April 2023 Texas Propane magazine

Texas Propane T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R T H E T E X A S P R O PA N E G A S A S S O C I AT I O N

APRIL 2023

PROPANE & AGRICULTURE

Global Uses & Texas Opportunities

Propane Farm Equipment Incentives 2023 Propane Appliances Rebate Program TPGA Scholarship Opens

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Texas Propane T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R T H E T E X A S P R O PA N E G A S A S S O C I AT I O N

CONTENTS FEATURES

8 HOW LPG IS BEING USED IN AGRICULTURE AND FARMING

What are some of the opportunities for the Texas agriculture market? Using Texas specific data and a report published by the WLPGA, we look at myriad options.

16 HOW YOUR TEXAS FARM CUSTOMERS CAN ACCESS PROPANE FARM EQUIPMENT INCENTIVES

The Propane Farm Incentive Program (FIP) is a research project to gain feedback on the performance of select propane-powered equipment in the field.

20 HELP YOUR CUSTOMERS UPGRADE TO PROPANE WITH 2023 REBATE PROGRAM

ProCOT’s 2023 Texas Saves with Propane Appliance Rebate Program is now open DEPARTMENTS

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SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

PROPANE WITH PURPOSE

The deadline to submit all applications, including all required documents, is May 15, 2023

New Mini Paver from Pavijet utilizes propane.

AFFINITY PARTNERS

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HIGHLIGHTS from HEADQUARTERS

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TPGA Board of Directors

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Inside the Industry

Texas needs your help!

Fill out your Annual Retail Sales Survey now so Texas receives its fair share of rebate money for important programs.

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People in Propane

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Classified Advertising

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Calendar of Events Make sure you have the NPGA Convention & Expo on your calendar for April 23-25.

Basys Processing • Lone Star Energy Group

2023 Crossroads Propane Expo & Conference Sponsors

Golf Tournament • Targa Resources Beer & Wine Pavilion • McAdams Propane Tote Bags • Cargas Systems Lanyards • Enterprise Transportation President’s Cocktail Reception • Quality Steel Expo Floor Refreshments • Rural Computer Consultants

NEW MEMBERS Suppliers CONSOLIDATED INSURANCE PARTNERS OF TEXAS Denton, TX PHOENIX PARK ENERGY MARKETING Houston, TX NGL SUPPLY TERMINALS/LEGEND LLC Petal, MS

HIGHLIGHTS FROM HEADQUARTERS

Texas Propane THE MAGAZINE FOR THE TEXAS PROPANE GAS ASSOCIATION

Highlights from Headquarters Bill Van Hoy

TPGA Executive Director

Exhibit sales and registration are open for the 2023 Crossroads Propane Expo & Conference, August 3-5, Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center, The Woodlands, TX. Be sure to sign up now and don’t forget to make your hotel reservations as historically the block sells out. This year the Elmer Atkins Memorial Golf Tournament, sponsored by Targa Resources, will be held at The Trails at the Woodlands Country Club – North Course.

Your registration fee of $250 per golfer includes greens fee, breakfast and awards lunch.

There is a change to the eligibility requirements for the 2023 scholarship application process. To be eligible, you must not have previously been awarded a scholarship by the TPGA Scholarship Foundation. Completed applications should be accompanied by the required application materials including academic transcripts, essays and other documents. Make sure to carefully review the application instructions to ensure that you provide the required materials and that your application is complete. The application deadline is May 15, 2023.

Propane is commonly used in agriculture for a variety of applications. This versatile fuel source can help farmers to improve their operations. This month’s feature article may give your ideas on how you can grow your gallons.

Opportunities are there for the propane marketer to gain more gallons.

The Propane Farm Incentive Program (FIP) is a research project to gain feedback on the performance of select propane-powered equipment in the field sponsored by PERC. Page 16 has all the information regarding eligibility and program registration.

TPGA staff Bill Van Hoy..................bvanhoy@txpropane.com Executive Director Jackie Mason...................jmason@txpropane.com Education & Marketing Regulatory & Legislative Affairs Debbie Simpson.........dsimpson@txpropane.com Executive Assistant Membership Meeting Planner Publication Coordinator Julie Novinger............accountant@txpropane.com Bookkeeper Propane Service Corporation Debbie Simpson..sales@propaneservicecorp.com 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

The 2023 ProCOT Propane Appliance Rebate Program launched on March 31, 2023. There is a webinar on April 20, 2023, for information about the rebate program. Page 20 has the information, and the application follows that.

8408 North IH 35 Austin, TX 78753 512-836-8620 or 800-325-7427 512-834-0758 fax E-mail: info@txpropane.com www.txpropane.com 4

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2023-2024 TPGA Board of Directors President: Allen Wells, Wells Propane, 281-332-2630 President Elect: Larry Baty, Cadenhead Servis Gas, 800-722-8654 Secretary: Harris Baker, HBH Systems, 512-587-8347 Treasurer/Finance Chair: Bill Collins, Propane Exchange, 214-629-5118 District 1 Director: David Collett, Gas and Supply, 903-780-2488 District 1 Alternate: Open District 2 Director: Matt Brock, McAdams Propane, 936-598-7444 District 2 Alternate: Open District 3 Director: Open District 3 Alternate: Open District 4 Director: Danny Meyers, Bellville Butane 979-865-2698 District 4 Alternate: Matt Peterson, Buster Brown Propane, 281-689-3946 District 5 Director: Ryan Tudyk, Howdy Propane Services, 361-771-1900 District 5 Alternate: Open 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: Open District 8 Director: Rodney Sladek, Fayetteville Propane, 979-836-7044 District 8 Alternate: Open 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, 9003-583-7481 District 10 Alternate: Chad Gregg, Enderby Gas, 940-482-3225 District 11 Director: Steve Adams, Hardwick LPG, 254-647-3402 District 11 Alternate: Open District 12 Director: Laci Jo Stone, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109 District 12 Alternate: Open 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: Open District 15 Director: Don Heinrich, Slaton Gas, 806-828-6501 District 15 Alternate: Open District 16 Director: Mark Garrison, Fred Garrison Oil, 806-296-6353 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: Ben Wood, Northwest Propane, 972-247-6121 Vice President: Steve Adams, Hardwick LPG, 254-647-3402 Vice President: Jeremy Gentile, Hill Butane, 409-296-2001 Vice President: Matt Terry, Matador Gas, 210-560-5418 Sr. Vice President: Todd Dorris, Roadrunner Energy, 830-278-2915 Sr. Vice President: Bill Collins, Collins Propane, 972-442-1078 Sr. Vice President: Joe Green, Green’s Blue Flame Gas, 713-462-5414 Assoc. Supplier Service Director: Kirk McGarrah, Cox2M, 713-897-1740 Assoc. Supplier Service Alternate: Open Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Director: Jimmie Grant, Martin Gas Sales, 713-851-6155 Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Alternate: Jim Fulton, 4J Energy, 281-728-8567 Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Director: Tracy Wells, Gas Equipment Co, 214-683-8018 Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Alternate: Joe Ezernack, Meeder Equipment, 903-877-9401 Assoc. At Large Director: John Becraft, Targa Resources, 817-416-7757 Assoc. At Large Alternate: Crystelle Markley, Superior Energy Systems, 512-944-4177 Nominating Chair: Ben Wood, Northwest Propane, 972-247-6121 NPGA Director: Chad Gray, Dixie LP Gas, 254-582-5359

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Feature

How LPG is Being Used in Agriculture and Farming Globally

Opportunities for the Texas Ag Market

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n 2021, Texas marketers reported 13,384,247 gallons of propane used by agriculture customers, but could there be room for growth? According to the Texas Department of Agriculture, Texas leads the nation in number of farms and ranches, with 248,416 farms and ranches covering 127 million acres, so we thought it would be prudent to report on all the ways farmers and ranchers may utilize propane in ag operations.

