How is Propane Distributed?

Propane creates about 80,000 American jobs during its distribution process.

How Propane Gets to You

While propane used to be burned away as part of oil refining, it’s now captured and used as a clean energy source — and the United States produces more than enough propane to go around. In fact, as an EPA-certified alternative clean energy, propane is one of the most environmentally friendly fuels available.

After it leaves the processing plant, propane is stored underground as a liquid, until it’s needed. Then, it travels around the country through a network of pipelines, railroad tank cars, tractor-trailers, and barges, creating about 80,000 American jobs. From regional storage sites nationwide, the propane is then sent to distributors, like your local supplier.

Finally, propane is pumped into bobtail delivery trucks that deliver it to millions of American homes and businesses.

Step 1: Processing Plant

Propane is primarily a by-product of natural gas, so its journey begins at the processing plant. The processing plant extracts the propane from other fuel components and adds an unpleasant odor so it can be detected in case of a leak. Propane is compressed into a liquid to make it easier to transport.

Step 2: Underground Storage

After it leaves the processing plant, propane is stored as a liquid underground until it’s needed.

Step 3: Transportation

The propane industry transports the fuel around the country through a network of pipelines, railroad tank cars, tractor-trailers, and barges. Along the way, it powers about 80,000 American jobs.