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Expanding Fueling Horizons: SC Fuels Introduces New Cardlock Facility in California

June 13th, 2024 by Fiedler Group

SC Fuels recently announced the addition of a new fueling facility providing unrestricted access to private and the public heavy duty vehicle operators, trucks and passenger vehicles. This facility situated at the Irwindale Gateway, 1200 Arrow Highway, southeast corner of Arrow Highway and Live Oak Avenue in the City of Irwindale, is set to become a critical resource for the transportation industry in the region by offering an extensive selection of fuels, including: Diesel, Biodiesel, Red diesel, E-85 Gasoline. Fiedler Group is a proud member of the team that brought this project to completion.

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure
The scope of work for the new Cardlock facility included significant construction and infrastructure developments:

• Fueling Canopy: One new 129’-0” X 42’-0” canopy sheltering 14 dispensers, features a combination of multi-product and single-product options, as well as five DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) dispensers.
• CMU Enclosure: One 42’-0” X 23’-4” concrete masonry unit (CMU) enclosure, equipped with metal screening gates, houses an electrical equipment control room, aboveground storage tanks, and a trash enclosure area.
• Underground Storage Tanks: The installation of underground storage tanks to ensure a reliable and efficient fuel supply.
• Additional Site Improvements: Various landscape, drainage, and site improvements were implemented to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the facility.

Overcoming Challenges
The development of this facility was not without its challenges. Notably, two significant hurdles were successfully overcome by Fiedler Group in helping to deliver this project:

Redesigning the Equipment Enclosure: During the construction process, a Southern California Edison (SCE) guy wire was discovered within the proposed footprint of the equipment enclosure area. This unexpected obstacle required a complete redesign of the enclosure to accommodate the existing infrastructure without compromising the facility’s functionality.

Planning Approval: Securing planning approval for the redesigned enclosure area presented its own set of challenges. The project team had to navigate complex regulations and ensure that all required setbacks were met. Through diligent planning and collaboration with local authorities, the necessary approvals were obtained, allowing the project to proceed without significant delays.

Looking Ahead
With the opening of this new public access Cardlock Fueling facility, SC Fuels continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing reliable, accessible, and innovative fueling solutions across California. This site not only exemplifies the convenience and efficiency of truck fueling SC Fuels is known for but also underscores SC Fuels’ dedication to overcoming challenges and delivering exceptional service to its customers.

For more information about Fiedler Group services and how we can benefit your project, please visit our website.

SC Fuels, La Mirada & Gardena

January 6th, 2015 by Fiedler Group

SC Fuels has recently added Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) to the list of products dispensed at their La Mirada and Gardena cardlock locations. Read the rest of this entry »

SC Fuels, Paramount

January 28th, 2014 by Fiedler Group

Fiedler Group was retained by Southern Counties Fuels to build out a portion of an existing warehouse/service garage building as a new, functioning  drivers’ facility and dispatch center.  Read the rest of this entry »

REFLECTING ON OUR PROGRESS: ADVANCING ALTERNATIVE FUELING INFRASTRUCTURE

July 26th, 2024 by Fiedler Group

As we roll into the middle of the year, the long days of summer provide us with the perfect opportunity to reflect on our journey towards a low and zero-emission future. Fiedler Group has made significant strides in advancing alternative fueling infrastructure, and this progress has been shaped by the valuable experiences and collaborations we’ve had along the way.

Highlights from Key Industry Events
One of the standout moments this year was attending the ACT Expo 2024 in Las Vegas. This event allowed us to reconnect with industry leaders and discuss groundbreaking alternative fueling projects. It was an inspiring experience, filled with innovative ideas and forward-thinking solutions that are driving the future of transportation.

Fiedler Group also had the honor of participating in The California Hydrogen Leadership Summit as a sponsor. This summit was a fantastic platform for engaging with government leaders and fostering collaborations between the public and private sectors. Our discussions focused on advancing low- and zero-emission transportation technologies, infrastructure, and ultra-low carbon fuels for commercial transportation. These conversations are crucial in bridging the gap between policy and implementation, ensuring a cohesive approach to sustainable transportation.

