Texas Propane Texas Propane Texas Propane
Guidance
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
Highlights from Headquarters
Bill Van Hoy
TPGA Executive Director
As winter continues, TPGA is preparing for a busy spring with key meetings and events. Be sure to mark your calendars for the TPGA Board and Committee Meetings on March 4-5, 2025, in San Antonio. TPGA members are encouraged to participate and RSVP through the TPGA website.
This issue offers an in-depth look at how your Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) and Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) dollars are making a meaningful impact across Texas. From consumer and business education to securing millions in grants, ProCOT’s efforts are making an impact. We also spotlight successful PERC TV campaigns, including national media coverage that reached millions in 2024.
Additionally, read about 21 new projects and programs approved by the Propane Education & Research Council for 2025 from industrial engine line expansion to metal recycling facilities.
Check out our Inside the Industry for a last chance to apply for the NPGA Scholarship, the upcoming LPG Charity Fund Poker Tournament, In Memoriam, People in Propane, New Members and more.
We conclude with our popular Propane with Purpose to showcase how propane powered equipment helps plumbers clear clogged pipes.
Texas Propane
TPGA staff
Bill Van Hoy ................. bvanhoy@txpropane.com Executive Director
Jackie Mason................... jmason@txpropane.com
Education & Marketing Director Regulatory & Sr. Legislative Affairs Director
Julie Novinger...........accountant@txpropane.com Bookkeeper
Soo Teal ................................ steal@txpropane.com Membership & Meeting Manager
Propane Service Corporation
Soo Teal ................ sales@propaneservicecorp.com Manager 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
AFFINITY PARTNERS
Basys Processing Lone Star Energy Group Warm Thoughts Communications
8408 North Interstate 35
TX 78753 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: Open
District 4 Director: Matt Peterson, Buster Brown Propane, 281-689-3946
District 4 Alternate: Garrett Green, Greens'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, 940-665-4672
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: Matt Carr, All Star Fuel, 888-572-0174
District 16 Director: Clay Crist, Crist Fuel, 806-426-3412
District 16 Alternate: Open
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
Save the Date: March 4-5, 2025
TPGA Board & Committee Meetings
Mark your calendar! I would like to encourage you to attend the upcoming meetings on March 4-5, 2025 at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort in San Antonio. We will be working on several very important items such as adoption of 2024 NFPA 54 and 58, the current Texas Legislative Session, the upcoming convention in August in Galveston, and kicking off a new membership year. Everyone’s participation in these important events is needed.
Thank you and see you in San Antonio!
Sincerely, Larry Baty, TPGA
President
Schedule
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
• 9:00am - 10:00am Finance Committee Meeting
• 10:00am - 12:00pm Legislative Affairs | T & S Committee Meeting
• 12:00pm - 1:00pm Networking Lunch
• 1:30pm - 2:30pm Convention Planning Committee
• 2:30pm - 3:30pm Executive Committee
• 3:30pm - 4:30pm Membership Committee
• 5:00pm - Happy Hour
• 6:00pm - Dinner
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
• 9:00am - 11:00am Board Meeting
Agenda: Financials, Legislative Affairs/Technical & Standards Update, RRC Update, Meetings/Convention Update, Executive Director’s Report, Membership Update, Old and New Business
Host Hotel
• Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr. San Antonio, TX 78251
For hotel accommodation options, please visit meeting homepage.
Resort Perks
• The resort fee has been waived for our group.
• 2 complimentary bottles of water per day
• Discounted Self-Parking at $10/Daily
• 10% discount on Windflower Spa Treatments
• 10% discount off Tee Times at Hyatt Hill Country Golf Club
Thank You To Our Sponsors
• Day 2 Coffee Break: Crum & Forster
• Lunch sponsors: Higginbotham/ Marshall Young Insurance & Enterprise Products
Attendance
• The TPGA Board & Committee Meetings are OPEN & EXCLUSIVE TO ALL TPGA MEMBERS.
• A RSVP IS REQUIRED so we can accommodate adequate seating and space.
