Key Texas Takeaways from 2025 Propane Industry Survey
Key Texas Takeaways from 2025 Propane Industry Survey
Enroll Now for the 2025 Texas Duty to Warn Mailing Program
Enroll Now for the 2025 Texas Duty to Warn Mailing Program
2025 TPGA Scholarship Recipients Announced
2025 TPGA Scholarship Recipients Announced
Bill Van Hoy
TPGA Executive Director
A working crystal ball would be nice this time of year for predicting propane demand for the winter months. In absence of that, we must lean on weather predictions from experts. On page 8 we dive into two long-time weather prognosticators: The Farmer’s Almanac and The Old Farmer’s Almanac. See what they forecast for this coming winter for Texas.
For your farming clients, make sure they know about PERC’s Propane Farm Research Program (page 12). It’s a great opportunity for them to receive financial incentives if they adopt propane powered equipment. Check out the details as there are only a few more months to apply. Speaking of farming, see page 14 with how propane has been an integral part of the vertical farming movement.
Each year, Gray, Gray & Gray does a propane industry survey that gathers a variety of metrics from the industry (page 16). It’s a good measure to see how you compare to industry averages and to those in your area. The survey also collects information on what are the biggest concerns on the aggregate.
Meet this year’s TPGA scholarship recipients (page 20). They are going to do big things in this world, and we’re very proud to get to support them on their journey.
Sign up is open (page 22) for the 2025 Duty to Warn Safety Mailing Program. Compliance is easier than you might think. The program is first come, first served, so check out details on signing up so you don’t miss out.
TPGA staff
Bill Van Hoy ................. bvanhoy@txpropane.com Executive Director
Jackie Mason................... jmason@txpropane.com Deputy Executive Director
Julie Novinger...........accountant@txpropane.com Bookkeeper
Christie Shook..................cshook@txpropane.com Membership & Meeting Manager
Propane Service Corporation ........................... sales@propaneservicecorp.com Christie Shook 800-392-0023
Publisher Kim Scheberle ............. kscheberle@austin.rr.com Account Manager/Managing Editor Sail House Publishing 512-346-0892
Joanne Pantaze ................. jpantaze@zochnet.com Advertising Sales 512-273-2639
Kiki Pantaze ....................kpantaze@zochnet.com Art Director 512-924-7566 8408 North
Basys Processing Lone Star Energy Group Warm Thoughts Communications
512-836-8620 or 800-325-7427 512-834-0758 fax E-mail: info@txpropane.com www.txpropane.com
President: Larry Baty, Cadenhead Servis Gas, 972-771-8654
President Elect: Jeremy Gentile, Hill Butane, 409-296-2001
Secretary: Matt Terry, Matador Gas, 210-861-6545
Treasurer/Finance Chair: Bill Collins, Propane Exchange, 214-629-5118
District 1 Director: David Collett, Gas and Supply, 903-780-2488
District 1 Alternate: John Minton, Gas & Supply, 903-490-0605
District 2 Director: Billy Bob McAdams, McAdams Propane, 936-598-7444
District 2 Alternate: Joe January, McAdams Propane, 254-723-4210
District 3 Director: Stephen McClendon, Ferrellgas, 972-730-0469
District 3 Alternate: Bill McHargue, Pinnacle Propane, 936-332-2901
District 4 Director: Matt Peterson, Buster Brown Propane, 281-689-3946
District 4 Alternate: Garrett Green, Green's Blue Flame Gas Co. 713-562-5341
District 5 Director: Brody Newton, Busters Propane, 361-852-8161
District 5 Alternate: Regina Betancourt, Ferrellgas, 361-429-8548
District 6 Director: Omar Garcia, Mr. G Propane, 956-581-1063
District 6 Alternate: Alex Hinojosa, Hino Gas Sales, 956-423-9178
District 7 Director: Sharon Seal, Bell Hydrogas, 210-533-7103
District 7 Alternate: Duston Cox, Chaparral Propane, 830-329-0871
District 8 Director: Rodney Sladek, Fayetteville Propane, 979-836-7044
District 8 Alternate: Doyle Fevig, Legacy Propane 830-995-5015
District 9 Director: Brad Quisenberry, Gene Harris Petroleum, 817-295-1091
District 9 Alternate: Larry Hearn, Yellow Rose Propane, 870-648-8241
District 10 Director: Josh Nowlin, McCraw Propane, 903-583-7481
District 10 Alternate: Chad Gregg, Enderby Gas, 940-482-3225
District 11 Director: Steve Adams, Hardwick LPG, 254-647-3402
District 11 Alternate: Anna May Etheredge, Enderby Gas, 940-665-3467
District 12 Director: Laci Jo Stone, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109
District 12 Alternate: Shawn Owens, Heart of Texas Propane, 325-313-0748
District 13 Director: Lane Worthington, WTG Fuels, 432-682-4349
District 13 Alternate: Casey King, WTG Fuels, 432-894-4240
District 14 Director: Terry Perez, Perez Propane, 512-318-9780
District 14 Alternate: Elizabeth Perez, Perez Propane, 915-764-3382
District 15 Director: Don Heinrich, Slaton Gas, 806-828-6501
District 15 Alternate: OPEN
District 16 Director: Clay Crist, Crist Fuel, 806-426-3412
District 16 Alternate: Jacob Acuna, TG Fuels, 303-514-6061
Past President: Josh McAdams, McAdams Propane, 936-598-7444
Past President: Mark Peterson, Buster Brown Propane, 281-689-3946
Past President: Jack Walzel, Tri-Co Propane, 254-642-3885
