Service station customers will typically consider the price of fuel like petrol and diesel. Business gas and electricity prices won’t be a consideration for many.
However, reducing the cost of utilities will lower running costs and can lead to better prices for the products and services on offer.
Understanding how energy is used in a service station can help to identify ways to enjoy greater efficiency. Service station energy usage can be broken down into the following categories:
Lighting
Lighting in a service station can be a huge drain on resources. This is because internal and external lighting is required.
Lighting inside areas including toilets, and dining areas are as essential as it would be for supermarkets or restaurants.
External lighting is also very important. Good lighting on the forecourt is required for safety reasons. It allows drivers to see pedestrians and other vehicles.
It also lets people see other obstacles or potential dangers like spills at the pump. Diesel is slow to evaporate and a spill can cause the area to become slippery. Being able to avoid a diesel spill will significantly reduce the risk of an accident.
When discussing how well a surface is illuminated, the term “Lux” is used. The lux levels required for petrol stations should be around 400 lux at ground level.
150 lux is typically suitable for the gas pump and crossing areas. While 10 lux is sufficient for the entrance and exit.
The lighting of signage is used to draw attention to the service station and can be seen from far enough away for drivers to safely pull in.
Temperature Control
Whether it is just a shop or a full-service station with dining facilities and an entertainment area, it will have to be heated during cold weather. Air conditioning during warmer months also improves comfort for customers.
This can be an important way to keep customers on the premises and spend money. If it is too hot or cold, they will likely move on after filling up.
Chillers
The majority of service stations will have a shop with a chilled area for drinks and food. Some may have a decent-sized market where customers can stock up on essentials.
This is particularly useful for rural areas that might not have access to supermarkets and shops later at night.
Pricing can be relatively high in this kind of store. This is why it is important for a service station to explore all options to reduce costs. Getting an energy supply for a lower rate can help to keep the pricing of products lower.
Food Services
Food services will make a significant difference in the energy consumption of a service station. This is because running a kitchen will require significant amounts of gas and electricity.
Entertainment
Some services will have dedicated entertainment areas. This will typically be made up of arcade-type video games or slot machines.
Entertainment areas are a great opportunity for kids to play after being coupled up in cars. They can also allow drivers to unwind and relax. However, these areas require a lot of electricity.
Toilets
The toilets in a service station are essential and many drivers will stop just to use the toilet. Toilets need to be well-lit and kept at an optimal temperature.
This will also be an opportunity for services to show what they have on offer and try to entice customers to spend money on their visit.
Electric Vehicle Charge Points
Many changes are being made in the UK to promote the use of electric vehicles over fossil fuel-powered cars.
Catering to their needs can be beneficial. Installing electric vehicle charging points on or near the forecourt will entice a different kind of customer.
Another benefit of this is the person charging their vehicle will have time to kill. This increases the chance of them visiting the shop or onsite restaurant.