 1930’s there was a break through with the introduction of the price computer. The general idea remained the same; a separate unit for each grade of fuel making it necessary for the motorist to drive his vehicle to the right position in front of the particular grade of fuel.
BP’s research indicated that it would be far better for the motorist and the garage to now have various grades of fuel available from one pump and also allowing for a preset money value to be chosen at that pump.
This was a unique design but I understand was an expensive option and not too many were installed. However, the general principle of having multi products dispensed from one pump became a reality.
Many other designs were tried and used by oil companies to identify brands but few survive today
BP tried the Japanese system in the 1960’s in Birmingham which had pressurised pumping with fuel lines in the canopy.
A more modern BP design but few left
Real Irish Marketing!
What the oil companies really want
What we will probably all end up with!
Robot Refuelling
Here the Round Pump was an identifying symbol used extensively by the Mobil Oil company
A New Environmentally Friendly Wooden Canopy
By John Best ATF Fuels
ATF Fuels recently carried out a refurbishment of an existing Forecourt in Jersey.
The scope of the works was as follows;
1.Refurbish and re-line the existing underground fuel tanks.
2.Demolish the existing steel canopy.
3.Construct a new control room.
4.Install new canopy foundations.
5.Install new fuel suction lines and vapour recovery pipework.
6.Installation of new underground ductwork and drainage.
7.Erection of a new canopy.
For the canopy installation, we saw an opportunity to do something different and install what we believe is the 1st canopy of its nature in the UK.
Conscious we are all living in a time where we need to be ever more
conscious about our impact on the environment, we placed sustainability high on our design agenda. It was paramount to us to demonstrate that industries traditionally negatively associated with the environment can also positively contribute to the nature.
It was also important to provide a design that assimilated into the green backdrop of the site. For these reasons, a mass timber frame design was pursued.
The overall streamline roof form was inspired by the aerodynamic design associated with vehicles and transport sectors. With the main column structure being a metaphorical expression of a tree trunk and its canopy.
The timber design also provides a softer interaction with the context and carefully placed louvers bring a human scale welcoming you into the site.
The Mass timber construction has far lower carbon impact in its manufacture vs steel or concrete frames.
There is also the added bonus that while the sustainably grown trees remove and store carbon dioxide from the environment through carbon sequestration, t. This carbon dioxide is kept locked in the timber structure effectively helping to clean up the air.
Fire resistance and stability were also been given high priority with
an extra sacrificial charring depth layered on top of the structural sizes.
The new ATF Canopy is an example of how we can lead the industry in a sustainably positive direction and do so while providing visual enhancement to the public realm.
https://atffuels.com/
Alternative Fuels: The Benefit of Staggered Switching
By Dover Fueling Solutions
For fleets and long-haul heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) around the globe, one of the most pressing matters is switching to alternative fuel for their trucks with internal combustion engines (ICE). In fact, 85% of fleets are planning to switch to cleaner energy and introduce zero-emission technology to their processes by 2027.
Electric vehicles (EVs) have become a major talking point within day-to-day motoring as a viable option for drivers around the world. Despite growing popularity in the transport and logistics
sector, less than 2% of European business fleets are electric. However, the industry as a whole has been exploring and switching to alternative fuels much sooner than general motorists. Clean fuel vans, trucks, and buses in the European Union have seen steady growth since 2014, and as light commercial vehicles were the fastest to adapt to alternative fuels, they’re further ahead than alternatively fuelled HGVs in 2023.
Fleets all around the world are on the hunt for cleaner energy for
their vehicles, but who has already made the switch? Are there benefits to a staggered switch, as businesses look to gradually reduce the number of ICE vehicles but don’t want to risk productivity and efficiency with one large-scale change?
Dover Fueling Solutions explore the potential benefits of experimenting with various different fuelling options. Who has already switched to alternative fuels?
Diesel is still heavily relied on for HGVs, with fleets utilising alternatively fuelled vehicles in much smaller numbers. Switzerland only had 77 electric trucks on the road in 2021, according to research from IHS Markit, yet it was still the largest number of the selected European countries studied. While EV trucks are expected to account for 30% of all light-duty vehicles in 2030 and 54% by 2035 in Western Europe, the same HGV predictions are 14% EV by 2030 and 35% by 2035.
Liquefied natural gas (LNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) are two of the most viable substitutions to diesel for HGV fleets, and while CNG and LNG powered vehicles are most popular within Middle-Eastern and Asian markets, some concentration has been seen in Western Europe.
Two countries that have shown significant growth in the adoption of LNG and CNG HGVs are Poland and Hungary. National plans submitted to the European Commission show that by 2025, Poland and Hungary will be leading the charge on LNG use in heavy-duty transport, with forecasts of growth of 12,000 vehicles. This includes an additional 431 refuelling stations to account for this uptick in fleet numbers.
Another alternative fuel that is growing in popularity for fleets is hydrogen, a zero-carbon gas that is one of the most abundant elements available. This makes it a fantastic candidate for a fuel that could displace diesel, and many businesses have begun experimenting with it for commercial purposes. Hyzon Motors are a developer of fuel cell technology and a global supplier of zeroemission HGVs, and in a recent trial run saw one of their trucks complete a journey of over 540 miles from Temple, Texas to Dallas in over 100 degree Fahrenheit temperatures.
Fleets fuelled by alternative fuels have primarily been seen within business-to-consumer (B2C) spaces, with delivery companies and retail brands taking note of shifting consumer outlooks and behaviours. Two great examples are global delivery brands and, which have committed considerably to CNG and LNG, adding more gas-powered vehicles to their fleets. Similarly, globally renowned and established companies Amazon, FedEx, Ikea, and Best Buy have also.
How staggered switching overcomes adoption barriers
An issue that many fleets encounter when investigating how they can make their vehicles cleaner is associated costs, especially if looking to use EVs. The combination of price and charging downtime concerns and whether they can achieve the same range as traditional ICE vehicles are a huge barrier for many businesses.
This is where staggered switching could be a fantastic solution for these businesses. Using hydrogen-powered or ICE vehicles for long-distance journeys while you can phase in the EVs for shorter routes allows you to have space to grow. At the same time, the industry continues to expand, and electric HGVs become even more of an option.
One of the major issues is refuelling infrastructure is more equipped for traditional petrol and diesel vehicles than for EV recharging or alternative fuels like hydrogen, LNG or CNG. Staggered switching can lift some of the weight of this concern, as businesses can gradually incorporate alternative fuel vehicles depending on the length of the journeys required and locations of refuelling points on the way.
There could also be regional differences that make switching easier in certain parts of the world compared to others. A report by Webfleet Solutions found that 70% of light vehicle fleets, including
business cars, could be switched to EVs. This is a huge contrast to the average within Europe of around 61%. Many business owners and fleet managers are still uncertain about which fuels will be the future of HGVs, but this is where the benefits of staggered switching can be seen.
Not committing to just one alternative fuel leaves breathing room to keep using traditional ICE vehicles while experimenting and exploring several options before investing directly into the solution.
https://www.doverfuelingsolutions.com/
Leveraging Tech Integration: A $1-Billion Opportunity for Fuel Leaders
By Chris Cooper, President of International at Titan Cloud
The fuel industry faces a staggering challenge—fragmented systems and siloed operations contribute to up to $1 billion in potential annual savings that go unrealised due to inefficiencies. Traditional fuel management systems lack the integration and visibility needed to optimise operations. Moreover, inefficiencies across the supply chain drive up operational costs by up to 30%, further straining profitability.
Traditional fuel management systems often fall short, forcing operators to work in data silos and rely on fragmented tools. This hinders efficiency and collaboration, leading to hidden inefficiencies that inflate costs and frustrate consumers. To stay competitive, fuel operators must gain efficiencies and be agile in their operations—making integrated technology solutions not just an option, but an urgent necessity.
The High Cost of Inefficiency
The downstream fuel journey, from terminal to pump, is plagued
by blind spots and information gaps.
These critical disconnects hinder efficiency across the fuel industry.
•Inefficiencies & Fuel Loss: Lower truck utilisation and leaks contribute to fuel loss, while over-allocation and retain/overfill lead to wasted resources.
•Hidden Costs: Temperature and evaporation further exacerbate the problem. Lack of transparency into these issues creates hidden inefficiencies that inflate operational costs.
•Consumer Impact: From maintenance and IT expenses to testing and staffing, fragmented systems create a significant financial burden. Consumers also feel the pinch. Fuel runouts and lower sales volumes due to inefficient supply or undetected fuel theft can lead to frustration and potentially higher prices at the pump.
Complex downstream fuel supply chain
The Power of a Unified Platform
To address these challenges, fuel industry leaders must embrace integrated technology solutions. In a conventional procurementto-payment workflow, the sheer volume of manual touchpoints—often exceeding a hundred—leads to inefficiencies, slower processes, and increased error rates. These inefficiencies inflate costs and frustrate consumers. A unified platform that spans the entire supply chain, from rack to dispenser, is essential for achieving true efficiency and optimisation.
Workflow automation is key to driving these inefficiencies down. With API integrations, manual processes like tank measurements and invoice matching are replaced by smooth data connections, centralising multiple applications for a streamlined view of all operations. This end-to-end visibility enables operators to act on real-time data, flagging disparities and resolving issues before they impact the bottom line.
Titan Cloud's Fuel Asset Optimization platform is the industry's leading solution for addressing these challenges. By connecting all critical aspects of fuel operations, Titan Cloud empowers businesses with real-time visibility and data-driven decisionmaking.
With Titan Cloud, fuel operators can:
•Optimise Wetstock Management: Gain real-time visibility into inventory levels, track fuel loss, and ensure accurate reconciliation.
•Real-time Anomaly Detection: Identify unusual patterns in fuel consumption, such as sudden spikes or drops, that may indicate theft or other irregularities.
•Improve Inventory Accuracy: Minimise discrepancies and reduce write-offs.
•Enhance Compliance: Ensure adherence to regulatory standards and environmental regulations.
Automation moves orders through the procurement-to-payment workflow efficiently, transforming enterprise-wide operations and adding substantial value to their bottom line.
Retail Success Story: 500+ Sites, One Platform
After a significant acquisition, a major fuel and convenience retailer operating over 500 sites faced persistent challenges with delivery reconciliation and operational efficiency. Having previously worked with Leighton O’Brien (now part of Titan Cloud) for compliance, they turned to the fuel management leader for a comprehensive solution that automated ATG measurements and enhanced leak detection.
By integrating Titan Cloud’s platform, the retailer achieved a 64% reduction in tank gauge calibration variances and improved automatic BOL reconciliation by 5%. This streamlined process reduced investigations by 15%, significantly boosting operational efficiency.
Leveraging Titan Cloud’s AI-powered wetstock management, the retailer replaced manual variance tracking with high-frequency data capture, resulting in pinpoint accuracy and fewer fuel losses. This data-driven approach also enabled remote diagnostics, crucial for managing their widespread sites. The results speak for
themselves: a 64% reduction in inventory variances and accepted deliveries boosted to 99%.
Titan Cloud's streamlined implementation and robust technology provided the retailer with a solution that not only saved time and money but also enhanced operational effectiveness across their network.
Leading the Charge in Fuel Management Innovation
Titan Cloud’s platform is at the forefront of fuel management, revolutionising supply chain operations with smart algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI). Rather than merely anticipating the future, Titan Cloud is actively shaping it with real-time, actionable solutions. With AI-driven insights, fuel operators can:
•Predict Fuel Demand: Accurately forecast fuel consumption at individual sites to optimise inventory and prevent stockouts.
•Optimise Delivery Planning: Automatically assign loads to trailers and drivers, minimizing travel distance while maximising capacity.
•Improve Supply and Contract Management: Use AI to negotiate better contracts, manage allocations efficiently, and capitalise on spot buys.