Past President: John Walter, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109
Past President: Allen Wells, BayGas, 281-332-2630
Vice President: Steve Adams, Hardwick LPG, 254-647-3402
Vice President: Jeremy Gentile, Hill Butane, 409-296-2001
Vice President: Matt Terry, Matador Gas, 210-861-6545
Sr. Vice President: Todd Dorris, Roadrunner Energy, 830-278-2915
Sr. Vice President: Bill Collins, Propane Exchange, 972-442-1078
Sr. Vice President: Joe Green, Green’s Blue Flame Gas, 713-462-5414
Assoc. Supplier Service Director: Rusty Walker, Marshall Young, 817-645-9155
Assoc. Supplier Service Alternate: Andy Brus, Crum & Forster, 682-220-4812
Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Director: Jim Fulton, 4JEnergy, 832-529-4768
Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Alternate: John Becraft, Targa Resources, 713-594-7485
Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Director: Joe Ezernack, Meeder Equipment, 903-877-9401
Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Alternate: Troy Hicks, Squibb Taylor, 915-613-7534
Assoc. At Large Director: Crystelle Markley, Superior Energy Systems, 512-944-4177
Assoc. At Large Alternate: Jimmie Grant, Martin Gas Sales, 713-851-6155
Nominating Chair: John Walter, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109
NPGA Director: Mark Garrison, Allstar Fuel, 806-296-6353
The Texas Propane Gas Association is headed to the lakeside this October for three days of training, networking, and leadership at SpringHill Suites, Rockwall. Come for the learning, stay for the connections — and enjoy Rockwall’s beautiful boardwalk views while shaping the future of propane in Texas.
When
Monday, October 13, 2025 – Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Where Spring Hill Suites
2601 Lakefront Trail Rockwall, TX 75032
Attendance
The TPGA Board & Committee Meetings are OPEN TO ALL TPGA MEMBERS.
An RSVP is required so we can accommodate seating and space.
Register at www.txpropane.com
Thank You to Our Sponsors
• AV Sponsor – Enterprise Products
• Day 1 Coffee Break – CUI
• Day 2 Coffee Break – Targa Resources
• Lunch Sponsor – Rinnai
• Dinner Sponsor – Exosent Engineering
Schedule
Monday, October 13, 2025
8:00am – 5:00pm Cargo Tank (CT) Inspection Training - LUNCH PROVIDED Cargo Tank Inspection Training is open to everyone. Registration & RSVP are required.
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
9:00am – 10:00am Executive Committee Meeting 10:00am – 11:00am Finance Committee Meeting 11:00am – 12:00pm Meetings & Convention Planning Meeting 12:00pm – 1:15pm Hosted Lunch & Presentation by Rinnai Heat-Pump Helper 1:30pm – 2:30pm Scholarship Meeting 2:30pm – 3:30pm T&S Committee Meeting 4:00pm – 5:45pm Happy Hour – SpringHill Suites Bar 6:00pm – 8:00pm Dinner at Culpepper’s Steak House
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
9:00am – 11:00am Board & Annual Business Meeting
As fall settles in across Texas, conversations are shifting from summer heat to the months ahead. For the propane industry, early winter forecasts are far more than casual speculation—they help guide planning, demand projections, and customer readiness. When winter weather takes a turn in Texas, propane retailers and their customers feel it directly.
The Farmer’s Almanac is projecting a “cold and wetter-than-average season” across Texas and the Southern Plains, with the potential for early cold snaps, periodic icy conditions, and chances for snow—particularly in North Texas.
This year, long-range outlooks are already stirring conversation. Two well-known almanacs—The Farmer’s Almanac and The Old Farmer’s Almanac—have each released their annual predictions. While neither publication is infallible, their outlooks remain a point of interest because they attempt to sketch the broad strokes of winter months in advance. Their forecasts—along with hints from official climate centers—point to a season Texans should be watching closely.
Yes, there are in fact two almanacs, and both have loyal followings. The Farmer’s Almanac, first published in 1818, and The Old Farmer’s Almanac, dating back even further to 1792, continue to publish long-range weather forecasts alongside gardening tips, stories, and advice. While meteorologists caution against leaning too heavily on their accuracy, the almanacs have endured because of their colorful detail and ability to capture the public’s imagination.
For this upcoming winter, however, the two are not in full agreement.
The Farmer’s Almanac is projecting a “cold and wetter-than-av -
erage season” across Texas and the Southern Plains, with the potential for early cold snaps, periodic icy conditions, and chances for snow—particularly in North Texas.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac, by contrast, foresees a “milder winter” overall, with fewer snow events and more of the classic Texas pattern of brief cold spells punctuated by warmups.
These dueling visions of the season leave many wondering which will prove correct. For the propane industry, the stakes are high—either scenario can affect how much fuel Texans use to heat homes, businesses, and agricultural operations.
