RICHMOND, Virginia —
This Earth Day, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is highlighting propane and renewable propane as key solutions for reducing emissions and delivering reliable energy amid global sustainability efforts. As a safe, clean, and readily available energy source that produces 52 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than the average U.S. electric grid, propane supports the energy demands of businesses, industries and facilities, while also supporting reduced emissions goals.
“Too often the energy conversation becomes a choice between sustainability and reliability; with propane, you don’t have to choose, it is a win-win,” said Tucker Perkins, president and CEO of PERC. “With extreme weather events on the rise, we need solutions that are as resilient as they are environmentally friendly. Propane is widely available and rising to the challenge of keeping our planet healthy and our communities in operation.”
An efficient and nontoxic energy source, propane does not contaminate soil or water, making it a safe option for both communities and ecosystems. Now with industry advancements, renewable propane is becoming more readily available. Produced from renewable feedstocks, it works seamlessly with existing propane infrastructure and offers an even cleaner, more efficient solution on the path to zero emissions.
Beyond its environmental benefits, propane is also powering critical infrastructure during natural disasters and grid disruptions. From 2011 to 2021, the United States saw a 64 percent increase in power outages than in the previous decade, according to Climate Central. This large increase can have a significant impact on business operations and is why many business owners are trusting propane-powered generators to keep the lights on during these disruptions. Coupled with propane applications like combined heat and power (CHP) units, furnaces, boilers, and more, these highly efficient systems provide reliable power while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
“When the power goes out, whether a business, hospital, or hotel, it’s more than just the lights turning off — it can severely impact lives,” said Bert Warner, director of commercial business development at PERC. “With propane, we can focus and support a greener tomorrow while also ensuring that people are safe.”
Doubling down on its commitment to supporting green and efficient infrastructure, PERC launched its Alternative Technology Demonstration & Research Program. The program encourages the adoption of propane cooling and CHP systems in commercial and industrial settings, while offering financial compensation.
A very efficient and sustainable application, propane-powered CHP units enhance energy efficiency by capturing heat that would otherwise be wasted during electricity generation. This technology significantly reduces energy costs, lowers emissions, and provides reliable on-site power. Propane cooling systems use propane to power the compressor, which can reduce electricity use by up to 90 percent—resulting in lower utility bills, increased efficiency and support for sustainability goals.
“With today’s unpredictable energy landscape, our mission at PERC is to provide clean, reliable energy solutions, and these units do just that,” said Warner. “Propane offers countless benefits and we’re excited to highlight its efficiency, reliability, and environmental advantages.”