Celebrating Collaborative Successes
Our achievements wouldn’t be possible without the trust and support of our clients and associates. We’re grateful for the opportunities to be part of groundbreaking projects that are setting new standards in the industry.

One such project is the Chevron Heavy Duty Vehicle CNG fueling initiative. We’re proud to have contributed to Chevron’s plan to expand access to low-carbon fuels for heavy-duty vehicles. This project is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change.

We’re also excited about our ongoing work on innovative projects like the Nikola – HYLA high-pressure modular refueling station in Ontario, California, and the NorCAL ZERO project. These first of their kind initiatives are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in alternative fueling infrastructure, and we’re thrilled to be at the forefront of this transformation.

Looking Ahead
As we continue to build on these successes, Fiedler Group is committed to driving the transition towards a more sustainable future. The journey is far from over, but with the support of our clients, partners, and industry leaders, we’re confident that we’re on the right path. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Together, we can achieve a cleaner, greener future for all.

Nikola Unveils First HYLA Refueling Station in Southern California

April 3rd, 2024 by Fiedler Group

Nikola Corporation, a leader in zero-emissions transportation and energy solutions, proudly announced the grand opening of its HYLA high-pressure modular refueling station in Ontario, California. This milestone marks a significant stride towards establishing a robust hydrogen refueling network, especially tailored for Class 8 trucks, within the region.

The opening included fleet customers, dealers, government representatives, industry insiders, and Nikola team members. Notable highlights of the grand opening included speeches from Nikola executives, industry expert Joe Biagi, and representatives from the City of Ontario and Congresswoman Norma Torres’s office, who awarded Certificates of Recognition to Nikola for this achievement.

Attendees were treated to demonstrations showcasing truck and hydrogen refueling procedures, alongside facility tours and technology Q&A sessions facilitated by Nikola engineers. The event also provided firsthand experiences with Nikola’s cutting-edge hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks, underscoring the company’s commitment to deploying advanced eco-friendly technologies on our nation’s roadways.

Located at 2445 E. Guasti Road, Ontario, CA, the newly operational station is equipped to refuel up to 40 Nikola hydrogen fuel cell electric Class 8 trucks daily. This strategic move aligns with Nikola’s ambitious plan to establish nine refueling solutions by mid-2024, with a total of 14 operational stations slated by year-end.  Fiedler Group is proud to support Nikola with their engineering and permitting needs to increase fueling infrastructure throughout California.

Nikola’s unwavering commitment extends beyond the grand opening, with round-the-clock support furnished by onsite HYLA Ambassadors and Operation Technicians, ensuring a seamless and efficient refueling experience for customers.

President of Energy at Nikola, Ole Hoefelmann, expressed pride in this historic achievement, acknowledging the pivotal role played by the City of Ontario in realizing this vision. He emphasized the significance of this moment as a catalyst for advancing sustainable transportation and reaffirmed Nikola’s dedication to spearheading zero-emission trucking solutions.

Collaborating closely with industry leaders, Nikola is steadfast in fortifying the hydrogen supply chain and expanding its HYLA refueling infrastructure to meet burgeoning demand. This concerted effort is poised to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks, driving the imperative decarbonization of transportation.

Congresswoman Norma Torres hailed the initiative as a boon for the Inland Empire, emphasizing the transformative impact of clean energy technologies in job creation and climate mitigation. She stressed the importance of continued investments in clean energy solutions to fortify communities against future challenges.

Nikola’s HYLA refueling solutions network is primed to offer customers a diverse array of flexible refueling options, including modular and permanent stations, customer-owned facilities, and collaborations with public truck stops. This includes the recent landmark agreement with FirstElement Fuel for a hydrogen refueling station in Oakland, Calif.

In essence, Nikola’s inauguration of the first HYLA refueling station in Southern California signifies a significant leap towards a greener, more sustainable future in transportation, underlining the company’s unwavering commitment to pioneering eco-friendly innovations.

