Stripes LLC, a company that operates more than 500 convenience store and fueling locations in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico, is working with oil and gas firm Apache Corp. to begin deploying compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling capabilities in select markets.
Stripes, a subsidiary of Susser Holdings Corp., says it will initially add CNG pumps at a pair of stores near Midland, Texas: one at 3201 East Highway 158 and another at 4508 N. Big Spring St. The former is scheduled to be operational by the end of this month, and the latter will be online before the end of the year.
‘We certainly see the role of natural gas in our energy future, and we are looking forward to participating as it evolves as a viable alternative transportation fuel,’ says Steve DeSutter, Stripes' president and CEO – retail.
‘Natural gas discovered and produced in the U.S. is a smart alternative,’ adds Steve Farris, Apache's chairman and CEO. ‘We use it for our fleet cars and trucks with great results, lowering operating costs and reducing our environmental footprint. Partnering with Stripes provides our fleet and other CNG users with a more convenient fueling experience.’
DeSutter notes that his company will evaluate the two-site CNG pilot project and, if the project is successful, will gradually deploy more natural gas fueling spots in other Stripes markets.