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

and other equipment; to pump water, run ventilation fans, and cool agricultural products; and to provide light for workers, greenhouses, and livestock.

Farming – Field Work

This article is excerpted from a reportpublished by the WLPGA and includes Texas stats from multiple state government organizations.

More information on the organization and access to the full report at wlpga.org

Combine Harvester & Rice Transplanters

Combine harvesters and rice transplanters have helped the mechanization of rice transplanting and harvesting. They are used for simultaneous harvesting and threshing of crops such as rice, wheat and pulses.

Loaders

Loaders are specialized machines that allow the operator to load and unload their products or goods. Often, the LPG powered skid steer loader is a modified version of the diesel-powered unit. The extreme flexibility of this machine allows it to be operated in almost any environment. This is especially useful in situations where low emissions are required but the remote location of the work area would prevent the use of an electrically powered equivalent. This self-sufficient loader has the ability to work without the need for an external power source.

Mini Transporters

The mini transporters are able to make precise movements on rough paths and transport cargo on difficult terrain with steep slopes. The platform has non-slip strips and front eye bolts to secure the cargo for ease of handling and loading.

Tillers

Properly preparing the soil with a tiller is a great way to start successful planting.

There are LPG conversion kits for existing petrol or diesel units. These kits are user-friendly and easy to install.

Weed Flamers Photo compliments of Flame Engineering.

The WLPGA published a paper last year that detailed all of the different uses for propane in agriculture, environmental aspects, a roadmap for market growth and recommendations for growing the industry.

Here we focus on how propane is being utilized around the world in agriculture and farming.

The use of LPG in the agricultural industry is not new, but it is certainly increasing. LPG is a sustainable way of keeping farms operating, and it helps to promote sustainable development, reduce costs, lower emissions and allows the agricultural industry in general to remain competitive.

LPG is entwined with most aspects of the agricultural sector. LPG is used to run farms and ranches; to operate trucks

Farm equipment covers an extensive range of equipment engaged in several stages of agriculture, such as land development, sowing, planting, cultivation, harvesting, and threshing. The range varies from the simplest machinery such as transporters, tillers to fertilizers, plows, harrows, fertilizer spreaders, seeder sand high-end engineered tractors.

Farming machinery is too numerous to be mentioned. Here are some classifications of machines based on the type of farm work they are meant for: • Cultivators include power tillers, ploughs, drags, spikes, chisel ploughs, rockier pickers and others.

• Planters and trans planters used from crop planting.

• Irrigation machinery for watering the field.

• Harvesters which include thresher, combine machinery, conveyor belts, cotton pickers, corn, cane and bean harvester, gleaner, farm machines gravity wagons, swathers and diggers.

• Haying machines and loaders, which include rakers, balers, bale movers, mowers, backhoes and other transporting machines.

designed to carry out a specific task with more efficacy than a passenger vehicle.

With diesel powered vehicles under scrutiny from environmental campaigners, the LPG fuel option for a utility vehicle will be welcomed by those who want to go ‘green’. LPG offers clean power without the downtime and cost associated with electric power and batteries.

Farm Work – Utility Vehicles

Utility vehicles, also known as cargo all-terrain vehicles (CATV), or simply, “utes,” are ideal for farmers, family farmers, ranchers and growers that suit them for the demands of agricultural work.

The LPG option offers lower running costs, lower whole life costs and better cold weather performance than electric power. A utility vehicle is a vehicle, generally motorized, that is

A variety of methods are available for the control of weeds by farmers. Among farmers, chemical spraying is common. However, chemicals can be expensive to use, difficult to apply in wet or windy weather, and very April 2023 • Texas Propane

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important, many pollute the water and the soil itself. Chemical spraying can also delay crop harvesting. Growers may also face herbicide restrictions because of environmental regulations or sensitive crops.

Irrigation Systems

Irrigation is an energy-intensive farming operation. LPG-powered irrigation engines are becoming more efficient all the time and when compared with diesel or gasoline, which can provide farmers with an immediate savings in fuel costs.

Advanced LPG-fueled stationary irrigation engines offer increased efficiency and reliability with reduced maintenance requirements. The Propane Education & Research Council reports that they expect this application to grow in 2023.

Portable LPG engines are a convenient and economical way to drive irrigation pumps. These engines can also be disconnected from the pumps and used for other power needs, such as generating electricity, powering mechanical grinding mills, and driving various types of manufacturing equipment.

In the United States, there are around 27 manufacturers/distributors of propane irrigation engines. The technology is there and available. These irrigation engine manufacturers can be found on the PERC propane.com website under irrigation engines.

Water Pumping

Except for solar-powered pumps (which have their own deficiencies needing the sun to operate), no other fuel-driven pumps offer the benefits that LPG machines do. Propane can efficiently pump water, particularly in rural areas where electricity from the grid is unavailable. It can also handle various types of water, such as fresh, corrosive, impure, and con-

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Texas propane retailer Jack Walzel, owner of Tri-Co Propane, says propane irrigation engines are coming back. Not just because of higher diesel prices, but also because of the indefinite shelf life of propane. Propane irrigation engines give his corn farmers the water they need for maximum production. taminated water, making it ideal for irrigation, firefighting and other applications.

Larger and more powerful units can handle tasks such as agricultural spraying, irrigation, dewatering, emergency water supply, bailing and pressure boosting. These machines are highly portable, making them suitable for use in remote and challenging environments. Additionally, LPG conversion kits are available for gasoline or diesel-powered units, which are user-friendly and straightforward to install.

Crop Farming - Crop Protection

In horticultural markets, the particular advantages of using LPG in conjunction with well-engineered equipment are of paramount importance. Burning LPG produces a highly controllable humid heat with no harmful by-products. This is used to maintain temperature controls during the cold months and eliminate the risk of frost damage to plants and flowers.

Greenhouses

Greenhouses can range in size from small sheds to industrial-sized buildings.

The most notable application is in space heating, where LPG greenhouse heaters provide the necessary heat and humidity that aid crop development and also prevent crop damage during the winter months. The growth processes of many

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fruits and vegetables in glasshouses and polytunnels can be improved by using LPG. In addition to being flexible and highly controllable, LPG powered systems can, in fact, provide the added advantage of releasing CO2 as a byproduct. The correct balance of CO2 is the key ingredient to a successful horticultural crop.

Log Splitter

A log splitter is a piece of machinery or equipment used for splitting firewood from softwood or hardwood logs that have been pre-cut into sections (rounds).

There have been multiple manufacturers of log splitters across the globe.

Green Gear manufactures a unit in Europe, and in the states, a familyowned company called Badger Earth Tools manufactures a 28-ton towable dual fuel log splitter.