Fueling Facility Owner/Operator UST System Updates Deadline Fast Approaching

December 20th, 2023 by Fiedler Group

Time is running out! As the December 31, 2025, compliance deadline looms, enforcement of California Senate Bill #445 threatens immediate closure and hefty fines for non-compliant fueling stations located within the State. Owner/operators must act NOW to adhere to the stringent requirements of Health & Safety Code (H&SC), Section 25291(a)(1)-(6). This law orders owner/operators to upgrade, replace, or permanently close Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) with Single-Walled Components containing hazardous substances, as well as those inadequately designed for alternative fuels. We recommend starting your project as soon as possible due to varying processing times. Delaying action could have serious implications for existing businesses.

NONCOMPLIANCE WILL RESULT IN:

• Red Tagging for Compliance
• Fines ranging from $500 to $5,000 per tank, per day, and/or
• Restrictions on fuel deliveries and dispensing

COMPLIANCE:
Owners and operators of non-compliant USTs have the options to:

1. Close the tank in-place upon appropriate Agency authorization
2. Remove the tank and piping from the site
3. Remove and replace the tank and associated piping

FIEDLER GROUP:
For over six decades, Fiedler Group has been the trusted experts in designing and revitalizing fueling sites, as well as assisting owner/operators to comply with the ever-changing regulatory landscape. We are experts in multi-site compliance programs and have helped thousands of clients navigate fueling station requirements, from site design and renovation to tank removal and replacements. Our in-depth knowledge and extensive permitting experience facilitate your ability to manage regulatory compliance while minimizing disruptions to daily operations.

For further information and to contact Fiedler Group, please click here.

Fueling the Future: The Montebello Project’s Journey to Sustainable Transportation

October 25th, 2023 by Fiedler Group

In an era where environmental concerns are at the forefront of discussions, projects that champion sustainability and innovation deserve recognition. One such project that stands out is the Montebello Heavy-Duty Vehicle RNG (Renewal Natural Gas) Fueling Station, located at 601 S. Vail Avenue. The Montebello project is the third of its kind designed and permitted by Fiedler Group and project managed and constructed by Wayne Perry Inc. (WPI)  for Chevron. This project not only promotes clean energy but also exemplifies the power of engineering and design in overcoming challenges when bringing this important technology to market.

What is Renewable Natural Gas and Why Does it Matter?

Renewable natural gas, or RNG, is biogas that has been upgraded and placed in the conventional natural gas system. It is produced from multiple sources, including livestock waste, landfills, wastewater sludge, food waste and other organic waste operations. RNG can be used for electricity generation, thermal functions like heating and cooking, bioplastics and vehicle fuel.

As an integral part of its portfolio of solutions, Chevron works with its partners in the United States to convert methane from cow waste into RNG for use in heavy-duty vehicles.  One day RNG will help reduce the life cycle carbon intensity of transportation fuels while meeting the world’s growing energy needs. Moreover, RNG is essential for the growth of lower carbon fuel markets and can help reduce the impact of organic wastes.

A Vision for Sustainability

In an era where sustainability and environmental stewardship are keystones to reducing carbon emissions, the Chevron Montebello project emerges as a significant step towards a greener future in transportation. Committed to reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy alternatives, Chevron contracted WPI to design and build the Heavy-Duty Vehicle RNG fueling station. This station will make a substantial impact by offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels.

Given their extensive experience with both CNG and LNG, Fiedler Group was contracted to provide Front-End Engineering and Design (FEED) services for this project.  Fiedler Group played a pivotal role in turning Chevron’s sustainability vision into a reality by delivering a comprehensive range of engineering and project management services, that included entitlement processing, construction documents, and permitting.

However, the path to achieving this vision was not without its share of challenges. The Montebello project found its home on a portion of the existing Montebello Chevron Terminal that lacked power infrastructure, proper drainage and the appropriate ingress and egress. Although these deficiencies were challenging, Fiedler Group’s expertise was brought to bear to provide innovative solutions and creative strategies to fulfill Chevron’s sustainability goals.