Trevor Long Joins Titan Cloud to Drive European Expansion
Trevor Long, Director of Key Accounts at Titan Cloud
To further expand its reach and expertise across Europe, Titan Cloud Software is excited to announce the appointment of Trevor Long as a key member of its UK team. Trevor's extensive experience in the supply chain industry, coupled with his deep understanding of the UK market, will significantly contribute to Titan's ongoing European expansion.
With over two decades of success in selling AI/Process Mining and Digital Supply Chain Planning solutions, Trevor brings a wealth of knowledge to Titan Cloud customers. His ability to simplify complex systems and streamline operations will be invaluable as
the company continues to provide innovative Fuel Asset Optimisation solutions to businesses across Europe.
Fuel's New Frontier: Efficiency and Adaptability
The fuel industry's future hinges on its ability to adapt to a rapidly changing landscape. By embracing integrated technology solutions like Titan Cloud, leaders can unlock hidden potential, improve efficiency, and drive profitability. With the expertise of industry leaders like Trevor Long, Titan Cloud is poised to lead the way, helping fuel operators navigate the challenges of the modern fuel industry and achieve sustainable success. Learn more at titancloud.com.
About the Author
Chris Cooper, President of International at Titan Cloud.
Chris became President of International in 2023 following Titan Cloud's acquisition of Leighton O’Brien, where he previously served as CEO. A proven business leader, Chris excels in driving profitable growth through strategic insight, market awareness, and business optimization, while fostering a customer-centric culture.
Based in Melbourne, with past stints in Singapore, India, Dubai, and New Zealand, Chris joined Leighton O’Brien after 12+ years in strategic planning, sales, and management roles, including General Manager (Asia) at Dover Fueling Solutions and senior positions at Gilbarco Veeder-Root, OPW, and Liquip International.
Power Up with the TSG EV Charge Point Service and Maintenance Programme
By Cheryl Ashton, Marketing Coordinator, TSG
The recent proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs) on UK roads has triggered a significant expansion of the charging infrastructure. Operators need to ensure charge points are regularly checked and maintained to contribute to a safer, more reliable and efficient charging network.
With the increase in EV sales, the demand for reliable and efficient EV charging stations has soared. The backbone of this growing infrastructure is the maintenance and upkeep of these sites, which is important for ensuring smooth operation, customer satisfaction and the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
Businesses relying on electric vehicles require dependable EV charging stations to keep their cars/vans charged and ready to go. Likewise, operators of public charging hubs have to fulfil the needs of the motorist to encourage repeat visits and safeguard the site’s reputation.
EV charging facilities are costly investments, but appropriate EV charger maintenance will extend their lifespan and reduce the return on investment (ROI) risks for the operator.
Simple Checks of EV Charging Sites
There are some simple steps that site owners can perform, without
the need for third-party intervention, such as regular cleaning of the charging units to prevent the accumulation of dust, grime and other contaminants that could affect performance. Site staff should also check the chargers for wear and tear, damage or vandalism, making sure that all of the bays are easily accessible, and the site is free from obstructions.
Furthermore, staff should conduct regular inspections and perform verification tests on the chargers’ payment terminals, to ensure they are fully operational.
All other checks and tests should be carried out by a qualified EV charge technician from a reputable company, preferably on a planned preventative maintenance (PPM) basis.
The Importance of Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM)
A successful Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM) programme comprises regular checks and servicing of the charging equipment, providing early identification of potential issues, ensuring consistent operation and minimising downtime.
As an example, periodic testing of key components such as transformers, circuit breakers and cooling systems to ensure they are operating within optimal parameters. Furthermore, checking
the efficient distribution of electrical loads across the chargers within the station will help to detect any irregularities in charging times, which could indicate issues such as low voltage or battery malfunctions.
PPM is a proactive approach to asset management where equipment inspections are scheduled ahead of time, while the vehicle chargers are still fully operational. It establishes a stable routine for site staff and reduces the worry of unexpected disruption to the business.
PPM works in direct contrast to reactive maintenance where electric vehicle chargers are checked and repaired following a breakdown or failure.
Benefits of Charge Station Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM)
Dependability: A breakdown can be an incredibly inconvenient and costly problem, and in extreme cases can damage the site’s reputation. Adopting a PPM strategy ensures EV chargers operate reliably, preventing breakdowns and optimising uptime. It is a proven method for charge stations to remain fully operational while reducing replacement costs and preventing premature wear and tear.
Efficiency: PPM minimises the risk of unexpected failures that can lead to charger downtime and loss of business. Identifying and mitigating deterioration of the charging units ensures that they will continue to function efficiently, reducing the need for
unplanned repairs and contributing to a consistent recharging process.
Protection: Well-maintained EV charge equipment reduces safety risks for both staff and customers. PPM lowers the risk of accidents through regular inspections of the power supply, connectors, charging cables and charging enclosure, and can help identify defects that could present a danger to health.
Longevity: PPM is the best approach for a business to extend the lifespan of its EV chargers while reducing replacement costs and avoiding untimely degradation. It can identify specific performance indicators that allow site owners to assess the availability, reliability, functionality and maintenance costs of the chargers. Recognising these potential issues before the equipment fails helps operators budget repair costs and replacements accordingly.
Compliance: Regular charge station maintenance helps site owners remain compliant with health, safety and environmental regulations, operate efficiently, avoid possible penalties and safeguard the business's reputation.
Goodwill: Customer satisfaction is pivotal to the success of any energy retailer. Customers expect a seamless recharging process, clean facilities and reliable service. If the site fails to deliver on those expectations, customer loyalty will be damaged. Regular maintenance ensures that chargers work smoothly, connectors are clean and facilities are tidy. A well-presented operation enhances the customer experience and helps the business to remain competitive.
Compliance: Regular charge station maintenance helps site owners remain compliant with the new regulations for public charging*, health, safety and environmental protocol, operate efficiently, avoid possible penalties and safeguard the business's reputation.
*New regulations for public charging
The Government has published new regulations for public charge points, including a reliability standard of 99% for rapid chargers.
The new rules, detailed in the Public Charge Point Regulations 2023, specified by the Secretary of State, bring significant changes to the charging infrastructure landscape in the UK, with the key aims of improving the charging experience for EV drivers and promoting the adoption of e-mobility. With the increasing emphasis on sustainability and emission control, the mandate intends to ensure a smooth transition to a cleaner and more energy-efficient transportation system.
Crucial to building public confidence will be the dependability of the charging network, with the new legislation demanding a 99% reliability rate over a Charge Point Operator’s (CPO’s) network throughout each calendar year.
To substantiate the 99% criterion is being upheld, the CPOs must submit quarterly reports to the Secretary of State, providing information on the reliability of its charge points and the type of support sought by users.
Public charging areas will undoubtedly benefit from a comprehensive PPM strategy, consistently maintaining the chargers in tip-top condition.
Please note: chargers situated in car parking areas reserved
exclusively for a company’s staff or fleet use will be exempt from the above ruling, as are private residential premises.
Summary
The maintenance and upkeep of EV charging stations are integral to the success of the electric vehicle ecosystem. By prioritising regular inspections and preventative maintenance, operators can ensure their stations provide a reliable, safe and efficient service. Leveraging modern technologies further enhances maintenance capabilities, ensuring that charging infrastructure keeps pace with the growing demand for electric vehicles. As the UK accelerates towards a more sustainable future, the preservation of EV charging stations will play a crucial role in sustaining this momentum and encouraging the shift to energy-efficient transportation.
TSG is here to help
Here at TSG UK Solutions, we recognise the importance of effective preventative maintenance management on EV charge stations. As a consequence, TSG offers a customised service and maintenance programme to cover EV charging solutions and electrical infrastructure throughout the year, working closely with clients to develop a service plan tailored to individual requirements.
TSG’s team of experts is available to provide support, report faults, discuss problems or seek technical advice on EV charging equipment. For larger groups with more challenging needs, TSG can provide a designated key accounts manager who is responsible for their service and maintenance schedule and can act as an adviser on system/equipment upgrades as required.
By selecting one trusted supplier for all inspections and remedial works, site owners can stay in control of maintenance costs and reduce the possibility of unplanned callouts and unforeseen downtime.
For more information on TSG’s EV Charge services, please visit: https://www.tsg-solutions.com/uk/electrical-vehicle-charging/
It’s Not Just About The Cover.
Are your Access Chamber Covers Safe? Are They Correctly Rated For The Location That They Are Fitted In & Do You Regularly Check & Log Their Condition!?
By Nick Hugh, Managing Director of Forecourt Solutions
Forecourt Access covers: We’re in the industry so we definitely all know them. It’s those square, round, inconspicuous composite or metal covers which are scattered around Petrol Forecourts in strategically placed locations, protecting all sorts of items. They play an incredibly important role in protecting the fuel infrastructure and provide access to chambers for direct fuel delivery sites as well as ATG equipment, STP’s, pipework, interstitial equipment to name just a few. Easy access to chambers for maintenance and inspection is of vital importance.
These covers need to be water tight, light enough to remove safely for regular inspections and of solid, sturdy construction in order to prevent damage to the cover thus creating a potential H&S risk.
Forecourt Solutions Composite Access Covers meets all of the requirements mentioned above and are manufactured from a resin and glass fibre mixture similar to fibreglass. They are an
environmentally friendly alternative to traditional iron covers and come in a range of sizes.
Petrol Forecourts are busy locations with vehicles of all shapes, sizes and weights hitting different points of the cover 7 days a week. The daily stress placed on covers is enormous which means using the right cover for its location on a Petrol Forecourt is important to ensure that the least amount of damage will occur over a long continuous battering period of time. Understanding the full weight and load bearing capacity of an access chamber cover is critical when planning and designing Petrol Forecourt cover placements.
Reminder of the Basic Load Bearing Classification B125, has a maximum load rating of 12.5 tonnes. Used for Pedestrians, domestic driveways & light use. Common for inspection chambers that are outside traffic areas and on verges.
C250, has a maximum load rating of 25 tonnes. Typically used in an area with light traffic.
D400, has a maximum load rating of 40 tonnes. Mainly used in HGV lanes & forecourts.
Whilst we still see some metal covers being used, Composite covers are by far the cover of choice providing a solution that is:
-Lightweight & easy to install
-Non-Corroding
-Non-Slip surface finish
-Zero scrap value
-Can be lockable
-Reduced carbon footprint
-Non-conductive
Meghan Trainor’s debut single (2014) stated “It’s all about the bass, about the bass….” was almost 100% correct in relation to cover base frames.
With all that has been discussed about the value of composite covers, this write up would not be complete without making mention of one of the most important parts of a cover, and that is the base frame.
The base/frame is the structure that supports the cover and having a decent frame that is thick enough, structurally strong enough and has enough concrete ties to bite into the concrete to help support the cover is important. The combination of cover and frame is what gives a cover its overall load rating so it’s important that when specifying covers for projects, that both cover and frame should be accessed. This also holds true for replacement covers, where instead of just replacing a damaged cover, the condition of the frame should also be reviewed for any structural damages.
It doesn’t matter how good your cover is, if the frame is damaged, your cover will fail at some point. An analogy is following a car accident, if the bodywork and interior of the car is in mint condition, but the chassis/frame is damaged, the car will be deemed not road worthy.
Cover in the HGV lane bowing but could be seen as ok when only doing topside visual inspections vs the underneath of the cover which tells a different story with the rust damage of cover and frame, so bad that it has seriously compromised the structural integrity of this extra heavy duty factor D cover and the safety of others.
Besides our quality load rated Cover & Frame, there is a hidden third factor that adds to a cover and frames unofficial load rating, and that’s the installation. As a cover and frame is only as good as the company that who installs it. Failing to replace damaged covers & frames, fitting the incorrect load rated cover or not using quality install companies to fit these key & vital parts to a forecourt is a recipe for disaster, with the only variable being “time” before a H&S incident occurs.
Matt Daglish, a seasoned industry professional at Kidderminster Petroleum had this to say: “Frames are more important than one thinks. We continue to remove and replace damaged frames that have been incorrectly fitted or the incorrect load rated covers have been installed in HGV lanes. We at Kidderminster Petroleum pride ourselves on working with our customers to ensure that they understand the importance of the relationship between cover and frame, and that at times it is safer and more cost effective to replace both cover and frame. There is usually a root cause as to why the cover has been damaged.”
