August 2021 Texas Propane magazine

TexasPropane Texas Propane August 2021

Volume 77 No. 8

T H E M AG 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

AVOID THE CROWDS! Register Today for Crossroads Propane Expo + Conference PERC Adopts New “Energy for Everyone” Brand & Campaign

Maintaining the Legacy You’ve Built

You have worked hard to build your business. Pinnacle Propane is committed to preserving your legacy.

Have you considered selling your propane business but concerns for your customers and employees are holding you back?

At Pinnacle Propane, our values of Customer Service, Integrity, and Safety emphasize providing the best possible experience for our customers and employees. We focus on providing local service to our customers and empowering our employees via competitive pay, a robust benefits package, and advancement opportunities.

As you think about next steps, let us work with you to develop a fair purchase plan and a seamless transition so that you can relax and enjoy the results of your efforts.

Bill Webb Senior Vice President Business Development 936-329-1440

Matt Terry Director Business Development 210-560-5418

Call us today for more information and a confidential assessment of your business.

About Pinnacle Propane: Pinnacle Propane is a leading propane distributor in the U.S. and is part of a global group of

LPG companies owned by SHV Energy, the largest dedicated global LPG distributor. Pinnacle Propaneʼs operations include bulk gas storage and delivery, cylinder filling and distribution, and community gas systems. Learn more at www.pinnaclepropane.com.

TexasPropane August 2021

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

T H E M AG 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

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

Debbie Simpson 800-392-0023 dsimpson@txpropane.com Publisher

Kim Scheberle Account Manager/Managing Editor Sail House Publishing 512-346-0892 kscheberle@austin.rr.com

Features PERC Adopts New “Energy for Everyone” Brand & Campaign . . . . . . . . 6 2021 Crossroads TPGA Propane Expo+Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Spotlight on Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Registration Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 New Manufactured House Option Could Spur Propane Market Revival. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 U.S. Department of Energy Updating Outdated Energy Efficiency Standards for Manufactured Homes. . . . . 20 Protect your Employees from the Heat Safety Meeting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Propane with Purpose: Genstove Project Offers Gadget Charging with Camping Stove . . . . . . 30

Departments Highlights from Headquarters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 TPGA Board of Directors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Joanne Pantaze Advertising Sales 512-273-2639 jpantaze@zochnet.com

People in Propane. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Kiki Pantaze Art Director 512-924-7566 kpantaze@zochnet.com

Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Inside the Industry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Say Cheese. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Classified Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Index to Advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Highlights from Headquarters

See You in Corpus at Crossroads!

Bill Van Hoy TPGA Executive Director PERC has launched a new “brand identity” that they hope will reflect the values and concerns among millennials and Gen Z consumers. PERC has created explainer videos, one-page summaries and a host of materials available to download. There are some upcoming webinars on how to use the new assets digitally including social media.

Want to know how the new rules adoption has changed things for you? The Railroad Commission of Texas will be at Cross-

roads to discuss managers’ responsibilities, the new safety rule changes and significant NFPA adopted changes at the 6.1 LPG managers continuing education session.

Pre-event registration is quick and easy, and you can avoid standing in long lines to pick up your event credentials. Register today!

TPGA staff will be off to Corpus Christi very shortly for the 2021 Crossroads TPGA Propane Expo and Conference. We hope to see y’all there!

2021 CROSSROADS SPONSORS Golf Tournament Tote Bags Lanyards

Expo Hall Refreshments President’s Cocktail Reception

Partner Propane Genius Bar

AFFINITY PARTNERS

LEnergy ONE ST R Group

Beer & Wine Pavilion

2020-2021 TPGA Board of Directors President: Josh McAdams, McAdams Propane, 936-598-7444 President Elect: Allen Wells, Baygas, 281-332-2630 Secretary: Harris Baker, HBH Systems, 512-587-8347 Treasurer/Finance Chair: Bill Collins, Collins Propane, 972-442-1078 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: Jeremy Gentile, Hill Butane, 409-296-2001 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: Open District 7 Director: Sharon Seale, 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, 888-336-4474 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: Open

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

District 13 Alternate: Open 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: Open District 16 Alternate: Open 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: Jeremy Gentile, Hill Butane, 409-296-2001 Vice President: Matt Terry, SHV-Pinnacle Propane, 210-560-5418 Vice President: Larry Baty, Cadenhead Servis Gas, 800-722-8654 Sr. Vice President: 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: Rusty Walker, Marshall Young Insurance, 817-645-9155 Assoc. Supplier Service Alternate: Steve Johnson, Midstream Transportation, 512-787-3777 Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Director: Anna May Etheredge, Bishop Energy, 940-665-4672 Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Alternate: Jimmie Grant, Martin Gas Sales, 713-851-6155 Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Director: Jim Diehl, Squibb Taylor, 214-357-4591 Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Alternate: Joe Ezernack, Meeder Equipment, 903-877-9401 Assoc. At Large Director: J.R. Anderson, Gas Equipment Company, 972-406-3817 Assoc. At Large Alternate: John Becraft, Targa Resources, 817-416-7757 Nominating Chair: Ben Wood, Northwest Propane, 972-247-6121 NPGA Director: Chad Gray, Dixie LP Gas, 254-582-5359

Feature

PERC Adopts New ‘Energy for Everyone’ Brand & Campaign Seven years into promoting propane’s value as clean and American made, a fresh industry brand identity has been launched nationally to reflect the values that align it with heightened environmental concerns among millennial and Gen Z consumers, who represent a new generation of home buyers.