Cold Storage of Fruit in Nitrogen

An interesting use of LPG in horticulture is the cold storage of fruit under a protective atmosphere consisting essentially of nitrogen. To prevent decay of stored fruit at what would otherwise be an optimum temperature (0-5), it is necessary to reduce the oxygen content of storage space between by 2 and 4%.

This is done by burning LPG in a ‘generator’ located externally to the storage area.

The products of combustion are carbon dioxide, nitrogen and some excess oxygen.

These gases are piped through an absorber-cooler containing lime, in which the atmospheric temperature is reduced, and the carbon dioxide removed, leaving only the nitrogen which is then led into the cold storage room. The optimum gas composition is maintained by burning more LPG and recirculating the atmosphere through the scrubber. Apples in particular are responsive to this sort of treatment and commercially made gas generators have been used for cold stores holding up to one million bushels (36,000m3).

Frost Protection (variety of crops)

Each year millions of acres of fruit orchards, vineyards and other crop fields risk being subjected to freezing temperatures and it is approximately 5-15% of the world’s crops are damaged by cold temperatures.

This has emphasized the need for farmers

ronmentally friendly way.

Geerlofs installed a refrigeration system with LPG. The refrigeration system was indirect, meaning the use of LPG was limited to the machine room and in the building water and glycol was used as a means to bring the cold to the stores.

Both the compressors as well as the fluid pumps were equipped with frequencycontrolled motors to enable variable speed drive. The system is future proof, already taking into account a possible extension with two additional cold stores later. The system has taken into to using a climate computer during the summer months.

Soil Steam

to engage in activities to mitigate the effects of colder temperatures. These frost/freeze protection methods are based on preventing or replacing radiant heat loss.

Orchard and Vineyards Heaters are commonly used in various areas of the world to prevent frost damage to fruit and fruit trees. Most heaters are designed to burn fuel and can be placed as free-standing units or connected by a pipeline network throughout the crop area. Experience has however shown that a large number of small fires burning throughout the orchard provides better protection than a few large fires concentrated in spots.

A less well known but very cost-effective method for frost protection is the use of wind machines. These work with nature to pull warmer air down into the orchard or growing field to raise temperatures and save crops. These machines are available in models that consist of LPG powered engines.

Texas has 280 commercial wineries with 3,100 acres of vineyards, and according to the Texas Department of Agriculture, 176,837 acres of Texas farmland are dedicated to orchards. Propane-powered wind machines can be seen already protecting orchards in some South Texas and beyond.

According to LP Gas magazine, for 2023, the Propane Education & Research Council approved "$595,010 for the fabrication and commercialization of a selfpropelled, propane-fueled band steam applicator. The unit, using steam to control soil nematodes and weed seeds, aims to help farmers displace diesel and replace toxic fumigants."

PERC's Director of Agriculture, Michael Newland told TPGA that he thinks this technology has a lot of promise and

will be great opportunity for propane in the agricultural market.

Animal Control

Pests come in various shapes and sizes and cause discomfort and inconvenience to farmers. Farmers all over the world search for specially designed devices that can dissuade birds from eating recently planted arable crops.

One of the most popular types of bird scarers used by farmers is the LPG powered gas gun, which produces a periodic loud explosion. These stationary guns utilize the explosive power of LPG ignition to create a loud shot-like sound to scare away birds and predators. The volume of the noise depends on the size of the cannon and sometimes it is also adjustable. The interval between detonations can be adjusted from e.g. 40 seconds up to 30 minutes.

The mechanism is simple. A carefully-controlled mixture of air and LPG is periodically blown into a semi-open pot, which is the combustion chamber.

LPG powered scare guns can keep birds away from every kind of fruit and vegetable field, in fish farms against herons, from garbage disposal sites (for hy-

LPG Refrigeration System for Tulips

Hanenburg-Hettinga is a leading agricultural company with a main focus on tulip growing. As expansion of the site was needed, the family owned business reviewed how to do this in the most enviApril 2023 • Texas Propane

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gienic reasons), or from structures, buildings, roofs etc. where bird excrements can cause damage. Propane cannons have also been used to deter invasive feral hogs.

Texas currently has a population of 1.5 million feral hogs that cause damage to crops, land and ecosystems.

LPG thermal foggers produce a dense fog that will permeate foliage, cracks, crevices and other insect and rodent hiding places. The device burns LPG gas to heat a heat assembly element, that vaporizes an insecticide from its liquid form that is pumped through the heat assembly, and sprays it out as a fog.

Sterilization and Parboiling of Rice Bran

An important potential use for fuels in the production of rice is the sterilization of rice bran. This is the product of milling brown rice is an endeavor to produce as white a polished rice as can be achieved.

The bran which constitutes over 10% by weight of the harvested crop contains rice oil, vitamins and other valuable constituents, which can be extracted, but is subject to rapid fermentation in hot climates unless sterilized immediately after milling. Rapid steaming of the bran prevents deterioration (at the rate of 1% decomposition of rice oil per hour) that would otherwise take place.

Another improvement in the utilization of rice crops is the parboiling of the freshly harvested ‘paddy’ rice. This results in the migration of vitamins and minerals, which could otherwise be stripped together with the bran and polishings, into

the rice kernel, thus improving its nutritional value. Both bran sterilization and parboiling are made easy by the use LPG fired equipment.

Accelerated Germination of Seeds

A final interesting application of heat is the accelerated germination of seeds exposed to high temperatures before planting, or occasionally the opposite effect.

Both phenomena are being investigated and can be used to insure faster growth on the one hand or more efficient hybridization, i.e. simultaneous flowering of species which would otherwise not cross-fertilize, on the other. So far, this treatment has been applied to sorghum and rise.

Poultry Rearing

A reliable energy supply is a matter of life and death for poultry farmers. Birds thrive on consistent levels of heat and a stress-free environment in which to grow healthily. LPG produces the moist heat necessary to promote rapid growth as well as the feathering of chickens. Moreover, thanks to the clean properties of LPG feeds or broods do not run the danger of contamination.

Propane-powered poultry house sanitizers generate heat under a steel hood to effectively sanitize poultry litter. Compared to forced-air furnaces, propane infrared poultry brooders lower fuel costs by 15 to 25 percent. In addition, the intense heat kills pathogens, reduces ammonia levels, and controls harmful diseases that can affect bird weight and vitality. Bacteria,

Game Changer for Propane Marketers

viruses, and fungi cannot build resistance to high heat the way they can to chemical disinfectants, making it both more efficient and cost-effective. Chemical disinfectants can also leave behind toxic residues or lead to contamination issues, a risk avoided with the use of propane.

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC)’s Director of Agriculture, Michael Newland, told Farm Progress that “For poultry producers, propane can be utilized to sanitize poultry houses to reduce the spread of animal diseases.

“Many producers rely on propane heating to maintain optimal temperatures and reduce emissions for better air quality and healthier birds. But propane’s benefits don’t end there,” Newland said.

“Propane-powered sanitizing and cleanup equipment have been shown to lower flock mortality, boost growth rates, and improve overall animal health.”

According to the Texas Agri-Life Extension, there are approximately 625 million broiler chickens and 6.5 million turkeys raised in Texas. These types of poultry are primarily grown on family farms by farmers who have contracts with processing companies. There are approximately 800 contract farms in Texas that grow broilers and turkeys.

