Alternative Fuel Stations Locator: Find EV Charging & Clean Energy Stations Near You

Interactive Map of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations, Hydrogen, CNG, and Alternative Fuel Locations Across America

The transition to clean energy transportation is accelerating, with millions of Americans now driving electric vehicles, hybrid cars, and alternative fuel vehicles. Our Alternative Fuel Stations Locator provides a comprehensive, interactive map of EV charging stations, hydrogen fueling stations, compressed natural gas (CNG) stations, and other alternative fuel locations across the United States.

Whether you’re an electric vehicle owner planning a road trip, a fleet manager transitioning to clean energy, or simply exploring sustainable transportation options, this free tool gives you instant access to thousands of alternative fuel stations nationwide.

What is the Alternative Fuel Stations Locator?

The Alternative Fuel Stations Locator is a free, interactive web application that maps all publicly and privately accessible alternative fuel stations across the United States. This comprehensive tool aggregates data from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center, providing real-time information about station locations, fuel types, availability, and amenities.

Key Features of Our Station Finder

Comprehensive Fuel Type Coverage

• Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging: Level 2 and DC Fast charging stations
• Compressed Natural Gas (CNG): Public and fleet CNG stations
• Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG): LNG refueling locations
• Hydrogen (H2): Hydrogen fuel cell vehicle stations
• Biodiesel (B20+): Biodiesel blend stations
• Ethanol (E85): High-ethanol blend stations
• Propane (LPG): Liquefied petroleum gas stations
• Renewable Diesel: Next-generation diesel alternatives

Advanced Search and Filtering

• Filter by fuel type to find exactly what you need
• Search by state for geographic coverage
• Filter by station status (available, planned, temporarily unavailable)
• View station counts for each filter combination
• Color-coded markers for instant fuel type identification

Detailed Station Information

• Exact address and GPS coordinates
• Phone numbers and directions
• Access hours (24/7, business hours, restricted)
• For EV stations: Number of Level 2 and DC Fast charging ports
• Charging network information (ChargePoint, Tesla, Electrify America, etc.)
• Pricing information when available
• Facility type (public, private with public access, fleet-only)

User-Friendly Interface

• Interactive map with zoom and pan controls
• Marker clustering for high-density areas
• Click stations for detailed information pop-ups
• Responsive design for desktop and mobile
• Fast loading with efficient data processing

Where Does the Alternative Fuel Station Data Come From?

Primary Data Source: U.S. Department of Energy Alternative Fuels Data Center

Our station locator pulls data directly from the Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC), maintained by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy. The AFDC is the nation’s most comprehensive and authoritative source for alternative fuel station information.

AFDC Data Services:

• National Database: Over 60,000 alternative fuel stations cataloged
• Regular Updates: Data refreshed daily from multiple sources
• Multi-Fuel Coverage: All major alternative fuel types included
• Verification Process: Station information validated through multiple channels
• Historical Archive: Years of station growth and evolution documented

How Station Data is Collected and Verified

Data Collection Sources:

Station Operators and Networks

• ChargePoint, Tesla Supercharger Network, Electrify America
• EVgo, Blink, Greenlots, and other EV networks
• CNG and LNG station operators
• Hydrogen station developers and operators
• Fuel distributors and retailers

Government Agencies

• State energy offices
• Municipal transportation departments
• Federal fleet management offices
• Environmental protection agencies

Public Submissions

• Station owners and operators
• Vehicle owners reporting new stations
• Fleet managers with private stations
• Alternative fuel associations

Automated Data Feeds

• Real-time APIs from charging networks
• Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) data
• Station management software integrations
• Payment network transaction data

Data Quality and Accuracy

The Department of Energy employs rigorous quality control:

1. Multi-Source Verification: Cross-reference information from multiple sources
2. Network Integration: Direct feeds from major charging and fueling networks
3. User Feedback: Station status updates from the public
4. Periodic Audits: Regular verification of station availability
5. Operator Updates: Direct communication with station owners
6. Field Verification: Physical confirmation for questionable entries

This comprehensive approach ensures the station data you see represents actual, accessible alternative fuel locations.

