Fuel retailers' solutions firm Kalibrate has identified more than 30,000 spots in California for setting up hydrogen refueling stations for fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), categorizing them in the range between best and worst on the viability front.
Unveiling the hydrogen refueling infrastructure analysis before Energy Department's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the company said the successful operation of FCEVs was contingent upon the availability and placement of retail hydrogen fueling outlets.
The system of classification was arrived at after sifting through 22 potential variables, which was later reduced to 11 in accordance with importance.
For instance, households with annual income greater than $100,000, existing gas stations in trade area and the projected purchase of FCEV vehicle topped the list while determining potential locations for refueling stations.
It was found that the existing gas stations provide more economical means for hydrogen refueling rather than putting in place a standalone, ground-up facility.
Kalibrate president and chief executive officer Bob Stein said: "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.
"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."