Pig Rearing

The use of heat in the breeding and raising of pigs is becoming established in most moderate and cold climates. It can be demonstrated that there is an optimum temperature for both meat and fat production; if this is exceeded, food intake is reduced. If pigs are reared at lower temperatures, too much of the food is consumed to maintain body heat. Provision of a localized radiant source of heat when rearing piglets allows both sow and litter to choose optimum conditions for growth and comfort.

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Fish fryers are not the only thing powered by propane, and according to the Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas is a powerhouse in the U.S. aquaculture production sector. Texas is number one in the nation for hybrid striped bass, red drum (aka redfish), and marine shrimp production, number two in crawfish production, and number four in catfish production. It has a diverse aquaculture industry including

sportfish, baitfish, tilapia, oyster, and marine algae production and is home to one of only two freshwater prawn hatcheries in the U.S. as well.

Growing fish in the middle of a field in the heartland is certainly not the average agricultural use, but in this case, it certainly has grown in sales. LPG not only provides the LPG to warm the building that houses the fish tanks and office, but also to warm the water in which the fish live. And the business is growing, just like the fish it raises.

Fisheries are generally rural-based businesses, so most sites are only served by limited electricity and in order to run mains electricity to many lakes, it would cost an extortionate amount of money that most businesses are not prepared to pay. Especially when there is an easy alternative.

LPG water pumps are very innovative.

During times of prolonged warm weather with little rainfall that dissolves oxygen within the water, it can decrease at a rapid pace and could (in the worst-case scenario) completely deoxygenate. This could cost a fishery thousands of euros in just a matter of hours and put the business back years in order to replenish fish stocks to similar levels.

Animal Waste Management

An unusual and relatively novel use of fuels is the processing of animal waste.

The production of farm manure from intensive farming is such that simple spreading on farmland is becoming too labor-intensive and also would involve transport over too large a distance in many instances. One way of dealing with the large production of animal waste is to dry and sterilize it prior to application as fertilizer. The concentrated manure can then be returned to the original croplands even if feeding lots and broiler houses are a long way from fields.

One use of dried and sterilized manure is its re-use for feeding. Neither cattle nor poultry extract all available food value and sterilized dried manure can therefore be blended with fresh hay and other feeds into so-called ‘wastelage’, a perfect feed for cattle, sheep and poultry. This results in considerable savings.

Other possible uses for sterilized manure are as bedding for both free-range and factoryfarm animals.

Incineration is a notable solution to the disposal of waste. LPG incineration is an

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efficient, economic, bio-secure solution for the disposal of hazardous waste. It can be used to dispose of many different types of waste and is, in particular, an efficient and desirable option for the safe, bio-secure disposal of diseased animal carcasses.

LPG can also be used to control unwanted weeds on farms without the fear of pollution of soil, the environment and ground water. It can also be used in greenhouses as a carbon fertilizer since LPG increases the leaf mass of the plants.

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Nutrient Management

Nutrient management is a method of managing farm waste - one of the largest concerns of growing livestock confinement operations and other types of agriculture.

As a clean burning, energy-rich fuel, LPG is an excellent fuel source for this type of technology. Nutrient management research develops technologies that help farmers maintain proper management of waste materials.

These materials are often rich in valuable nutrients that can support or enhance other agricultural production.

Sterilizing Milk Lines and Storage Tanks

According to the Texas Comptroller, Texas ranks fifth nationally in dairy production and number of dairy cows, and the industry is growing rapidly, despite challenges such as freezes and COVID-19 in recent years.

LPG water heaters give dairy farmers hot water on demand at a given temperature.

Having reliable hot water is essential on a dairy farm, with a particular need for a continuous flow of hot water that’s available fast, as required. Whether it’s needed for washing the milking system, keeping the animals clean, or washing equipment, LPG hot water systems are not only more efficient, they offer a continuous flow of hot water. LPG systems are also cost-effective saving dairy farmers up to 25% on their hot water energy.

Drying

LPG is successfully used in a range of

crop drying applications for corn, wheat, barley, hops, oats, rye and peas as well as for nut roasting, pig farrowing, and cold as well as warm room chicken brooding.

Grain drying is the process of removing moisture from the grain following harvest.

Traditionally, crops were left in the field to dry but were at risk of being subjected to mould, fungus growth, frost, and other detrimental conditions. Farming regulations state that crops must reach a certain moisture level to be considered safe for storing.

Using a commercial grain dryer, farmers can harvest at any time and are able to maximize the overall harvest yield. Crop dryers also take considerably less time than waiting for crops to dry naturally.

Fruit Ripening

Dehydration is the process of driving free water from products like fruits, vegetables and nuts at accelerated rates and stabilizing them at low-moisture content without damage to the products. LPG is an exceptional choice for fueling the burners of fruit dehydrators.

Tea Production

Tea, the green beverage, demands the cleanest possible processing. Oil companies in India are taking serious steps to replace coal with LPG in tea production, which can ensure a cleaner processing environment for tea. On the other hand, it could open up a large untapped market for LPG. The use of LPG in tea garden

Let the company that knows your business, protect your business

factories ensures uniform heating during the drying process of tea leaves and thus guarantee the production of quality tea.

Ginning Cotton

Cotton is one Texas' top agricultural exports and ranks number 1 among all states. Ginning is an energy intensive process. From the field, seed cotton moves to nearby gins for separation of lint and seed.

The cotton first goes through dryers to reduce moisture content and then through cleaning equipment to remove foreign matter. These operations facilitate processing and improve fibre quality. LPG is used for cotton drying prior to ginning.

Curing of Tobacco and Rubber

While Texas doesn't really have tobacco farms, propane is used in the Southeast for curing, which is the process used to achieve the texture, color and overall quality of a specific tobacco type.

LPG has become the primary fuel used in curing, replacing wood and accounting for almost 70% of production. Almost all bulk-curing barns built are equipped with LPG gas burners. It lights instantly, is easily controlled, and is a constant and uniform source of heat.

Distillation

There are now around 170 distilleries licensed in Texas in which propane could be used. Propane is used across the world by microbreweries, as well as distillers.

The two main operations in spirit distillation are the heating of fermented preparations and the condensation of alcoholic vapors. LPG can therefore be used in this process thanks to its flexibility of use, environmentally friendly attributes and high yields of heat. The best cognacs are distilled using this process and is also popular in Scotland in whiskey making.

Power in the Ag Industry

worker’s compensation • general liability • auto insurance property insurance • health insurance & employee benefits risk management services

Protecting Propane and Petroleum Dealers for over 20 Years!

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225 S. Fifth St., Waco, TX 76701 • (800) 267-6221 • www.insurors.com 14

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Power is required in the agricultural industry for the operation of machinery and other technologies that enable farms to run as efficiently as possible.

As the cleanest available fossil fuel available in rural areas, LPG gives farmers access to modern energy, most notably in Micro-CHP (combined heat and power).

Energy-efficient technologies such as LPG heat pumps can also help tap into the considerable potential for energy savings.

Combined heat and power (CHP) systems (or m-CHP -micro-CHP- in smaller sizes), are relatively new systems that allow simultaneous generation of electricity, power, and heat. This process, also commonly referred to as “cogeneration,” allows for heat and electricity to be produced simultaneously using a single fuel source and constitutes an energyefficient solution that can cut both carbon emissions and energy costs by generating electricity on site.