Understanding the Data Limitations

Important Constraints and Considerations

While the AFDC database is the most comprehensive alternative fuel station resource available, users should be aware of certain limitations:

Data Update Frequency

• The database typically updates daily, but not in real-time
• New stations may take 1-7 days to appear
• Station closures may not be immediately reflected
• Status changes (temporarily unavailable) can have delays
• Peak travel seasons may see more reporting delays

Station Status Accuracy

• “Available” status doesn’t guarantee all ports are working
• Temporary outages may not be immediately reported
• Maintenance periods may not be in the database
• Real-time availability varies by charging network
• Some stations require network membership or apps

Private vs. Public Access

• Not all stations are publicly accessible 24/7
• Some require specific network memberships
• Fleet stations may be listed, but restricted to employees
• Hotel/dealership chargers may be for customers only
• Business-hours-only locations are common for workplace charging

EV Charging Station Details

• Port counts may not reflect out-of-service chargers
• Charging speeds can vary by vehicle and charger condition
• Pricing information frequently changes and may be outdated
• Payment methods vary widely by network and location
• Reservation systems are not indicated in the database

Coverage Gaps

• Very new stations may not yet be listed
• Small, independent stations are sometimes unreported
• Residential charging not included (private property)
• Temporary event charging stations are not tracked
• International border stations may have limited information

Geographic Accuracy

• GPS coordinates are generally accurate within 50-100 feet
• Exact parking location may differ (large shopping centers)
• Multi-building campuses may have imprecise locations
• Rural stations may have less precise coordinates
• Address-based geocoding can place markers incorrectly

What This Tool Should NOT Be Used For

⚠️ Important Advisory: While this station locator is highly useful for trip planning and general awareness, it should NOT be relied upon as your only source for:

• Emergency charging decisions: Don’t run your EV battery to empty, expecting a station to work
• Critical refueling: Always have a backup plan, especially in remote areas
• Real-time availability: Use network apps for live charger status
• Exact pricing: Check with the station or network for current rates
• Access permissions: Confirm public access before relying on a station

For the most current information:

• Use official charging network apps (ChargePoint, PlugShare, etc.)
• Call ahead to confirm availability for critical trips
• Check station reviews on community platforms
• Have backup station options identified
• Maintain adequate range buffer for EV travel

How to Use the Alternative Fuel Stations Locator

Getting Started with Station Finding

Step 1: View All Stations When you load the map, you’ll see thousands of alternative fuel stations across the United States, marked with color-coded pins:

• 🟢 Green = Electric (EV) charging stations
• 🔵 Blue = Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)
• 🟣 Purple = Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)
• 🟠 Orange = Biodiesel (B20+)
• 🟡 Yellow = Ethanol (E85)
• 🔵 Cyan = Hydrogen
• 🔴 Pink = Propane (LPG)
• 🟢 Light Green = Renewable Diesel

Step 2: Apply Filters Customize your view using the control panel:

• Fuel Type: Select specific fuel type or view all
• State: Focus on a particular state
• Status: Show only available stations, planned stations, or all

Step 3: Explore Station Details. Click any station marker to view:

• Station name and exact address
• Fuel type(s) available
• Current operational status
• Phone number and access hours
• Directions to the station
• For EV: Charging levels, port counts, networks, pricing

Advanced Features for EV Drivers

Understanding EV Charging Levels

When viewing electric vehicle charging stations, you’ll see two main types:

Level 2 Charging:

• 240V AC charging (like a clothes dryer outlet)
• Typical charging speed: 10-60 miles of range per hour
• Best for destination charging (work, shopping, hotels)
• Full charge typically takes 4-8 hours
• Most common type of public charging

DC Fast Charging:

• High-power direct current charging
• Typical charging speed: 100-300+ miles per hour
• Best for road trips and quick top-ups
• Can charge to 80% in 20-40 minutes
• Found along highways and major routes

EV Network Information

Major charging networks included in our data:

• Tesla Supercharger: Tesla-exclusive fast charging (some opening to other EVs)
• Electrify America: Nationwide fast charging network
• ChargePoint: Largest Level 2 network in North America
• EVgo: Fast charging-focused network
• Blink: Extensive Level 2 and DC fast network
• Shell Recharge: Growing European and US presence
• Greenlots: Workplace and destination charging
• Francis Energy: Regional fast charging networks

