In June 2009, Galp Energia launched the Ecoposto project. The aim of this project is to develop and implement energy optimisation measures at service stations through sustainable solutions with a positive impact on efficiency and energy autonomy.
The main measures implemented at Ecopostos include:
- Installation of solar photovoltaic panels for electricity microgeneration;
- Efficient use of lighting, refrigeration equipment and air conditioning;
- Introduction and improvement of hot water heating, using solar thermal energy.
According to the completed pilot project, application of the Ecoposto concept to service stations guarantees energy savings of 20%. On average, its implementation will save around 30 tonnes CO2/year.
At the 12 company-owned service stations that were adapted in 2009 and where 3.6 kW micro photovoltaic power units were installed, their production was around 64 MWh in 2010, the solar thermal energy used for hot water also to be considered.
Integrated energy management system at Ecopostos
The Ecopostos are permanently monitored by a custom-designed integrated energy management system. This solution measures, in real time, both consumption and electricity production by microgeneration, thus identifying the desirability and effect of any new efficiency measures that could be implemented.
The extending of the Ecoposto project to Galp Energia’s directly-managed network
The Ecoposto project was part of the Orange project action plan, underway at Tangerina stores. This decision led to the exploitation of operational synergies that combine the remodelling of the store concept with a reduction in energy consumption.
In 2010 the concept was applied at a further 23 service stations in the company-owned distribution network and extended into the Galp Energia dealer-operated network at 12 service stations from the north to the south of the country. Galp Energia thus reinforces its positioning in relation to the sharing of solutions and training with its business partners.
Sustainability in terms of energy efficiency depends on the adoption of new types of individual behaviour. The Ecoposto project also involves a dimension of awareness raising and training to change behaviour regarding the use of energy at service stations.