The Farmer’s Almanac outlook is notable because it calls for a faster arrival of cold weather than usual. According to its forecast, Texas could feel its first meaningful chill by late September or October. That’s unusually early for the Lone Star State, where triple-digit afternoons often linger deep into fall.
From there, the forecast suggests a wet season ahead, punctuated by waves of rain, sleet, or snow depending on region. The publication points to mid-November as a time to watch, when blustery weather and a potential snow event could sweep across the Plains and even dip into northern parts of Texas.
By mid-December, another chance of snow expands the geographic odds, reaching into Central Texas. January, February, and even March remain in play for additional wintry episodes in North Texas.
In short, while the Farmer’s Almanac does not envision a record-breaking snow year for Texas, it does suggest the type of periodic cold snaps and precipitation events that can test propane supply chains and push heaters into high gear.
On the other side, The Old Farmer’s Almanac is taking a more restrained stance. Its long-range forecast emphasizes warmerthan-normal conditions across much of Texas, with only limited chances for snow. This view echoes what many Texans already expect: a winter of extremes where shorts and jackets may both be needed in the same week.
For propane retailers, a milder season typically means steadier—but lower—consumption. Customers may still top off their tanks to prepare for the occasional cold front, but spikes in demand are less likely if this version of winter holds true.
Beyond the almanacs, official climate watchers are adding another factor to the mix—La Niña. The Climate Prediction Center has signaled that La Niña conditions could persist through the fall and winter. Historically, La Niña has been associated with increased volatility in Texas weather, sometimes bringing drier stretches but also capable of unleashing strong Arctic blasts.
Industry veterans will remember that the devastating 2021 winter storm, which caused widespread power outages and fuel supply disruptions, unfolded during a La Niña pattern. While no two years are identical, the mention of La Niña this season raises eyebrows among energy planners and forecasters alike.
For propane marketers, these early discussions are more than seasonal curiosity. Winter outlooks, however imprecise, provide an early framework for planning.
Inventory Management: A colder, wetter forecast means companies may want to ensure storage is topped off earlier and distribution channels are ready for surges.
Customer Outreach: If forecasts lean toward harsher conditions, now is the time to remind customers to schedule fills early, perform system checks, and avoid waiting until the first freeze.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac, by contrast, foresees a “milder winter” overall, with fewer snow events and more of the classic Texas pattern of brief cold spells punctuated by warmups.
Emergency Preparedness: The propane industry remembers the lessons of 2021. Even the suggestion of severe winter weather can spur conversations about backup power, generator fuel, and delivery contingencies.
At the end of the day, no forecast—whether from an almanac or a supercomputer—can perfectly predict what Texas skies will deliver. But what is clear is that Texans should brace for variability. From surprise snow events to sudden thaws, the only guarantee is that propane will once again play its vital role in keeping homes warm, farms running, and businesses open.
For propane retailers, the months ahead offer an opportunity: engage customers early, position supply chains for flexibility, and stay alert as conditions evolve. Winter in Texas may always be unpredictable, but with preparation, the industry can be ready for whatever the season brings.
• Can be rapidly deployed and redeployed
• Able to be used multiple times across various locations
• Customization for specific applications and needs
For farmers weighing a new purchase before the year ends, there’s money on the table—and not just pocket change. The Propane Education & Research Council’s (PERC) Propane Farm Research Program (PFRP) offers financial incentives to ag ricultural operations that adopt propanepowered equipment. But there’s a catch:
• Remote metering with either cellular LTE or LoRa meter options
• Provides a familiar customer interface similar to other utilities
• Optimize efficient deliveries
• Adds control to overall storage efficiency
• Ability to shut off service remotely
• Accuracy & Durability Sensor
Introducing Mopeka Cathodic Sentinel Plus – ensuring safe, consistent, accurate and reliable readings for the protection of your underground tanks, whilst monitoring your tank levels.
• Monitored Cathodic Protection and Integrated Tank Level Monitor
• Accurately measures Voltage, Current, and Moisture content
• Compliance to EPA and NFPA regulatory requirements
• Class 1 Div 1 and IP68 Certified
• Works on a global SIM chip that operates on the 4G LTE CATM1, NB- IoT networks and Boosted Bluetooth
Mopeka Cathodic Sentinel provides immediate alerts on any compliance variances in the cathodic health of our underground tanks to allow for prompt action giving us confidence that our tanks are always well-protected and fully compliant, safeguarding both our customers and their tanks for the long term.
Mopeka is the global leader in Tank Monitoring and Monitored Cathodic Protection solutions. We believe in "Accuracy Above Everything."
• Realtime Monitoring from your Smart Device or Desktop
• Programmable alerts to ensure you are never caught out
• Utilizing the latest Cloud and Mobile technology to optimize your operating environment
• Simple & Fast Installation in minutes
Propane systems offer an efficient, scalable way to manage building heating, water heating, and more, all while helping to reduce energy costs and simplify maintenance.
Vertical farming is sparking innovation in the food supply chain by opening regions to agriculture where traditional farming is more difficult. This type of farming consists of growing crops in stacked layers, often within climatecontrolled buildings such as warehouses, greenhouses, or repurposed shipping containers. Vertical farming allows farmers to produce food year-round while dramatically reducing land and water needs, helping bring fresh produce closer to urban populations with more sustainability. Like other controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) operations, vertical farms
require sophisticated systems that dial in temperature, humidity, lighting, and CO₂ levels to keep crops healthy and productive. That’s why many vertical farms leverage propane: a reliable, clean, and efficient energy source optimized for precision farming.