Mike Hiatt, an Installation & Maintenance specialist in the UK, states that “covers used on petrol forecourts are very important pieces of equipment and should not be a second thought when planning forecourts. Where possible chambers should be placed in locations that reduces cover strike rates but we know this is not always possible, so making sure you have the right cover and frame, together with the right install company, is very important to long‐term hassle‐free covers.”
Forecourt Solutions suggest that cover and frame conditions should be on Oil & Maintenance company’s regular checks and the conditions logged for audit purposes. We have over the years seen far too many trip hazards and covers/frames that are in serious need of changing. What you are able to see on top may not necessarily be what’s underneath, so proper inspections are required.
Forecourt Solution D400 Covers & frames installed to last If there is any way we can help you, please reach out to us at Forecourt Solutions to understand more about our covers and frames and the sizes available to you. www.forecourtsolutionsltd.com
Sri Lankan filling station from Ian Thompson
Fire and Safety Matters – Or Does It!
By Richard Dunbar, Park Lodge International
Electric Vehicle Charging and Battery Electric Storage Systems (BESS) – how do they fit in the risk assessment regime on a fuel station forecourt?
Battery technology has been around for a long time, but today the lithium-ion battery has taken the technology to new heights of power and duration. However, it does have some drawbacks. We have had these batteries in our phones, laptops, tablets, power tools, televisions etc., for years and now they are driving a new revolution in transport from scooters, bikes and cars through to large goods vehicles and public conveyance vehicles. We are even seeing electric fire engines although the diesel back-up generator often makes an appearance somewhere on the truck. They are also used as storage with solar and wind farms, to provide power during power cuts or to supplement the power grid on charging points when demand outstrips capacity.
We have of course lived with the fossil fuel powered motor vehicles for even longer, in fact as early as 1862 there was a Petroleum Act to ensure the safe keeping of petroleum and its products. Today the fuel station forecourt is probably one of the safest and most regulated areas of the United Kingdom public places and usually only the human interaction with the system produces the risk.
Of course, change happens and many fuel stations are offering electric vehicle charging as a service to its customers and if power supplies are adequate and space available without the need of a battery electric storage system (BESS). For some, including 50 motorway service stations, the National Grid and fuel station forecourts the BESS is the only way of providing power storage.
Existing legislation can be adequate but only if the person assessing the risk in the planning and implementation understands the ‘battery’, whether in a vehicle or a BESS. Do not think for one minute that the spurious facts about electric vehicle fires being rare, while refuelling any electric vehicle or plug in hybrids are far more likely to have a thermal event than fossil fuelled vehicles.
Background:
The lithium-ion battery is a simple battery with no chemical reaction other than the electrons moving from one side to the other on charging and back again on discharge, it is referred to as the ‘rocking chair battery’.
If lithium-ion batteries are abused by overheating, penetration or over charging then there can be serious consequences. The Research Institute of Sweden produced a paper on blunt trauma (collisions) where the battery had, what is described as, ‘thermal runaway’. This event is where the heat in the traction battery rises quickly, and around 10C per minute is a serious problem. It cannot burn until the battery vents and then a toxic mixture of products is released into the atmosphere. According to research the batteries start to become unstable at between 60 and 90C.
These products include Hydrogen (30-50%), Carbon Monoxide, Carbon Dioxide, Hydrogen Fluoride, Hydrogen Cyanide, Hydrogen Chloride, small droplets of organic solvents, ethane, methane, hydrocarbons, sulphur dioxide, Nitrogen Oxide, Sulphur Dioxide, Nitrogen Dioxide and some others that are subject to commercial privacy. Mentioned here is hydrogen fluoride, this is toxic and a 1KWh battery can produce between 500 and 6,000 litres of toxic vapour – a typical car 90Kwh 6000L x 90 = 540,000L of toxic
The vapour cloud that is both ignitable and toxicvehicle charging
The positioning of charging points should not hinder means of escape or be a risk to the building.
vapour is possible, BESS systems have the same issue.have the same issue.
There can be explosions, and the flames are jet like and extremely hot. A hydrocarbon powered vehicle will often burn with a maximum temperature of 750C, but an electric vehicle can reach 2,200C. These flames, acting like a blowlamp, will spread the fire and are powerful enough to do structural damage to buildings (destroy concrete).
Lithium-ion batteries are impossible to extinguish and fire departments have basically three tactics:
1.Let it burn
2.Use thousands of litres of water
3.Contain with a vehicle fire blanket
So, you can see the risk assessment is important, and the legislation currently surrounding charging, BESS and vehicles is mixed and hopefully one day the Government might, like petroleum, set standards backed up by enforcement.
Legislation with comments: There will be various aspects of legislation that will apply to the siting of a BESS unit, the main ones being:
Blowtorch like flames that will ignite anything in the
• Health & Safety at Work etc., Act 1974
S3 is often overlooked ‘it requires employers to protect not just their own employees but also “persons not in their employment” who might be at their workplace. This includes visitors, contractors, customers, and the public, who could all be affected by the employer's activities’.
•Fire Safety Order
When looking at positioning a BESS:
1.The unit should be sited away from any sleeping risk, that includes hotels and LGV parking areas.
2.It should not be sited where people using a means of escape in case of fire from any place would have to pass and any site assembly point must be at least 50m (upwind – predominant wind direction) from the BESS.
3.It should be protected against collision from a moving motor vehicle.
4.If sited near a licensed petroleum site, then the regulations for petroleum spirit should be followed.
5.BESS and charging points, like petroleum licensing, should have a remote isolation switch/button.
Electricity at Work Regulations
•External signage – warning of danger of death or serious injury
•Permits to work
•Qualified and equipped person only allowed to enter or work on storage units
•ARC risks present and cannot be underestimated.
Detection, explosion relief and suppression:
Detection of an incident within the BESS is imperative, this should include:
•A detection system within the BESS of any vapours being given off from the batteries or materials.
•A manual call point should be provided at a safe distance from the BESS.
•On the actuation of the alarm the mains power into the BESS and the supply out should be automatically isolated plus there should be a manual system available clearly marked and away from the BESS container.
•An explosion relief system should be provided in the roof of the BESS to release any gases that could lead to an explosion.
•Suppression. In my opinion any gas type extinguishing agent will only have a limited effect on a thermal runaway situation in the BESS.
Points to remember
•Not all electric vehicles are new or manufactured, many on UK roads are retro fitted.
•There are no reliable fire statistics that can say EVs -vICE vehicles being involved in fire. All vehicles can catch fire, EVs will present more dangers and difficulties.
•60% of businesses that have a serious fire never trade again.
‘Recent history tells us that EVs can and do have problems, the trick is to plan and implement the very best protection and response systems to mitigate the effects of an incident should it occur’.
Maldives Island Marina Projects
By Steven Stirrat, Marco Tech
Thanks to our international friends, we were asked to survey a site on one of the most beautiful islands in the Maldives.
Working on a very remote island, in the middle of the Indian Ocean, has its challenges, but with help from our friends it was a great success.
We received the go-ahead to complete the renewal and upgrade of the existing fuel system. Extracting all old pipework and finding some in a dreadful state, surprisingly after only a few years of the original installation. EN14125 approved pipe had been specified, but a European supplier had used a non-approved product.
We received our Halock product via ContainerBarge from the Main Island. Our local office was used to train up our local colleagues, who were all very eager to learn a new skill. It was great working with such enthusiastic people…who have become friends.
Once we had a blank canvas, we could start with our Halock Pipe installation, using three teams (we had a deadline before the island opened up to the tourist trade). Installing our 3” Halock Twin Pipe System, for the main Diesel Lines, from the Incoming Jetty to a newly made Manifold to accommodate both the main line and a new auxiliary line. This fed into the main pumping house, which supplies back-up
generators and various other important functions. The petrol system was out of service due to inferior pipe and connections. This was replaced with 2” Twin Halock Pipe, from the incoming Jetty to the refurbished Tank, then via pumping station to the Boat Jetty.
The world’s largest Sea Plane operator asked us to install a new Jet A1 system, they supplied the tank and we installed the Twin Halock pipe system from the pumping unit to the Arrival Jetty where the
sea planes arrive with happy tourists. The final installation was fully pressure tested, connected to leak detection systems, and all safety valves, ball valves and fuel fill fittings were monitored when the system was put into operation.
We have since installed another 2 Halock Pipe Systems and are awaiting further news on other Island Fuel System upgrades. We have worked hard but working in such a beautiful part of the world makes it all seem much more enjoyable.
OAMPS Hazardous Industries – Specialist Insurance Advisors to Specialist Clients
By Karl Jones, OAMPS
OAMPS are specialist insurance advisors for hazardous industries who have been following with interest the roll out of electric vehicle charging on petrol forecourts and within depots and other locations that store or dispense hydrocarbons following a talk given by Graeme Warnell of EV-EXBOX earlier in 2024.
This article gives an interesting insight into the views of OAMPS from an insurer’s perspective.
Contractors and Site Owner/Operators - EV installations
The push to roll out increasing numbers of EV charging stations sometimes means that not enough thought is given to the location of the EV charging areas, and also to the ramifications of what could happen in the event of EV battery fire. The occurrence of EV fires is currently low, but the impact of an EV fire can be far more significant due to the challenges in extinguishing it.
Common Issues
In an effort to keep a lid on costs, EV charging areas are sometimes positioned where it’s most convenient (and therefore costeffective) to connect to existing incoming electrical feeds. This can be problematic; if your EV charging area is near (or even above!) emergency exit routes or sensitive or business critical infrastructure, then the consequences of a fire could be catastrophic.
Similarly, putting the EV charging area at the perimeter of your site might avoid the problems listed above, but what about your neighbours? If a fire starts at your EV charging point and spreads to neighbouring sites, the financial loss they incur would almost certainly be laid at your door, and if you’re in an industrial or commercial area, then the loss of income claims alone would likely dwarf any property damage claim, let alone if there’s injury or loss of life.
If you do have a fire, then where does the run-off from the emergency services attempts to control the fire go? An EV battery fire is actually an exothermic chemical reaction within the battery producing both toxic and flammable gasses. It cannot be extinguished until it has either run out of stored energy or the battery and be sufficiently cooled slowing down or stopping the thermal runaway process. Most fire services will use large volumes of water to try to control them, and the water will absorb many of the toxic pollutants discharged during an EV battery fire, and again, dealing with the consequences of a pollution event can be expensive, with statutory clean-up costs easily running north of £100,000 if the run off reaches watercourses, water tables or even the surface water drain system.
Can you avoid these risks?
The short answer is no. The installations themselves are invariably not the problem, as the fires in EV’s usually occur as a result of damaged or defective batteries1.
However, what you can do is give some thought to where EV charging stations are positioned and protected to minimise the likelihood of a fire causing catastrophic property damage, pollution or causing injury to both employees and third parties alike.
Who might be at fault?
This is an area where blame could attach to both site owners/operators as well as the contractors involved in the design and construction of the installation.
If the site owner/operator provides the design brief to the contractor on the positioning of the charging area, then any property losses or physical injury claims arising from the positioning of the charging area would likely rest with them.
However, any changes to that brief made by the contractor could pull them into the claim.
If the contractor was responsible for the design of the site, then they would most likely be joining the site owner in any subsequent legal action.
So would my insurance policy cover me?
As is so often the case, the answer is “it depends”…
Insurers for the site owners/operators might take the view that positioning an EV charging area close to business-critical areas or combustible materials was negligent, and that the policyholder has failed to mitigate their exposure in doing so. If the same insurers were not told about the installations, then it’s certainly feasible that any claim resulting from the installation could be declined.