• RSVP at www.txpropane.com
Questions?
Please email: info@txpropane.com or call 800-325-7427 ext. 6.
Playback: 2024 in Review
Your ProCOT Dollars at Work
Established more than 25 years ago, the Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) and the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) undertake numerous initiatives, programs, and projects each year to educate Texas residential consumers, businesses, farmers, builders, plumbers, and others about propane. From marketing campaigns and social media outreach to press initiatives and safety programs, the councils work diligently to ensure your ProCOT dollars make an impact. In this issue of Texas Propane magazine, we spotlight ProCOT’s efforts across the Lone Star State, while also showcasing national social media initiatives that have left a significant mark in Texas.
Up to 107.9M potential audience each press release
In 2024, ProCOT continued its impactful bi-monthly press campaign, successfully amplifying the benefits of propane to audiences across the state. Through strategic use of the PRNewswire platform, ProCOT distributed press releases that reached over 1,000 media outlets, including blogs, Texas newspapers, television stations, and the Associated Press. Each release garnered widespread attention, with an impressive pickup rate of 260–265 outlets per distribution.
Highlighted stories include: “Propane Council Educates on Backup Power Solutions as Texans Recover from Severe Storms,” “From Farm to Table: How Propane Fuels the Thanksgiving Food Chain,” and “Propane Council of Texas Recognizes Propane’s Role in Powering Texas on National Propane Day.”
By spotlighting propane’s versatility and critical role in everyday life, ProCOT’s campaign is ensuring that propane’s story is told in homes, businesses, and farms across Texas.
Up to 4.4M reached through digital advertising campaign
ProCOT partnered with PERC to launch a highly effective web advertising campaign. Texas-targeted display web banners garnered over 4 million impressions, appearing
on both desktop and mobile devices across brand-safe websites. Top websites visited by Texans included MSN.com, Yahoo.com, ESPN.com, NYPost.com, and SportsDFW. com. Other prominent examples included FoodNetwork.com, CNN.com, Newsweek. com, AccuWeather.com, Forbes.com, Zillow. com, NBCSports.com, and HGTV.com.
The campaign successfully reached diverse audiences across trusted platforms, amplifying propane’s message statewide.
Over 3.78M
impressions through 2024 Texas TV Campaign
ProCOT partnered with PERC and co-funded a Texas Energy for Everyone Campaign, which spanned from May 27 through August 25, 2024. The campaign educated Texans on how propane is a symphony of energy.
The campaign delivered impressive results, garnering millions of views across popular networks like FOX News, HGTV, Food Network, CBS, ESPN, Lifetime, Investigation Discovery and others.
Over 3.7M
impressions through PERC Facebook Ad Campaign in Texas.
Texas, a cornerstone of the propane industry, played a pivotal role in PERC’s 2024 social media campaign on Meta platforms. Accounting for 20% of the
campaign’s total spend, Texas generated remarkable results, including 3,747,641 impressions and 29,081 clicks.
The campaign, which launched nationally in March 2024 and ran through the end of the year, showcased creative strategies like carousel ads and holiday-themed content, both of which delivered standout engagement.
The power of Facebook, a key Meta platform, amplified the campaign’s reach. With 3.07 billion monthly active users worldwide and approximately 194.1 million in the United States, Facebook continues to dominate social media. While precise figures for Texas are unavailable, the state is said to have one of the highest user bases in the country.
Over $4.8M
in grant dollars awarded to school districts, with ProCOT grant support
In 2024, ProCOT again partnered with the American Energy Institute to offer Texans complimentary grant writing assistance for propane autogas grants. Through this partnership, millions of dollars were awarded to increase the number of propane autogas school buses and fleet vehicles on Texas roads.
This grant assistance program supports propane marketers looking to purchase bobtails, school districts aiming to acquire propane school buses, and various fleets seeking to integrate propane into their operations. The American Energy Institute helps match each fleet with the appropriate grant, whether private, regional, state, or federal.