Trip Planning Tips for EV Owners

1. Plan with margin: Don’t plan to arrive at charging stops with under 10% battery
2. Have backups: Identify 2-3 charging options at each planned stop
3. Check networks: Ensure you have accounts/payment methods for your route
4. Consider weather: Cold weather significantly reduces EV range
5. Peak times: Charging stations at malls are busier on weekends
6. Download apps: ChargePoint, PlugShare, and network-specific apps

Understanding Alternative Fuel Types

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)

CNG is natural gas stored at high pressure (3,600 psi) for use in specially designed vehicles.

Advantages:

• 30-40% lower fuel costs than gasoline
• Cleaner burning than gasoline or diesel
• Abundant domestic supply
• Lower emissions (20-30% less CO2)

Typical Users:

• Municipal bus and transit fleets
• Delivery and refuse trucks
• Airport shuttle vehicles
• Taxi and ride-share fleets
• Some personal vehicles (Honda Civic CNG)

Station Types:

• Fast-fill: Similar to a gas station, 3-5 minutes
• Time-fill: Slow overnight filling for fleets

Biodiesel (B20 and Higher)

Biodiesel is a renewable diesel substitute made from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking oil.

Blend Levels:

• B20: 20% biodiesel, 80% petroleum diesel (most common)
• B100: Pure biodiesel (rare, special handling required)
• B5: 5% biodiesel (often not listed as “alternative fuel”)

Advantages:

• Compatible with most diesel engines (B20)
• Renewable and biodegradable
• Reduces particulate emissions
• Supports the agricultural economy

Common Users:

• Diesel truck fleets
• School buses
• Agricultural equipment
• Government vehicles

Ethanol (E85)

E85 is a high-ethanol blend containing 51-83% ethanol and 15-49% gasoline (varies seasonally).

Vehicle Requirements:

• Must have a “flex-fuel” vehicle (FFV)
• A yellow gas cap often indicates FFV
• Common in GM, Ford, and Chrysler vehicles

Advantages:

• Renewable corn-based fuel
• Higher octane than regular gasoline
• Supports domestic agriculture
• Cleaner combustion

Considerations:

• 20-30% lower fuel economy than gasoline
• Seasonal availability variations
• Price competitiveness varies by region

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles

Hydrogen stations fuel vehicles that use fuel cells to convert hydrogen into electricity.

Current Status:

• Very limited infrastructure (primarily in California)
• Growing in specific regions
• Major automakers invested (Toyota Mirai, Hyundai Nexo, Honda Clarity)

Advantages:

• Zero emissions (only water vapor)
• Fast refueling (3-5 minutes)
• Longer range than most EVs (300-400 miles)
• No battery degradation concerns

Challenges:

• Extremely limited station network
• High fuel costs currently
• Expensive vehicle prices
• Hydrogen production energy-intensive

Propane (LPG – Liquefied Petroleum Gas)

Propane is a hydrocarbon gas liquefied through pressurization, commonly used for fleet vehicles.

Common Applications:

• School buses
• Shuttle buses
• Forklifts and material handling
• Landscaping equipment fleets
• Some police and government vehicles

Advantages:

• Lower emissions than gasoline
• Existing distribution infrastructure
• Cost-effective for high-mileage fleets
• Reliable in extreme temperatures

Alternative Fuel Adoption Trends and Statistics

Electric Vehicle Growth

National EV Statistics:

• Over 3 million EVs on US roads (2024)
• EV sales growing 50%+ annually
• 150,000+ public charging stations nationwide
• 500,000+ charging ports available
• All major automakers are committed to EV production

Charging Infrastructure Expansion:

• $7.5 billion federal investment in charging infrastructure
• Target: 500,000 public chargers by 2030
• Fast charging corridor development along interstate highways
• Workplace charging incentives are expanding
• Multi-unit dwelling charging solutions are growing

State Leaders in EV Adoption:

