Hydria and BSD Builders unveil new fuel storage system

This advanced technology will be integrated into the BSD SSC Microgrid system to support energy resilience, sustainability, and efficiency for commercial building clients.

The partnership was established to address the challenges faced by skilled nursing facilities during the California wildfires, specifically due to the public safety power shutoffs (PSPS) initiated by utility companies during dangerous weather conditions, which led to the evacuation of patients.

"Even before California Governor Gavin Newsom passed legislation in 2022 requiring skilled nursing facilities to maintain at a minimum of 96 hours of backup power, our clients came to us to looking for help, but there wasn't a solution that could maintain the energy loads and meet California's strict seismic requirements," explained Jeff Blair, CEO of BSD Builders, Inc.

"We partnered with 2G Energy Inc. to design and seismically certify our BSD SSC Microgrid system that could sustain power for an entire facility for up to four days, but we also needed to have enough fuel storage to power it if it was completely off the grid. Hydria was uniquely qualified as they manufacture the largest diameter Type IV composite (carbon fibre) high-pressure vessels and also could engineer and manufacture a decompression system for the CNG to step down from 3600 – 5 psi for the microgrid."

The BSD SSC Fuel Storage System is made by Hydria at its facility in Houston, Texas. Its unique design sets a new standard in high-pressure gas storage, featuring a 48 in. dia., one of the largest available.

"We were thrilled to be able to collaborate with BSD Builders to design a fuel storage and delivery system to support microgrid technology and keep power to those who need it most," commented Alberto Chiesara, president of Hydria Gas Technologies, LLC. "We believe microgrids are essential for enhancing energy security and reducing carbon footprints for all types of buildings. We proudly offer the industry's most efficient and safe compressed gas storage equipment while advancing a more sustainable energy future."

The Type IV storage cylinders developed for the BSD SSC Fuel Storage System use an advanced rotomolded plastic liner, providing a seamless, corrosion-resistant barrier that maintains gas purity. The carbon fibre overwrap delivers exceptional strength-to-weight ratios, enabling higher storage capacities and enhanced durability than traditional steel cylinders. This design reduces overall weight and increases resistance to fatigue and environmental stressors.

It can accommodate CNG amongst other fuel types and is also hydrogen-ready. As space is limited in many existing commercial sites, it was designed to sit vertically to maximise space.

The first projects under the partnership are expected to be deployed in California, with plans to expand to additional markets in the coming months. The partnership underscores both companies' commitment to sustainability and their shared vision of reshaping the future of energy.

Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/tanks-terminals/15012025/hydria-and-bsd-builders-unveil-new-fuel-storage-system/