Unless they have cover for own site pollution clean-up costs, then the costs of remediating their own site would not be covered, and depending on the wording of the pollution cover, the policy might not even deal with any third party pollution damage; the word “unexpected” has found its way into many UK pollution cover wordings, and it could be argued that if suitable precautions had not been in place (failing to place bunds or other drainage protections around an area that would leach toxic pollutants in the event of a fire for example) then the pollution could hardly be considered unexpected if there was a fire.
Contractors who assume responsibility for the design risks could also find themselves involved in claims where the positioning of the charging area has either led to or exacerbated any losses or personal injury, or indeed if they have suggested moving the area to make the installation project easier and/or cheaper to deliver.
Contractors could also have issues with their own insurance cover if they’ve completed an installation despite voicing their professional concerns about the design or location of the area and there are claims that have arisen from the design or location of the charging area.
The insurance problem gets amplified if the contractor has delivered multiple iterations of this site design and is consequently required to carry out remedial works to sites where there has been no damage.
This is why a site-specific risk assessment is essential to identify
the risks and demonstrates what steps have been taken to either remove the risk or reduce it.
As ever, our suggestion would be that you engage with experienced professionals that have expertise in this area to ensure your interests are protected and that appropriate consideration of the risks involved has been undertaken.
Legal Disclaimer: The sole purpose of this article is to provide guidance on the issues covered. This article is not intended to give legal advice, and, accordingly, it should not be relied upon. It should not be regarded as a comprehensive statement of the law and/or market practice in this area. We make no claims as to the completeness or accuracy of the information contained herein or in the links which were live at the date of publication. You should not act upon (or should refrain from acting upon) information in this publication without first seeking specific legal and/or specialist advice. Pen Underwriting Limited trading as OAMPS Hazardous Industries accepts no liability for any inaccuracy, omission or mistake in this publication, nor will we be responsible for any loss which may be suffered as a result of any person relying on the information contained herein.
OAMPS Hazardous Industries is part of Pen Underwriting Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number 314493). Registered Office: The Walbrook Building, 25 Walbrook, London EC4N SAW. Registered in England and Wales. Company Number: 5172311
“Petrol” Pumps with a Difference
I must thank our past chair Louise Morgan (now Louise Sanders) for news of an interesting installation and new use for petrol pumps!
While on holiday in Taranto in Italy she attended a wine tasting and found a number of pumps adapted for dispensing wine.
Locals and visitors turned up with their bottles or containers and after visiting the “forecourt” went away with the wine.
By Jamie Thompson, APEA Technical Committee Chairman
Getting the Project Concept Right when Upgrading a Site
By Philip Reese, Director, Evenlode
How do you manage the process of project development early on to accommodate everything required to deliver a positive outcome?
Challenges can stem from a general lack of experience with the overall development process and some issues can be even more relevant if introducing new technologies, such as new fuels.
Although much industry focus is currently about the introduction of EV chargers, many of the issues to consider are relevant whatever you might be considering adding to a site, whether that is other types of new fuels, adding or enhancing valeting provision, shop improvements or extensions, energy reduction projects or the introduction of other new retail offers.
Optimising the offer you want to provide on the
site goes hand in hand with the phase of the project cycle which identifies and develops the project concept and brief, then tests this through feasibility assessment, before getting into more detailed planning, design and pre-construction activity.
Developing a concept and project brief that is feasible
Our team has decades of collective experience of managing developments, across many thousands of projects and at a wide range of project sizes, from one-offs up to very large programmes. This includes both delivering projects for operators or on behalf of project managers and also providing governance, oversight and monitoring on behalf of project funders. It is with this experience that we offer the following insights.
Achieving a suitable solution for any given project requires finding the appropriate balance between a number of key factors. This needs a structured approach to achieve certainty of programme and cost, minimise disruption to site operations, achieve governance of the project and control of risks, and ultimately to have the right solutions delivered.
Setting the Project up for Success
At the very outset of a project, it is essential to get a grip on what is realistic.
Throughout the project lifecycle it is important to focus on six key factors, and to start this at the initial project concept stage, so that the project brief is deliverable.
The key factors to get a grip of include:
-Selecting the right equipment and achieving intelligent design
-Budgetary planning & control
-Certainty of programme
-Management of project risks
-Assurance over quality and safety
-The timely selection of consultants, suppliers and contractors
All of these topics need to intertwine at the early stages, so that the brief taken forward is deliverable, and so that the outcome attracts customers.
As the project progresses there comes a time when early site due diligence, feasibility and risk assessment is essential to test assumptions, identify constraints and prompt further timely investigations.
We take a look at some of the considerations early in the project:
Design Intent – Getting the Quality Solution that’s right for your site
When introducing a new (or enhancing an existing) offer on your site, you will want to achieve the best fit for your site, have a positive impact on day-to-day operations and achieve the right look and feel.
So, what steps do you need to take?
Appointing a Client Advisor who can help to develop the scope of your project and then arrange for initial feasibility plans is a good place to start. This can ensure that the space on your site is well utilised and provide options for you to review.
Alongside an initial Desktop Feasibility Assessment, a feasibility plan can start to bring your vision for the project to life and identify any challenges that may need to be addressed. It will also allow you to start to get an idea of outline costs for the overall scheme so you can judge what is realistic and affordable.
When developing at a forecourt, a critical factor is the ability to design within the constraints of the APEA Blue ook and to consider practicalities such as deliveries. This impacts both on spatial and technical matters, so being able to adequately assess the feasibility and constraints of the site is essential.
How do we choose what to include in the brief and design?
It is important to understand the space available and how a scheme will work within that space, both for construction but also for operation. Designers can use experience of other sites and equipment to lay out a design and they can also use tracking software to ensure that the layout is comfortable for customers and deliveries.
The available space can also be affected by the existing layout and services on the site and by other potentially invisible constraints. Not adequately addressing such issues could lead to delays further
down the line, for example in achieving planning permission. Our Desktop Feasibility Assessment can help to identify constraints to feed into a realistic scheme layout.
You will likely have some idea of the offer that you want to develop, and Client Advisors and Designers can assist by making recommendations about things such as possible returns, layout options, third-party partners/inserts and equipment costs to build on your initial thoughts.
It can be tempting to want to fit a lot of different offers on your site, but if space is constrained, then choices will have to be made based on the information available. Where new or non-traditional offers are being considered, such as EV charging for example, someone with deep experience of the practicalities of the Blue Book is essential; for example, when considering the hazardous zones and fringe areas of the site. A guiding Client Advisor with deep experience in the sector can be invaluable in this process to bring objectivity and help to identify the choices which most closely meet the objectives of the site within the constraints apparent.
So, who can do this?
There are many different parties to a project, all of whom have some level of experience in the process, but many of whom will have vested interests one way or another.
Contractors and suppliers (and even third-party operators) will all no doubt be able to demonstrate why their particular offer is the most appropriate. Non-specialist designers can also offer opinion from the narrow frame of design and physical fit.
It is most useful to get independent and impartial advice to choose the design and layout of the site, blending an appreciation of; feasibility; technology awareness, upfront cost and impact on daily operations. Ideally, this is delivered by the Client’s independent Advisors who do not have any vested interests.
Evenlode has a team with significant combined experience of site expansion and development who can provide valuable support at the initial stages of your project.
Outline cost planning and budgeting
It is essential to have a realistic budget, and then to manage costs. To do so you will need to collate relevant information, implement a process of cost control and governance, and link the costs to design and quality requirements.
Setting a realistic budget
This stage is vital and it is important to be realistic. There are three key things to consider. Firstly, make sure all the appropriate types of costs are included (certainly not just the lowest price that just one supplier suggests) and that the budget outline covers all aspects of the overall development. Secondly, that you start off with a realistic baseline of what other similar or comparable projects have cost, understanding why, and add site specific allowances relevant to your project. Thirdly, include a suitable contingency for known and unknown risks.
Can’t we do it cheaper than they did?
Everyone wants to believe that their project will be delivered at lower cost. For organisations with a very experienced and dedicated team, fashioned over many similar projects this can be achievable, and we have been involved in many such projects and
programmes. For the most part however, projects are unique, take place in novel environments, involve freshly formed (often inexperienced) teams and also take place in the future, with often different economic and supply conditions, not to mention inflation. For these reasons, professional advice is usually vital to get a realistic handle on likely costs.
How do we know that we are getting good value?
Engaging project advice from independent advisors with no vested interests should provide assurance that they are working hard on your behalf to achieve a good outcome for you.
Working on a cost transparent basis can also be a way of ensuring that you get clarity over what things actually cost.
How much cost detail do we need early on?
As the project develops you will get into more cost detail, as required. In the early stages, a professional advisor can provide high level benchmarked costs to guide outline design concept choices, and to inform you of the likely affordability of the project; before you start to incur professional fees on something that may not stack up.
Early project costs can then be fed into considered business case planning, with realistic estimates of paybacks and return on investment. Different scenarios can be tested to understand different break-even thresholds and go/no-go parameters.
If we don’t have the budget, should we continue?
It’s best to get this information early on, so project plans are either given the go-ahead based on confident projections, or, if the numbers don’t stack up, you can avoid a lot of pain (or worse) by reconsidering the brief, financing arrangements or perhaps even the choice to acquire (or divest) the site.
Control of cost
The early cost plans will gradually be refined as the project develops and can be used as an ongoing guide to steer the procurement of surveys, designers, contracts and if necessary, adjustments to design, so that you can stay within the original budget.
How long will the development project really take?
Ask five people how long something will take, and you’ll get five different answers.
And they’ll possibly all be right (and wrong) at the same time. You see, it depends...
The overall development cycle has a number of stages which need to be observed. Governance over certainty of the overall project programme, an understanding of each stage and how long each will realistically take, and a sensible oversight of emerging risks and impacts is therefore essential to be able to have a realistic handle on completion date.
There are a number of project stages that are commonly cited as being activities that can cause delay, including
-The planning process – there are various reports of a slowing process, which need to be factored in
-Grid availability – if you’re considering EV charging, or a substantial increase in energy load (for example inside a shop) or providing self-generation capacity on site such as solar PV, the
time to liaise with and achieve connection and/or consent, can be considerable.
So, to answer the question “How long will my project take?”
This is very much dependant on the scope and scale of project, but the answer is usually “longer than you first think”., or as can often be overheard – “one thing just led to another…”. There are two typical reasons for this: firstly, and this is especially pertinent where new technology or offers are concerned – a lack of experience or understanding of the development process, and secondly, a tendency for over-optimism, and the (often misplaced) belief to be able to do things better, quicker and cheaper than everyone else (even if it’s the first time).
Ultimately, it is far easier to meet a development programme that is grounded in reality and based on tangible experience.
It is important to understand that the length of the preconstruction phase can be affected by decision making, design development/changes, survey requirements and especially the planning process. The timeframes for this phase can be difficult to accurately predict but an experienced team can develop a target programme based on historical experience and to develop a Project Execution Plan against which progress can be monitored and which can be update as necessary during the process. Spending the correct level of time in determining how the project will look and be progressed, and getting the right approvals tends to lead to more successful projects.
The length of the construction phase may be able to be estimated at the start of your project based on a loose scope but will need refining as designs are developed and suppliers/contractors are engaged. Construction programmes can be impacted by things like space on site, long lead times for equipment and services, seasonal and local area restrictions, keeping sites operational during works, materials use and availability, as well as the scope of the works.
Are there ways to do things quicker?
When planning your project, it is worth taking time to benchmark the expected duration against similar previous projects to enable a prediction of a realistic timeline. This should form the basis for your own project as a starting point, which may include longer or shorter periods of time, depending on the various impacting factors relevant to your project.
Some activities are subject to the processes and control of external bodies such as planning or utilities provision/diversion and as such often cannot be influenced significantly (and in recent times, can often take longer than statutory periods), however experience of such processes can allow them to be undertaken in the most effective way, and importantly with good governance and controls. Some survey activity can only take place at certain times of year and some tests take a fixed amount of time and cannot be influenced, but can be allowed for if identified, as required.
