RICHMOND, Va. — As power grid reliability becomes an increasing concern nationwide, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is using National Propane Day on Tuesday to highlight propane autogas as an alternative fuel option for fleet vehicles.
The push comes as a recent U.S. Department of Energy report warns that blackouts could increase a hundredfold by 2030 as the electric grid struggles to meet growing demand. For businesses that depend on delivery vehicles or mobile services, such as dry cleaners with route systems, these disruptions could impact operations.
“When a fleet goes down, everything stops,” says Joel Stutheit, senior manager of autogas business development at PERC. “Propane autogas gives fleet owners a level of control that other energy sources can’t. It’s dependable, affordable and always ready no matter what’s happening with the grid.”
Because propane autogas is stored on-site and doesn’t rely on the power grid for distribution, it remains available during power outages, PERC says. The fuel also produces up to 96% fewer nitrogen oxide emissions than diesel while offering lower fuel and maintenance costs.
Now in its fourth year, National Propane Day (Oct. 7) is not only a celebration of propane’s energy benefits, PERC says, it’s a moment to recognize the propane professionals who make clean transportation possible.
“We depend on these professionals to keep clean, reliable transportation running every day,” Stutheit says. “Their dedication is what helps fleets stay prepared, no matter what challenges come their way.”
More than 60,000 propane autogas vehicles operate in the United States, primarily serving transit agencies, delivery companies, emergency response fleets and utility crews.
Have a question or comment? E-mail our editor Dave Davis at [email protected].