1. California: 42% of all US EVs, the most extensive charging network
2. Florida: Rapid charging infrastructure growth
3. Texas: Strong commercial and residential charging expansion
4. Washington: High per-capita EV ownership
5. New York: Major urban charging infrastructure investments

Alternative Fuel Vehicle Market

Current Alternative Fuel Vehicle Population:

• Electric Vehicles: ~3 million
• Flex-Fuel (E85): ~22 million capable vehicles
• CNG Vehicles: ~175,000
• Propane Vehicles: ~200,000
• Hydrogen Fuel Cell: ~15,000 (primarily California)

Fleet Adoption Trends:

• Government fleets transitioning to EVs and CNG
• Delivery companies are electrifying last-mile vehicles
• Transit agencies converting to electric buses
• Corporate fleets setting electrification goals
• School districts adopting electric buses

Regional Fuel Type Preferences

West Coast:

• Dominant: Electric vehicle charging
• Growing: Hydrogen (California)
• Established: CNG for fleets

Midwest:

• Dominant: E85 ethanol (corn belt)
• Growing: Electric charging infrastructure
• Established: Propane for agriculture

Southwest:

• Dominant: Electric charging expansion
• Growing: CNG for commercial fleets
• Established: E85 in certain states

East Coast:

• Dominant: Electric vehicle charging (urban areas)
• Growing: Fast charging corridors
• Established: Biodiesel for heating and transportation

South:

• Dominant: E85 and biodiesel
• Growing: Electric charging in urban centers
• Established: CNG for transit and government fleets

Government Incentives and Support

Federal Tax Credits and Incentives

Electric Vehicle Tax Credits:

• Up to $7,500 federal tax credit for new EVs
• Used EV credit up to $4,000
• Income and vehicle price limitations apply
• Domestic manufacturing requirements

Alternative Fuel Infrastructure:

• 30% tax credit for EV charging equipment installation
• Alternative fuel infrastructure grants
• Fleet conversion incentive programs

State and Local Incentives

Many states offer additional benefits:

• State tax credits for EV purchase
• HOV lane access for alternative fuel vehicles
• Reduced registration fees
• Free parking in municipal lots
• Workplace charging tax credits
• Utility rebates for home charging equipment

Check your state energy office for specific programs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

General Questions About Alternative Fuel Stations

Q: How many alternative fuel stations are in the United States?

A: As of 2024, there are over 60,000 alternative fuel stations in the AFDC database. The breakdown is approximately:

• Electric charging stations: ~53,000 locations with 150,000+ ports
• E85 ethanol stations: ~4,200
• CNG stations: ~1,600
• Biodiesel stations: ~700
• Propane stations: ~2,800
• Hydrogen stations: ~60 (mostly California)
• LNG stations: ~150

These numbers grow monthly as infrastructure expands.

Q: Are all stations shown on the map available to the public?

A: No. The database includes three access categories:

• Public: Open to the general public (most EV charging)
• Private – Public Access: Restricted (workplace, hotel guests, customers)
• Private: Not publicly accessible (fleet facilities, residential)

Always check the facility type in the station details. Many stations require membership, payment cards, or smartphone apps for access.

Q: How often is the station data updated?

A: The AFDC database receives updates daily from various sources, including charging networks, station operators, and user submissions. However, individual station information may update less frequently. Major networks (Tesla, ChargePoint, Electrify America) typically update within 24 hours. Smaller, independent stations might update weekly or monthly.

Q: Can I submit a new station or report incorrect information?

A: Yes! The AFDC encourages public participation. To submit updates:

• Visit the Alternative Fuels Data Center website (afdc.energy.gov)
• Click “Submit Data” ora similar option
• Provide station details with supporting documentation
• Include photos and contact information if possible

The AFDC team reviews all submissions before updating the database.

Q: Why do some areas have many more stations than others?

A: Alternative fuel station density reflects several factors:

• Population density: Urban areas have more stations
• State policies: Incentives and mandates drive infrastructure
• Early adopter markets: California, Colorado, and Oregon lead
• Climate considerations: Mild weather supports EV adoption
• Fuel production regions: E85 is common in corn-growing states
• Environmental regulations: Strict emissions invest more

Questions About Electric Vehicle Charging

Q: What’s the difference between Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging?