The component of the CHP system that converts fuel to useful work (prime mover) can be an internal combustion engine running on LPG. This prime mover is in turn, connected to an electricity generator. Heat exchangers capture the residual heat produced and transfer it for space heating or water heating purposes. LPG-fueled CHP systems thus produce thermal and power output, addressing both heating and electrical needs for agricultural facilities.

a farm. Within microgrids are one or more kinds of distributed energy (solar panels, wind turbines, combined heat and power, generators) that produce its power. This decentralized group of electricity sources and loads is normally connected to the traditional electric grid but can also disconnect and function autonomously.

Microgrids typically consist of a solar photovoltaic system, battery storage and a backup generator system or a backup fuel cell system that runs on hydrogen, natural gas, propane, diesel, gasoline, or other suitable fuels. According to a recent paper, propane is positioned to be the fuel of choice for microgrids when natural gas is not available.

Farming Tractor: Future Opportunity

Generators

Jack Walzel says that ag customers not only use propane for irrigation engines, but also for backup power generation.

They do so for the same reason – diesel turns and needs treatments, and propane shelf life is indefinite and doesn't go bad.

LPG has become a viable choice to facilitate the generation of off-grid electricity.

The supply of electrical power or power generation has become paramount to the success of daily agricultural activities.

Standby generators are permanently connected to a business and its existing power lines. A standby generator can power critical and sophisticated appliances in a business, including lights, heating/cooling systems, refrigerators, pumps and security systems, among others. They ensure an owner's quality of life by keeping the electricity flowing in the event of any power failures that result from either a standard service disruption or a natural disaster, such as a storm.

Microgrids. As grid outages become increasingly common, energy resilience in agricultural operations is more important than ever. Rural microgrids can be used for consistent off-grid energy or as backup, enabling farmers to have reliable power and at the same time, reduce their electric bills.

A microgrid is a self-sufficient energy system that serves a discrete geographic footprint, such as a neighborhood or even

Tractors are used intensively in farming to accomplish all of the field work on a farm, including tillage, secondary tillage, planting, mowing, hauling and transportation.

LPG agricultural tractors are not new to the market; the first ones were manufactured and sold in the USA in the late 1940s. However, even though new models with different characteristics had emerged

over the course of several decades, in the 1970s, diesel engines took over, and LPG was gradually phased out as a fuel for farm tractors. LPG fueled tractors can change the perception of environmentally responsible agriculture especially in organic farming. The development and adoption of heavy-duty LPG engines for these tractors could be for the farming industry a significant step forward towards more economical, more efficient, and more environmentally friendly operations. TPGA will keep readers abreast if any propane tractor platforms get developed and become available.

The agriculture sector uses a very diverse and broad range of equipment and engines.

There are many possible applications for LPG engines and machinery. Advances in agriculture and a growing supply have combined to make LPG an enticing option for fueling farming machinery and other agricultural applications.

Farmers in Texas and across the world rely on LPG as an adaptable power source to keep their businesses growing. LPG allows them to meet the challenge of staying competitive in the modern agricultural environment, while maintaining a commitment to sustainable development. No other fuel offers a comparable combination of portability, accessibility and convenience of use. LPG is used to increase the production and quality of farm products through crop harvesting, crop drying, weed flaming and other uses.

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April 2023 • Texas Propane

15

Feature

How Your Texas Farm Customers Can Access Propane Farm Equipment Incentives The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) provides research, product development, and consumer education for the use of propane equipment on agricultural operations. The Propane Farm Incentive Program (FIP) is a research project to gain feedback on the performance of select propane-powered equipment in the field. Participating agricultural operations receive a financial incentive towards the purchase of qualifying equipment in exchange for monitoring the performance and sharing their experiences with PERC and their peers.

Program Registration

Applications may be accepted online at www.propane.com/farmincentive. After logging in (or creating an account), applicants will complete a brief demographic survey about their operation, add equipment, answer required questions, upload invoice or receipt, upload W-9 and sign an electronic contract.

Program Eligibility

To qualify for the Propane Farm Incentive Program, agricultural producers must purchase qualifying propane- fueled equipment and meet the following criteria: • Participants must represent a farm or agribusiness and be at least 18 years of age. Participants will be asked to provide an appropriate tax identification number unique to the farm receiving the incentive.

• Equipment must be used on a U.S. farm as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in direct support of agricultural production or; • If not on a farm, equipment must be used in support of an agribusiness dedicated to the primary processing of any agricultural, horticultural or animal commodity.

• Participant must be a propane customer in good standing with his or her fuel supplier. PERC may contact the propane supplier(s) to verify the applicant’s account is not considered past due.

16

• Data collection is required of Propane Farm Incentive Program participants.

Qualifying Equipment

The agricultural equipment listed below may be eligible for the program. Qualifying equipment and participating equipment dealers are subject to change at any point.

The total incentive payment is not to exceed 25 percent of the total equipment cost.

Propane-Powered Industrial Engines – New, EPA- and/or CARB-certified industrial engines used for agricultural purposes can qualify for the following incentives: $300/liter of displacement for pumping applications and up to $3,000 for certified dual fuel systems.

Power Generation • $30/kW for prime power generation • $15/kW for backup power generation Propane-Powered Water Heating Systems – New, high-efficiency water heating systems used in agricultural production operations are eligible for an incentive of $2000. The system must either be installed in new construction or as a conversion from another power source.

Propane-Powered Poultry, Swine, & Greenhouse Heating Systems – New poultry, swine, and greenhouse heating systems are eligible for an incentive of $0.10/square foot, up to $2000 maximum per system, when installed as part of an entire system installation. The complete heating system must either be installed in new construction or as a conversion from another power source.

Propane-Powered Flame Weed Control – New tractor pulled flame weed control systems are eligible for an incentive of $1500. New push type flame weed control carts are eligible for an incentive of $100.

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Program Incentive Payments

Each agricultural operation can qualify for incentives for a maximum of six (6) units of equipment total per year and two (2) units for each type of application. Maximum incentive per unit is $5000 but should not exceed 25 percent of the total equipment cost. Incentives are paid directly to the agricultural producer once the requisite paperwork is processed, which is typically within 30 business days of PERC receiving the submitted application online.

Limitations

The Propane Farm Incentive Program is not a rebate program. The Propane Farm Incentive Program is a research initiative conducted by PERC. The purchase of propane-powered equipment does not guarantee eligibility for an incentive and not all applicants will qualify for an incentive. To ensure the most relevant and useful data is obtained through the program, PERC may deny a Propane Farm Incentive Program application even if all eligibility requirements are met.

Important criteria will be taken into consideration when selecting the best possible candidates for the program such as the applicant’s ability to record and supply data, the proximity to another Propane Farm Incentive Program applicant, total acreage and types of crops produced, and the amount of gallons of propane used by the applicant, and the total number of equipment already in the program.

More Information

For additional information or questions regarding the Propane Farm Incentive Program, please visit www.propane. com/farmincentive, or call 202-452-8975.

"Since Otodata monitors are pre-activated, they are much easier to install, which saves our drivers time.