Take the guesswork out of finding a grant and let us assist you. Need grant help? Please call us at 512-484-8535 or email heather@americanenergyinstitute.com.
Over 639,000 impressions through Texas Association of Builders Newsletter
In 2024, ProCOT actively engaged key market segments, including builders. ProCOT wrote advertorial articles twice a week for the Texas Association of Builders (TAB) newsletter that reaches over 7,500 residential construction professionals every Tuesday and Thursday.
Additionally, ProCOT participated in the 2024 Sunbelt Builders Expo hosted by TAB, engaging with over 2,100 builders and developers and providing a venue for propane marketers to engage with builders.
Over 307,000 Duty to Warn safety brochures mailed to Texas propane customers
For over a decade, ProCOT has assisted Texas propane retailers in getting safety information to their customers through its annual Duty to Warn Safety mailing program. This program is designed to help educate propane customers on important propane safety from what to if they smell gas to carbon monoxide risks. More information about our duty to warn program can be found at www.procot. org/dutytowarn.
The program will reopen September 2025 for the 2025-2026 heating season.
Over 147,000 newsletters distributed biannually
First published in 1967 as Friendly Flame and evolving through several iterations since, the biannual consumer newsletter now known as Propane Living continues to educate readers on all things propane. In 2024, the popular consumer newsletter educated propane customers about the advantages of propane over electricity, seasonal tips, and a variety of heating options, serving as a valuable resource for consumers. Branded with participating propane marketers’ logos, it is available to marketers at a very minimal cost.
Look for the next edition of Propane Living coming Spring 2025 at www.procot. org/propaneliving.
Over 103,000 farmers and ranchers educated during 2024 nearly each quarter
The Council spotlighted a variety of propane agricultural solutions and promoted the national propane ag incentives in Texas Agriculture, the official publication of the Texas Farm Bureau distributed to farmers across the state and on newsstands.
Over 53,500 propane safety tip & recipe wall calendars produced and distributed
One of our longest-running projects, the Propane Consumer Safety Tip & Recipe Calendar, has been a staple for over two decades and is ordered by more than 113 branches annually. Since its launch, the Council has produced this invaluable safety resource to educate propane consumers year-round.
The calendar not only features essential residential propane safety tips but also includes helpful reminders, such as checking your gas gauge monthly and scheduling early fills ahead of the heating season.
“Customers love them.”
— Billy Stephenson, Guadalupe Gas
“We love all the propane safety reminders, and all the recipes.”
— Rio Propane & Sons
Keep an eye out for more information about the 2025 edition this summer at www.procot.org/calendar.
Nearly 21,000
impressions through PlumbingHeating-Cooling Contractors of Texas newsletter
ProCOT ran advertisements in the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Texas (PHCC) newsletter reaching 1,651 PHCC professionals each week. ProCOT promoted propane plumbing and HVAC curriculum, technical resources, propane safety and innovative solutions like the heat pump helper.
72
propane career presentations given to Texas CDL and technical schools.
Over 731
Texas job seekers registered GeneratioNext Job Board
In 2024, ProCOT partnered with GeneratioNext Propane Pros to tackle the growing workforce shortage in the propane industry. With many seasoned employees retiring, the demand for skilled drivers and service technicians became more urgent than ever. This collaboration provided a valuable resource: NextGenPropane.com, a platform where propane employers could post job openings or browse pre-qualified candidate profiles. The program exceeded expectations, delivering three times the anticipated number of presentations and with over 700 active appli-
cants and 183 Texas propane company locations signed up on the platform.
“Thank you again for the service GeneratioNext Propane Pros is providing to our industry. The hiring process has always been so frustrating. In the past I have used several services to search for new hires, including some specific to our industry with little to no results. Hiring qualified drivers has always been an uphill battle, this service levels the field. Never have I had the results that I have seen from GeneratioNext. I have made one hire and have two more applicants to interview…These people came to me interested in starting a career in the propane industry based on what they heard in her presentation. Thanks Michelle and GeneratioNext for taking one of the headaches out of the game! You really are Propane Pros!”