A: These are the three EV charging speeds:

Level 1 (120V AC):

• Standard household outlet
• Charging speed: 2-5 miles of range per hour
• Not included in the public charging database
• Best for: Overnight home charging, emergency backup

Level 2 (240V AC):

• Requires a dedicated circuit (like an electric dryer)
• Charging speed: 10-60 miles of range per hour
• Most common public charging type
• Best for: Destination charging (2-8 hours parked)

DC Fast Charging (Direct Current):

• Bypasses the car’s onboard charger
• Charging speed: 100-350+ miles of range per hour
• Found along highways and major routes
• Best for: Road trips, quick charging stops (20-40 minutes)

Q: How do I know if my EV can use a particular charging station?

A: Check these factors:

Connector Types:

• J1772: Standard for Level 2 (all EVs except Tesla have this natively)
• CCS (Combined Charging System): Fast charging for most non-Tesla EVs
• CHAdeMO: Japanese standard (Nissan Leaf, older EVs)
• Tesla Connector: Tesla Superchargers (Tesla-only, except some locations with adapters)

Power Compatibility:

• All EVs can use Level 2 charging
• Not all EVs can use all DC fast charging standards
• Check your owner’s manual for compatible charging types

Network Access:

• Some networks require memberships or apps
• Payment methods vary (credit card, app, RFID card)
• Tesla Superchargers historically Tesla-only (changing)

Q: Why do some EV charging stations show “0” available ports?

A: This can indicate:

• All chargers currently in use
• Station temporarily out of service
• Data not updated (unknown availability)
• Station closed permanently, but not removed from the database

For real-time availability, use charging network apps (ChargePoint, PlugShare, etc.) which show live status.

Q: How much does it cost to charge an electric vehicle?

A: EV charging costs vary widely:

Home Charging (Average):

• National average: $0.14 per kWh
• Full charge (60 kWh battery): ~$8.40
• Per mile cost: $0.03-0.05
• Overnight charging on time-of-use rates is often cheaper

Public Level 2 Charging:

• Range: Free to $3.00 per hour
• Some charge by kWh: $0.20-0.40 per kWh
• Many destination chargers are free
• Parking fees may apply

DC Fast Charging:

• Range: $0.35-0.60 per kWh
• Idle fees if you don’t move car after charging
• Premium for high-speed charging
• Membership/subscription discounts available

Network-Specific Pricing:

• ChargePoint: Varies by location
• Electrify America: Per-minute or per-kWh
• Tesla Supercharger: $0.25-0.50 per kWh
• EVgo: Per-minute pricing with membership options

Q: Can I charge any EV at a Tesla Supercharger?

A: Historically, no – Tesla Superchargers were Tesla-exclusive. However, this is changing:

Current Status:

• Tesla is opening select Supercharger locations to non-Tesla EVs
• “Magic Dock” adapter built into some chargers
• Non-Tesla charging requires the Tesla app
• Currently limited locations (growing)
• Pricing is higher for non-Tesla vehicles

Using Destination Chargers:

• Many Tesla destination chargers (Level 2) have standard J1772 plugs
• These can be used by any EV
• Check the specific location’s policy

Q: What should I do if a charging station isn’t working?

A: Follow these steps:

1. Check the station display: May show error code or instructions
2. Try another port: Other chargers at the location may work
3. Restart the session: Unplug, close the app, start over
4. Contact support: Number usually on the charger or in the app
5. Report via app: ChargePoint, PlugShare, etc., accept reports
6. Have a backup plan: Know the location of the nearest alternative station

Common Issues:

• Payment processing failure
• Connector not seated properly
• Software glitch (restarting often fixes)
• Charger under maintenance
• Network connectivity problem

Questions About Other Alternative Fuels

Q: Can I use E85 in any car?

A: No. You need a Flex-Fuel Vehicle (FFV) to safely use E85.

