Propane: The Right Energy for the Environment and the Future

Propane and renewable propane support a clean environment and a low-carbon future.

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Environmental Stewardship

Fewer Greenhouse Gas Emissions

When considering carbon intensity (the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions produced per unit of energy), propane has a competitive advantage over other energy sources, like electricity and diesel.

Comparing Propane and Electricity

Because 65% of U.S. grid electricity is generated by coal and other fossil fuel sources, propane applications can produce fewer emissions in many cases. (Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration)

Reliable, Clean, Safe Energy

Propane is stored on-site and has an indefinite shelf life, so it can provide reliable power to homes, businesses, and communities even when the electric grid or diesel power fails.

Compared to an equivalent amount of electricity generated from the U.S grid, using propane produces

35%

fewer greenhouse gas emissions

Home

By using propane, homeowners can save on their energy bills while reducing their carbon footprint.

Hotter Water, Reduced Emissions

Propane-powered water heaters reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 56% compared with electric water heaters, increasing efficiency and boosting comfort.

Ash-Free Fireplaces

Propane fireplaces produce fewer particulate emissions and less carbon monoxide compared with wood-burning fireplaces.

Propane-powered cooking ranges generate up to

15%

fewer full-fuel-cycle greenhouse gas emissions than electric ranges

Transportation

Switching to propane autogas reduces emissions, providing cleaner air for communities across the country.

Cleaner Energy without Sacrificing Power

Propane autogas vehicles cut significantly more NOx and greenhouse gas emissions compared with diesel and gasoline.

Surpassing Emissions Standards

Today’s propane on-road engines are 90% cleaner than mandated EPA NOx standards, with virtually zero particulate matter emissions.

Propane-powered buses produce up to

60%

fewer nitrogen oxides (NOx) than diesel buses

Agriculture

When farmers choose propane, they are making a choice that’s good for their business and the environment.

Clean Harvest

Steaming is a proven and environmentally friendly method for soil disinfection. Innovations like the propane-powered Soil Steamer reduce weed seedling emergence in high value crops without the use of harmful chemicals.

Better for Crops and the Environment

Propane is a clean, nontoxic energy that doesn’t pollute waterways or sensitive habitats, making it a nature-friendly energy.

Propane-powered irrigation engines produce up to

18%

fewer greenhouse gas emissions than gasoline and diesel

Material Handling

Propane-powered material handling equipment operates on low emissions without increasing cost or losing efficiency.

A Cleaner Source

With near-zero nitrogen oxide and greenhouse gas emissions, propane-powered equipment improves air quality for both the operators and surrounding communities.

Beyond Standards

Propane-powered port terminal tractors meet or exceed nationwide indoor air quality standards, protecting employees from harmful toxins and allowing operations to move seamlessly, indoors and out.

Propane port terminal tractors offer a

99%

nitrogen oxide (NOx) reduction when compared to diesel

Renewable Propane

Made from sustainable sources such as plant oils, animal fats, and used cooking oil, renewable propane offers the same great features as conventional propane – reliability, portability, and power – but with even lower carbon emissions.

Growing the Future of Clean Energy

Camelina, a non-food cover crop, can be cultivated and converted into ultra-low-carbon renewable propane.
Learn more

Renewable Propane & Carbon Intensity

Carbon intensity measures the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions produced per unit of energy – or simply, how much pollution something creates.
Learn more

Environment News

September 24, 2026

The Propane Education & Research Council to Highlight Affordable Port Operations Solutions at AAPA Convention

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September 23, 2026

PERC Offers Fleets Financial Compensation to Share Real-World Propane Autogas Data

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September 21, 2026

Propane Education & Research Council Brings Clean Port Solutions to Breakbulk Americas

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