These two generations represent growth opportunities.

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Feature

Propane has a bold new look and story to better support you today—and tomorrow.

©2021 Propane Education & Research Council

August 2021 •

Texas Propane

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Feature

In 2014, after a historically challenging winter choked supply, triggered price spikes and planted doubt about the reliability of propane, the industry responded by refreshing its identity to the PROPANE Clean American Energy® brand.

Complete with patriotic red, white and blue eagle logo, the previous brand (now retired) reflected the fact that the United States was well on its way to becoming the world’s leading producer and exporter of propane and made more than enough to The retired logo. meet domestic demand. It also reinforced the idea that clean propane could help Americans meet their emissions reduction goals, stem climate change, and keep air, water, and soil clean for generations to come.

As today’s worldwide quest for clean energy mounts, the movement to electrify everything threatens the viability of our industry.

Municipalities nationwide are banning traditional fossil fuels in homes and commercial buildings in response to global warming. Billions of private and public dollars are being pledged to electrify school buses, forklifts, vehicles, homes, and supporting infrastructure.

“The need to establish propane’s role in a low-carbon future has never been more critical. Propane must increase its voice in the national energy conversation and assert its commitment to reducing emissions as well as to energy equity to remain a viable energy option,” explains Erin Hatcher, senior vice president of communications and marketing for the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC).

“To do that, we need to change how we tell propane’s story through our brand identity and accompanying messages.”

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

A new brand, PROPANE Energy for Everyone™, launched on July 1, 2021.

Don’t think you have gone to the wrong website for PERC. Even PERC’s website has a new brand image.

“We need our brand identity to reflect the values that propane has always delivered but never promoted – the growing consumer preference for energy that is environmentally responsible, widely available, and affordable for all,” Hatcher emphasized. “PROPANE Energy for Everyone™ does just that.”

Elements of the brand identity, including the logo, the tag line, and colors, emphasize propane’s eco-friendly benefits rather than its American source.

Hatcher said the new messages and identity resonated well among existing and prospective consumers in propane country as well as B2B audiences tested over the last several months. Those B2B audiences include construction professionals, fleet managers, agriculture producers and environmental thought leaders.

A second round of testing confirmed the new identity makes our audiences more interested in using propane or learning more about propane.

“The new messaging will help tell propane’s story of energy affordability and its role in reducing carbon emissions now and in the future. It also will make your customers feel even better about their energy choice,” she said.

Resources

PERC has created explainer videos, one-page summaries, onhold phone message scripts and a host of other materials available to download from propane.com.

Some of the initial resources developed include: • Energy for Everyone logos to add to your website, trucks and other own company marketing materials.

• Energy for Everyone Card for CSRs & Drivers. Use the Energy for Everyone brand card to help strengthen the industry’s voice and assert our commitment to reducing emissions and ensuring energy equity.

• Environmental Talking Points for Marketers. These talking points are for propane marketers to use when talking to homeowners and commercial customers.

• Fact sheet for consumers on propane with highlighting ecofriendliness of propane.

• Four on-hold phone message scripts for propane marketers that share new brand message - propane. energy for everyone.

As more creative and marketing materials are created as the campaign commences, more will be uploaded to PERC’s resource catalog at https://propane.com/resource-catalog/.

Feature New Phase

The next phase of the PERC campaign is developing digital ads, social media ads, radio scripts and other assets that propane marketers as well as state councils, foundations, associations can use.

Upcoming Webinars

Request New Swags

To promote the new brand, just fill out the form at https:// propane.com/energyforeveryone/energy-for-everyone-swag/ and they’ll get a package of swag together, especially for you, while supplies last.

PERC is hosting webinars on how to use these new assets digitally including social media.

Wed, Sep 1, 2021 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CDT Part 1 Social Media. Social media platforms continue to be an inexpensive platform to reach consumers and influencers in your local community and across the country.

Wed, Sep 15, 2021 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CDT Part 2 Digital Marketing. PERC will cover the basics of purchasing and measuring digital advertising and deploying your own website content to support the new brand and messaging efforts.

Propane marketers can register for these important webinars at https://propane.com/newsroom/events/.

For more information on this campaign or download materials, visit propane.com/energyforeveryone.