It is possible to consider whether some phases of preconstruction can be instituted in parallel to gain time, but the potential risks
associated with this should be assessed, e.g., developing working drawings while planning is still being determined may result in abortive work if planning requires changes.
Construction techniques and phasing can be discussed with contractors at tender stage to ensure that the most efficient programme is developed, and in the early days, engaging with an experienced advisor can identify some of these options before you start to engage in the tender process.
Whatever your projects goals, it is important to be realistic about the time it is likely to take based on the experience of other schemes, and not blindsided by over-optimism, especially if you are not experienced with developments. Various studies have shown that the reason many projects are said to go “overprogramme” is because the original programmes were never realistically conceived in the first place.
OK, got it, but can’t we just get started already?
The risks associated with starting a project without a considered/agreed design, without the necessary consents and without having used a suitable procurement process can include: -additional costs to cover gaps in scope -enforcement by regulators -late or missing equipment -a design or functional outcome that does not truly meet business objectives.
Control of timescales and budget rely on a project being controlled and organised with sufficient time to manage the various elements and while this does not mean that a project needs to run at a snail’s pace, it is better to be given realistic expectations of possible start on site dates from the outset.
Risks
Nobody likes risk, but in projects, as in any business, and as in life, risk is a reality. Far better to acknowledge this and to find ways to identify and then deal with risk, and take account of risk in project planning, than to bury the head in the sand and hope the risks go away, or to assume that risk can just be “passed on” to suppliers.
Project risks impact on your ability to achieve certainty of cost and / or time, the ability to operate safely and in compliance, and a quality outcome.
As with the other factors, a structured approach to identifying and dealing with risks is required accompanied by a structured approach to governance.
Our team has extensive experience at early stage where feasibility assessment helps to identify the key project considerations, so you can plan for them, and set realistic expectations. How do I investigate these issues upfront?
We recommend starting with a desktop appraisal of the key matters. Over the years we have found that risks can be readily investigated and assessed if you know where to look for the info and how to collate it and then to make sense of it. A cost-effective Desktop Feasibility Assessment service has informed many go/nogo decisions over the years, covering such issues including: traffic, the environment, access, utilities, planning, utilities, drainage, geotechnical, ecology, building regulations, supply chain capability and capacity, inflation and design.
Is the project feasible?
This is a really crucial thing to get right. It is often said that projects "always go over budget" or "always take longer than expected". We disagree. It is very true to say that an ill-conceived project will often go over budget and take much longer than expected, but a wellplanned project based on a clear early feasibility assessment can regularly be expected to be delivered successfully on time and budget.
One of the very first things to do is to have a candid discussion about what is feasible to deliver, and to base these discussions on a factual feasibility assessment, considering both the site itself as well as the wider economic and supplier availability and capabilities.
What types of surveys and reports do I need?
The more upfront information you can gather, the better informed and prepared you will be when making early decisions about whether to proceed, and how to develop your concept design through to a workable and viable proposition.
Select and administer the appropriate reports and surveys, so that you spend money wisely on the information that you need, but, at the appropriate time. Consultancy costs can quickly rack up if not managed carefully, and we have the experience to be able to select the right studies when necessary. This can save a lot of upfront cost when done strategically.
Safety
It has always been important to keep everyone safe throughout both construction and during day-to-day operations.
At what point in the development process should we first consider safety?
Safety should be a key consideration from the outset of your project and throughout. As a construction project client, you have specific responsibilities under the Construction Design and Management Regulations (CDM) 2015 to make suitable arrangements to enable the management of health and safety risks. We appreciate that construction is not likely to be your day-to-day business and you are not expected to become an expert just because you have a construction project, but it is important that you get the right advice from professionals who can guide and support you to ensure compliance and allow you to demonstrate that you are aware of your duties under CDM 2015.
How do early consultant appointments influence safety?
A key duty of the “client” under CDM 2015 is to appoint project team members who have the appropriate skills, knowledge and experience in design and construction health and safety (as has been emphasised in a recent and very public inquiry, this should be ability that is relevant to the particular type of project).
So, making the right choices of advisors and professionals at an early stage provides a level of assurance that you have support with respect to project safety. These early appointments of competent advisors also support further appointments later in the project process of those capable of carrying out their work in a safe way, the provision of health and safety information to suitably inform those involved in the works, and the creation of a healthy safety culture for the project.
It is advisable for a client inexperienced in construction to appoint an advisor early on in the project process to provide support with
regard to client duties under CDM 2015. This advisor should be able to demonstrate skills, knowledge and experience in the area of safety but often provides wider project support and advice and can ensure that you are aware of your responsibilities.
Other project team appointments can be made early, and this helps those members to have sufficient time to fulfil their duties under CDM and also generally improves the collaboration and communication amongst the team.
What safety tasks can a Client Project Manager deliver for us?
A suitably qualified, experienced Client Project Manager can also act as a CDM advisor to support you in your client duties of making suitable arrangement for managing the project. If appropriately experienced they could also be appointed formally as Principal Designer as required by the regulations, to have control over the preconstruction stage of the project.
During construction, when a Principal Contractor has been appointed, who will be principally responsible for safety on site, a Client Project Manager can assist in carrying out checks on your behalf with respect to welfare provision, carrying out safety audits alongside progress monitoring and issue project notifications, as well as facilitating the collation of the Health & Safety File required at the end of the project.
Appointing third parties
You'll need to appoint various "suppliers" during the project process. This includes consultants, the professional team such as
designers and engineers, contractors, equipment suppliers, possibly equipment operators and maintainers. But who should you appoint and when, and how do you get best value?
Which suppliers should I consider appointing first?
Your client project manager or advisor followed by your project team should be your first appointments which enable your project to get off the ground, defining scope and starting feasibility designs. This contributes to your client responsibilities under CDM and allows you to get appropriate advice on selecting and appointing suitable suppliers of equipment and build services later in the process.
Equipment procurement and supplier selection can take place ahead of or alongside main works tenders depending on lead times. There may be elements that are included in main works packages, but others may be better ordered directly or tendered as separate packages.
On more complex projects it can be beneficial to appoint main contractors earlier in the process so that they contribute to the detailed design, phasing and planning of the project.
How will we start the design process?
If you are using a trusted client advisor, like Evenlode Roadside, then they will have relationships with a number of designers and be able to make recommendations of suitable practices for your type of project. It is also possible to obtain competitive costs from more than one designer if they are considered to be of similar
quality, in order to determine who to appoint. You may have a preferred designer and your client advisor can work with them to produce the best possible design outcomes.
Under CDM you have a responsibility to engage competent designers so it’s important to check qualifications, experience and industry accreditation for designers as with other suppliers.
Are there any specialists who can help with understanding costs? Understanding how much your project is likely to cost and how it compares to your budget or available funds is likely to be a high priority, and a good client advisor will be able to either provide high level advice directly or use trusted cost consultants to produce cost plans and refine these throughout the project life cycle as scope, design and procurement is progressed.
A realistic cost estimate which uses experience and available data to provide a clear understanding of what is priced and what is excluded is important to manage expectations and ensure that a client can confirm economic feasibility. Detailed preconstruction
information and considered advice can help cost specialists with making early costings as robust as possible to avoid significant surprises later in the project.
Do we need to appoint a lot of suppliers early on?
It is not necessary to appoint a lot of suppliers early on but having a client project manager and design team appointed allows a plan for selection and appointment of further suppliers to be formulated. This provides you with visibility of likely appointment timings and enables planning of expenditure.
Evenlode Roadside provides independent and professional services to operators across the whole property life cycle, including sourcing, selecting, appointing and managing consultants, suppliers, service providers and contractors to develop and maintain successful sites.
For more information please visit www.evenloderoadside.com
The Greener Forecourt of the Future is Here
By Cheryl Ashton, Marketing Executive, TSG
Traditional forecourts have long been a familiar fixture of the UK’s urban landscapes and motorways, and they are set to play a significant role in supporting the move to a greener future.
The transport sector is shifting, moving away from a petrol and diesel-dominated market segment and looking toward cleaner sources of energy, such as electricity, liquid natural gas (LNG), compressed natural gas (CNG), biofuels and hydrogen.
The key consumer trends of today regarding commuting, eating and shopping are the primary influencers that will ultimately shape the forecourt of tomorrow.
More choice on the forecourt is pivotal to success
The modern world is fast-paced; time is of the essence for busy commuters who demand convenience shopping, greater choice, efficiency, competitive pricing and an eco-friendly retail approach. Climate change and environmental concerns are impacting consumer shopping habits, prompting the purchase of healthier food alternatives in recyclable packaging, as they adopt a greener lifestyle. In response, retailers are publicly committing to a more conscious use of energy and resources by choosing natural materials for the store layout, such as wood, cardboard or bamboo, advocating minimalism and sustainability.
Additionally, more people are working outside formal office settings, either at home or travelling between customers and business associates, taking advantage of energy retail sites with cafes or rest areas and free Wi-Fi for higher efficiency.
Consumers will choose one retailer over another based on whereabouts, price or the availability of specific services. Whilst location will always remain a key factor in the decision, the
presence of diverse convenient services is becoming more important as a differentiator.
Diversification on the forecourt
Forecourts of the future will have to offer a wider range of energy sources (electricity, natural gas, petrol, diesel, biofuels and hydrogen). This may require adapting the layout of the premises to accommodate more fuel storage tanks, charging points, dispensers, additional parking places, etc., and devising intelligent strategies to provide a seamless refuelling process for the drivers of a variety of engine/energy types.
Forecourts have evolved from fuel-exclusive businesses to mini supermarkets or convenience stores where consumers can buy snacks or even complete a full shop. The forecourt store of the
future needs to cater to a wider audience, whilst expanding its energy offering to meet environmentally conscious motorists.
Some customers might only need to refuel; however, others will enjoy a snack and a coffee while waiting for their electric vehicle to recharge. Locals may use the store to restock their cupboards at home, while business people may use the rest area to work for a couple of hours or as a meeting place with colleagues.
As the customer experience becomes ever more complex, retailers will have to modify their infrastructure into modern, clean buildings with innovative interior designs, using environmentally friendly materials and smart technologies to create a pleasant atmosphere for people to enjoy.
Retailers support the move to EV
Fuel retailers are in the best possible position to capitalise on the prevailing transition to EVs. The installation of charge points will attract today’s EV drivers to the site and retain those customers who are soon to make the switch from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
By installing EV charge points, retailers can play a significant role in strengthening the UK’s charge infrastructure, thereby encouraging the adoption of EVs and future-proofing their business.
Forecourt owners will need to revisit their business models and consider whether to enter the electric market independently or by partnering with third-party charge point operators (CPOs).
Payment made easy
Cashless transactions and digital payments have become more prevalent than ever in the retail sector. Customers expect to be able to pay for their fuel and goods via a whole variety of payment methods: Visa, Debit, Google Pay, fuel cards, Apple Pay, Mobile Apps, etc., either on their smartphone, in the store or at the pump.
One recent development that is proving very popular with motorists is the availability of digital receipts. While traditional paper receipts have long been a staple, the electronic receipt offers a variety of benefits that make it a game changer for the retail energy industry. Digital receipts revolutionise the transaction process at the point of sale (POS), making it faster, more efficient, and convenient for both customers and retailers. Receipts are delivered electronically, directly to the customer’s phone via a QR code scanned at the POS.
By opting for digital receipts, retailers can significantly reduce their paper usage and carbon footprint. This eco-friendly approach aligns with the growing consumer demand for sustainability, showcasing a retailer's commitment to responsible business practices.
TSG
is here to help
TSG UK Solutions is now established as a keen advocate of the transition to greener, cleaner energies, working together with fuel retailers to transform their forecourts into eco-friendly operations.
TSG has long been recognised as a key player in the supply of retail fuel equipment and services, and as such has gained a wealth of experience in the sector. Now for many retailers, it is time for change and TSG is here to support them on their journey.
EV Charge Solutions
TSG has the expertise to provide a complete end-to-end turnkey EV charge solution, from site survey, design, consultancy and distribution network operator (DNO) connections.
