Will consumers choose a "green" gas station over a regular one? New Hampshire's Simply Green gas station and "congreenience" store is banking on it.
Customers can choose between two types of biofuels—5 percent and 10 percent blends. Both biofuels can fill up a car tank that does not have a converted engine. Consumers can also buy gasoline made with 10 percent ethanol.
Biodiesel is more expensive than regular gas, but it offers better mileage, less engine congestion, and reduced CO2 production. And while most biodiesel is derived from corn, Simply Green's variety comes from soybean oil and tallow.
The store's green-ness extends far beyond biofuel sales. Every food and beverage item sold comes from local producers, and the store uses six solar panels to offset electricity usage. Additionally, the store's interior has bamboo floors and uses LED lighting.
While Simply Green's novelty may be a strong draw right now, the store's owners believe that their store will ultimately mainstream the idea of a green gas station.