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Expo + Conference

2021 Crossroads TPGA Propane Expo+Conference DEDICATED TO ADVANCING THE PROPANE INDUSTRY IN TEXAS By attending and exhibiting at Crossroads, you support the collective voice of propane professionals working in all sectors of the propane industry. TPGA advocates for legislative and regulatory policies here is Texas, and upholds high standards, and maintains the industry code of ethics to appropriately protect the industry.

Join us in Corpus Christi and be part of the celebration!

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Expo + Conference

Join Us! This year’s multi-day event in Corpus Christi, TX, August 12-14, will give participants the skills, understanding, and inspiration to improve their businesses – and you will have the opportunity to have some fun. PERC’s Propane Can-Do Marketing training has been added to the schedule this year as a mini-conference within a conference.

But before you begin pumping up your pink flamingo float and icing down your favorite poolside refreshments, remember this August will also bring its own cool escape, designed just for you – the 2021 Crossroads TPGA Propane Expo + Conference in wonderful Corpus Christi!

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS Golf Tournament – Targa Resources Convention Bags – Cargas Lanyards – Westmor Expo Floor Beverages – Rural Computer Consultants, Rinnai President’s Cocktails – Quality Steel, Mississippi Tank TPGA Partner – Anova, Marshall Excelsior Propane Genius Bar – PERC Beer & Wine Pavilion – Midstream Transportation

marketers consolidate the purchasing process from a timeline of weeks [online, on the phone, or in a catalog to a single day [in person], but it’s also a prime opportunity to do some easy comparison-shopping. And many suppliers offer exclusive expo pricing incentives or tradeshow specials – so marketers should come prepared to buy.

Go for the Networking

Go to the Expo The expo will be held at the American Bank Center, 1901 North Shoreline Blvd in Corpus Christi.

The expo is the centerpiece of the three-day event – a one-stop shopping experience to meet all your propane-marketing needs. Dozens of propane suppliers come prepared with their latest trends and greatest technologies, ready to present innovative new ideas to improve your operations, saving you time and money.

What to expect at the Crossroads Propane Expo: • Some of the best vendors in the propane industry • Regulatory Pavilion – Back this year!

• Lunch & refreshments on the Expo floor • Silent Auction benefitting the TPGA Scholarship Fund The expo is a treasure trove of inspired creativity, smart solutions, and great deals. Not only does it let propane

The conference offers propane marketers and vendors alike ample chances to meet, greet, and build professional relationships. The golf tournament and the fishing excursion respectively offer hours of comradery. The welcome reception and the President’s cocktail reception both offer primetime mixing and mingling amidst the elegant ambiance of the Omni Hotel.

Go for Your Industry The TPGA Board and Annual Business Meeting may not be the sexiest-sounding event at the conference, but it is chockfull of information vital to the propane industry overall, and to your business day-to-day. This year these events will be part of the Gala.

Go for the Connection The bottom line for the 2021 Crossroads TPGA Propane Expo + Conference is this: You’re going to go home with something more than you came with. You might discover a game-changing process, a life-changing technology, a money-saving piece of equipment, or a business-saving piece of information.

August 2021 •

Texas Propane

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Expo + Conference

SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE

HOST HOTEL

August 12 10:00a – 5:00p Registration open/badge pickup

at the Omni Hotel 12:00p – 4:00p 6.1 Training (lunch included) at the Omni Hotel 4:30p – 5:30p PHMSA Session at the Omni Hotel August 13 7:00a – 5:00p Registration open/badge pickup

at the Omni Hotel 8:00a-5:00p Exhibitor move-in at American Bank Center 6:00a – 1:00p Fishing excursion 8:00a-1:30p Golf Tournament 5:00p-6:00p Welcome Reception at the Omni Hotel Supplier dinners/on your own

August 14 8:00a – 3:00p Registration open/badge pickup

at the American Bank Center 10:00a-4:00p Expo (lunch included)

at the American Bank Center 5:00p-6:00p President’s Cocktail Reception

at the Omni Hotel 6:00p-10:00p Gala/Annual Business/Board Meeting

at the Omni Hotel

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Omni Corpus Christi Hotel 900 North Shoreline Blvd Corpus Christi, TX 78401 July 21, 2021 at 5:00pm was the cut-off date for hotel reservations at the discounted group rate. Please contact us if you need a room.

Hotel rooms in the discounted group block are reserved for attendees, their attending family members, exhibitors, sponsors, speakers, and Show staff.

Call us and get a quote now!

Call us and get a quote now!

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SPOTLIGHT

FREE 6.1 LPG Managers Continuing Education The Texas Propane Gas Association is excited to announce the return of the 6.1 LPG Managers Continuing Education course for one day only at the 2021 Crossroads Propane Conference+Expo. Join Alternative Fuels Safety & Training Department Director April Dawn Richardson as she breaks down managers’ responsibilities, the new 2020 LP Gas Safety rule changes and significant NFPA adopted changes

Top Violations at Propane Facilities Join Southwest Investigators Ryan Rigdon and Johnny Benavides of the US Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration immediately after the 6.1 class to find out the top things that PHMSA cites at propane facilities and how to comply with these 49 CFR regulations.