- Craig Hill, Owner, Hill Gas
The Propane Council of Texas looks forward to 2025 to continue to offer consumer education campaigns, propane industry resources, and market outreach. Learn more about ProCOT programs and projects later this spring at www.procot.org.
A Look Back
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) achieved a monumental media presence in 2024, solidifying its influence during the Paris Olympics. By strategically investing in NBC Universal’s Olympic coverage, PERC exceeded expectations, delivering a staggering 145 million impressions—an impressive 168% overdelivery compared to the guaranteed figure of 86 million. Running from July 26 to August 11, the campaign captivated audiences across platforms, showcasing propane’s benefits adjacent to the thrill of Olympic action.
The Olympic Campaign wasn’t the only success story for the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) in 2024. PERC also partnered with FOX News Media to bring propane into the spotlight for National Propane Day this past October. With the largest buildout ever on FOX Square, this collaboration featured engaging segments on FOX & Friends and FOX Weather, highlighting propane’s versatility and its role in powering homes during major weather events. This multifaceted campaign also drove audiences to Propane.com, combining on-air, online, and social media efforts to achieve extraordinary reach and engagement.
PERC Approves 21 Projects at Winter Meeting
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) approved the following 21 dockets during its December 2024 meeting for 2025 projects.
• $11,224,600 for PERC’s 2025 integrated marketing and communications plan, which encompasses total programming for all markets, digital development, corporate
communications and market support, and environmental thought leadership.
• $2,250,000 for the 2025 Propane Construction Research and Data Collection Program, which will gather data from builders on homes built or remodeled in 2025.
• $988,100 for 2025 industry engagement, which covers outreach and meeting expenses to educate the industry about consumer education efforts, environmental messaging, market growth and commercialization efforts, and safety and training programs.
• $913,000 for 2025 workforce outreach and education, which supports propane workforce training, external audience training to allied markets, and technical school curriculums.
• $800,000 for a two-year project that will support the creation and updating of
Tracy Wells John Percy Mike Armstrong
Propane Emergencies curriculum, program outreach and more.
• $725,000 to fund market data and research initiatives in 2025, including data sets that inform the state of the industry and progress toward strategic goals.
• $700,000 to support business development activities for a Reliable Horsepower industrial engine line expansion.
• $650,000 for the Alternative Technology Demonstration & Research Program, designed to collect data from participating commercial and industrial businesses to inform research about propane use in the commercial building industry.
• $604,835 for 2025 autogas market business development activities.
$567,250 for 2025 residential market business development activities.
• $550,120 for 2025 agriculture and off-road market business development activities.
• $506,350 for 2025 commercial market business development activities.
• $433,850 for 2025 material handling business development activities.
• $421,000 to support the execution of product development, research activities and business development, plus key components of PERC’s strategic plan.
• $350,000 for the 2025-26 Propane Farm Research Program, which compensates agricultural producers for documenting propane’s performance on the farm. Added research opportunities target diesel displacement and prime power generation.
• $250,000 for disaster recovery as well as a “building back safely” program following the hurricanes that hit the southeastern United States in 2024. Specifically, the funds will benefit homeowners in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. The program, administered and promoted by the state associations, will provide funds to match states’ safe appliance rebate funds.
• $203,808 for a direct injection LPG demonstration truck. This docket funds the conversion of a 5.3-liter L8T engine of a 2024 GM Silverado from gasoline to a direct injection LPG system.
• $200,000 to develop and build a durable off-road system demonstration engine (19-56 kilowatts) that is Tier V compliant and a feasible alternative to diesel.
• $200,000 for PERC Education Program (PEP) administration. The project
supports the design and development of online training programs for PEP-recognized instructors, conducting in-person instructor training and virtual instructor training.
• $157,750 to support the creation of curriculum, training and outreach about propane to metal recycling facilities through the Recycled Materials Association and the Recycling Education and Research Foundation.