With over 30 years of experience in the energy sector, TSG is now established as a first-choice EPC contractor in the UK, delivering all works within a predefined timescale and budget.
TSG suppliers EV charge points from reputable manufacturers such as Kempower, Alpitronic, Alfen and Power Electronics, all backed by a team of service engineers to maintain the chargers in tip-top condition.
Digital Receipt Server
Available from TSG UK, the all-new digital receipt server for Prizma, developed by Dover Fueling Solutions, (also compatible with selfcheckout and integrated dispenser terminals). This innovative new feature allows customers to choose a digital receipt rather than a paper one.
Once the transaction is complete, the cashier simply selects the ‘print digital receipt’ on Prizma’s screen. A quick response (QR) code appears on the sales display which the customer can scan to receive their digital receipt straight to their phone.
Similarly, for integrated payment devices or self-checkout, the customer selects the digital receipt option to generate the QR code for scanning.
Customer benefits
• Simple to use
• No time-consuming registration
• Receipts stored safely on their mobile phone
• Helps to protect the environment by saving paper
Retailer benefits
• Cost-effective solution
• Save money on paper
• Save time changing paper rolls
• Option of online access to all receipts
• Promote environmentally friendly practices
• Enhance the consumer experience
Helpdesk
The helpdesk (or digital receipt desk) is an optional feature that stores all of the transaction receipts for retrieval as required. The receipt desk is simple to use with an advanced search facility, to quickly and easily locate receipts to email to the customer.
For more information on TSG UK’s service and solutions, please visit: www.tsg-solutions.com/uk
News
ReFuels breaks ground for new Bio-CNG station in Scotland
The station operated under the CNG Fuels brand will enable lowemission transport between Edinburgh and Glasgow. ReFuels N.V has broken ground on a new Bio-CNG refuelling station at Livingston in West Lothian, Scotland. The public access Bio-CNG station operated under the CNG Fuels brand will enable lowemission transport between Edinburgh and Glasgow.
The Livingstone station can refuel 14 trucks simultaneously when at full utilisation, enabling more than 600 trucks to be refuelled per day with a total capacity of 20 million kg of Bio-CNG annually. CNG Fuels also operates Scotland’s first public access renewable biomethane HGV refuelling station, off the M8 near Bellshill, which opened in 2021.
“The Livingston station is next door to several major distribution centres, including Tesco and DHL. Once operational, it will enable fleet operators and their clients to further decarbonise logistics in Scotland.
Bio-CNG is a low-carbon alternative to traditional fossil fuels and more cost-effective than diesel,” said Philip Fjeld, CEO of ReFuels.
CNG Fuels’ current UK network of 14 stations in operation can refuel more than 9,500 HGVs daily. The year-end 2026 target of 30-40 stations in build and operation equals a total capacity of up to 23,000 HGVs per day and more than 650 million kg of biomethane annually.
ChargePoint, Daimler Buses partner to enhance fleet management
The company will implement its fleet and charge management systems to analyse the performance of Daimler’s buses. ChargePoint has partnered with Daimler Buses to integrate its telematics and charge management systems with Mercedes-Benz and Setra brand buses.
The company’s fleet and charge management systems analyse real time data, providing a service which is crucial to operating a diverse fleet efficiently and scaling that fleet’s EV population.
The new partnership creates a seamless customer experience and
aims to provide fast and cost-effective onboarding. "Over 9,500 buses use the ChargePoint fleet management system globally, many of which are made by Daimler Buses. With this new partnership, customers of both brands benefit from enhanced software to optimise their pure electric and mixed fuel fleets," said Uwe Münch, Director for Bus & Transit, Europe, at ChargePoint.
From asset monitoring and management to real-time insights and advanced reporting, this portfolio provides the information a fleet manager needs to increase efficiency, delivered from one seamless interface.
Nio expands battery-swapping network amid fierce EV competition
The Shanghai-based company announced plans to build 900 additional battery-swapping stations this year.
Chinese electric vehicle maker Nio is ramping up its batteryswapping infrastructure. The Shanghai-based company announced plans on Tuesday to build 900 additional battery-swapping stations this year, reducing the swap time by 20% to just 2.5 minutes.
With only one-third of Chinese EV owners having access to home charging, Nio’s CEO, William Li, highlighted the importance of improving charging facilities to alleviate range anxiety. To support
this expansion, Nio will establish a new factory in Wuhan, Hubei province, capable of producing over 1,000 battery-swapping units annually. Currently operating 2,480 stations across China, Nio plans to extend its network to all of mainland China’s 1,200 counties by June 2025. Since launching the service in 2018, Nio has completed 51 million battery swaps.
As the competition heats up in the EV market, Nio faces pressure from a price war that is squeezing margins across China’s 100-plus EV manufacturers.
NIPCO adds 250 new stations to fuel retail network in Nigeria
The company has undergone an aggressive expansion throughout last year, strengthening its position in the local market.
Nigerian NIPCO has expanded its fuel retail network with 250 new outlets opened last year across the country.
The company is undertaking an aggressive growth strategy in line with its commitment to providing accessible and quality petroleum products to Nigerians, according to a report by Peoples Daily. Suresh Kumar, Managing Director of NIPCO Gas, emphasised that the addition of these stations for white oil products, including petrol and diesel, represents an unprecedented achievement in the history of Nigeria’s downstream sector.
Kumar noted that this expansion is a testament to NIPCO’s
dedication to strengthening its market presence and distribution network nationwide.
"The acquisition of over 250 branded outlets for white products and Liquefied Petroleum Gas is a remarkable milestone for NIPCO Plc," stated Kumar during the company’s 2023 Annual General Meeting. He further explained that this strategic move would significantly enhance the firm’s ability to serve its customers more effectively and solidify its position in the Nigerian market.
Looking ahead to 2024, Kumar expressed confidence in the company's continued growth, attributing its success to NIPCO’s business models and sound operational practices that have driven its business fundamentals for nearly two decades.
TravelCenters of America to build public truck charging stations
The first site is expected to go live in early 2025 and is set to feature four 400kW chargers.
TravelCenters of America broke ground on one of the US’ first publicly accessible medium-and heavy-duty truck charging stations at its Ontario, California travel centre.
The charging station, a pilot project in collaboration with the California Energy Commission, supports delivery of bp’s convenience and electric vehicle (EV) charging strategy. The location will have four 400kW chargers and is set to go live in early 2025, with an additional one MW charger to be operational by 2026.
This location will provide DC ultra-fast charging for up to five trucks simultaneously.
“This truck charging station is strategically located at the
intersection of two of the nation’s busiest highway interstates and is a prime location to serve early-adopter electric truck fleet operators. We are proud to take a leading role in bringing this infrastructure to our fleet customers and other professional drivers,” said Debi Boffa, TravelCenters of America CEO.
The location will also act as an innovation site, allowing bp to test and demonstrate the effectiveness of new technologies. This includes deploying one of the first available megawatt charger systems, an integrated microgrid generating reliable, renewable power from 250 kilowatts of canopy-mounted solar panels, and a battery energy storage system for up to 1 megawatt hour of power.
This is just the beginning of TA’s journey to further enable MHD truck charging. Together with bp pulse, TA is planning to develop projects at other Southern California locations while also looking at developing other corridors in the US to support demand for EV truck charging.
Petro-Canada establishes mandatory prepay fuel policy in Ontario
Company-operated locations will implement this in a move to reinforce security across locations and fight fuel theft. PetroCanada has announced a new prepay policy across its service station network in Ontario starting in September.
Customers will be required to prepay for their fuel either at the pump or inside the store at the majority of the company’s locations, according to a report by Retail Insider. This marks a first for the province as the firm intends to extend this practice, which currently is common throughout other Canada territories.
Additionally, this decision could be related to reinforcing security measures to fight fuel theft trends, which have risen across the country in the last few years. This implementation will coincide with Labour Day, resulting in a long weekend that suggests PetroCanada is anticipating potential disruption caused by travelling inside the country. The company has announced it will display special signages and communications to raise awareness among customers.
The policy will run across locations owned by the company while independent-owned outlets will be free to decide their take on this prepay policy. According to data from the Canadian Fuels Association, close to 78% of Canadian service stations are owned by independent retailers.
Zimbabwe's energy regulator to limit licensing of new stations
The entity is working alongside the Ministry of Local Government to implement stricter regulations for new locations across urban areas.
Zimbabwe's energy regulator, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), has announced plans to implement stricter regulations on the construction of fuel stations amid growing safety concerns associated with the rising number of new petrol stations.
In its quarterly report, the entity stated that it is currently working with the Ministry of Local Government to “develop a framework for regulating the construction of fuel retail sites in local authority
areas, particularly in urban zones.” The entity believes this framework will help streamline the licensing process for new outlets and “address public concerns regarding the spacing of fuel retail sites in urban areas.”
Previously, ZERA reported that the number of licensed fuel stations in Zimbabwe increased from 299 in 2012 to 1,048 in 2023.
According to Bulawayo, the organisation conducted monitoring in the last quarter by taking 150 samples from 150 fuel stations. "Of these, four were found to be contaminated with water, and nine were suspected of being adulterated. All cases have been referred for prosecution," the report noted.
Phillips 66 boosts EV charging strategy in the US
The company aims to establish charging stations at over 30 sites across Texas, California, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington by the end of 2025. Phillips 66 is ramping up its work in the electric vehicle (EV) charging space after being awarded $2.5 million in grants from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. The company has previously announced plans via its 2024 Sustainability and People Report to add locations to more states through 2025.
To date, the firm has been awarded a total of $7 million in U.S. EV charging grants to broaden its growth plans and offset 50% of the costs to build pilot charging stations. Some of the recent funding from NEVI will help build three sites in Colorado, with two in Colorado Springs and one in Grand Junction.
“Electrification is an important part of our Emerging Energy
organisation’s approach, and we’re taking a pragmatic approach to our EV charging pilot program. We want to provide a mix of affordable, reliable energy to meet all customer expectations,” sadi Zhanna Golodryga, EVP of Emerging Energy and Sustainability at Phillips 66.
The company plans to have active charging stations at over 30 sites across Texas, California, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington by the end of 2025.
Phillips 66 dipped into the EV charging space in 2022 when the first branded chargers were installed at the company’s flagship station near its Houston headquarters. Additional charging sites were commissioned in Washington in late 2023 and Colorado in early 2024 with the first 76 and Conoco branded chargers, respectively.
Carrefour, HysetCo launch three new hydrogen stations in Paris
The new locations are part of a project supported by the European Commission and the Île-de-France Region to expand H2 mobility across the region. HysetCo, Carrefour, the European Commission and the Île-de-France Region are joining forces to announce the opening of three new hydrogen stations.
The new stations will be located on the sites of the Carrefour hypermarkets in Drancy, Collégien and Pontault-Combault locations. Each will support the chain’s efforts to decarbonise mobility and improve air quality.
The facilities will provide a hydrogen dispensing capacity of 500 kg per day through two dispensers, the equivalent of 100 to 200 daily fill-ups for cars and light commercial vehicles.
“The deployment of these first hydrogen filling stations is an
illustration of Carrefour's commitment to the energy transition. Thanks to this partnership, Carrefour offers its customers an additional alternative for carbon-free mobility,” said Hervé Mantoux, Carrefour Fuel Business Unit Director.
With this deployment, HysetCo is expanding its hydrogen distribution network in the Paris region to a total of eight stations operational. This network is set to grow even further, with the company aiming to open a dozen new sites in the future.
The three stations inaugurated in July 2024 are part of a project co-funded by the European Commission (Hydrogen Fuel for Paris) and the Île-de-France Region. The overall project has been developed to support a network of eight hydrogen stations in the region.
ORLEN, bp sign oil supply contract for Polish operations
The English mobility giant will supply a total of 6 million tonnes of crude oil from Norwegian fields over the course of one year.
ORLEN has signed a contract with bp for the supply of 6 million tonnes of crude oil from Norwegian fields in the North Sea over twelve months.