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

DATE AUGUST 12, 2021 TIME 12PM LUNCH 12:30PM 6.1 TRAINING 4:30PM PHMSA SESSION WHERE OMNI CORPUS CHRISTI 900 N SHORELINE BLVD CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78401 RSVP TO INFO@TXPROPANE.COM RSVP REQUIRED DUE TO ROOM CAPACITY.

August 2021 •

Texas Propane

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REGISTRATION FORM _

Company

_

Address City

ST

Phone

_

Zip

_

Registration Type

Spouse/Significant Other Name

_

Child Name

_

Child Name

_

Fax

Contact Name

_

_

Child Name

Email

□ Retail Marketer Full □ Additional Enrollee □ Spouse/Significant Other □ Child Over 12 (not an employee) □ Child Under 12 □ Marketer Expo Only □ Spouse Expo Only □ Additional Enrollee Expo Only □ TPGA Past President (not in propane business)

Regular/Onsite $395 $325 $100 $100 FREE $150 $75 $75 FREE

TOTAL $ Sessions I will attend: 6.1 Training PHMSA Session President’s Cocktail Reception Gala

Method of Payment

Welcome Reception

Expo

All funds MUST be submitted on a US bank in US funds. TPGA does not accept purchase orders or invoices for services.

Check made payable to TPGA – check # Charge payment to the following credit card: VISA MC American Express

Card Number

Exp

CVV

Name as it appears on Card

Billing Zip

Signature

Date

Please send a receipt to the email address listed above.

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Feature

New Manufactured House Option Could Spur Propane Market Revival

Thousands of entry-level home buyers priced out of today’s red-hot market are finding their dream house in a new class of structure long dominated by propane.

Nationwide, historically low mortgage rates are feeding housing demand beyond available supply. Fallout from the pandemic also is shifting location demand for new construction, and manufactured

housing has been responding faster than site builders.

Not the Trailer Parks of Old

Once stigmatized as cheap and poorly constructed, manufactured housing has undergone a swift reputation boost in recent years. Today, manufacturers are using the latest factory construction techniques

to create high-efficiency yet low-cost dwellings with all the infrastructure, finishes and aesthetics of a site-built subdivision.

Labeled as CrossMod homes, they blend features of traditional site-built houses – such as pitched roofs and garages – with the innovative construction techniques used in off-site construction. Importantly, CrossMod homes are eligible for more affordable mortgage financing previously restricted to site-built homes.

“Propane and the manufactured housing industry go back to day one,” says Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) Director of Residential and Commercial Business Development Bryan Cordill. “The first manufactured housing units produced were RV’s, and propane was on board.

Next, we moved to parked model housing and propane served as the primary source

Helping Business Owners Retire Legacy Energy Consulting was started in 2020 by 30-plus-year propane industry veteran Chad Pendill.

Call: 763-772-2834 info@legacyenergyconsulting.com www.legacyenergyconsulting.com

Seller Representation • Initial consultation to learn about your business and discuss the process

• Prepare a detailed offering package to present to buyers

• Use our un-matched industry relationships to present your business to upward of 20 buyers in most markets

• Manage the entire process

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

• Set a detailed timeline for buyers • Receive and review offers and leverage our knowledge of both sides of the process to negotiate the best overall deal for you, your employees and your customers

• On-site support during due diligence • On-site support during closing

of energy for cooking, water heating, and home heating.”

He says CrossMod homes offer a point of entry for home buyers who would not have previously considered purchasing a manufactured home. They have the potential to bring manufactured housing to areas around the country that have little or no exposure to off-site built homes other than prevailing misconceptions.

Appliance Rebates for Manufactured Homes Did you know new propane water heaters & furnaces manufactured homes may qualify for rebate through the Propane Council of Texas?

It includes new manufactured homes sold to Texas customers as well as replacements.

Learn more at www.txsaveswithpropane.com.

Trending Up

The Manufactured Housing Institute reports that new manufactured home production in March this year was up 20 percent compared to 2020. Compared with the same month last year, March 2021 shipment gains were posted in all nine regions, including increases for 37 states. The recent investment by Berkshire Hathaway, parent of the nation’s largest home builder Clayton Homes, into a modular construction company further fuels the segment for continued growth.

The evolution from mobile homes to manufactured houses to HUD-code homes caused propane to fall by the wayside for over half of the country. Today, propane retains a strong market share, nearing 90 percent in northern states where the cost to heat a home with electricity is prohibitive.

