Case Study: Powering Up Californian Gas Stations with Energy Solution
Introduction
In 2022, a bustling gas station in California faced frequent power shortages that severely disrupted daily operations, including fuel pumps, lighting, security surveillance, and the convenience store. To ensure reliable service for customers, the station's owner sought a sustainable energy solution. Sol-Ark, along with Pytes, provided a robust system that ensured uninterrupted operations and improved energy independence.
The Gas Station's Story
This California gas station, located in a high-traffic area, experienced frequent power outages that not only hindered its revenue but also compromised safety and customer satisfaction. Critical systems like fuel pumps and security surveillance would go offline during outages, leading to potential safety hazards and a loss of trust among clientele. Recognizing that the ability to provide consistent service was at risk, the gas station owner decided to pursue a resilient and autonomous energy solution.
The Challenge the Gas Station Faced
The primary challenge was overcoming frequent power interruptions that significantly impacted the station’s operations. These outages affected essential services, including lighting, security, and convenience store amenities, which diminished the station’s ability to serve its customers. The goal was to find a solution that would provide seamless power during outages and reduce dependency on the unreliable grid, ensuring a consistent customer experience.
Why the Gas Station Chose Sol-Ark® and Pytes
Sol-Ark was chosen for their reputation for high-capacity, durable inverters that could handle the
station’s power needs efficiently. Additionally, the collaboration with Pytes, a leader in advanced
battery storage systems, made the solution not only effective but also sustainable. Pytes’ product
manager, Mady, and sales representative, Tony, designed a comprehensive energy solution tailored
to the gas station’s needs by integrating Sol-Ark’s robust inverters with Pytes’ cutting-edge battery
storage.
The Solution-How Sol-Ark Delivered
Project Overview:
• Location: California
• System Components: 2x 15k Sol-Ark inverters, 18x 48100R batteries (Pytes)
• System Capacity: 30 kW output with 90 kWh storage
• Solar Array: 75.6 kWdc
• Application: Powering fuel pumps, lighting, security surveillance, and convenience store electrical needs
The Results
The installation featured two 15k Sol-Ark inverters, providing a total of 30kW of power, and eighteen 48100R battery units from Pytes, each with a capacity of 5.12kWh, totaling 90kWh. The system also included a 75.6 kWdc solar array to further enhance energy independence.
The new system ensured uninterrupted operation during power outages, with a primary focus on powering the fuel pumps and other essential services reliably. Any excess energy generated was stored in the Pytes battery units, ensuring continuous operation and energy availability. This solution not only safeguarded against power disruptions but also enhanced overall efficiency, allowing the gas station to serve customers without interruptions, regardless of the grid’s condition.
The station now benefits from a reliable power supply, reducing downtime, improving service quality, and avoiding costly utility upgrades. The implementation of Sol-Ark’s inverters and Pytes’ battery system has also decreased the station’s reliance on the traditional power grid, providing a more sustainable and efficient energy solution.
“Sol-Ark’s energy solution, integrated with Pytes’ batteries, has transformed our operations. We no longer worry about power shortages, and the system has proven to be both efficient and cost- effective. Tony and Mady’s expertise and support throughout the process were invaluable.”
This project exemplifies Sol-Ark’s commitment to providing sustainable and reliable energy solutions tailored to the specific needs of commercial operations. The successful implementation at the gas station highlights Sol-Ark’s ability to enhance energy independence and operational efficiency, paving the way for a greener and more resilient future.
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