Their HaaS no-upfront payment program makes it cost effective for me to mass deploy the units."

John Oliver, Oliver Propane

Otodata helps grow the value of your business "Today’s customer expects information readily available and the ability to connect with providers immediately. Offering the customer app integrated with Otodata tank monitoring allows users to see real-time tank data, connect with us for service and delivery, and many other features—something our customers value greatly which adds to our customer retention."

Nicole Sullivan, Anderson Propane & Oil

Rapid ROI – Starting at just $1.50 a month.

Contact our team today to find out how quickly Otodata can increase your return on investment 1-844-763-3344 or visit otodatatankmonitors.com/grow to sign up.

Feature

Fueling Your Child's Future: Scholarships Are Available

About the TPGA Scholarship

Since 1997, the TPGA Scholarship Foundation has dedicated itself to providing competitive scholarships for exceptional students who will be pursuing higher education. Over the last 25 years, TPGA has awarded over $183,000 in scholarships. TPGA is awarding higher education scholarships for the upcoming 2023-2024 academic school year.

ation).

About the Scholarship Application

All eligible students must submit our TPGA scholarship online application to be entered into the scholarship competition.

All required documents can be uploaded directly to the online application.

What does the scholarship award cover?

For scholarship winners, the Scholarship award checks are mailed over the summer directly to your educational institution to be applied to tuition & fees and room & board for the academic year. The full award can be applied fully to the fall 2023 semester or divided between the fall 2023 and spring 2024 semesters.

Scholarship Eligibility Criteria

• Has not previously been awarded a scholarship by the TPGA Scholarship Foundation.

• A Texas high school senior or an undergraduate student who completed high school in Texas; • Plans to be a full-time student for the upcoming 2023-2024 school year in an undergraduate degree program by an accredited college or university or enrolled in a vocational or technical school; • A child or grandchild of an employee of a current member of the Texas Propane Gas Association in 2023; • The parent’s or grandparent’s work must be directly related to the Texas propane industry; & • GPA (needs to be in the upper half of class for consider-

18

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Completing the NPGA scholarship application will not automatically enter them into the Texas scholarship round. Students must complete the TPGA scholarship application to be entered into the Texas competition.

The deadline to submit all applications, including all required documents, is by 11:59 PM CDT on Monday, May 15, 2023.

Access the scholarship application at https://www.txpropane. com/scholarship.

If the application is successfully completed, the applicant will get an email confirmation.

ranked, and selected by a third-party organization specializing in higher education independent from the association. Applicants are scored based on financial need, academic rigor, extracurricular/community involvement, and writing through a short essay.

Scholarship winners will be notified in the early summer of 2023.

How is the TPGA Scholarship Foundation funded?

The scholarship foundation is funded through donations from members, our annual silent auction on the Crossroads Expo floor, our annual Kendra Scott Trunk Show, and other fundraisers.

What information will the student need to complete the scholarship application?

The application includes a short essay question. In addition, the application asks for: • The name of the TPGA member company of your parent’s or grandparent’s employer.

• Household financial information; • Information about your extracurricular and community activities; • Employment history (if applicable); • ACT or SAT test score report (which can be uploaded directly to the online application); and • An academic transcript (which can be uploaded directly to the online application) How are winners selected?

TPGA scholarships applicants are thoroughly reviewed, scored,

Learn more or donate at https://www.txpropane.com/scholarship.

Questions? Please contact the Texas Propane Gas Association Scholarship Foundation at (800)325-7427 or at tpgascholarship@ txpropane.com.

April 2023 • Texas Propane

19

Feature

Help Your Customers Upgrade to Propane with 2023 Rebate Program

The Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) launched its 2023 Texas Saves with Propane Appliance Rebate Program on March 31, 2023. These rebates can help offset the cost of purchasing and installing new propane appliances, making it easier for homeowners and businesses to make the switch to propane.

The Texas Saves with Propane Appli-

20

ance Rebate Program offers rebates for propane furnaces (including backups) and propane water heaters, $300 per appliance, with a $600 cap per household or commercial property.

To qualify for a rebate, applicants must purchase and install a qualifying propane appliance between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2023, while funds last. The

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

rebates are first come, first served. Propane providers must submit the application on behalf of their propane customers through our rebate portal.

For more information and to apply for a rebate, applicants can visit the program website at www.txsaveswithpropane.com.

Login into the portal to access FAQ’s as well as marketing resources, including countertop flyers, Facebook and Instagram ads, and more.

The Texas Saves with Propane Appliance Rebate Program is part of ProCOT’s ongoing efforts to promote the use of propane as a clean, efficient, and cost-effective fuel source for Texans.

Save the Date 2023 Appliance Rebate Program Informational Webinar April 20, 2023, 2PM Register for the webinar at www.txsaveswithpropane.com

INTERNAL USE ONLY Approval By: ___________________________ Approval Date: ________ Invoice Number: ________  The model number(s) run on LP

2023 APPLIANCE REBATE APPLICATION Forms cannot be emailed, faxed, or mailed. All forms must be uploaded to the Texas Saves with Propane web portal.

This program is for propane/LPG/LP-Gas only, natural gas is not eligible.

REQUIREMENTS 1. Propane marketer must register with program. Sign-up at www.txsaveswithpropane.com.

2. A copy of the completed application (includes PDF and online).

3. A propane/LPG appliance proof of purchase dated on or after January 1, 2023 (e.g. sales receipt or invoice with zero balance or marked paid). Please see guidelines for additional New Construction options.

NOTE: All fields are required. Application must be submitted by the propane marketer ONLY (on behalf of recipient).

The completed application and propane/LPG proof of purchase must be uploaded with accompanying required documentation via our secure web portal at www.txsaveswithpropane.com.

The Texas Saves with Propane Program will be open during the 2023 calendar year until funds are exhausted.

The Propane Council of Texas reserves the right to change or end this program at any time without notice.

Rebate Recipient Mailing Information (This is where the rebate check will be mailed to.)

Recipient First & Last Name: _____________________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________ City: ____________________ State: _____ Zip: __________ Phone: ______________ Email: _________________________ Recipient is the

 Homeowner  Commercial End User

 Check here to be paid by electronic funds transfer (EFT)

Total Rebate Amount: $______________

Rebate payment cannot be reassigned to propane marketer, plumber or builder.

The council reserves the right to contact your contracted plumber and/or builder.

The Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) assumes no responsibility whatsoever for the installation, inspection, or testing of the qualifying propane appliance or any associated gas system and, by issuing a rebate, makes no representation, warranty, or guarantee regarding the qualifying appliance or the associated gas system. The Propane Council of Texas disclaims any liability for any personal injury, property damage, business losses, or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether special, indirect, consequential or compensatory, directly or indirectly arising from the installation of the qualifying propane appliance. *** By signing this application, I acknowledge I have received and read the Rules of this program set forth by the Council. ***

No signature, no rebate.