But propane’s flexibility and energy efficiency make it the ideal fit for CrossMod homes, according to Cordill. For everything from water heating, cooking appliances, clothes dryers, fireplaces, standby power, and even outdoor amenities like flame lighting, propane performance fits into any budget.

“It’s the best of all worlds,” Cordill notes. “As housing affordability challenges continue to grow, families of all economic backgrounds are searching for these highquality homes that don’t create an unrealistic financial burden. And when they enhance it with propane appliances they lower their energy bills, reduce their carbon footprint, and add benefits that last well into the future.”

Learn how propane’s flexibility and energy efficiency make it the ideal choice for CrossMod homes at propane.com/crossmod. Download and share a brochure that showcases propane as the energy solution for all types of manufactured and modular homes from the PERC Resource Catalog at https://propane.com/ resource-catalog/.

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KEEP IT SIMPLE. Choose Rural Computer Consultants to get both fuel software and reliable service under one roof.

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August 2021 •

Texas Propane

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Feature

U.S. Department of Energy Updating Outdated Energy Efficiency Standards for Manufactured Homes

The American Council for an EnergyEfficient Economy (ACEEE) reports

that 100,000 such homes are manufactured each year and the energy standard

for manufactured homes is more than 25 years.

Manufactured homes are constructed in factories that may ship to multiple states, this industry is not by regulated state building codes, however, by federal standards (which preempts the state) reports the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.

The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) only pertains to on site-built homes also known as stick-built homes.

Multi-Home News reports that “Timely updates to energy standards for manufactured homes are necessary due to manufactured housings’ growing demand as an alternative to affordable housing and heightened interest from investors as a stable investment opportunity.”

According to Multi-Home News, the

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

CALLIE STEWART Senior Marketing Representative a/ 713.381.4586 m / 832.264.4775 CBStewart@eprod.com

DOE was sued by the Sierra Club and part of that settlement is required to adopt energy standards for manufactured homes by the first quarter of 2022.

In July 2021, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy published its intent to adopt new energy conservation standards for manufactured housing.

The DOE’s objective is to help saving energy, reduce energy costs for manufactured homeowners, and reducing outdoor pollutants and greenhouse gases.

“

Timely updates to energy standards for manufactured homes are necessary due to manufactured housings’ growing demand as an alternative to affordable housing and heightened interest from investors as a stable investment opportunity.

“

American Council for an EnergyEfficient Economy reports that furnaces in manufactured homes in are “wasteful.”

ACEEE states federal government could mandate ENERGY STAR® equipment for heating and cooling to resolve this problem or possibly look to electrification of manufactured homes if cost-effective.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is proposing energy efficiency standards for manufactured housing that relate to the building thermal envelope; air sealing; installation of insulation; duct sealing; heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC); service hot water systems; mechanical ventilation fan efficacy; and heating and cooling equipment sizing.

DOE is also considering an action alternative that uses a tiered approach to address affordability and cost-effectiveness concerns with respect to energy cost savings and the cost of efficiency improvements relative to the retail price of manufactured housing.

Click LIKE on the Texas Propane Gas Association Page Follow Us with TPGA’s twitter @txpropane1

MEMBER

Disability Insurance • Farm & Ranch • Employee Benefits • Long Term Care Financial & Estate Planning • Home & Auto • Life Insurance

Is the missing piece worth

THE RISK

Other propane owners have come to our agency to get help with connecting their insurance pieces: 1) Some have grown frustrated with the lack of timely response and personal service from their current agent.

Josh McAdams

McAdams Propane Co. Midstream Transportation Co. “I cannot say enough about Rusty and his team at Marshall Young Insurance. Not only are their prices highly competitive and comprehensive, but their customer service is outstanding as well. Marshall Young’s team goes above and beyond to exceed our insurance needs.”

2) Many have discovered a missing piece of coverage after meeting with us.

3) Most tell us they have no idea what companies insure their industry and are surprised to learn there are multiple options available.

WWW.MARSHALLYOUNG.COM 401 N. Ridgeway Drive, Cleburne TX 76033 | 817-645-9155

August 2021 •

Texas Propane

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Safety Talk

Protect your Employees from the Heat Safety Meeting Prevent Heat Illness at Work

FactSheet

Outdoor and indoor heat exposure can be dangerous.

Protecting Workers from the Effects of Heat At times, workers may be required to work in hot environments for long periods.

When the human body is unable to maintain a normal temperature, heat illnesses can occur and may result in death. It is also important to consider that hot work environments may exist indoors. This fact sheet provides information to employers on measures they should take to prevent worker illnesses and death caused by heat stress.

Ways to Protect Yourself and Others Ease into Work. Nearly 3 out of 4 fatalities from heat illness happen during the first week of work.

100% 20% MON TUE WED THU FRI

What is Heat Illness?

Dress for the Heat Wear a hat and light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing if possible.

Drink Cool Water Drink cool water even if you are not thirsty — at least 1 cup every 20 minutes.

