NATSO Inc., a national association representing the travel plaza and truck stop industry, has launched a new business venture designed to help fuel retailers incorporate alternative fuels into their supply offerings.
Dubbed the Alternative Fuels Council, the NATSO subsidiary will work with members of the truck stop and travel plaza community and other fuel retailers to help navigate state and federal fuel regulations and use available government incentives for alternative fuels, including the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The Alternative Fuels Council will also help its partners implement profitable strategies related to alternative fuel supply options and fuel infrastructure.
“The Alternative Fuels Council is designed to satisfy our industry’s need for expert, convenient and cost-effective solutions that help fuel retailers bring alternative fuels to market,” says Lisa Mullings, NATSO’s president and CEO. “The alternative fuels market is an important growth opportunity for many fuel retailers nationwide, and both the fuel retailing industry and their customers will benefit from the collective resources and benefits of this endeavor.”
Among its initial offerings, NATSO’s Alternative Fuels Council has unveiled a new Biodiesel Fuel Quality Plan designed to help those who blend, market and distribute biodiesel blends ensure the final product that they sell to consumers meets a minimum standard of quality. As part of this plan, the Alternative Fuels Council says it will help facilitate fuel testing and analysis for marketers at a substantially discounted price.
“Maintaining fuel quality is increasingly important to today’s fuel retailers amid the growing number of fuel offerings and renewable fuel blending options,” says Jeff Hove, NATSO fuel specialist. “While certain accreditation and quality assurance can be provided by biodiesel producers and suppliers, it is imperative that fuel retailers remain vigilant regarding the quality of the finished product.”
Hove will be the primary liaison between the Alternative Fuels Council and its fuel retailing partners.