 Rebate Recipient Signature: ____________________________________________________ Date: _________________

Propane Marketer Information Propane Company Contact First & Last Name: _______________________________________________________________ Propane Company Name: ______________________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________ City: ____________________ State: _____ Zip: __________ Phone: ______________ Email: _________________________ I understand and agree to all rules and conditions for participation in the program. I acknowledge that the installation at this location is eligible for this program and that the installation meets all PROPANE COUNCIL requirements. I hereby declare that I am authorized to sign this application and that the information stated herein is accurate. I also understand that as an active company representative, I am responsible for ensuring that the safety inspections performed by the company’s designated agents comply with PROPANE COUNCIL requirements. By signing this application, I affirm that this installation passed the safety inspection as defined in the program rules. I will make the consumer aware that the program will continue only as long as funding permits and that the application is valid for only 30 days after the safety inspection is performed.

 Propane Company Rep Signature: ________________________________________________ Date: _________________

NEW Propane Appliance Information (Maximum of $600 per Texas residence or place of business per year) This document is to be used for the Appliance Program only. Propane company forms take precedence for legal documentation.

Appliance

Install Date

Manufacturer/Brand

Furnace or Boiler

Model #

Rebate Amount

(required for new)

*Old furnace or boiler New LPG furnace or boiler $300

$

*Old furnace #2 New LPG furnace #2 $300 Appliance

$ Install Date

Manufacturer/Brand

Tankless, Standard or Power Venter

Model #

(required for new)

*Old water heater #1 New LPG water heater #1 $300

$

*Old water heater #2 New LPG water heater #2 $300

$

*Old appliance information is not required for new construction, only for replacements (if available).

Total Rebate(s) Due: Total cannot exceed $600

$

*Required

Type of Installation  New Construction

 Replace Electric  LPG Replacement  Community System Replacement

If this is a replacement, what is the reason for the replacement?

Date Construction Completed: _____________________ (Check all that apply)

Builder Name: _________________________________

 Remodel  Appliance Upgrade  Malfunctioning Unit Builder Email: _________________________________ Appliance Availability  Prefer propane over other fuel types Builder Phone Number:__________________________ Other:________________________________

Propane Appliance Texas Installation Address TX Zip: ________________ Installation Address: __________________________________ City: _________________ State: ____ Date of Propane Safety Inspection: ______________ If installation address different than mailing address explain why: ________________________________ Submission of the application form constitutes a representation on the part of the participating propane marketer that the work shown on the form has actually been completed. I have inspected the equipment and performed a safety inspection at the address listed above in accordance with the standards set forth by the state regulation. As a result of that inspection, I have determined that the equipment meets all of the applicable standards, code, and regulations in Texas for authority having jurisdiction and complies with manufacturer’s installation instructions.

The Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) assumes no responsibility whatsoever for the installation, inspection, or testing of the qualifying propane appliance or any associated gas system and, by issuing a rebate, makes no representation, warranty, or guarantee regarding the qualifying appliance or the associated gas system. The Propane Council of Texas disclaims any liability for any personal injury, property damage, business losses, or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether special, indirect, consequential, or compensatory, directly or indirectly arising from the installation of the qualifying propane appliance.

Propane Technician’s Printed Name: _______________________________________________

 Propane Technician’s Signature: __________________________________________________ Date: ___________________

The Propane Council of Texas assumes no liability or reliance on this form.

Forms cannot be emailed, faxed, or mailed. All forms must be uploaded to the Texas Saves with Propane web portal as there is an online component to the application process.

22 Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

April 2023 • Texas Propane

23

Inside the Industry

Propane Highlighted at Texas Association of Fire Educators Conference

Texas Needs You! Complete Your Annual Retail Sales Survey

Propane retailers are asked to respond to the annual retail propane sales report directly on PERC’s website, propane.com/salesreport.

In March, every Texas propane retailer was sent an email and a letter directing them to visit a secure portal on propane.com to complete their company’s report for 2022 retail sales.

Submit your survey by May 31 to help ensure your state receives an accurate amount of state rebate funding from 20 percent of PERC’s annual revenues and to see that your assessment dollars are used most efficiently to support market trends.

Individual responses are kept confidential and anonymous. Only summary statistics are presented in the final report, and data is never disclosed to third parties.

The final report is shared on propane.com/salesreport and incorporated into the National and State Propane Profiles, showing market trends by state and region, but most importantly it helps determine how much PERC funds Texas gets for projects. To continue to be able to implement programs and projects like the Duty to Warn Safety Mailing Program, Texas Saves with Propane Appliance Rebate Program, and other programs, it is paramount

The 2023 Texas Association of Fire Educators (TAFE) Conference, sponsored by the Propane Council of Texas, was held in Corpus Christi, Texas, on February 6-10, 2023. Fire service educators, instructors, and training officers from across Texas colleges, fire academies, and fire departments came together for a week of training.

The training sessions included leadership, hands-on, and trainthe-trainer classes throughout the conference, along with strategic

updates from state stakeholders such as the Texas Commission on Fire Protection and State Firemen’s and Fire Marshals Association.

The Propane Council of Texas provided information to attendees on PERC’s new online Propane Emergencies Course available through the International Association of Fire Chiefs and will invite members of the group to the in-person 2023 Propane Emergencies Training in the fall of 2023 in College Station.

you submit your reports.

If you’re unsure which person at your company is responsible for submitting, please email PERC at salesreport@propane.com.

PEOPLE IN PROPANE Wayland Glenn Kelley, 69, of Lake Victor, TX, passed away on March 1, 2023. He worked for Burnet County for over 30 years as a road foreman, caring for county roads and bridges. He then worked for Star Propane until his retirement. Wayland enjoyed fishing and hunting and was known to be an excellent marksman and cook. Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or St. Jude Hospital in Wayland’s name. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family at this time.

Stefanii Ann Cox, 45, of Paradise, Texas, passed away on March 6, 2023. Shortly before she became ill, she started a new career at Chadwell & Son Propane. She was so excited to be working in what she referred to as "a grown up" job. Our blessings to her family.

Jackie Hansen, 85, of Lakeway, Texas, passed away on March 8, 2023. Aviation was her passion, which was where she met Harry Hansen, a pilot for Continental Airlines, and her future husband. In 1977, the family moved to Hamilton, Texas. For many years, she ran the family's propane company turning it around to a successful business.

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

LPG Charity Fund: Tom Garner Memorial Bowling Tournament Save the date for the Tom Garner Memorial Bowling Tournament on Thursday May 11, 2023.

The tournament will feature 32 lanes and 32 teams and take place at Bowlero Willowbrook (AMF Willow Lanes), 19102 State Highway 249 in Houston.

Mark your calendars and start putting together your teams today.

Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ben Scriber at bscriber@opisnet.com.

Propane Council of Texas Approves Agricultural Outreach

Propane Showcased at World Ag Expo

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) attended World Ag Expo

on February 14-16, 2023 in Tulare, CA to demonstrate how propane equipment can handle almost any job on the farm. On display were a Zenith propane irrigation engine, a Stateline generator, a propanepowered EV Power Pods vehicle charging unit, and a propane forklift.

World Ag Expo is the largest annual outdoor agricultural exposition with over 1,200 exhibitors and an attendance of more than 100,000 each year. It is held at the International Agri-Center in Tulare, California, starting on the second Tuesday of February.

MEMBER

Propane has long been recognized as a clean, efficient and cost-effective fuel source for agricultural equipment.

However, despite its numerous benefits, many farmers are still unaware of the advantages of propane-powered farm equipment. This is why it is essential to educate farmers on all the ways they can take advantage of everything propane has to offer, no matter how small. That is why at the March 21, 2023, Propane Council of Texas meeting, ProCOT approved continuing a series of ads in 2023 in Texas Agriculture, a popular publication from the Texas Farm Bureau.

