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Five Environmental Benefits of Propane
April 24, 2023
Written By Adam Buckallew
Propane is a low-carbon fuel alternative, producing far fewer emissions than the equivalent electricity generated from the U.S. grid. Plus, it won’t contaminate soil or groundwater because it’s non-toxic. And propane’s environmentally friendly benefits don’t end there—renewable propane, sourced from used cooking oil and other waste products, is a carbon-neutral fuel helping write the next chapter of clean energy.
Propane can help accelerate decarbonization.
Decarbonization requires more clean energy options. Next to solar and wind, propane is one of the cleanest renewable fuels available according to the Clean Air Act. Propane reduces carbon emissions by replacing heavy carbon like coal, oil, and wood. Whether used to heat your home or power a farm, propane significantly reduces emissions compared to diesel, gasoline, and electricity. Propane emits 43% fewer greenhouse gases than an equivalent amount of electricity generated from the grid.
Propane is energy efficient.
The Energy Star program gives propane a source site ratio of 1.01, compared to 3.03 for electricity from the grid. In other words, it takes 3.03 units of electricity to produce and deliver one unit of energy to a home. It takes just over one unit of propane to deliver one unit of home energy.
Recycled materials provide sustainable tanks.
A typical propane tank lasts up to 30 and 40 years. More than 85% of the steel in propane tanks comes from recycled sources. The tanks are 100% recyclable after they reach the end of their service life. The brass fittings in the tank come from a high percentage of recycled brass and are 100% recyclable.
Renewable propane offers even lower carbon emissions.
Renewable propane is a non-fossil fuel produced from 100% renewable raw materials. It’s commonly made from inexpensive and abundant feedstock like animal fat, algae and cooking oil. Renewable propane has the same chemical structure and physical properties as conventional propane. Because it’s produced from renewable, raw materials, it has an even lower carbon intensity than traditional propane and is far cleaner than other energy sources.
A diverse energy mix is a reliable energy mix.
No single energy source can solve every environmental challenge. Propane can complement solar and wind systems to reduce emissions while providing reliability — especially during challenging weather conditions. Low-emissions propane is crucial to meeting the challenge of creating a more environmentally friendly future, along with renewables and other clean energy sources. With its power, reliability and versatility, propane is an essential part of a diverse mix enabling cleaner fuels to power industries ranging from landscaping to home construction. And with important innovations on the horizon, propane will serve the needs of future generations with even more sustainable solutions.