From maintaining stable indoor temperatures to providing reliable backup power when the electric grid falls short, propane keeps vertical farms thriving through every season. It also furthers the mission of CEA by providing energy onsite in off-grid locations where electricity and natural gas access can be inconsistent.
In any indoor agriculture operation, temperature consistency is critical. Whether it’s a greenhouse or a warehouse,
a small dip in indoor air temperature can put crops at risk. For farmers nationwide, propane is a dependable heat source that delivers immediate, consistent warmth to maintain optimal conditions regardless of weather.
Propane-powered heating systems offer thermal efficiencies of up to 95 percent and can be scaled to meet the needs of small or large facilities. Propane equipment also features zoned heating options to accommodate tiered or segmented growing systems. Unlike electric heat, which can be slower to respond to temperature fluctuations and more expensive to operate, propane provides powerful heating performance without exposing growers to peak electricity pricing. And in rural areas unreached by natural gas pipelines, propane offers greater energy independence because it is stored on-site.
Backup power isn’t just optional for indoor farms, it’s essential. Even a brief power outage can kill crops, waste energy, and damage expensive lighting and irrigation systems. Propane generators activate within seconds of a grid failure, ensuring continuity for lighting, heating, ventilation, and other critical systems in vertical farms.
In addition to reliability, propane backup systems offer environmental and operational advantages. Compared with diesel generators, propane produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions and virtually no particulate matter, making it a cleaner choice for enclosed or urban environments. Moreover, propane doesn’t degrade over time like diesel does, so it can be stored indefinitely, always ready to perform when it’s needed most.
For all these reasons and more, many growers choose propane generators not just for backup, but as part of a broader energy management strategy, particularly in regions where electrical infrastructure is aging or unreliable.
An important factor driving vertical farm production is the ability to limit water consumption. CEA leafy green producers use up to 90% less water than traditional farms. But, there’s a tradeoff. Vertical farms use almost 100x the energy of outdoor farms, largely because they replace the sun with UV lighting.
Propane systems offer an efficient, scalable way to manage building heating, water heating, and more, all while helping to reduce energy costs and simplify maintenance. Because propane burns cleanly, it makes equipment more resilient. Plus, propane-powered equipment requires less frequent maintenance than alternatives due to more efficient engine design. Additionally, some growers incorporate propane-powered combined heat and power (CHP) units into their facilities. These systems offer higher overall energy efficiency and provide greater energy independence for high-demand operations.
Thousands of greenhouses across the U.S. rely on propane to maintain consistent temperatures through colder sea-
sons. Vertical farmers are taking the hint. Propane supports consistent plant health through dependable heating, protects infrastructure and crops with fast-acting backup power, and offers lower emissions and operating costs compared to many traditional energy sources. It’s a valuable tool for both indoor growers and traditional farmers who can’t afford downtime, inefficiency, or risk to their harvest.
Learn more about propane-powered farming solutions at Propane.com/Agriculture.
Republished from propane.com
Gray, Gray & Gray has released its 34th Annual Propane Industry Survey, a widely used benchmark for propane marketers across the U.S. Covering the April 2024 - March 2025 heating season, the survey includes contributions from Angus Energy and guidance from the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC). For Texas propane managers, the results highlight clear challenges and opportunities in today’s marketplace.
The 2024–25 winter was colder and longer than recent years, yet most propane dealers proved resilient. Survey authors note that companies seemed “ready to face the storm” after several mild winters. This sense of preparedness has given way to renewed optimism across the industry. An impressive 88% of respondents said they are confident their company will remain viable in the future.
The leading concern by far is finding, training, and retaining employees. This issue has topped the survey for several years, but the labor squeeze remains acute:
• 54% of dealers increased wages in the past year to retain staff.
• 10% offered employee bonuses as an additional retention incentive.
• The average number of customers per service technician fell to 684, down from 728 in 2024 and 769 in 2023.
The survey also provides insight into payroll and employee benefits for the South region, giving Texas managers a benchmark for competitive compensation. Following are the reported average salaries for key positions in 2025.
In the South, including Texas, the staffing story looks somewhat different. The average service technician managed 810 customers in 2025—better than 930 the year before. The region also recorded
FREE listing on our Texas Find a Propane Retailer Tool
Weekly propane price reports (heating season)
Monthly propane price reports (non-heating season)
A voice at the local, state, and federal levels
Guidance on rules, regulations, codes & laws
State & federal regulatory alerts and updates
State & federal compliance date reminders
Hours of service waiver notifications
Roadside enforcement event announcements
Exclusive access to our Members Only portal on our website
Up to 30% savings through Propane Service Corporation
Special pricing on emergency response numbers, workers' compensation, health insurance, tires, and more
Member-only invitations to quarterly meetings
National
Delivery Driver
Service Technician
Customer Service Rep
Dispatchers
General
$27.40
$30.35
$22.21
$28.22
$55.99
fewer service calls per customer, just 0.26, suggesting fewer maintenance requests and perhaps a leaner service workload.