ProCOT will again educate agricultural readers about available propane farm applications, propane farm equipment incentives, appliance rebates, and other valuable information. The publication targeting rural farmers reaches over 100,000 readers.

Disability Insurance • Farm & Ranch Employee Benefits • Long Term Care Business & Commercial Insurance Home & Auto • Life Insurance

Isn’t it time to trust that your insurance works as hard as you do?

• You will receive good old fashioned customer service.

Steve Johnson

• You will be educated about your policy coverages and shown where you might be vulnerable.

“Before we met Rusty we didn’t know there were Insurance companies that would compete for our business.

Rusty is always looking for the best options available for our business and the propane industry. He has also explained our policy coverages to us in a way that others haven’t. We recommend Rusty and Marshall Young Insurance to any owner looking for options and personal service for their business.”

• You will receive multiple options for your insurance.

PERC CEO Featured on Rural Business Podcast Tucker Perkins, President & CEO of PERC, appeared as a guest on Cliff Callis' OUTDrive podcast.

During the show, they discussed various topics including propane usage for a clean energy future and its suitability for rural transportation requirements.

Check out the podcast at https://outdrivepodcast.com/excitingopportunities-for-a-clean-future.

26

401 N. Ridgeway Drive, Cleburne TX 76033 817-645-9155

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

WWW.MARSHALLYOUNG.COM

Owner Johnson’s Testing Service

April 2023 • Texas Propane

27

PetroStar Equipment Resources Purchase & Sale Pre-Owned Propane Tanks 5,000 gallons to 90,000 gallons FOR SALE 30,000 gallons, 250 psi 18,000 gallon, 250 psi, skidded, NEW Contact: Jim Oliver 936-755-6108 petrostar@pdq.net

THE FUEL MANAGER Comprehensive Computer Software for Small to Medium Size Propane Dealer • A/R Billing • Inventory • Tank Control • Routing • Management Reports • Customized Programming • Can Convert Your Records C & P Associates Texas Owned & Operated 888/FUEL- MGR

Garrett Insurance Agency, Inc Formerly, Southern Star Insurance Agency, Inc Cecil Joiner, Risk Manager cecil@garrettinsurance.com 936-756-2222 www.garrettinsurance.com

2015 Ford F-650 for Sale Icom propane conversion LCR meter & printer 106,000 miles Call 409-296-2001

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE IN TEXAS PROPANE MAGAZINE?

FOR SALE 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 5500 Service Truck - Super clean Equipped with Tiger Crane Model 6542 Asking $149,999.99 Call Mike @ 512-636-0487 or email propaneplus04@yahoo.com

For Advertising, contact: Joanne Pantaze at 512-273-2639 or by email at jpantaze@zochnet.com

FUEL YOUR PROFITS WITH LOWER WORKERS’ COMP PREMIUMS Endorsed by:

*Dividends are not guaranteed and past dividends are not a guarantee of future dividends. The Texas Department of Insurance must approve all dividend plans

Call your agent for a quote or call Curtis Heptner, Group AdministratorH H (940) 397-2754 H curtis@1starins.com

28

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

CALENDAR

APRIL

9-10 PERC Advisory Committee Meeting Charlotte, NC

4 TCEQ ERIG Grant Deadline

15 TPGA Scholarship Deadline

7 TPGA & PSC office closed for Good Friday 20 Texas Saves with Propane Appliance Rebate Webinar 23-25 NPGA Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo Nashville, TN

23-24 TPGA Board & Related Committee Meetings Waco, TX 31 Propane Sales Survey Due to PERC

JUNE

27-28 HVAC Train the Trainer at Collin College McKinney, TX

26 PERC Council Meeting Nashville, TN

JULY

MAY

11-12 PERC Council Meeting Big Sky, MT

1-3 ACT Expo Anaheim, CA

13-14 Sunbelt Builders Show (ProCOT booth 800) Fort Worth, TX

GEC Has You Covered Since 1937, GEC has been providing dependable equipment supported by knowledgeable people in the field, exceptional customer service on the phone and, in recent times, 24-hour access via our online web store.

In the Field,

And Online.

On the Phone,

GEC is a proud Distributor for the following equipment manufacturers.

PA R T

OF

an

OPW

Atlanta GA

(800) 241-4155

Houston TX (800) 334-7816 Little Rock AR (800) 643-8222

Chandler OK (800) 763-0953

Dallas TX (800) 821-1829

Indianapolis IN (800) 241-1971 Richmond VA (800) 368-4013

Fayetteville NC (800) 447-1625

Kansas City MO (800) 821-5062

St. Louis MO (800) 423-4685

www.gasequipment.com

company

Sebring FL (800) 821-0631 Tracy Wells East Texas

John Percy West Texas

Mike Armstrong South Texas

April 2023 • Texas Propane

29

PROPANE with PURPOSE 30

New Mini Paver from Pavijet Utilizes Propane

The Malavasi Pavijet is a mini paver that connects to a skid loader or loader. The Pavijet is unique because of its flexibility and performance. The Pavijet will spread hot and cold asphalt, cement, sand, crushed stones, and other materials.

The Pavijet MG6 Mini Paver is useful for sidewalks and trails where there isn’t sufficient operating space for their standard product (the MG7). The heating component is fired by propane.

The concept is the same as the MG7, but the MG6 has two retractable screeds and has a paving width from 15.75" to 90.55" (0.40 to 2.3m). The capacity of the hopper is 1.57 cubic yards (1.2 cubic meters) and has a maximum lift thickness of 4.72" (120 mm).

Additional features include: • Telescopic hydraulic screed

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

paving width 0.4m to 2.3m; (15.75" to 90.55") • Easy to attach on skid loaders or loaders • Hydraulic hopper with possibility to load from the truck at front/side • Hopper capacity 1.2 mc (1.57 Cubic Yards or 42.38 Cubic Feet) • Lift thickness up to 120 mm (4.72")

• Screed heating by propane gas • Central hydraulic screw moves the material • Internationally patented All of Pavijet’s equipment comes directly from its Kenosha, Wisconsin-based facility.

Information on the product is available at www.minipaver.com.

Your Propane Equipment Dealer

• Family-owned since 1983 • Brand names you trust like RegO, Corken, Smith Pumps, TracPipe, PrestoTap and many more • 6 distribution facilities strategically placed to deliver product quickly to you • Our Sales Associates are field-trained technical specialists and are ready to assist you • We provide training at our facilities or at your office.

• Order 24/7 through our website at www.tarantin.com

Start your account today at www.tarantin.com

Tarantin.com • 1.800.922.0724

FISK OWNERS

EXPECT MORE ● More Time Savings

● More Flexibility for the

Hard-To-Reach Jobs

● More Safety

Features

● More Storage

● More Multifunctional

Options for Customizing your Propane Truck

Purposes = Opportunities

● More Benefits for

your Business

THIS IS YOUR TX-4 The FISK TX-4 is a utility truck, designed for longevity and to maximize efficiency. The FISK TX-4 was developed for propane marketers that have propane, oil and HVAC services. It has more cities than any other 84 inch cab-to-axle truck FISK has produced yet.

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