The culmination of these efforts was marked on September 8, 2023, with the successful completion of the RNG fueling station. This accomplishment signifies not only a step forward in Chevron’s commitment to an eco-friendlier future but also a testament to how collaboration between industry leaders, innovative engineering, an experienced general contractor, and a dedication to environmental responsibility can lead to transformative results.

To learn more about how Fiedler Group can service your project needs, please contact us here.

Fuelcell Energy and Toyota: Pioneering the Future With the World’s First “Tri-gen” Production System

September 8th, 2023 by Fiedler Group

Introduction
On September 7, 2023, FuelCell Energy, Inc. (FCE) and Toyota Motor of North America (Toyota) unveiled the world’s first “Tri-gen system” at Toyota Logistic Services (TLS) Long Beach. This innovative energy solution, owned and operated by FCE, makes TLS the first port vehicle processing facility in the world powered by onsite-generated, 100% renewable energy. The “Tri” refers to on-site generation of renewable electricity, hydrogen, and water from biogas. A major breakthrough in the scalability of hydrogen-powered fuel cell technology, it promises to transform the way we power logistics and transportation facilities, signaling a pivotal moment in the journey towards cleaner energy. The Tri-gen system showcases the potential and economic viability of hydrogen-based energy production, offering inspiration for other industries and regions. Beyond its technological significance, Tri-gen symbolizes the power of collaboration and innovation in shaping a greener future amid the challenges of climate change.

Tri-gen: A Game-Changer in Sustainable Energy
This revolutionary system provides three key benefits:

1. Renewable Electricity: Tri-gen produces 2.3 megawatts of renewable electricity, a portion of which will be used by Toyota Logistic Services (TLS) Long Beach to power its operations at the port. This marks the first time that a port vehicle processing facility is fully powered by onsite-generated, 100 percent renewable energy.

2. Renewable Hydrogen: The Tri-gen system can produce up to 1,200 kg/day of hydrogen, meeting TLS Long Beach’s fueling needs for its incoming light-duty fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) Mirai. Additionally, it supplies hydrogen to a nearby heavy-duty hydrogen refueling station, supporting TLS logistics and drayage operations at the port. Hydrogen production can be adjusted based on demand, ensuring efficient resource utilization.

3. Usable Water: As a byproduct of hydrogen production, Tri-gen generates approximately 1,400 gallons of water per day. This water will be utilized by TLS Long Beach for car wash operations, significantly reducing the use of local water supplies and promoting responsible water management.

Environmental and Community Benefits
Tri-gen’s impact extends beyond Toyota’s operations at the Port of Long Beach, including:

• Reduced Emissions: The Tri-gen system is expected to reduce over 9,000 tons of CO₂ emissions annually by providing carbon-neutral energy. It supports Toyota’s ambitious goals for emissions reduction.

• Cleaner Air: By avoiding more than six tons of grid NOx emissions annually, Tri-gen contributes to improved air quality, benefiting both the community and the environment.

• Reduced Diesel Consumption: Tri-gen enables the use of hydrogen-powered fuel cell trucks in port operations, potentially reducing diesel consumption by more than 420,000 gallons per year. This move toward cleaner transport aligns with global efforts to transition to zero-emission vehicles.

• Baseload Electric Generation: Excess electricity not used by TLS will be supplied to the local utility, Southern California Edison, under the California Bioenergy Market Adjustment Tariff (BioMAT) program. This addition to the electric grid further supports renewable energy adoption and enhances grid resilience.

Fiedler Group is proud to have been part of this important project, providing civil and foundation design and engineering services as well as permit processing.  Since its founding in 1957, Fiedler Group has been a leading supplier of innovative design and engineering services committing to projects that revolutionize technologies, processes, and advancements.

To learn more how Fiedler Group can support your projects, please visit our website, or contact us here.

Fueling Facility Owner/Operator UST Update

July 24th, 2023 by Fiedler Group

Regulatory History
As per the state of California, there are approximately two thousand fueling sites across the state equipped with Underground Storage Tanks containing hazardous substances and constructed with Single-Walled Components. These sites, if active, must comply with the design standards provide in California Health and Safety Code (H&SC) Section 25291 no later than the deadline of December 31, 2025 as established by Senate Bill 445.