• $60,000 for the 2024 Utilization Technology Development (UTD) consortium. UTD is a research-based nonprofit organization composed of natural
gas distribution companies focused on the development of safe and efficient enduse gas technologies. PERC continues to work with UTD to co-fund product innovation and development activities.
PERC will meet virtually on Feb. 12 and in person on April 3 in Charlotte, North Carolina, ahead of the National Propane Gas Association’s Southeastern & International Propane Expo.
Article reprinted with permission from LP Gas magazine www.lpgasmagazine.com
Isn’t it time to trust that your 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.
Inside the Industry
National Propane Gas Foundation Scholarship Deadline is February 15, 2025
The National Propane Gas Foundation Scholarship Fund is giving away money to help industry children pay for college, trade school, or other programs. Every year, the NPGF/SF awards $1,000 and $2,000 scholarships to over 100 students.
Since 1994, the NPGF Scholarship Fund has distributed more than $2 million to 1,700+ children of NPGA member company employees!
Here’s what you need to know:
Who can apply? Children of full-time employees at propane companies (NPGA members, state propane associations, or PERC)
What are the grades you need? At least a 2.6 GPA (or equivalent)
What kind of school can you go to? Accredited colleges, universities, or trade schools
What can you study? Anything you want, but the below are highly encouraged to also apply
• Commercial truck drivers
• Gas fitters
• Pipe fitters
• Electricians
• HVAC technicians
• Plumbers
How much money can you win? $1,000 or $2,000!
How many scholarships are there? Over100 every year!
Important Date:
Applications close: February 15th
Want to learn more?
Visit the NPGA website: www.npga.org/news-resources/scholarships
Have questions? Email scholarship@npga.org.
In Memoriam
With heavy hearts, TPGA announces the passing of Mike Welch on January 5, 2025. Mike was part of a third-generation family business, Cass County Butane, operating as Welch Propane, with locations in Atlanta, Douglassville, Linden, and Texarkana, Texas. After the business was sold, he continued his career in the propane industry with Ferrellgas.
During his time at Welch Propane, Mike served on multiple TPGA committees and the Board of Directors, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
He is survived by his wife, Martha; three sons; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; his brother, George Welch, Jr. (Mary); his sister, Jana Granberry (Tom); and many other relatives and friends.
Edwin B. Zly, of Ballinger, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, at the wonderful age of 97. He was a devoted father, grandfather, greatgrandfather and great-great-grandfather (known to many as Popo). Edwin was a member of America’s Greatest Generation.
After serving in World War II as a gunner for a mobile 37-mm anti-tank gun, he returned to Ballinger. Among other jobs, he worked at West Texas Butane for 28 years. Our thoughts are with his family.
LPG Charity Fund
Houston
Texas Hold’em Tournament
Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Location: Dave & Buster’sKaty Freeway, Houston
Registration & Lunch: 11:30 AM
Tournament Start: 1:00 PM
The Annual John L. Hinsey Memorial Texas Hold’em Tournament, organized by the LPG Charity Fund and chaired by TPGA member Callie Stewart, returns for another exciting year.
Attendees can enjoy friendly competition, networking opportunities, and a chance to win incredible raffle prizes, including a trip for two to Las Vegas. Lunch and cocktails will also be available for those who prefer to mingle rather than play.
Proceeds support the LPG Charity Fund’s mission of assisting industry members facing catastrophic medical or financial hardships.
For more details or to register, visit www.lpgfund.com. Platinum and Gold Sponsors are reminded to claim their complimentary seats. Questions can be directed to Callie Stewart at cbstewart@ eprod.com.
Winter Storm Blair Spurs Waivers to Aid Propane Industry
In response to the challenges brought by Winter Storm Blair last month, the Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA) successfully secured a critical five-day
hours of service (HOS) waiver from the Texas Department of Public Safety. This temporary relief helped propane delivery drivers meet heightened fuel demands during the severe winter conditions. Under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, state agencies are limited to issuing HOS waivers for no more than five days.
