Sharp Energy Expands Rail Infrastructure in Delaware

Sharp Energy, the propane distribution subsidiary of Chesapeake Utilities Corp. (Dover, Del.), has completed upgrades to its propane rail terminal in north Dover, reports Delaware Business Now. The expansion project tripled Sharp Energy’s storage capacity. The company serves tens of thousands of customers in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.

“The north Dover rail facility is another example of Sharp Energy’s unwavering commitment to serving our customers,” said Andy Hesson, company vice president. “The facility is a creative, cost-effective solution that helps us meet the region’s growing energy needs while continuing to provide reliable, clean, and affordable energy to the customers and communities we serve.”

The upgrade initiative boosted the terminal’s storage volume by 275,000 gallons, bringing the total capacity to 385,000 gallons. With this increase, Sharp Energy’s total propane storage in the Mid-Atlantic region grows to more than 3.5 million gallons. Noted is that the north Dover rail facility enables propane delivery into the region via one of the most cost-effective transportation options and enhances the company’s ability to expand service to additional large industrial customers, all the while ensuring an additional layer of supply security and stability.

“The upgraded rail facility increases the reliability of our propane supply on a year-round basis, including the cold winter months when customers rely on propane to heat their homes and businesses,” said Steve Farkas, director of operations at Sharp Energy. “Sharp Energy customers, as well as customers of other propane distribution companies throughout the region, will benefit from the additional supply that is now available here in Delaware.” In addition to using the rail terminal to better meet the needs of its own customers, Sharp Energy plans to wholesale more than 13 million gallons of propane to other marketers.

(SOURCE: The Weekly Propane Newsletter, April 22, 2019)