How to identify an FFV:

• Yellow gas cap (most common indicator)
• “Flex-Fuel” or “E85” badge on vehicle
• Owner’s manual specification
• VIN decoder (8th digit often “M” or “V”)

What happens if you use E85 in a non-FFV:

• Engine damage possible
• Fuel system corrosion
• Check engine light
• Poor performance
• Voided warranty

Common FFV models:

• Many GM trucks and SUVs
• Ford F-150 and Explorer
• Chrysler minivans and trucks
• Some Jeep models

Q: Are CNG vehicles safe? What about explosion risk?

A: CNG vehicles are very safe and in some ways safer than gasoline vehicles:

Safety Features:

• Fuel tanks tested to 3,600 psi (4x operating pressure)
• Pressure relief devices prevent over-pressurization
• Natural gas is lighter than air (rises and dissipates, unlike gasoline vapors)
• CNG ignition temperature is higher than gasoline (harder to ignite)

Industry Record:

• Decades of safe operation in millions of vehicles
• Excellent safety record in transit buses
• Fewer fire incidents than gasoline vehicles

Key Safety Practices:

• Park in ventilated areas
• Regular tank inspections
• Professional installation required
• Follow manufacturer guidelines

Q: Why are there so few hydrogen stations?

A: Hydrogen infrastructure faces unique challenges:

High Costs:

• Stations cost $1-2 million+ to build
• Hydrogen production expensive
• Distribution and storage are challenging
• Low initial demand doesn’t justify investment

Technical Complexity:

• High-pressure storage (10,000 psi)
• Cryogenic cooling requirements
• Specialized equipment needed
• Safety regulations stringent

Geographic Concentration:

• 95%+ of US hydrogen stations in California
• California mandates supporting infrastructure
• Chicken-and-egg problem (few cars, few stations)

Future Outlook:

• Growing interest in heavy-duty trucking
• Some states are planning hydrogen corridors
• Technology costs decreasing
• Renewable hydrogen production advancing

Q: What’s the difference between biodiesel and renewable diesel?

A: Both are diesel alternatives, but they’re produced differently:

Biodiesel (B20, B100):

• Made through transesterification of fats/oils
• Blended with petroleum diesel (B20 = 20% bio)
• Some cold-weather performance challenges
• Renewable fuel standard (RFS) credit eligible

Renewable Diesel:

• Made through hydroprocessing (similar to petroleum refining)
• “Drop-in” replacement (works 100% like regular diesel)
• Excellent cold-weather performance
• No blending required
• Often labeled as “R99” or “RD”

Key Advantage of Renewable Diesel:

• No engine modifications needed
• No fuel system concerns
• Better performance characteristics
• Growing availability

Q: Can I convert my regular car to run on alternative fuels?

A: It depends on the fuel:

E85: No aftermarket conversion available (FFV only)

CNG:

• Aftermarket conversions available
• Cost: $5,000-15,000
• EPA/CARB certification required
• Professional installation mandatory
• Some states offer incentives

Propane:

• Conversions available
• Cost: $4,000-9,000
• Dual-fuel systems are common (propane + gasoline)
• Certified installers required

Electric:

• Conversions are possible but very expensive
• Cost: $20,000-60,000+
• Limited professional conversion shops
• Usually not cost-effective vs. buying an EV
• May affect vehicle safety ratings

Biodiesel:

• No conversion needed for B20 or less
• Most diesel engines are compatible
• B100 may require minor modifications

Questions About Trip Planning

Q: How do I plan a long road trip in an electric vehicle?

A: Follow this process for successful EV road trip planning:

1. Route Planning Tools:

• A Better Route Planner (ABRP): Most comprehensive
• PlugShare: Community-based, real-time info
• ChargePoint: Network-specific planning
• Tesla Navigation: Built-in for Tesla vehicles
• Google Maps: Now includes EV charging

2. Planning Principles:

• Never plan to arrive at charging stops below 10% battery
• Identify 2-3 backup charging options at each stop
• Build in extra time (30-45 minutes per charging stop)
• Consider elevation changes (mountains drain battery faster)
• Factor weather (cold reduces range by 20-40%)

3. Pre-Trip Preparation:

• Download charging network apps
• Set up payment methods
• Check RFID card requirements
• Verify account access
• Save customer service numbers

4. During Travel:

• Charge to 80% at DC fast chargers (faster than 80-100%)
• Take breaks when charging
• Monitor charging speed (some stations are slower than advertised)
• Have contingency plans if chargers are occupied

5. Hotel Considerations:

• Book hotels with Level 2 chargers when possible
• Overnight charging reduces daytime charging stops
• Call ahead to confirm charger availability
• Ask about fees and access procedures

Q: What’s the best alternative fuel for a small business fleet?

