HOUSTON & CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas -- Stripes LLC, a subsidiary of Susser Holdings Corp., is partnering with Apache Corp. to add natural gas fueling dispensers at selected Stripes convenience stores. Initially, compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling capability will be available at two Stripes locations in the Midland, Texas, area.
The companies said that they expect the first site to be operational by the end of November, the second by the end of December.
"Adding natural gas to our conventional motor fuel products reinforces our mission to give Stripes customers what they want at a great price in our convenient store locations," said Steve DeSutter, Stripes president and CEO for retail. "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. We plan to evaluate the results of our pilot project in West Texas, and if it is successful, we expect to gradually roll out CNG fueling capabilities in other Stripes markets."
Steve Farris, Apache's chairman and CEO, said, "Natural gas discovered and produced in the United States is a smart alternative to conventional fuels. It's cheaper, cleaner and abundant. 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 as well as access to their stores and other amenities."
Currently, CNG is priced 30% to 40% lower than gasoline or diesel on a gallon-equivalent basis. According to industry experts, natural gas is kinder to the environment by reducing vehicle exhaust emissions, and because of our nation's abundant natural gas reserves, it represents a more secure American energy supply. According to the Department of Energy Clean Cities Alternative Fuel Pricing Report and the Institute of Energy Research, known domestic resources could satisfy the nation's needs for more than 100 years.
Apache, based in Houston, is one of the world's top independent oil and gas exploration and production companies.
Susser Holdings is a third-generation family led business, Based in Corpus Christi, Texas, it operates approximately 550 c-stores in Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma under the Stripes banner. Restaurant service is available in more than 340 of its stores, primarily under the proprietary Laredo Taco Co. brand. Susser Holdings also is majority owner and owns the general partner of Susser Petroleum Partners LP, which distributes more than 1.4 billion gallons of motor fuel annually to Stripes stores, independently operated consignment locations, convenience stores and retail fuel outlets operated by independent operators and other commercial customers in Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Louisiana.
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