Efficiency data shows how companies are managing with leaner staffing:
• Customers averaged 0.69 service calls each, up slightly from 0.65 the prior two years.
• Stops per hour declined to 1.7, down from 1.9 in 2024 and 2.14 in 2023.
For Southern dealers, gallons delivered per stop were slightly lower—169 gallons in 2025—but stops per hour came in at just 1.14. That’s a signal that routing efficiency and scheduling technology may be even more important tools for Texas managers to consider going forward.
The South carried some distinctive notes in this year’s survey:
• 66% of customers have been with their supplier for five or more years.
• Customer turnover in the South is primarily due to moving for lower prices, customers moving and heat pump conversions. Other reasons cited include poaching by former employees, poor service, natural gas expansion, electrification, and even customer death.
$25.60
$36.79
$20.41
$25.02
$48.46
• Strategic and succession planning ranked as the top challenge, followed by employee engagement and safety training, liability insurance costs, and political uncertainty.
Southern dealers are also diversifying. Some cited strategies such as adding hardware sales, retail fuel stations, or water well services. Service contracts and price protection fees were also reported as ways to strengthen customer relationships and stabilize margins.
While buzz around artificial intelligence continues to grow, actual adoption remains limited:
• Only 19% of propane dealers nationwide report investing in AI so far.
• Another 31% say they plan to invest within the next year.
Beyond AI, companies are expanding use of tank monitoring, routing software, and customer portals.
For Texas operators, adopting technology can help offset staffing challenges and streamline operations.
Nationwide, loyalty is a bright spot:
Varies by route and overtime
Reflects strong demand for skilled techs
Often includes performance bonuses
Higher at larger companies
Depends on company size & region
65% of customers have been with their supplier more than five years.
• Just 8% are new customers within the past year.
In the South, loyalty climbs slightly to 66%, but losses stem from turnover, poor service, and competition from natural gas and electrification. This underscores how customer service and workforce stability are tightly intertwined.
Despite staffing headwinds, propane dealers are not standing still:
• 39% plan an acquisition in 2025.
• Only 9% expect to sell their business
For Texas leaders, this trend may present opportunities to expand service territories or merge with complementary businesses.
1. Retention is critical – Higher wages help, but long-term retention requires engagement, training, and succession planning.
2. Efficiency is slipping – Fewer stops per hour mean managers should lean on routing technology and smarter scheduling.
3. Loyalty is strong but fragile – Decades-long customer relationships can unravel quickly if employee turnover affects service.
4. Technology is moving from optional to essential – Tank monitoring and AI tools will soon be standard, not experimental.
5. Plan ahead – Both succession planning and acquisition activity are accelerating, and proactive managers will have the edge.
Each year, the Texas Propane Gas Association awards scholarships to outstanding students whose parents or grandparents are employed in the propane industry and are members of the Texas Propane Gas Association. These scholarships celebrate the hard work, dedication, and promise of the next generation.
Emerson Brown
Parent: Cameron Brown, Noremac Gas College:Texas A&M University
Major: Engineering
A 2024 graduate and standout athlete, Emerson captained her high school basketball team before enrolling at Texas A&M, where she continues to lead through her involvement in Tri Delta sorority and the Freshman Reaching Excellence in Engineering program. She has raised funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, managed her own small business, and gained work experience in retail sales—all while pursuing her engineering studies at Texas A&M.
Emilee Baker
Parent: Jennifer & Scott Baker, Gas & Supply College: University of Texas at Tyler
Major: Pre-Med
Emilee earned top-10% honors at Quitman High School while excelling in debate, theater, and leadership roles. She competed at the UIL State level, served as president of the one-act play program, and contributed to her community through church service and Salvation Army volunteer work. Balancing academics, extracurriculars, and a parttime job at Brookshire’s, she now brings that same determination to her pre-med studies at UT Tyler.
Donations Accepted
Make checks payable
Alayna Laisy
Parent: Donald Wells, McCraw Oil Propane
College: Paris Junior College
Major: Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Alayna earned Academic Excellence recognition at Bonham High School while participating in varsity volleyball and softball. Softball has been a defining part of her life, teaching her leadership, perseverance, and teamwork. She also umpired youth games to give back to her community and gained work experience in retail sales. Today, she is channeling those qualities into her studies in Diagnostic Medical Sonography at Paris Junior College.
Zoe Pavlas
Parent: Kevin Pavlas, Colorado County Propane College: Wharton County Junior College
Major: Animal Science
At El Campo High School, Zoe balanced academics with an extraordinary range of extracurriculars—from athletics and National Honor Society to student organizations and service projects. She dedicated years to volunteering at her church, Toys for Tots, and Wharton County SPOT, where she cared for puppies. Zoe also gained experience in the propane industry as an office aide at Colorado County Propane. She now brings her passion for animals into her studies in Animal Science at Wharton County Junior College.
Marlene Najera
Parent: Raquel Najera, Pico Propane College: Angelo State University
Major: Pre-Dentistry
A top graduate of Del Rio High School, Marlene earned a perfect 4.0 GPA while leading as captain of the Varsity Cheer team. She was a member of both the National Honor Society and the National Technical Honor Society, and her service record includes volunteering with the Feast of Sharing, Special Olympics, and Community Angel Project. Marlene is pursuing a career in dentistry at Angelo State University, carrying forward her drive for academic excellence and community service.
