The Future of UK Refuelling: Adapting to Cleaner Energy Alternatives
Key Ideas
- The UK is transitioning towards cleaner energy options like electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) alongside traditional petrol and diesel.
- Forecourts are evolving to offer a mix of refuelling options including EV, Hydrogen, LNG, and CNG to cater to future demand and sustainability goals.
- There is a growing focus on sustainability in convenience stores at petrol stations, with potential for renewable energy-powered utilities and new payment systems.
- Maintaining a mix of transitional fuels like CNG and LNG alongside EV and Hydrogen infrastructure will be crucial during the transition period towards cleaner energy.
The UK's refuelling landscape is undergoing a transformation as the country aims to phase out Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles by 2035. Cedric Herbreteau from Dover Fueling Solutions highlighted the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), and other clean fuel types. Hydrogen transport is gaining feasibility, with the first FCEVs hitting the roads and significant private investments expected by 2030. Forecourts will need to adapt to cater to a mix of fuel options, including EV, Hydrogen, LNG, and CNG, alongside petrol and diesel. This evolution will also impact convenience stores on forecourts, with a focus on sustainability and cleaner products. The increase in EV charging facilities offers retailers the opportunity to transform into 'retail hubs' with various services. While cleaner fuels are on the rise, petrol stations will still need to cater to ICE vehicles during the transition. Investing in transitional fuels like CNG and LNG will be essential to balance the demands of all customers. The key to future-proofing forecourts lies in maintaining a mix of refuelling options and adapting to the changing consumer behavior towards sustainable energy.