The long-term impact of energy sources on the environment is a frequent topic of discussion. It’s clear changes are happening rapidly, and one area of consensus should be the need for a diversified approach to meeting our increasing energy needs. Reducing the carbon footprint is a goal we can all support.
For over 100 years, propane has provided a reliable and dependable source of energy. Its low-carbon, high-energy output should be an energy source we expand. Propane is already a trustworthy fuel for heating, agriculture, vehicles, and industry.
Propane is a viable energy source that reduces environmental impact because it:
- Produces 43% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electricity.
- Does not contaminate soil or groundwater because it is non-poisonous and non-toxic.
- Reduces particulate matter emissions in vehicles to virtually zero. The World Health Organization lists particulate matter as a carcinogen!
- Reduces more emissions per dollar spend than any other fuel.
- Produces up to 22% more fewer greenhouse gas emissions than gasoline vehicles throughout the full fuel cycle.
- Has virtually no energy loss during transportation and transfer. This gives it a source-to-site ration of 1.01 compared to 3.03 for electricity from the grid.
- Has one of the lowest carbon emissions according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (139 pounds per million BTUs).
- Uses less per cubic feet in furnaces than natural gas.
We are seeing significant advancements in the production of renewable propane. Renewable propane retains the same beneficial properties as conventional propane but with even lower carbon emissions compared to other energy sources.
Its production comes from sources like camelina oil, used cooking oil, and other waste products that would otherwise end up in landfills. Renewable propane made from camelina oil has a lower carbon intensity score than the electric grid in 49 states. Renewable propane from non-camelina oil is cleaner than electric in 45 states. Current production is between 3.5 to 4 million gallons, and production is increasing rapidly.
Propane and renewable propane are dependable energy sources in places such as national parks and sensitive habitats. These are areas where people and nature coexist in a delicate balance.
For more information on the benefits of propane and renewable propane, visit propane.com or reference Debunking Common Myths About Propane.