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Embark to use off-site CNG fueling after on-site compressor issues, board approves backup plan
Summary
COPTA approved a temporary off-site compressed natural gas fueling agreement after staff said parts delays left the agency down to a single compressor, limiting overnight fueling capacity for buses; the arrangement covers 07/01/2025–06/30/2026 at an estimated $200,000.
The Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority on Nov. 7 authorized off-site compressed natural gas fueling for Embark to ensure buses can be refueled overnight while on-site equipment is limited.
Jesse, a COPTA staff member who briefed the board, said supply-chain delays have left the agency ‘‘down to one compressor,’’ constraining the agency’s ability to fuel buses overnight and prompting the need for a secondary fueling source. The board approved the authorization, which staff estimated at $200,000 for the year retroactive to July 1, 2025.
Jesse described the operational timeline that creates the pressure to refuel quickly: many buses return to the yard between midnight and 12:30 a.m., and the fleet must be fueled, washed and readied for a roughly 4 a.m. rollout. Board approval allows staff to secure off-site fueling arrangements to prevent service disruptions.
The authorization passed by voice vote; the transcript does not record a roll-call tally. Staff indicated the agreement will be executed promptly and that operations will provide updates to the board as needed.