Michael Nelson
Parent: Jeff Nelson, Nelson Propane College: Sam Houston State University
Major: Business – PGA Golf Management
At Fairfield High School, Michael was active in FFA, 4-H, and athletics, where he competed in livestock judging, shooting sports, and varsity golf. He also organized service projects such as a recycling drive and school blood drive. His experience at Nelson Propane Gas, Inc.—where he assisted with deliveries, customer service, and even managed a summer team of seven employees—underscores his leadership. Michael is now pursuing Business and PGA Golf Management at Sam Houston State University.
Ava Taylor
Parent: Jon Taylor, Pico Propane College: Baylor University
Major: Instrumental Music Education
At Pieper High School in San Antonio, Ava left a strong legacy as Drum Major of the Pieper Band of Warriors, helping lead the band to two statelevel appearances. She also mentored
her district’s superintendent advisory committee, volunteered as a youth camp leader, and gained real-world experience working at a restaurant. Ava is pursuing a degree in Instrumental Music Education at Baylor University.
These seven students represent the future of Texas—dedicated, compassionate, and ready to lead. The Texas Propane Gas Association is proud to support their academic journeys through its scholarship program.
In addition to the Texas Propane Gas Association’s awards, the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) has honored one outstanding student from Texas with a national scholarship.
Memorial Scholarship Recipient
Yeikol Chapa
Hometown: Laredo, Texas
Year: Freshman
College: University of Texas at Austin
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Parent: Salvador Chapa, employed by AmeriGas in Laredo, Texas
ic promise and the continued legacy of excellence within the propane industry community. TPGA proudly celebrates this
Don’t miss this critical opportunity to protect your company and customers by
participating in the 2025 Duty to Warn Safety Mailing Program. Duty to Warn is
a vital responsibility in tort law, requiring you to warn others about potential hazards to prevent harm. Ignoring this duty can lead to severe consequences, including negligence claims.
Compliance is easier than you think. The Propane Council of Texas offers a comprehensive Duty to Warn Safety Mailing Program, providing a Texasspecific safety brochure covering essential topics like what to do if you smell gas and carbon monoxide safety.
1. Texas propane retailers go to www. procot.org/dutytowarn
2. Complete the online registration form & upload your Texas propane customer mailing list to the form.
3. Registration package is automatically sent to a third-party mail house.
4. You will receive email confirmation
as soon as your registration is received.
5. Your company name is ink jetted on to the Texas safety mailer.
6. The safety mailer is sent to your Texas customers within 30 days by non-profit bulk mail.
7. Once mailed and payment is received, you will receive a postage receipt and notarized affidavit from the mail house that your mailing is complete.
The biggest savings to you is there is no cost for the brochure when mailed in Texas. ProCOT covers the big cost, the postage, to Texas customers.
Same fees as last year. Each Texas retailer participant is responsible for two passthrough fees. You, the retailer, are only responsible for a small $38 fulfillment flat fee and 9.5 cents list processing fee per address.
Virtually every software program containing customer information can be exported into a spreadsheet mailing list.
All lists must be uploaded to online registration. Please do not email lists.
No PDFs. Mailing lists must be in Excel or csv file.
Please remove customer notes, like COD, Cash Only, etc. If this is next to their name, this will print on the outside of the mailer.
Deadline. Act now, because time is running out. The deadline to have your mailing go out in 2025 is December 4, 2025. The program is first come, first served while stock is available during the 2025-2026 heating season.
Texas Alternative Fuel Station Grants – Opening October 15, 2025
The Alternative Fuel Facilities Program (AFFP) helps fund new or upgraded alternative fuel stations in Texas — including propane.
Key Details
• Grant Amounts: Up to 50% of eligible costs, capped at $600,000.
• Eligible Costs: Planning, design, engineering, storage tanks, dispensing equipment, construction, contractors, and supplies.
• Not Covered: Insurance, salaries, travel, admin expenses, land, existing facilities, or permitting costs.
• Station Type: Public stations are prioritized over private stations.
• Eligible Areas: Stations must be in Texas’ Clean Transportation Zone counties.
How It Works
• Competitive Program – not first come, first served.
• Applications Scored On: Station location (proximity to highways), project objectives, applicant qualifications, and feasibility.
• Deadline: Applications due March 2026.
• Project Timeline: Awardees must finish construction or upgrades by April 30, 2028.
• Reporting: Quarterly progress reports, a final report with photos, and three years of annual reports required.
Learn More
• Full program info: www.tceq.texas. gov/airquality/terp/affp
Need Help Applying?
Complimentary grant writing assistance is available through the American Energy Institute, in partnership with the
Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT). Contact: heather@americanenergyinstitute.com
Opening Oct. 13, 2025
Funding Available for New Propane Vehicles
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) will open applications for the Light-Duty Motor Vehicle Purchase or Lease Incentive Program (LDPLIP) on October 13, 2025. This program offers Texans financial incentives to choose propane-powered vehicles.
Key Program Details
• Grant Amounts: Up to $5,000 per new propane (LPG) vehicle
• Award Basis: First-come, first-served until funds are exhausted
• Total Grants: No more than 1,000 propane vehicle grants statewide
Eligibility Highlights
• Vehicle purchase or lease must occur on or after September 1, 2025.