This will cover about 15% of the annual demand of the entire ORLEN Group for this feedstock. The agreement is structured to provide ORLEN Group flexibility of supply, with crude oil cargoes directed to the Polish port of Gdańsk and the Lithuanian port of Būtinga, depending on demand.
"Working with bp, a stable and well-established player, is a key element in diversifying ORLEN Group’s feedstock portfolio. Notably, the oil we will acquire through this contract is not only of consistent quality and sourced from geographically close North Sea fields but also has properties that ensure high yields and is wellsuited to the processing technologies at our refineries. This, in turn, enhances the economic efficiency of our production facilities. As part of our collaboration with bp, we will also explore other
potential areas where we can work together," said Ireneusz Fąfara, President of the ORLEN Management Board. The first oil tanker as part of the contract is expected to arrive in Gdańsk in September 2024. From the fields in the North Sea, ORLEN receives oil grades such as Forties and Brent from UK, and Oseberg, Johan Sverdrup, Troll, Grane, Brent and Ekofisk from Norway.
"Our agreement to supply ORLEN with Norwegian crude oil is an important step for our business in Poland. It also helps enhance energy security for Poland and the wider Central and Eastern European region. Through our trading team we are able to supply not only North Sea crudes but also access many of the other types of oil ORLEN uses," said Bogdan Kucharski, Head of Country, bp Poland.
Orlen also receives volumes of WTI, Bakken and Mars grades produced in the United States. As part of its diversification, the company also receives oil supplies from the Persian Gulf and Forcados and Bonny Light crude oil imported by the company from West Africa.
New appointments in TotalEnergies’ Executive Committee
Bernard Pinatel will now be responsible for downstream and marketing operations while Vincent Stoquart will oversee refining & chemicals duties.
TotalEnergies has announced key appointments to its Executive Committee, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to strategic growth and operational excellence across its global operations.
Bernard Pinatel, who currently serves as President of Refining & Chemicals, has been appointed President of Downstream and President of Marketing & Services. Pinatel will also continue his role as a member of the Executive Committee, where his expanded responsibilities will focus on overseeing the company’s downstream operations and marketing services.
Vincent Stoquart, currently Senior Vice President of Renewables, has been appointed President of Refining & Chemicals. With this
new role, Stoquart will also join the Executive Committee, bringing his extensive experience in renewables to bear on the company’s refining and chemicals divisions.
As of September 1, 2024, the TotalEnergies Executive Committee will be integrated by Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer; Aurélien Hamelle, President for Strategy & Sustainability; Helle Kristoffersen, President Asia; Stéphane Michel, President of Gas, Renewables and Power; Bernard Pinatel, President Downstream and President Marketing & Services; JeanPierre Sbraire, Chief Financial Officer; Namita Shah, President, OneTech; Vincent Stoquart, President Refining & Chemical; Nicolas Terraz, President, Exploration & Production.
These appointments underline TotalEnergies' strategic focus on enhancing leadership in key areas of the energy sector, positioning the company to continue its growth trajectory in a rapidly evolving industry.
Phillips 66 boosts EV charging strategy in the US
The company aims to establish charging stations at over 30 sites across Texas, California, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington by the end of 2025. Phillips 66 is ramping up its work in the electric vehicle (EV) charging space after being awarded $2.5 million in grants from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. The company has previously announced plans via its 2024 Sustainability and People Report to add locations to more states through 2025.
To date, the firm has been awarded a total of $7 million in U.S. EV charging grants to broaden its growth plans and offset 50% of the costs to build pilot charging stations. Some of the recent funding from NEVI will help build three sites in Colorado, with two in Colorado Springs and one in Grand Junction.
“Electrification is an important part of our Emerging Energy
organisation’s approach, and we’re taking a pragmatic approach to our EV charging pilot program. We want to provide a mix of affordable, reliable energy to meet all customer expectations,” sadi Zhanna Golodryga, EVP of Emerging Energy and Sustainability at Phillips 66.
The company plans to have active charging stations at over 30 sites across Texas, California, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington by the end of 2025.
Phillips 66 dipped into the EV charging space in 2022 when the first branded chargers were installed at the company’s flagship station near its Houston headquarters. Additional charging sites were commissioned in Washington in late 2023 and Colorado in early 2024 with the first 76 and Conoco branded chargers, respectively.
ExxonMobil launches the first renewable diesel in Hong Kong
The launch of renewable diesel at the Esso Tsing Yi South service station marks a milestone. ExxonMobil Hong Kong Limited (EMHK) has become the first supplier of renewable diesel for public road use in Hong Kong. The launch of Esso Renewable Diesel R20 at the Esso Tsing Yi South service station marks a milestone in providing customers with cleaner fuels.
Esso Renewable Diesel R20 is a high-quality renewable diesel with an estimated 15.4% lower lifecycle GHG emissions compared to conventional diesel. Made with minimum 20% renewable content,
Esso Renewable Diesel R20 is suitable for immediate use with all existing diesel engines. “We are proud to be the pioneering supplier in Hong Kong, offering diesel customers a drop-in replacement fuel for public road use that can be used immediately with all existing diesel engines without requiring any modifications. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to providing lower-GHG emission solutions for the transportation sector in Hong Kong,” said Mabel Leung, ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Fuels Sales Director. The fuel is currently available at the Esso Tsing Yi South service station and through bulk delivery to commercial customers.
Press Releases
Fox Construction and EV-EXBOX working together on UK’s first eHGV hub
EV-EXBOX has been selected to provide the EV Charging infrastructure risk assessment for Fox Construction as they take the lead in providing the civil work for the UK's first eHGV charging hub at Immingham. Milence, the joint venture between Daimler Truck, the TRATON GROUP, and Volvo Group, announced the development of its first charging hub in the UK.
The hub is strategically located, with Immingham being a pivotal hub for transportation and logistics in the UK and Europe. This milestone marks Milence's commitment to advancing sustainable transport solutions and supporting the UK's green initiatives. The new Milence charging hub will be the first of its kind in the UK, representing a significant step towards a greener future for road transport. The development of the charging hub in Immingham will be carried out in multiple phases:
The hub will initially be equipped with four high-performance Combined Charging Systems (CCS) chargers powering eight bays.
A variety of amenities, such as sanitary facilities and vending machines for drinks and snacks will also be included. The final phase will include additional CCS and MCS chargers as well as more sanitary facilities, vending machines and a lounge area.
Graeme Warnell, Director of EV-EXBOX stated, “ we are delighted to be providing risk assessment support for the development and operation of this project. Being asked to review the drawings before construction work started was an excellent opportunity to help identify any potential risks as well as solutions to remove or reduce risk”.
Construction has now commenced and is underway, with the hub scheduled to be operational with the completion of the first phase in November 2024.
Adler & Allan announces closing of investment from Goldman Sachs Alternatives
LONDON, UK – August 15, 2024 - Adler & Allan, a leading provider of environmental risk reduction and advisory services, today announced that the Private Equity business within Goldman Sachs Alternatives has completed its acquisition of a majority stake in the Company. The deal closure marks a significant milestone in Adler & Allan's history and the partnership will serve to support the Company as it embarks on the next phase of growth.
Founded in 1926 and headquartered in Harrogate, Adler & Allan is a leading UK-based environmental risk reduction specialist, supporting organisations in managing, improving, maintaining, and upgrading their critical infrastructure across the entire asset lifecycle. With over 1,600 employees and more than 2,500 customers, the Company is a national turnkey partner to the utilities sector with services from strategic infrastructure advice, monitoring, data and analytics, frontline operational capability, and environmental consultancy.
This transaction strongly positions Adler & Allan to deliver on its mission to solve industries’ biggest environmental challenges from reducing pollution and preventing harm to the environment, to mitigating the effects of climate change. The Company is focused
on driving growth through broadening the suite of environmental risk services and deepening its presence across the UK to support clients on a wide range of ESG challenges.
In partnership with Goldman Sachs Alternatives, Adler & Allan will continue to invest organically in its people, innovation, and technology as well as accelerating the group’s M&A activity both in the UK and internationally, with a continued focus on sustainability, climate transition, and water to solidify its position as the go-to environmental services partner.
Henrik Pedersen, Chief Executive Officer of Adler & Allan, said: "We are excited to join forces with Goldman Sachs, a global leader who shares the same vision for growth. This strategic partnership will enable us to expand our services and create significant value for our clients. We look forward to working together to put ESG into action for more customers in more markets."
For more information about Adler and Allan, please visit www.adlerandallan.co.uk or contact Matthew Hanson, Head of Marketing - Matt.hanson@adlerandallan.co.uk.
Istobal opens a new subsidiary in the Netherland boosting its presence in key markets for the group
•The leading vehicle wash and care solutions group has acquired Eenzet Carwash B.V. to accelerate its growth in Northern Europe.
•ISTOBAL continues to boost its business model on a greater commitment to direct sales in key markets.
•The new subsidiary, which will employ 28 people, responds to the needs of a key market with high quality equipment and services.
Valencia (12-08-2024) - ISTOBAL, the Spanish leader in vehicle wash and care solutions, is expanding its global presence with the establishment of a new subsidiary in The Netherlands. With this strategic opening, ISTOBAL continues its commitment to offer high quality products and services, tailored to the needs of customers in different key geographical regions for the Spanish Group.
This acquisition is part of the growth plan planned by ISTOBAL in Europe, following the opening of offices in France, Poland and
Hungary in the past 6 months, bringing the total to 14 subsidiaries globally. It is a further step in the strategy of the ISTOBAL Group, which continues to focus on direct sales with the aim of increasing its turnover in the countries where it is present, opening new markets and consolidating its international leadership.
To this end, the company has acquired its previous local distributor, Eenzet Carwash B.V, a renowned car wash company located in Andelst. With this new opening, the group now has a total of fourteen subsidiaries globally, thus fulfilling its strategic plan to accelerate its growth in Northern Europe. This expansion reinforces ISTOBAL's commitment to bring its innovative solutions to an increasing number of key markets.
"We are delighted with the acquisition of Eenzet Carwash B.V, a testament to our unwavering dedication to serving our Dutch customers with a focus on excellence," said Antonio Martinez, the company's Managing Director, adding that "this move highlights our determination to adapt to the changing demands of a demanding market, while strengthening our position in a region full of great opportunities."
Eenzet Carwash B.V. has established its presence as a dominant
Park Garage
player for more than 30 years in the car wash market in the Dutch market. As the exclusive distributor of ISTOBAL in the country since 2002, Eenzet has built an excellent partnership with the Spanish company. This cooperation has enabled them to offer high quality, innovative and efficient car wash solutions, reaffirming their commitment to the satisfaction and loyalty of their customers.
The new ISTOBAL subsidiary will employ a total of 28 people, with extensive experience in the sector, ensuring efficient operation and high-quality care in all operational areas.
ISTOBAL Netherlands will have a structure of specialised teams, including a sales team and a technical service system that will guarantee an efficient, customised service to customers and ensure a complete coverage throughout the country.
Antonio Martínez, General Manager of ISTOBAL said: "We have been at the forefront of innovation in vehicle wash solutions in The Netherlands for many years, demonstrating our ability to anticipate the needs of a highly demanding market. We are very excited about this acquisition as we aim to respond to the needs of our customers in key segments, such as oil companies, and the growing private sector," he added.
Group and Helix Renewables lead the UK’s energy revolution with a groundbreaking EV charging project
Park Garage Group (PGG) and Helix Renewables are pioneering the future of sustainable energy in the UK launching the nation’s first 480 kW hyper electric vehicle (EV) chargers, marking the beginning of an energy revolution. This collaborative partnership is redefining the standard for EV infrastructure, bringing cuttingedge technology to the forecourt industry.
At the heart of this groundbreaking initiative are three state-of-the-art 480 kW EV chargers, the most powerful and advanced CCS2 chargers currently available in the UK. These chargers can fully charge an electric vehicle in just 17 minutes*, setting a new benchmark for speed and efficiency in EV charging. Installed at a key Park Garage Group (PGG) site in Blackpool, where reliable, fast charging infrastructure is low, this project is a significant milestone in the UK’s transition to sustainable transportation.
