Web exclusive posted Feb. 10, 2009, at 1:27 p.m. CST

Propel Fuels, a renewable fuels retailer, launched the first state-wide network of low-carbon fueling stations in California on Jan. 28. The company's green-built stations sell E85 and biodiesel.

A grand opening event in Rocklin, Calif., was attended by more than 100 individuals, including representatives from the California Energy Commission, Green Vehicle Manufacturers, and the U.S. Postal Service. Attendees saw the latest eco-friendly vehicles from leading flex-fuel and diesel vehicle manufacturers.

The Rocklin station is one of five Propel stations that will be colocated at gas stations in Elk Grove, Citrus Heights, Rocklin and Sacramento, Calif. The company also has stations in Placerville, Calif. Seattle, Kenmore and Bellevue, Wash.

"With transportation fuels making up 40 percent of the state's greenhouse gas emissions, these alternative fueling stations are exactly what I envisioned when I called for California to establish the world's first Low Carbon Fuel Standard," said California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

In an effort to help meet California's growing demand for clean, renewable, low carbon fuels, Propel recently moved its headquarters from Seattle to Sacramento, Calif. According to the company, California's greenhouse gas laws, alternative fuel programs, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard, and Schwarzenegger's environmental and economic leadership were factors that led Propel to relocate its headquarters to California.

According to Propel Fuel, the network of stations will keep dollars in the state, while creating hundreds of new green-collar jobs. The estimated five-year economic output by deploying the system is more than $200 million. Propel Fuels said it is dedicated to acquiring renewable fuels from California producers rather than importing foreign oils, which it estimated should generate $400 million of direct and indirect economic activity within the state.

"Right now, more than 70,000 drivers in the Sacramento-area have the ability to put low carbon, American made fuels in their tanks – but there are few locations that offer them," said Propel Chief Executive Officer Rob Elam. "Our network of stations will change that by making it convenient to use domestically produced, environmentally friendly fuels. For the first time, Sacramento-area individuals and businesses have true choice at the pump, giving them the ability to reduce their carbon footprint." Propel's goal is to have hundreds of stations across the state within the next five years.