California Health and Safety Code (H&SC) Section 25291, which governs the design and construction requirements for USTs, contains subsection (7) which provides a compliance exception to sections (1)-(6) for USTs installed before January 1, 1997. However, that exception sunsets December 31, 2025.

Get Assistance

What Does Enforcement Look Like?
Current regulations allow for state agencies to red tag for compliance, and/or fine the owner/operator from $500 to $5,000 per tank, per day, and/or place restrictions on fuel deliveries or dispensing.

Types of Non-Compliant UST Systems

• Single-Walled Tank or Single-Walled Piping
• Double Walled Tank and Single-Walled Piping
• UST systems without secondary containment and a continuous leak detection system.
• USTs incompatible with the substance stored.

What does compliance look like?
To comply with the deadline in Senate Bill #445, owners and/or operators of non-compliant USTs have the options to:

1. Close the tank in-place upon appropriate Agency authorization
2. Remove the tank and associated piping from the site or
3. Remove and replace the tank and associated piping

Financial Assistance and Resources
Information on financial assistance is available via the State Water Board’s Division of Financial Assistance.

California small business UST owners and operators may be eligible for the State Water Board’s Replacing, Removing, or Upgrading Underground Storage Tanks (RUST) grants and loans to assist with regulatory compliance requirements.

• California Waterboards Website
• Contact email: RUST@waterboards.ca.gov
• PDF: Important Notice to Owners/Operators of Single-Walled USTS
• PDF: Fact Sheet from California Water Boards
• Financial Assistance Application Submittal Tool

How can we help you?

Fiedler Group Supports Iwatani’s Roll-Out Of Hydrogen Fueling Stations Despite Covid

April 28th, 2023 by Fiedler Group

Fiedler Group was contracted by Iwatani Corporation of America (ICA) to perform the multi-site program known as Futurity. Fiedler Group services included both Front-End Engineering and Design (FEED) and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) services for six (6) light duty hydrogen fueling facilities in existing retail petroleum stations located in Anaheim, Corona, Hawaiian Gardens, La Mirada, Santa Ana, and Seal Beach, California. Despite the processing delays experienced during the time of Covid, Fiedler Group had all project sites designed, permitted and constructed in record time. ICA selected NEL Hydrogen to supply the integrated hydrogen fueling system for the program.

As the Engineer of Record for the Futurity Program, Fiedler Group provided design expertise and technical oversight on each project. FEED services included delivering preliminary conceptual designs to ensure site viability; entitlement processing with the completion of Site Investigation Reports to evaluate capability and capacity for site development as well as barriers to execution; and engineering and design sets for permitting and AHJ review. Furthermore, Fiedler Group provided continuous construction management support during the design phase to ensure constructability and expediency during construction. Fiedler Group selected Fastech for the construction of all six locations.

HAWAIIAN GARDENS

The first of six projects to be completed for ICA was co-located at an existing 76 gas station. The site at 11807 E. Carson Street, Hawaiian Gardens, CA was enhanced with a hydrogen fueling station that included two fuel dispensers supported by an equipment compound holding the storage and compression equipment required to operate the dispensers.

Fiedler Group saved our client a significant amount of costs by presenting to the AHJ options to eliminate design requirements for additional water lines and service. The initial requirement included an irrigation water meter for the planned landscape area. However, Fiedler Group designed the Landscape Water Efficiency Plan to intercept the water line on the private property and use the existing meter for both irrigation and domestic service.

Construction of the hydrogen fueling facility was completed on October 22, 2021, with an approximate construction duration of 4 months.

SEAL BEACH

The second Futurity project to be completed for ICA was co-located at an existing 76 gas station. The site at 13980 Seal Beach Blvd. Seal Beach, CA was enhanced with a hydrogen fueling station that included two fuel dispensers supported by an equipment compound holding the storage and compression equipment required to operate the dispensers.

This project was another Fiedler First, as we were given the opportunity to design and construct the first hydrogen station in the City of Seal Beach. Fiedler Group’s extensive experience in bringing new fueling solutions to cities allowed us to anticipate the jurisdiction’s concerns and resolve them to facilitate entitlement and permit processing.

