Tampa International (TPA) will soon be the home of the first public, airport-based natural gas fuel station in Florida.
“Today the airport takes another step toward a brighter future by moving to a fuel that is cleaner and more cost effective,” says CEO Joe Lopano. “My team has developed a strategy to begin converting our fleet of vehicles immediately, a move that not only will save us money, but enables us to set an example for others to follow and benefit all of Tampa Bay.”
The aviation authority has 115 vehicles in its fleet, 16% of which are operating on CNG; that number is projected to increase to 53% within five years, and 72% within 10. The estimated cost savings on fuel is more than $1M in the first five years.
Keeping in line with the efforts, 16 new Economy Parking Garage shuttle buses are slated for arrival, and other vehicles, such as a new tour bus, six new employee shuttle buses and six other vehicles in the authority are on order. One existing vehicle has been identified for future conversion.
“The shift to using natural gas shows how Tampa International Airport is a modern, cutting-edge airport,” says Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn. “That is why it is not only beloved by travelers, but also one of Tampa’s best assets in creating economic opportunity in our community.”
The new station was constructed by Clean Energy. The company will operate and maintain a turnkey facility at the airport for 20 years, under the agreement with the aviation authority.
“Airports and allied ground transportation services have become magnets for natural gas vehicle usage, in response to the need to curtail harmful emissions, decrease fuel costs, and reduce dependence on imported oil,” says Marc D. Klein, vice president of Clean Energy. “We are delighted to have the opportunity to bring the benefits of clean natural gas fuel to Tampa International Airport and neighboring communities.”
Fuel for the station will be supplied by TECO Peoples Gas.
“TECO Peoples Gas is ready to deliver reliable, safe and clean natural gas to serve this new public station,” says Bruce Narzissenfeld, vice president of business development. “More importantly, we’re proud to be a partner in this important step toward building a cost-effective natural gas fueling infrastructure for sustainable transportation throughout the Tampa area.”