At the national level, the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) achieved a broader victory by advocating for a 21-day Regional Emergency Declaration from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This declaration provided HOS relief across the continental United States, enabling the propane industry to deliver critical fuel despite extreme weather. NPGA’s efforts included tireless communication with federal officials, industry leaders, and key stakeholders.
Join or rejoin TPGA for 2025 to stay on top of hours and governmental waivers throughout the year as well as propane pricing for Texas, Gulf Coast and the U.S.
Waivers provide relief for drivers during winter inclement weather, power outages, tornados, hurricanes, derechos and wildfires.
New TPGA Members
SUPPLIER MEMBERS
Gray, Gray & Gray, LLP Canton, MA https://www.gggllp.com/
Manchester tank Carrollton, TX http://mantank.com
Zenergy Propane, LLC El Paso, TX
https://www.zenergypropane.com/
Game Changer for Propane Marketers
Ultrasonic Smart Gas Meter
• 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
Ultrasonic Flow Sensor
Inside the Industry
Last Chance!
Texas Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program
Applications Due March 4, 2025
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)’s Texas Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program (TNGVGP) is closing soon, offering up to $25 million in grants for upgrading heavy-duty and medium-duty vehicles to propane and natural gas.
Program Highlights:
• Grant Amount: Up to 90% of eligible replacement or repower costs.
• Eligible Vehicles: Medium- and heavy-duty fleets, including propanepowered bobtails, school buses, and box trucks.
People in Propane
Last month, TPGA member Ed Varney of METSA captivated audiences nationwide with his soulful saxophone performance of the national anthem at the Texas vs. Ohio State playoff game. A seasoned musician with over 55 years of experience— playing since the age of 9—Varney’s stirring rendition at AT&T Stadium earned rave reviews, with fans calling it the “best national anthem” of the college football season. His powerful performance received a standing ovation and reached over 20 million viewers tuning into the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic. Ed’s talent also garnered 50,000 views on his Facebook page and 800+ congratulatory texts immediately after the show. Don’t miss Ed live at the 2025 NPGA Southeastern & International Propane Expo™ opening session on April 4 in Charlotte, NC!
• Fuel Options: Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).
Requirements:
Vehicles must operate at least 75% of the time in the Texas Clean Transportation Zone (80+ county area) for four years or 400,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Eligible vehicles include new or used (model year 2018 or later) propane or
natural gas models.
Applicants must have owned and operated the vehicle being replaced in Texas for at least two years.
Learn more, download Texas Clean Transportation Zone map and apply at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/terp/ tngvgp.html.
Don’t miss this first-come, first-served opportunity!
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
westmor-ind.com
the Industry
Georgetown ISD Secures Over $200,000 for
Propane Buses
Georgetown Independent School District (GISD) was awarded $240,000 in grant funding to support the purchase of two cleaner-burning propane-powered school buses, replacing two older 2006 diesel models.
In December, the GISD Board of Trustees approved the district’s participation in a grant program offered by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). This initiative provides $120,000 per bus to encourage the adoption of cleaner, propane-fueled vehicles over traditional diesel options.
Each new bus costs $164,197, bringing the total purchase price to $328,394. Thanks to the TCEQ grant, the district will save approximately 73% on the cost of replacing the aging diesel buses.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality offers numerous grant opportunities throughout the year to help fleets and schools transition to cleaner options. The grants aim to reduce the community’s exposure to harmful diesel exhaust while promoting environmentally friendly transportation options.
Winter’s Test: Propane vs. Diesel
As winter temperatures plummet, many school districts report exceptional performance from their propane-powered school buses. Unlike diesel, which gels in freezing conditions, propane remains unaffected, allowing for reliable starts and consistent operation. Diesel-powered buses often struggle in frigid weather, requiring the use of expensive additives, block heaters, or lengthy idling times just to get running. These challenges can lead to delays, increased maintenance costs, and operational inefficiencies, leaving school districts scrambling to ensure transportation for students. Propane buses eliminate these coldweather headaches, providing a dependable solution that keeps schools on schedule, no matter how harsh the winter gets.