Take Rest Breaks Take enough time to recover from heat given the temperature, humidity, and conditions.

Watch Out for Each Other Monitor yourself and others for signs of heat illness.

Find Shade or a Cool Area Take breaks in a designated shady or cool location.

If Wearing a Face Covering Change your face covering if it gets wet or soiled.

Verbally check on others frequently.

• • • • • •

The following are signs of a medical emergency! ? ??

Heat Stroke is the most serious heat-related health problem. Heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature regulating system fails and body temperature rises to critical Occupational Factors levels (greater than that May Contribute 104°F). This is a to Heat Illness medical emergency High temperature and that may result in humidity death! The signs Low fluid consumption of heat stroke are Direct sun exposure (with confusion, loss of no shade) or extreme heat consciousness, and seizures. Workers Limited air movement (no experiencing breeze or wind) heat stroke have Physical exertion a very high body Use of bulky protective temperature and clothing and equipment may stop sweating.

If a worker shows signs of possible heat stroke, get medical help immediately, and call 911. Until medical help arrives, move the worker to a shady, cool area and remove as much clothing as possible. Wet the worker with cool water and circulate the air to speed cooling. Place cold wet cloths, wet towels or ice all over the body or soak the worker’s clothing with cold water.

Heat Cramps are muscle pains usually caused by the loss of body salts and fluid during sweating. Workers with heat cramps should replace fluid loss by drinking water and/or carbohydrate-electrolyte replacement liquids (e.g., sports drinks) every 15 to 20 minutes.

Heat Rash is the most common problem in hot work environments. Heat rash is caused by sweating and looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters.

Heat rash may appear on the neck, upper chest, groin, under the breasts and elbow creases. The best treatment for heat rash is to provide a cooler, less humid work environment. The rash area should be kept dry. Powder may be applied to increase comfort. Ointments and creams should not be used on a heat rash. Anything that makes the skin warm or moist may make the rash worse.

Prevention Made Simple: Program Elements Heat Illness Prevention Program key elements include: • A Person Designated to Oversee the Heat Illness Prevention Program • Hazard Identification • Water. Rest. Shade Message • Acclimatization • Modified Work Schedules • Training • Monitoring for Signs and Symptoms • Emergency Planning and Response

Heat Exhaustion is the next most serious heatrelated health problem. The signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion are headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, confusion, thirst, heavy sweating and a body temperature greater than 100.4°F. Workers with heat exhaustion should be removed from the hot area and given liquids to drink.

First Aid for Heat Illness ? ??

Cool the worker with cold compresses to the head, neck, and face or have the worker wash his or her head, face and neck with cold water. Encourage frequent sips of cool water. Workers with signs or symptoms of heat exhaustion should be taken to a clinic or emergency room for medical evaluation and treatment. Make sure that someone stays with the worker until help arrives. If symptoms worsen, call 911 and get help immediately.

The following are illnesses that may result from exposure to heat in the workplace.

New and returning workers need to build tolerance to heat (acclimatize) and take frequent breaks.

Follow the 20% Rule. On the first day, work no more than 20% of the shift’s duration at full intensity in the heat.

Increase the duration of time at full intensity by no more than 20% a day until workers are used to working in the heat.

Water. Rest. Shade. The work can’t get done without them.

U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration www.osha.gov 1-800-321-6742 (OSHA) TTY 1-877-889-5627

Abnormal thinking or behavior Slurred speech Seizures

9-1-1

Loss of consciousness CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY COOL THE WORKER RIGHT AWAY WITH WATER OR ICE

3

STAY WITH THE WORKER UNTIL HELP ARRIVES

Prevent Heat Illness at Work

Outdoor and indoor heat exposure can be dangerous.

Nearly 3 out of 4 heat illness fatalities happen during the first week of work. New and returning workers need to build tolerance to heat by taking frequent breaks and working shorter shifts in the heat to start.

Watch for any other signs of heat illness and act quickly. When in doubt, call 911.

If a worker experiences:



Follow the 20% Rule — on the 1st day, don’t allow employees to work more than 20% of a shift at full intensity in the heat. Increase their time by no more than 20% a day until they are used to working in the heat.



Provide cool drinking water – encourage workers to drink at least one cup every 20 minutes, even if they are not thirsty.



Move to a cooler area

Rest breaks — allow workers time to recover from heat in a shady or cool location.

Elevated body temperature



Cool with water, ice, or a fan

Dress for the heat — have workers wear a hat and light-colored, loosefitting, breathable clothing if possible.



Thirst

Do not leave alone

Watch out for each other — encourage workers to monitor themselves and others for signs of heat illness.



Decreased urine output

Seek medical care if needed

Look for any signs of heat illness, including fainting, dizziness, nausea, and muscle spasms, and act quickly — when in doubt, call 911.