A: The answer depends on your specific use case:

Best for Local Delivery Fleets:

• Electric vehicles: Low operating costs, zero local emissions
• Ideal for predictable daily routes under 150 miles
• Overnight depot charging
• Tax incentives available

Best for Regional Trucks:

• CNG: Lower fuel costs, established infrastructure
• Good for routes with CNG stations along the route
• Heavier vehicles with high fuel consumption
• ROI typically 3-5 years

Best for Mixed Usage:

• Propane: Versatile, reliable, widespread availability
• Works well in extreme temperatures
• Lower conversion costs than CNG
• Good for medium-duty trucks

Best for Urban Operations:

• Electric: ZEV incentives, building access, brand value
• Quiet operation (residential deliveries)
• Lowest per-mile costs
• Growing infrastructure

Consider These Factors:

• Daily mileage and routes
• Local infrastructure availability
• Upfront capital vs. operational savings
• Available incentives and grants
• Maintenance expertise requirements
• Resale value considerations

Questions About Data and Technical Details

Q: Can I download the station data for offline use?

A: The AFDC provides several data export options:

• Download station database as Excel/CSV
• API access for developers (free registration)
• Mobile apps with offline caching capability
• State-specific datasets available

Visit afdc.energy.gov/data_download.html for download options.

Q: Is there an API for alternative fuel station data?

A: Yes! The AFDC provides a free, public API:

AFDC API Features:

• RESTful API with JSON responses
• No cost, registration required
• Rate limits: 1,000 requests/hour
• Multiple query parameters
• Documentation available at developer.nrel.gov

Common Use Cases:

• Mobile app development
• Fleet management software integration
• Research and analysis
• Custom mapping applications
• Real estate and business location analysis

Q: How can this map be used for academic research?

A: Researchers use alternative fuel station data to study:

Transportation Research:

• EV adoption patterns and barriers
• Infrastructure sufficiency analysis
• Range anxiety and charging behavior
• Fleet electrification case studies

Urban Planning:

• Optimal station placement modeling
• Equity in alternative fuel access
• Land use and transportation interaction
• Smart city development

Environmental Studies:

• Emissions reduction potential
• Air quality improvement analysis
• Climate change mitigation strategies
• Lifecycle environmental impact

Economic Analysis:

• Infrastructure investment returns
• Job creation in clean energy
• Cost-benefit analysis of incentives
• Market development patterns

Data Export Options:

• CSV download for statistical analysis
• GeoJSON for GIS applications
• API for large-scale data collection
• Historical snapshots for trend analysis

Q: What browsers and devices are supported?

A: The Alternative Fuel Stations Locator works on:

Desktop Browsers:

• Chrome/Edge (recommended)
• Firefox
• Safari
• Opera

Mobile Browsers:

• iOS Safari
• Android Chrome
• Mobile Firefox

Device Types:

• Desktop computers
• Laptops
• Tablets (iPad, Android tablets)
• Smartphones (all major models)

Requirements:

• JavaScript enabled
• Modern browser (last 2 years)
• Internet connection required
• Minimum screen width: 320px

Q: Does this tool work outside the United States?

A: No, currently the AFDC database covers only:

• United States: All 50 states
• Washington DC: District of Columbia
• US Territories: Limited coverage

For Other Countries:

• Canada: Natural Resources Canada maintains similar database
• Europe: European Alternative Fuels Observatory (EAFO)
• Global: PlugShare and ChargePoint have international coverage

Questions About Environmental Impact

Q: How much cleaner are alternative fuels compared to gasoline?

