As concerns about climate change and environmental degradation continue to intensify, businesses seek ways to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt sustainable practices. None more so than fuel retailers, who have stepped up to the plate to make the energy distribution sector more sustainable.
Since the advent of the Irish government’s net-zero strategy, the fuel industry has been under intense scrutiny, as consumer demand for more accessible, eco-friendly solutions has soared. This shift in customer behaviour has prompted fuel retailers to make significant changes to their day-to-day operations to reduce greenhouse gases and mitigate the impact on the ecosystem.
Of course, fuel retailers cannot influence the choice of car that their customers drive, they have to provide a service to meet market demand, including the supply of petrol and diesel for the foreseeable future.
In summary, fuel retailers are navigating a complex landscape, balancing challenges with innovative strategies to meet evolving consumer needs and environmental expectations.
Electricity and Hydrogen
It is reasonable to assume the transition to clean energy won’t happen overnight and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles will still be on Ireland’s roads well beyond the ban on fossil fuel new car sales in 2035.
However, fuel retailers need to be prepared to embrace the new wave of consumers seeking sustainable options, by incorporating alternative clean energy solutions on site.
For retailers that have the advantage of an established network of stations and space, the increased demand for charging points represents a prime opportunity. As established fuel suppliers, large forecourt networks and independent retailers are in a strong position to claim natural ownership of electric vehicle (EV) charging. By treating it as incremental business and capitalising on their existing locations and facilities to deliver charge points, they could generate a high return on investment via supplementary store and café sales.
Whilst EVs are currently setting the pace in the switch away from fossil fuels, the motor industry continues to evolve and new technologies are being developed every day. It would be foolhardy to ignore the possibility of hydrogen vehicles coming up on the rails and potentially stealing the EV’s crown in years to come.
EVs and hydrogen vehicles are undoubtedly the front runners in the race to net zero, but what other alternative energies are vying for position?
Clean, green energies
Fuel retailers are actively seeking to support alternative energies including electricity, hydrogen, Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) and Biofuels such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), while also aiming to transition their fuel businesses to become more ecologically sustainable.
Adding new energy dispensers to the forecourt raises customer awareness of available fuel options. Alternative fuel vehicles produce fewer emissions than ICE vehicles; EVs and HVO-powered vehicles emit no carbon dioxide, LNG reduces harmful emissions and hydrogen is clean, safe and abundant.
Investing in Energy-Efficient Measures
One of the most effective ways to reduce the environmental damage of fuel retailing is to invest in renewable energy sources, such as solar. By installing solar panels on the roof or canopy of a fuel forecourt, retailers can generate clean energy to help alleviate their dependence on the national grid and reduce their carbon footprint.
In addition to investing in renewable energy sources, fuel retailers can also adopt smart measures to reduce their energy consumption. For instance, this may include installing light-emitting diode (LED) lighting, fitting energy-efficient refrigerators, upgrading heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and implementing energy management solutions. By reducing energy consumption, fuel retailers can save on operational costs and minimise their ecological impact.
Reduce Waste and Encourage Recycling
Climate change is the defining issue of our time and it is altering the way we live, travel, work and shop. As consumers adopt a greener lifestyle their buying decisions may be influenced by whether a store and its produce align with their values. For instance, choosing healthier food alternatives in biodegradable packaging and opting to patronise a convenience store that operates a successful recycling programme to reduce waste. By limiting waste and encouraging recycling, fuel retailers can minimise their effect on the environment and promote responsible practices.
In addition, proactive 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.
TSG is here to help
TSG Ireland is already acknowledged as a keen advocate of the transition to greener cleaner energies including electricity, hydrogen and solar, working together with fuel retailers to transform their forecourts into eco-friendly operations.
TSG has been a key player in the supply of retail fuel equipment and services for thirty years, 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.
Now established as a leading engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor for all new energies, TSG Ireland 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, delivering all works within a predefined timescale and budget.
Furthermore, TSG is committed to delivering an efficient first-class independent connection provider (ICP) service to all of its clients, by delivering trouble-free seamless connections to the grid.
Customers today want to work with businesses that respect the planet and supply future-proof products and solutions that abide by these standards and vision. TSG provides its customers with the sustainable technology they need to reduce costs and increase business revenues.
TSG’s Commitment to Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR)
TSG is dedicated to providing transparency in its CSR strategy across the globe, demonstrating commitment to its stakeholders and creating a pathway to sustainable development and long-term success.
TSG’s goal-driven CSR policy has been pivotal in establishing the company as an ethical and responsible participant in the shift to renewable energies.
TSG diligently manages its environmental and cultural values, with careful consideration of human rights, the community, environment and society in which it operates. This strategy has been recognised by the 2024 EcoVadis Ratings, when TSG achieved the platinum award for sustainability, placing the business in the top 1% of all companies assessed.
CSR is a continuous commitment to responsible business practices and accordingly, TSG aims to demonstrate its social efficacy by enhancing its sustainability, reducing its carbon footprint and promoting transparency through its value chain.
TSG is driving the energy transition for the transportation sector by delivering technical solutions for energy distribution networks and mobility hubs.
Author: Cheryl Ashton
