38 Landscape and Irrigation April 2014 www.landscapeirrigation.com
Onsite
infrastructure is an investment for both the propane provider
and the landscaper, and is beneficial for both. In exchange for entering
into a contract, propane retailers may assist contractors with the upfront
costs of installing the infrastructure. Generally, contractors are respon-
sible for the expense of a cement pad and the protective bollards, and
possibly the electrical costs. Retailers will then cover the expense of
the dispenser.
"Additional costs go into supporting infrastructure for us, so it's in
everyone's best interest to make sure asset costs are covered," said Lin-
kletter. "Assets include the tank, pump and motor, all of the piping, and
the labor of installing the infrastructure."
Contractors must also consider some basics before any infrastructure
is installed, said Fitzpatrick.
"A couple of things to think about are the amount of space available
at the landscaper's location, and any regulatory hurdles," he said. "Some
areas have specific local, state, and federal permits and regulations that
may take a month or so to get worked out. Another consideration is
the possibility for resale, like if they want to fill autogas vehicles or
grilling cylinders."
Added Linkletter, "Contractors should understand who or what
local authority has jurisdiction of the land. If they are on leased
property from a landlord, they also need to understand what the
landlord requires. Understanding insurance and whether that
changes
due to infrastructure is another thing to consider."
Once the regulatory issues are worked out, installing onsite fueling
infrastructure is a straightforward process. After landscapers and their
crews have been fully trained in running the dispenser by their propane
retailer, the convenience of having propane on-site further enhances
the efficiency of refueling and a contractor's overall bottom line.
Putting thoughts into action
When contractors first consider converting fleets to propane, the
process can seem lengthy and confusing. Breaking it into smaller
steps, however, helps landscapers realize propane's full array of com-
petitive advantages. After cementing the decision to convert and fi-
nalizing equipment choices, choosing a refueling method is a simple
next step. And a propane retailer will walk contractors through the
most convenient and fitting solution for their operation. Whether
the answer is a delivery program or onsite infrastructure, contractors
will quickly realize the efficiencies, cost-savings, and environmental
benefits propane provides.
Jeremy Wishart is senior programs manager for the Propane Education &
Research Council (PERC). For more information and resources on propane-
fueled equipment, visit www.autogasusa.org.
Equipment Fleet Management
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