A: Environmental benefits vary by fuel type:

Electric Vehicles:

• Tailpipe emissions: Zero local emissions
• Lifecycle emissions: 50-70% lower than gas cars (varies by electricity source)
• Renewable energy: Near-zero emissions with solar/wind
• Grid average: Equivalent to 80-100 MPG gas car

CNG (Compressed Natural Gas):

• CO2 emissions: 20-30% lower than gasoline
• Particulate matter: 90% reduction
• NOx: 50% reduction
• Still fossil fuel: Not zero emission

Ethanol (E85):

• CO2 emissions: 20-40% lower (depends on production method)
• Renewable: Made from corn or cellulosic material
• Energy input: Production requires energy (debated net benefit)

Hydrogen Fuel Cell:

• Tailpipe emissions: Zero (only water vapor)
• Lifecycle: Depends on hydrogen production method
• Green hydrogen (from renewables): Near-zero lifecycle emissions
• Gray hydrogen (from natural gas): Moderate emissions

Biodiesel/Renewable Diesel:

• CO2: 50-80% lower lifecycle emissions
• Particulates: Significant reduction
• Renewable: Made from waste or crops
• NOx: Biodiesel slightly higher, RD equivalent to petroleum diesel

Q: Does charging an EV really help the environment if electricity comes from coal?

A: Yes, even on coal-heavy grids, EVs are cleaner than gas cars:

Studies Show:

• EVs have lower lifecycle emissions in all 50 US states
• Even on 100% coal grid, EVs equivalent to 30-35 MPG gas car
• US grid average makes EVs equivalent to 80-100 MPG
• Grid getting cleaner every year (coal declining, renewables growing)

Additional Factors:

• Electric drivetrains 3x more efficient than combustion engines
• Centralized power plants more efficient than millions of car engines
• Air pollution concentrated at power plants, not in urban areas
• Potential to charge from 100% renewable sources (home solar)

Future Outlook:

• US grid rapidly transitioning to renewables
• Coal down from 50% (2005) to 20% (2024) of grid
• By 2035, grid expected to be 60%+ renewable
• EV emissions advantage grows over vehicle lifetime

Q: What’s the environmental impact of EV battery production?

A: Battery production has environmental costs, but overall EV lifecycle is cleaner:

Production Impact:

• Battery manufacturing energy-intensive
• Raw material mining has environmental effects
• Carbon footprint: 3-8 tons CO2 equivalent per battery

Lifecycle Comparison:

• EV “breaks even” with gas car after 15,000-30,000 miles
• Over vehicle lifetime (200,000 miles), EV is much cleaner
• Gap widens as grid gets cleaner

Improving Practices:

• Battery recycling programs expanding
• Sustainable mining practices developing
• Manufacturing using renewable energy
• Second-life applications for retired EV batteries

Bottom Line:

• Short-term production impact outweighed by operational benefits
• Lifetime emissions 50-70% lower than gas cars
• Environmental advantage grows over time

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Take the Next Step Toward Clean Transportation

The Alternative Fuel Stations Locator is your comprehensive resource for finding and learning about alternative fuel infrastructure across America. Whether you’re ready to purchase an electric vehicle, considering alternative fuels for your fleet, or simply exploring sustainable transportation options, understanding the availability of fueling infrastructure is crucial.

For Electric Vehicle Owners and Shoppers:

• Explore charging availability in your area
• Plan long-distance trips with confidence
• Identify workplace and destination charging options
• Find fast charging for road trips

For Fleet Managers:

• Assess alternative fuel infrastructure for route planning
• Identify public stations to supplement private infrastructure
• Research alternative fuel options for fleet conversion
• Analyze regional fuel availability

For Policy Makers and Planners:

• Identify infrastructure gaps in your community
• Support data-driven policy decisions
• Plan future station development
• Promote equitable access to alternative fuels

Additional Resources:

• U.S. Department of Energy AFDC: afdc.energy.gov
• Alternative Fuel Vehicle Guides: fueleconomy.gov
• Federal Tax Credits: irs.gov/cleanvehicle
• EV Infrastructure Resources: driveelectric.gov

Bookmark this alternative fuel stations locator and check back regularly as new stations are added daily. Share this tool with friends, family, and colleagues considering alternative fuel vehicles.

Data Source: U.S. Department of Energy Alternative Fuels Data Center. Station information updated daily from official sources, charging networks, and public submissions.