• Both the sale/lease and eligible fuel system installation must physically occur in Texas.
• Vehicle must be new, included on TCEQ’s Eligible Vehicles List, and powered by a dedicated or bi-fuel propane system.
• LPG fuel system must be EPA-certified.
• Fuel system must be installed prior to the first sale or within the first 500 miles of operation.
• Vehicle must achieve a minimum driving range of 125 miles.
• Applicants must title, register, and operate the vehicle in Texas for at least one year.
Applications open online via TERP SUNSS beginning October 13.
More details: https://www.tceq.texas.
gov/airquality/terp/ldplip or contact our complimentary grant writer, Heather Ball at heather@americanenergyinstitute.com.
The federal EPA Clean School Bus Program has closed, but Texas schools still have funding opportunities. The Texas Clean School Bus (TCSB) Program, part of the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP) from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), will open for applications in October 2025.
Public school districts in Texas, pen-enrollment charter schools and county-wide school district transportation systems.
• Grants are for replacing or retrofitting diesel-fueled school buses used on daily school routes.
• Districts can be reimbursed for up to 80% of the cost to replace pre-2007 diesel buses with newer, cleaner options—such as propane-powered school buses.
• This is a first-come, first-served grant. Funding usually runs out within six weeks.
• Application forms and program requirements will be available on the TCSB webpage: www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/ terp/school-buses.html
Our partner, the American Energy Institute, can guide districts through the application and paperwork. Contact: Heather Ball at 512-484-8535 or at heather@americanenergyinstitute.com
TCEQ Help Line: 800-919-TERP (8377) | terp@tceq.texas.gov | www.terpgrants.org
Join Us for the TSD Conference
The Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) will participate in the upcoming Transporting Students with Disabilities & Special Needs (TSD) Conference and Trade Show, a national school bus transportation conference hosted in Texas to promote propane microbuses for school districts.
It could not come at a better time with two open grant rounds.
Expo Dates: November 9–10, 2025
Event Site: Embassy Suites DallasFrisco Hotel & Convention Center
7600 John Q. Hammons Drive Frisco, TX 75034
Room: Grand Ballroom
Want to engage with school transportation officials? Join us in the ProCOT booth at the TSD Conference.
Trade Show Schedule
Sunday, 11/9 – 5:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Trade Show + Tailgate Reception Monday, 11/10 – 10:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Trade Show + Lunch
One badge per company. Additional badges can be purchased for $150 each. Register at www.procot.org
Isn’t it time to trust that
insurance works as hard as you do?
• You will receive good old fashioned customer service.
• You will be educated about your policy coverages and shown where you might be vulnerable.
• You will receive multiple options for your insurance.
In the wake of recent hurricanes and natural disasters, the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) launched NPGAid—a disaster relief initiative to support full-time employees of NPGA member companies facing financial hardship due to unforeseen events. As an industry known for being energy first responders, NPGA recognized the need to extend that same care inward, helping its own community recover when disaster strikes.
NPGAid provides tax-free grants of $1,000 to $2,500 to eligible applicants impacted by natural disasters or personal emergencies affecting their primary residence. The fund is administered by the Emergency Assistance Foundation (EAF), which ensures confidential, objective review of applications. Applicants must be full-time employees (or on approved leave) of NPGA member companies and apply within 180 days of the event, with documentation of both the incident and related expenses.
To kickstart the fund, NPGA is matching donations up to $100,000. Contributions are tax-deductible and can be made online at www. NPGAid.com or via text—simply text NPGAid to 71777 to donate quickly and securely from your mobile device.
The fund is powered by donations from industry partners, NPGA members, and the public, reinforcing its mission: “By Propane, For Propane.” Every contribution helps fuel recovery when it’s needed most. For application details or support, visit the Emergency Assistance Foundation’s site or contact NPGAid@emergencyassistancefdn.org.
Robert Lee (Bob) Huebner, 93, of Santa Anna, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025. Bob proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War. After working in the oil industry in Odessa, he and his family settled in Bangs, Texas, where he purchased a propane and feed business. Bob’s L.P. Gas, Feed and Seed grew into a successful business. He retired in 2010 to focus on farming and ranching. Our thoughts are with his family.
Nexio has named Ryan Gaul as its new chief operating officer.Gaul brings more than 20 years of experience in commercial vehicle manufacturing and alternative fuel technologies. Former COO Horace Mast has been promoted to president and chief technology officer, where he will continue guiding the company’s propane engine innovation and product development. The leadership moves come as Nexio ramps up production of its Class 7 and Class 8 propane-powered commercial vehicles, with manufacturing operations based in Lufkin, Texas, set to begin in 2026.
Get ready to tee off for a great cause. The 30th Annual LPG Charity Fund Fall Classic is set for:
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Location: Tour 18 Golf Course, 3102
FM 1960 East, Humble, TX
Schedule: Registration begins at noon | Tee Time: 1:00 PM
After the tournament, dinner and cocktails will be served.
Thanks to generous support from past events—including golf, bowling, and Texas Hold’em—the LPG Charity Fund has proudly honored 100% of qualified financial assistance requests. Continued support is vital to keep that momentum going.