This landmark project was designed and managed by Helix Renewables
with the support of several key industry experts, including Sinewave, NIS Signs, Project EV, Eclipse Power Networks and Direct Road Markings. Commissioned by Park Garage Group (PGG), which operates 77 sites across the UK, this collaboration is set to make a significant impact in advancing the nation’s EV infrastructure.
Sunil Tandon, Managing Director of Park Garage Group (PGG), remarked: “Helix Renewables is one of our trusted partners and our collaboration marks a pivotal moment for PGG. Our new EV charging points are designed with our customers in mind, providing convenient access to fast, reliable charging whilst ensuring each charger is accessible for wheelchair users and located under a lit canopy for safety. This project is more than just an upgrade to our services, it’s a bold step towards the future and underscores our commitment to substantiality and innovation. We are committed to providing the best for our customers and working with Helix Renewables has been
a truly collaborative effort and together, we’re setting new standards for what’s possible in EV infrastructure across the UK.”
Phil Nelson, Operations Director at Helix Renewables, shared his excitement, "We are incredibly proud to bring this game-changing technology to the UK. This project is a testament to our commitment to supporting the future of sustainable energy. By partnering with PGG, we’re not just installing chargers; we’re building a targeted, comprehensive and hyper charging infrastructure that will drive the adoption of EV chargers across the UK.”
The introduction of these ultra-fast chargers is a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and supporting the UK’s netzero goals. By providing quicker and more accessible charging options, Helix Renewables is encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles, which will have a lasting positive impact on both the environment and the economy.
Beyond the environmental benefits, this new installation is expected to significantly boost footfall at the Blackpool site, driving incremental revenue for the on-site stores through the "Charge, Shop, and Go" concept. Phil added “Customers can charge their vehicles in record time whilst enjoying a seamless and convenient shopping experience, adding value to both businesses and the local community. Our collaboration with PGG is a perfect example of how we support our commercial customers from initial feasibility through to commissioning, ensuring that every step is tailored to deliver maximum impact and benefits for local communities.”
Expanding the future with more sites to come. This launch is just the beginning, Helix Renewables and PGG plan to roll out similar EV charging solutions across multiple sites in the UK, reinforcing their role in the forecourt and renewable energy sectors, fostering a greener, more connected future.
Join the Revolution: For more information about Helix Renewables and how you can get involved, visit www.helix-renewables.com.
[* Variation in charging times depends on the make, model and battery temperature of the vehicle.]
The system with the intelligence to prevent conditioning downtime!
From filter degradation intelligence, filter block and pump service warning alerts, to event and alarm log history – discover how the new Advanced Fuel Conditioner from CTS targets ISO 14/13/11 fuel standard via multi-pass filtration, preventing stagnation and diesel bug from causing downtime in low usage tanks such as generator back up tanks.
After years of success with their in-house designed recirculation unit, CTS wanted to offer an alternative model to the market which could clean fuel to an even higher level. After much research and development from CTS Technical Director Rob Terry, they’ve added the CTS engineered Advanced Fuel Conditioner to their range, as the ideal solution for keeping your customers’ stored fuel clean and usable in tanks up to 40,000 litres.
With a quality manufactured Piusi Panther pump, two high performance Cim-Tek Ultimate Defense particle and water filters, and a magnetic fuel conditioner to breakdown diesel bug, this advanced system targets ISO 14/13/11 via multi-pass filtration. Not only this, but the fuel conditioner also has added intelligence to limit preventable downtime in fuel conditioning.
So, what makes the Advanced Fuel Conditioner intelligent? The intelligence comes in the form of filter and operational data via the PLC touchscreen control panel, which includes:
•Filter degradation data – flow rate graphs and trends will show any reductions in flow that could indicate filters are degrading and give the user an idea of filter life expectancy. This means that rather than waiting for a surprise filter block to happen, users can track flow rate and receive warning messages when filters are degrading, allowing pre-emptive replacements to be carried out.
•Alarm and event log history – complete visibility of what’s been happening with the conditioner is shown in the control panel log. This will include anything from filter degradation to filter block, leak or low-level alarms, pump start/stop, and engineer login and out activity.
•Pump intelligence – run time and schedule information is provided within the control panel so the user can see when the pump will next cycle. Pump service required warnings will show when the pump is near the end of its working life (based upon the number of cycles the pump has run for), warning the user that a replacement pump is needed soon – allowing pre-emptive maintenance to take place before breakdowns can occur.
Did we mention that there’s a benefit for you too… Not only does the fuel conditioner offer a multitude of benefits for your customers, but there’s a benefit for fuel tank suppliers and installers too!
Similarly to the CTS recirculation unit, the front of the panel can be branded with a custom-made label containing your company logo, branding and contact information – so end users know who to contact when spare parts are required. But they haven’t stopped there when it comes to customisation… CTS can also brand the touchscreen control panel with this information, as well as custom QR codes which will show when spare parts need to be ordered –
directing end users straight to your website to buy filters and pump replacements.
Depending on the filtration level and operational control required, the CTS range of fuel filtration covers all budgets and requirements. With the Advanced Fuel Conditioner now a part of their offering, they can ensure that those needing to keep emergency fuel clean to minimise the risk of downtime, can do just that!
So, if you’re interested in giving your customers a solution for keeping stored fuel clean and prevent damage and downtime, then you need to offer the CTS Advanced Fuel Conditioner as part of your range. Get in contact with Centre Tank Services today – the UK’s leading and trusted trade supplier of fuel dispensing, storage tank and AdBlue equipment.
Branches
APEA Comes North
The Irish Branch of APEA held a seminar in Northern Ireland on Thursday 5th September 2024. The seminar was held in the Belmont House Hotel, Banbridge, and the members were welcomed to the borough by Deputy Lord Mayor Kyle Savage of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. The Deputy Lord Mayor thanked the licensing team within the Borough Council for all their work in assisting to organise and host the event. Special thanks were given to the event organiser David Millar, who is a member of the Borough Council licensing team, and a member of the committee of the Irish Branch of APEA.
Michael O’Connell, the Chairman of APEA National Council also attended the event and thanked the Deputy Lord Mayor for his warm welcome and for taking time from his busy schedule to attend our event. Michael went on to give a short talk on the benefits of APEA membership, which is the only organisation or association that represents all the stakeholders within the fuelling industry. The seminar had a large attendance of approximately 60 people. Approximately 50% of the attendees were Petroleum Officers from both the North and South of Ireland, while the other 50% were from all sections of the industry; i.e. electricians, consultants, contractors, installers, suppliers and maintenance
companies. Following on from Michael, each of the following gave an excellent presentation:
Stewart Nelson, who is the Area Engineer for the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC), gave an overview of what electrical contractors’ duties are while conducting a periodic inspection on a fuel filling station. He also described in detail all the documents and drawings that require review during this process; e.g. hazardous zone plans; and for the benefit of the licensing officers, described how to interpret the findings and final classification on hazardous area electrical certificates.
The next speaker was Kevin Powell who is a director with Ledbury Welding & Engineering. Kevin gave a presentation on above ground fuel tanks and described their construction and testing process. Kevin also described the VEHESTA (Vehicle Energy Station), which is an above ground vehicle energy station that can be easily installed, modified or indeed relocated. His presentation was very insightful and highlights how changing technologies impact on the retail vehicle fuelling/energy market. Kevin is also the Chairman of the Blue Book review committee that is revising the technical guidance on above ground tanks for the 5th Edition of the Blue Book.
Killian Tallon is the Senior Logistics Manager at Circle K Ireland and is a member of APEA National Council. He spoke about the changing world of driver controlled deliveries and DCD boxes. As technology has advanced significantly in recent years, driver-controlled fuel deliveries can now be undertaken with technological improved safety systems in place. Furthermore, with phone landlines being withdrawn in 2027, the HSE 2014 ACOP L133 document will require review to account for new technologies available that enhance the safety and efficiency of fuel deliveries. Killian described the technologies that Circle K has invested in and implemented, and highlighted the corresponding reduction in the percentage of fuel delivery related incidents.
Dan Gibson is the Wetstock Manager with Suresite Group. He gave an insight into wetstock management and the Titan Cloud
Deputy Lord Mayor Kyle Savage – ABC Council, Elizabeth Reaney – Head of Environmental Department – ABC Council, Michael O’Connell – APEA Chairman
software used. He spoke about how wetstock monitoring works and highlighted its benefits to fuel retailers. Accurate wetstock monitoring is an essential part of the retail fuelling sector as SIR (Statistical Inventory Reconciliation) provides the retailer with a reliable leak detection system, confirmation of accurate dispenser calibration and fuel product security information. He explained about the technology used for wetstock monitoring and how the data is collected, monitored and analysed.
Rebecca Watts, H&S Manager with Suresite, and Phil Bonny, Consultant with Suresite, gave a joint presentation on the DSEAR Risk Assessment process from when they arrive at the station, what they look for during their inspection, the documents they require, the fuel station register and how up to date is it. They also discussed the final report and how they talk through it with the client and how licensing officers should interpret it and also the benefits to contractors working onsite.
Back row L/R Stewart Nelson - NICEIC, Killian Tallon – Circle K, Kevin Powell – Ledbury Welding & Engineering Ltd
Front row L/R Deputy Lord Mayor Kyle Savage – ABC Council, Elizabeth Reaney – Head of Environmental Department – ABC Council, Michael O’Connell – APEA Chairman, Phil Bonny – Suresite
Our final speaker of the day was Jason Taggart, who is an architect with Taggart Design. Jason is the architect that designs all the ‘GO’ Stations which are part of the LCC Group Ltd. Jason firstly gave an insight into the design concept of a fuel station. He then outlined the processes involved from concept to completion, covering planning, building control, fire safety, road/access safety, electrical connections etc. Jason then concluded his presentation by showing different design concepts to account for the various challenges that can be faced on different sites, e.g. road access, adjoining properties, electric pylons, underground utilities etc.
Overall, the day was a great success, as it gave members an opportunity to share concerns, ask questions, learn about new concepts and future technologies within the industry, and network over lunch. CPD certificates were available to all attendees.
APEA Chairman Michael O’Connell concluded the seminar by thanking the event organisers, speakers and attendees for participating in an enjoyable and productive day, and wished everyone a safe journey home. We look forward to future seminars being held in Northern Ireland.
Training
Training course dates and locations 2025
3 Day Combined Petrol Filling Stations –Construction, Audit and Inspection Course
7 - 9 April
Manchester Airport
9 - 11 June Solihull
1 - 3 September Stansted Airport
2 day Electrical Installations - An Awareness
29 - 30 April
Manchester Airport
9 - 10 September Swindon
Wetstock Management
11 April
Manchester Airport
8 September Stansted Airport
DSEAR
10 April
Manchester Airport
4 September Stansted Airport
Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulations 2014
11 April Manchester Airport
5 September Stansted Airport
Explosives and Fireworks
3 October Stansted Airport
Petrol Filling Station courses on request
Vapour Recovery Installations
Leak Investigation
Enforcement Procedures
Safe Installation and Use of LPG
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.
Course Fees
APEA Member Non member
3 day course with accommodation£1020.00
3 day, day delegate rate £810.00
2 day course with accommodation£650.00
2 day, day delegate rate
1 day course
Prices excluding VAT.
£550.00
£260.00
£1120.00
£910.00
£750.00
£650.00
£310.00
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 ‘Blue Book’Guidance for the Design, Construction, Modification, Maintenance and Decommissioning of Filling Stations .
A hard copy and a pdf version 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.
Online Training 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
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/
Key Areas of a Filling Station £50
The Future of Fuels £50
Drainage, Vapour Recovery and Leak Detection £50
Road Tanker Delivery and Consignor Requirements £50
Petroleum (Consolidation) Regulation 2014 £50
Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 £50