Offer training on the hazards of heat exposure and how to prevent illness.



Develop an Emergency Action Plan on what to do if a worker shows signs of heat-related illness.

Give water to drink

Weakness or dizziness

Remove unnecessary clothing

Heavy sweating or hot, dry skin

Federal law entitles you to a safe workplace. You have the right to speak up about hazards without fear of retaliation. See www.osha.gov/workers for information about how to file a confidential complaint with OSHA and ask for an inspection.

In Texas, August is no joke. As the hottest month of the year, it is imperative that marketers are protecting employees who often find themselves working in the oppressive heat. PERC recently released a “Safety Minute” on propane.com detailing signs of heat exhaustion. They additionally sent out links to resources that all marketers should review.

OSHA Tips

OSHA does not have a specific standard

To learn more about heat illness prevention and first aid, visit www.osha.gov/heat.

OSHA 3431-05R 2021

Headache or nausea

For more information: 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) TTY 1-877-889-5627 www.osha.gov/heat

22

Dangerous heat exposure can occur indoors or outdoors, in any season. Employers can keep workers safe by following these simple safety practices:

Take these actions:

that covers working in hot environments.

Nonetheless, under the OSH Act, employers have a duty to protect workers from recognized serious hazards in the workplace, including heat-related hazards. Visit OSHA at www.osha.gov and select the “Safety and Health Topics” tab for information.

It explains how to use the heat index to determine when extra precautions are needed at a worksite to protect workers from environmental contributions to

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OSHA alerts are issued on occasion to draw attention to worker safety and health issues and solutions.

•

osha.gov/heat

•

1-800-321-OSHA (6742)

•

@OSHA_DOL

OSHA 3975-07R 2021

1 2

heat-related illness. Workers performing strenuous activity, workers using heavy or non-breathable protective clothing, and workers who are new to an outdoor job need additional precautions beyond those warranted by heat index alone.

Workers new to outdoor jobs are generally most at risk for heat-related illnesses.

For example, Cal/OSHA investigated 25 incidents of heat-related illness in 2005.

In almost half of the cases, the worker in-

volved was on their first day of work and in 80% of the cases the worker involved had only been on the job for four or fewer days. That’s why it’s important to gradually increase the workload or allow more frequent breaks to help new workers and those returning to a job after time away build up a tolerance for hot conditions.

Make sure that workers understand the risks and are “acclimatized”.

Heat-Related Illness

There are several levels of severity when you are talking about heat related illness.

Of course, being aware and recognizing the less serious, earlier warning signs is best for everyone involved!

Heat rash, also known as prickly heat, is skin irritation caused by sweat that does not evaporate from the skin. Heat rash is the most common problem in hot work environments.

Heat cramps are caused by the loss of body salts and fluid during sweating.

Low salt levels in muscles cause painful cramps. Tired muscles—those used for performing the work—are usually the ones most affected by cramps. Cramps may occur during or after working hours.

Heat exhaustion is the body›s response to loss of water and salt from heavy sweating. Signs include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, thirst, and heavy sweating.

Heat stroke, the most serious form of heat-related illness, happens when the body becomes unable to regulate its core temperature. Sweating stops and the body can no longer rid itself of excess heat. Signs include confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that may result in death! Call 911 immediately.

Safety Tips

Additional safety tips are offered by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) under the “Natural Disasters and Severe Weather” tab.

Here a few to share and plan around with your employees who are working in the field.

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids; drink about 16 ounces before starting and 5 to 7 ounces every 15 or 20 minutes.

• Avoid dehydrating liquids. Alcohol, coffee, tea and caffeinated soft drinks can hurt more than help.

• Wear protective clothing. Lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing helps protect against heat. Change clothing if it gets completely saturated.

• Pace yourself. Slow down and work at an even pace. Know your own limits and ability to work safely in heat.

• Schedule frequent breaks. Take time for rest periods and water breaks in a shaded or air conditioned area.

• Use a damp rag. Wipe your face or put it around your neck.

• Avoid getting sunburn. Use sunscreen and wear a hat if working outside.

• Be alert to signs of heat-related illness. Know what to look for and check on other workers that might be at high risk.

• Avoid direct sun. Find shade or block out the sun if possible.

• Eat smaller meals. Eat fruits high in fiber and natural juice. Avoid high protein foods.

OSHA has tons of educational materials that employers can download, print and even post including fact sheets, pamphlets, posters, and alerts. Go to www.osha.gov/publications/ bytopic/heat-illness-prevention.

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Texas Propane

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Inside the Industry

People in Propane Troy B. Allen, 76, passed away June 7, 2021. Troy had the distinction of being the first cadet to graduate from the Houston Police Academy at age 19. He later joined the Department of Public Safety. After that he decided to own his own business, B&S Propane, in New Waverly with his brother Wayne. Troy was also a truck-driver instructor for Lee College. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family at this time.

