Kalibrate Analyzes Best California Sites for Hydrogen Stations

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — As the use of alternative fuels picks up steam, Kalibrate drew upon its fuels network planning experience to identify the best locations for establishing a network of hydrogen refueling stations in California.

According to Florham Park-based Kalibrate, more than 30,000 locations were identified within the state and then ranked from best to worst based on their viability for introducing a hydrogen refueling station. 

The company collaborated with the U.S. Energy Department’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) hydrogen experts to identify the key drivers for ranking the locations. Initially, 22 variables were identified as potential candidates. Through statistical analysis, the 22 variables were reduced to 11 that were found to be the most important. At the top of the list were:

• The number of households with annual income greater than $100,000.
• The number of existing gas stations within the trade area.
• The projected number of fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) purchases. 

The number of existing gas stations is important to the infrastructure development as they offer a more economical means to introduce hydrogen refueling than a standalone, ground-up facility, according to Kalibrate. 

The study found there were 11 existing hydrogen refueling stations in California, with plans underway for 38 more stations as of April. The study recommends the best locations to fill in the gaps not covered by the existing and planned station network. 

"One of the seven elements of a petroleum retailer's success is market intelligence, which includes an in-depth understanding of the competitive environment beyond traditional fuels," said Bob Stein, president and CEO of Kalibrate. "Alternative fuels are rapidly evolving and today's retailers need to keep track of this growing market segment to determine if it will threaten their existing business or offer a new commercial opportunity."