How you can help. Corporate sponsorships are needed to help cover event costs so that most of the proceeds can go directly to the LPG Charity Fund. Whether you're golfing or sponsoring, every contribution makes a meaningful impact.
Learn more and register at www. lpgfund.com
If a customer calls because they’re out of gas or suspect carbon monoxide, will your staff know how to respond? Just in time for heating season, the Propane
Council of Texas (ProCOT) reminds you that Propane 101: Your Go-To Flip Guide for Customer Questions is still available—while supplies last
This updated flip guide equips customer service representatives (CSRs) with clear, practical responses to customer inquiries. It’s the first update in over a decade and an essential tool for every branch. Each branch may order up to 5 copies free (just pay shipping and handling).
The guide covers key Emergency Situations (carbon monoxide, pilot outage, gas leaks, out-of-gas calls) as well as Other Common Inquiries (new customer calls, appliances, propane basics, aboveground & underground tanks, DOT cylinders).
This flip guide helps CSRs confidently answer questions, improve safety awareness, and build customer trust. Don’t miss your chance to get this valuable resource for your team!
How to Order: Visit https:// propaneservicecorp.com to request your free guides. Limit 5 per branch. Pay only shipping and handling. Enhance your customer service this winter—order your flip guides today!
Transportation
Meritum Energy Holdings has merged with McAdams Propane and Midstream Transportation Company. McAdams is a respected propane retailer in north and east Texas, recently expanding into Waco with a McGregor location. Midstream, founded in 2014, operates ~75 transports across the southern U.S. and has been a longtime supplier to Meritum’s Pico locations. Both companies are based in Center, Texas, with additional service centers in Baytown.
As part of the merger, the McAdams family retains a significant equity stake in Meritum. Josh McAdams joins Meritum’s board and executive leadership team as EVP and President of Midstream Transportation. The retail propane and transport operations will continue under the McAdams Propane and Midstream Transportation brands
with existing staff serving local markets.
The combined companies will distribute nearly 40 million gallons of propane annually, ranking Meritum as a top 20 U.S. retailer, alongside 50+ million gallons of refined fuels, 10,000+ MCF/day of CNG, and 150+ million gallons moved by Midstream.
Meritum and McAdams share a commitment to industry leadership.
Josh McAdams, a past TPGA President (2020–22), also serves on the Sabine River Authority board. Meritum
executives hold leadership positions in PERC and NPGA, with CEO Chris Hill currently serving as PERC Chairman.
Garrett Insurance Agency, Inc Formerly, Southern Star Insurance Agency, Inc
Cecil Joiner, Risk Manager cecil@garrettinsurance.com 936-756-2222 www.garrettinsurance.com
PetroStar Equipment Resources
Purchase & Sale Pre-Owned Propane Tanks 5,000 gallons to 90,000 gallons
FOR SALE
(6) 30,000 gallon, 250 psi, used stubbies (2) 30,000 gallon, 250psi, NEW 2024
Contact: Jim Oliver C: 832-643-7968 petrostar@pdq.net
BOBTAIL FOR SALE
2007 International with 2600 gal tank Located in Lufkin, Texas
For more information please contact
Steve Lyons 936-637-1454 info@lyonspropane.com
TANK FOR SALE
9200 gal tank on skids
Manufacture Date 2003
For more information please contact
Steve Lyons 936-637-1454
info@lyonspropane.com
FOR SALE
1996 Chevy Kodiak Bobtail 21,858 Gallon Capacity Out of service one year. $6,500 or Best Offer 361-364-3274
FOR SALE
2005 International with 2600g Tank
Located in Bonham, TX.
For more information please contact
Jason Robinson Cell: 580-380-1173
Email: jrobinson@mccrawoil.com
Omega Flex, Inc. has led the piping industry with its high-quality construction and commitment to exceed the industry’s product and safety standards. The flexibility and long lengths of CounterStrike® CSST make it perfect for remodel and repair work. It can be pulled like wire, which minimizes the need to remove and replace walls, while at the same time potentially reducing both construction cost and shortening lead times. Omega Flex currently has over 100 patents registered worldwide and is a product and engineering driven company committed to meeting our customers’ performance requirements. For more information on CounterStrike® CSST, visit our website at tracpipe.com
Rural customers are no strangers to the many uses of propane. Include on that long list the Insta-Hot® Pro, an updated portable horse washing system. The newer version features a sleek black color and LED screen.
The Pro version features heat output of 70,000 BTU, water flow of up to three gallons per minute and water temperature of 96°F warmer.
Users can also bathe pets with comfortable warm water, wash their truck and trailer, and even de-ice buckets in the
wintertime.
The Insta-Hot® Pro features an LED screen to track water temperature along with adjustable push-in-lock knobs to set water temp and gas pressure. The safety tilt switch ensures shutoff if the unit tips from a standard position, along with an automatic safety shutoff after 20 minutes of non-use.
It also features 8” solid allterrain wheels that allow users to easily move the unit to and from a horse trailer or barn while away at shows or hitting
the trail. The cart, which takes up little space, features a safety design that stabilizes the propane tank with a recessed holder within the cart’s base.
You can find more information about this product on Schneiders, a company that offers all horse-specific items: https://www.sstack.com/instahot-pro-portable-horse-washingsystem.