Speaking of winter and kids, PSC manager Soo and her adorable neighbors—Desmond, Will, and Simone—teamed up to create this adorable little snowman masterpiece on the first freeze of 2025.
Photo of the Month
Inside the Industry
Fueling Safety: $21,000
DOT Grant to Fund Texas Fire Training
The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) successfully secured a $400,000 grant from the Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation to fund sub-grants for Hazardous Materials Instructor Training. Seventeen state and regional propane gas associations, including Texas, received grants for 2025. The Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA), in partnership with the Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT), was awarded $21,000 from NPGA.
With this grant, ProCOT and TPGA plan to host a two-day Propane Emer-
gencies Training this fall at the renowned Texas A&M Engineering Extension (TEEX) Brayton Training Field in College Station, TX. This world-class training facility features realistic, largescale, hands-on LPG-specific training
props. Situated adjacent to the Texas A&M University campus, the 297-acre site draws more than 45,000 emergency responders annually from all 50 states and over 45 countries.
Inside the Industry
Flashback: January 2025
In case you missed it with the busy winter weather last month, the January 2025 issue of Texas Propane magazine was packed with timely winter articles
Inside the issue:
• Navigating Debt Collection and Preventing Non-Payment: A Guide for Propane Businesses
• Helping Homeowners Understand Propane’s Value This Winter: Put an End to Propane Price Complaints
• How the Texas Energy Assistance
Program Can Help Propane Customers
• What’s New in 2025? Key Updates to PERC’s Construction Incentives
• Carbon Monoxide Risks in Winter: Guide to Customer Safety
• Women in Propane (WIP): Connections, Training & Community
• TX Workforce Commission: Personnel Files: More Than Just Paper in Folders?
Read past issues of Texas Propane magazine at https://www.txpropane.com/ magazine
ur dedication to superior ser vice and unmatched qualit y has propelled us to the foref ront of our
y. Enhance your equipment today with our cu tting- edge produc t line at American S tandard!
Classifieds
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
CALENDAR
FEBRUARY
3-5
NPGA Winter Board of Directors, Committee & Section Meetings Clearwater, FL 12
PERC Council Meeting – Virtual 15
NPGF Scholarship Deadline 15
Young Professional of Year Nominations Due 17
TPGA Closed Presidents Day 20-21
2025 National Propane Education & Training Conference Orlando, FL
MARCH
4
Texas Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program (TNGVGP) Deadline
4-5
TPGA March Board & Committee Meetings San Antonio, TX
9-12
OPIS NGL Summit Charlotte Harbor, FL 10-12
NPGA Spring Technology, Standards & Safety Committee Meeting Greenville, SC 10-14
Category E Class Week I 13-14
NPGA Benchmarking Spring Meeting Tucson, AZ
24-28
Category E Class Week II
APRIL 3
PERC Council Meeting Charlotte, NC 4-6
2025 Southeastern Propane Expo Charlotte, NC 18
TPGA Closed for Good Friday
PROPANE with PURPOSE
Propane Jetters Provide Plumbing Industry Extra Oomph
A jetter or pressure jet drain cleaner is a specialized plumbing tool that is used to clear clogged or slow moving pipes. Jetters are very powerful and work by employing highpressure water jets to clear any obstructions from your pipes. They are useful for residential and commercial applications.
Jetters Northwest, https:// jettersnorthwest.com/propanefueled/, has introduced a CARB/EPA (California Air Resources Board) Certified Propane Powered Jetter. It utilizes a 30 pound propane tank, provides 3500 PSI and is ideal for facilities, airports, warehouses, facility maintenance, parking garages, and much more.
Their product, called the Cart 3508LP Jetter, comes with all the features and quality of their standard gasoline engine Jetters, such as super duty pumps, panel mounted
pressure gauge, and pulse valve, mounted flow and pressure controls, high quality bearing mounted hose reels with drip pan, and 12-gallon water supply tank.