One of the challenges presented involved the restrictions against modifying the existing canopy. Fiedler Group’s solution was to design and construct a canopy “spanner” which provided the client the opportunity to showcase their logo and hydrogen branding.

Construction of the project was completed on February 17, 2022, with an approximate duration of 6 months.

ANAHEIM

The third Futurity project to be completed for ICA was co-located at an existing Mobil gas station. The site at 1100 N. Euclid Street. Anaheim, CA was enhanced with a hydrogen fueling station that included two fuel dispensers supported by an equipment compound holding the storage and compression equipment required to operate the dispensers.

One of the challenges Fiedler Group overcame on this project was the management of stakeholders to energize the site. This process was a milestone in the construction of these sites and required careful coordination. Fiedler Group collaborated with all parties to have the site energized after normal working hours, thereby ensuring that the project schedule was not impacted.

The Anaheim project was completed on April 15, 2022, with an approximate construction duration of 5 months.

CORONA

The fourth Futurity project to be completed for ICA was co-located at an existing Mobil gas station. The site at 616 Paseo Grande, Corona, CA was enhanced with a hydrogen fueling station that included two fuel dispensers supported by an equipment compound holding the storage and compression equipment required to operate the dispensers.

The Corona site had several unique obstacles. During the Preliminary Phase, Fiedler Group discovered that the site had various conflicting and outdated recorded property lines that impacted the constructability within the proposed location of the equipment compound and canopy. Fiedler Group was retained to ensure that a Lot Line Adjustment was granted. A Lot Line Adjustment is an extensive process that involves altering the property lines of existing parcels of land. Fiedler Group successfully obtained a Certificate of Compliance granting the adjustment that included the merging of a Lot that had been acquired by the City via annexation from the County. In addition, we successfully obtained a release of an existing but unused utility easement on the property returning 74 feet of land to the site owner, while also providing a third access point to the site, and clean Title to the property.

The hydrogen fueling facility was completed on June 24, 2022, with an approximate construction duration of 5 months.

SANTA ANA

The fifth Futurity project to be completed for ICA was co-located at an existing Shell gas station. The site at 2120 E. McFadden Ave. Santa Ana, CA was enhanced with a hydrogen fueling station that included two fuel dispensers supported by an equipment compound holding the storage and compression equipment required to operate the dispensers.

Fiedler Group was able to reduce the entitlement and permitting schedule significantly by preemptively communicating with the City’s Planning Department to address any concerns and expedite an administrative review of the proposed project. Fiedler Group facilitated the extensive negotiation process to have easement documents modified and accepted by SCE, the site owner, and the neighboring property owner for the installation of new electrical equipment, as well as acceptance of transformer use on a neighboring property.

Once preconstruction issues were mitigated, the site was completed on July 7, 2022, with an approximate construction duration of 5 months.

LA MIRADA

The sixth Futurity project to be completed for ICA was co-located at an existing ARCO gas station. The site at 13550 S. Beach Blvd., La Mirada, CA was enhanced with a hydrogen fueling station that included two fuel dispensers supported by an equipment compound holding the storage and compression equipment required to operate the dispensers.

This site had one of the most interesting utility challenges we have had the opportunity to resolve to date. During the Preliminary Phase of the project a few challenges were discovered: (1) the existing gas station’s electrical transformer also served power to the neighboring Fire Station, (2) the existing gas station and the Fire Station were in two different jurisdictions, and (3) the same city that owned the Fire Station also owned an easement on the gas station property that conflicted with the proposed location of the equipment compound. The primary obstacle to the project was that, regardless of the solution, the Fire Station could not be without power for any amount of time. Therefore, after extensive research and negotiation with relevant stakeholders, Fiedler Group successfully resolved to have SCE provide the Fire Station with independent power lines and transformer.

The La Mirada project site was completed on December 21, 2022, with an approximate construction duration of 7 months.

To learn more about Fiedler Group and the services we provide, please contact us today.