Posted: January 21, 2025
A lot of customers don’t really understand the difference between propane and natural gas. In fact, propane is a byproduct of natural gas. Propane offers exceptional performance and efficiency in a wide range of home appliances at a much lower cost than electricity, and without the need for access to natural gas pipeline systems. But many customers are surprised to learn that propane offers a host of environmental benefits, too.
Electricity is touted as being a zero-emissions energy source. But generating electricity is another matter. The fact is, the generation of electricity is the second-largest creator of greenhouse gasses in the United States. Only the transportation sector creates more greenhouse gases. That’s because more than 63% of our electricity comes from burning fossil fuels, mostly coal and natural gas. That’s something to keep in mind as the push to go all electric gets stronger—at least until we can reliably generate and store electricity from carbon-free sources like wind and solar.
Propane, on the other hand, produces 43% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than the equivalent amount of electricity. It also produces fewer of the chemicals that lead to acid rain and respiratory problems. And the industry has developed an even “greener” type of propane, made from sustainable sources—most commonly animal fats and vegetable oils. Much like other biofuels, it has a very small carbon footprint and requires no new or special equipment, and this renewable propane is gaining in usage and availability.
Unlike fuels like coal and oil, propane is not mined. That means is doesn’t contribute to deforestation or destruction of other natural resources. It is primarily manufactured from natural gas as a by-product of methane purification. Did you know propane is also an American energy source? About 90% of the United States’ supply of propane is domestically generated!
Propane is nontoxic, so it doesn’t harm soil or groundwater, and will not create an environmental hazard if spilled—an important factor when it comes to determining whether a fuel is “green.” When propane vapor is released into the environment, it’s harmless.
What does efficiency have to do with the environment? Propane generates more Btus than an equivalent amount of electricity, so you need much less propane to produce the same amount of heat or energy. Likewise, propane appliances are very efficient, so they waste very little fuel in the combustion process. That kind of efficiency is as beneficial to the environment as it is to your wallet.
Sure, electricity is necessary to run a lot of things—lights, phones, your computer and TV. But it’s not the smartest choice for all your appliances and systems. Propane is efficient and better than electricity for cooking, and heating your home and your water. Propane is not just a versatile and efficient choice, it’s an environmentally friendly choice.
In a nutshell, propane delivers more bang for your buck, all while protecting the environment. It’s a win-win for homeowners who care about the environment, but also want to keep costs under control. With convenient delivery services and budget friendly payment options, propane is a reliable and eco-friendly energy source for heating, cooking and operating a range of equipment and appliances.
Have questions? The team at Superior Gas can show you all the ways that propane can help you power your home or business, whether you’re in East Alabama, West Georgia or Northwest Florida. Contact us for more information today.