Par Pacific
Key Metrics:
24/7 monitoring across multiple states and islands, improving asset protection and response times.
Immediate access to video footage, enabling faster resolution of damage incidents at retail locations and improved recovery of damages.
Automated alarms and notifications reducing the need for constant on-site monitoring, with incidents escalated to authorities when internal staff doesn’t respond.
Background
Par Pacific is a growth-oriented, Fortune 1000 corporation that owns and operates market-leading energy and infrastructure businesses in complex logistical environments. With operations in Hawaii, Wyoming, Montana, and Washington, Par Pacific manages refineries, pipelines, and over 130 retail gas stations, providing fuel and energy solutions in remote areas. The company's history is rooted in identifying opportunities in challenging markets, with a focus on safety, sustainability, and operational efficiency.
Nathan Peters, Director of Retail Technology at Par Pacific, leads the company’s efforts to modernize security and streamline operations using innovative technology. In 2018, Par Pacific turned to Verkada for advanced video security solutions to protect its critical assets, including pipelines and retail locations spread across the Pacific and the Rockies.
The Challenge
Operating in logistically challenging environments, Par Pacific encountered significant obstacles in securing remote assets—especially in Hawaii, where transient populations and potential hazards heightened risks along critical pipelines. Traditional security systems, such as on-premise NVRs, lacked the capability for remote monitoring across multiple sites, leaving critical assets exposed to vulnerabilities. The company also sought a solution that seamlessly integrated across locations, providing centralized control to enhance incident management.
"We had areas that we couldn't get eyes on, especially in places like Hawaii, where our pipelines run across the island. Without proper visibility, there was always the risk of leaks, damage, or injuries. We needed a solution that would allow us to monitor these assets remotely," Nathan explains.
The Solution
To address these challenges, Par Pacific implemented Verkada’s cloud-based video security system. The company began with a pilot deployment in 2018, testing Verkada cameras in critical areas like pipelines and gas stations. Impressed by the ease of use and the visibility it offered, Par Pacific expanded the deployment across multiple states, covering a wide range of assets, including refineries and retail locations.
"Verkada’s solution gave us a single pane of glass to monitor sites across different states and islands. We could now see everything in real-time and set up alarms and notifications for incidents that previously went unnoticed," Nathan says. "This was a game-changer for our operations and allowed us to protect our assets better."
The Result
With Verkada, Par Pacific achieved significant improvements in site security and operational oversight. The integration of alarms and video security allowed the company to dispatch internal staff to handle incidents quickly, reducing the need for constant on-site monitoring. If staff failed to respond, notifications would automatically be sent to authorities, ensuring timely intervention.
"Before Verkada, we had no way to see what was happening at these remote locations. Now, we can monitor sites 24/7, and the system automatically alerts us if something goes wrong. It's like having an extra layer of security without needing to add more personnel," Nathan explains.
The transition from traditional NVRs to Verkada’s cloud-based platform also brought new capabilities, such as the ability to swiftly share footage to authorities or other stakeholders without the hassle of physical storage devices. This feature proved especially valuable for addressing damage incidents at retail locations.
"We’ve had instances where customers caused damage at our sites, and before Verkada, we had no way to prove it. Now, with immediate access to footage, we can recover damages quickly and protect our business," Nathan adds.
Future Opportunities
Looking ahead, Par Pacific plans to explore additional Verkada solutions, including access control integration with their retail loyalty platform. This innovative approach would allow customers to use their loyalty numbers to access facilities like restrooms, adding a layer of convenience and security to the retail experience.
"Verkada's flexibility and willingness to work with us on new ideas is one of the reasons we’ve stayed with them for so long. We're looking forward to expanding our use of their technology, especially with access control in our retail locations," Nathan says.
As Par Pacific continues to grow and adapt to the evolving energy landscape, Verkada remains a key partner in reinforcing the safety and security of its operations, allowing the company to focus on its core mission of delivering fuel and energy solutions in complex markets.
Conclusion
For Par Pacific, Verkada has proven to be more than just a security solution—it’s a partner in operational excellence. By providing real-time monitoring, advanced alerting, and seamless integration, Verkada has helped Par Pacific protect its assets and improve efficiency across its operations.
"Verkada has really created efficiencies for us. We can now see multiple sites in real time, protect our employees, and respond to incidents faster than ever before."