William Roy “Willie” Meyer, 72, of Schulenburg, passed away June 12, 2021 after a short illness. William worked for Moulton Propane for 40 years. He was a hard worker and loved by many. He enjoyed visiting friends and drinking coffee at the Food Mark, and working in the yard. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family at this time.

Andrew Russell “Rusty” Spurgeon, 57, passed away June 25, 2021.

Rusty worked as a baker at Furr’s Cafeteria in Paris and later went to work for Cooper Propane 1988 as an A/C HVAC Technician and Mechanic and continued work there until his death. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.

Propane Chefs Debut New TV Show

pane grill and posting on social media about the benefits of cooking with propane.

Their new show Battle of the Brothers launches in mid-August on discovery+.

Take advantage of their growing success and popularity by promoting their recipes all summer long.

Download the recipes at https://propane.com/for-my-home/bringing-families-together/

Through a strategic partnership with PERC, Chefs Bryan and Michael Voltaggio have been cooking up recipes on the pro-

Gas or Electric?

What Energy Consumers Prefer

According to the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB)’s What

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Home Buyers Really Want, 2021 Edition, reports that “consumers generally prefer electricity (51%) to gas (33%) for their air heating and cooling systems, but prefer gas (51%) to electricity (39%) for cooking. In comparison, consumers were split on electricity (45%) versus gas (40%) for water heating systems, with 15% indicating no preference.”

However, according to the report, homebuyers preferences vary per geographic region.

Visit https://nahbnow.com/2021/07/ gas-vs-electricity-which-energy-sourcedo-consumers-prefer to see regional preferences.

Don’t forget there are appliance rebates available from the Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT). $300 for a propane water heater and $300 for propane furnace. $600 cap per household. Learn more about the Texas Propane Appliance Rebate Program at www.txsaveswithpropane.com.

How to Educate Your Propane Customers This Fall with Propane Living Newsletter

Last quarter, the Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) sent out almost 100,000 newsletters to Texas propane

customers all over the state.

Was your customer one of them? Your customers can receive it, too.

ProCOT covers the postage! For 2021 participants are responsible for a $49 per company fulfillment fee per quarter plus less than 4 cents per newsletter.

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Apply to Attend LP Gas Growth Summit

LP Gas magazine is accepting applications for its LP Gas Growth Summit, set for Sept. 15-17 at Reunion Resort, outside Orlando, Florida.

The unique networking event brings together retail propane company decision-makers and propane industry partners for two days of one-on-one business meetings, educational opportunities and other networking and recreational events.

The magazine aims to help propane marketers improve their business operations, grow gallons across markets and build lasting partnerships.

LP Gas covers two-nights lodging, food, drinks and golf at the resort. LP Gas also confirms it is working closely with the resort to implement event procedures and practices that focus on the safety and well-being of Summit participants. Space for eligible retail propane decision-makers is limited.

For more information or to apply, visit https://www.lpgasmagazine.com/lp-gasgrowth-summit/.

Q?’s Contact LP Gas Editor-in-Chief Brian Richesson at brichesson@northcoastmedia.net or 216-706-3748.

August 2021 •

Texas Propane

25

Say Cheese TPGA held its 2nd quarter board meeting in Austin on June 22, 2021 to get an end of Texas Legislative Regular Session recap, lawsuit update, and to discuss other propane industry matters.

TPGA President Josh McAdams, McAdams Propane, and TPGA Executive Director Bill Van Hoy ready to kick off meetings and updates in Austin.

TPGA District Director & Vice President Jeremy Gentile, Hill Butane; Jimmie Grant, Martin Midstream; and one of our Board Vice Presidents, Larry Baty, Cadenhead Servis Gas, all smiles after the end of the 2nd quarter meetings.

TPGA members Tod Garrett and Mark Garrison, Allstar Fuel / Fred Garrison Oil Company, traveled all the way from West Texas for the 2nd quarter TPGA board and committee meetings.

TPGA District 9 Director Brad Quisenberry of Gene Harris Petroleum prepping for the meetings.

TPGA District 12 Director John Walter, Schneider Distributing, and TPGA member Ronnie Kelly, Meeder Equipment, catch up at the June TPGA Board Meeting.

TPGA member Jim Fulton, 4JEnergy, and District 10 Director Josh Nowlin, McCraw Propane, travel to Austin for TPGA business and to catch up with fellow industry members.

26

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Say Cheese

Brian, Diana, Joe and Garrett Green of Green’s Blue Flame of Houston at the 2nd TPGA Board & Committee Meetings in Austin.

Joe Green serves as a Sr. Vice President on the TPGA Board of Directors.

TPGA Technical & Standards Chairman Lon Holloway, Northwest Propane, and TPGA District 4 Director Danny Meyers, Bellville Butane, catch up between association committee meetings.

TPGA District 11 Director Steve Adams of AAA Butane and Hardwick Propane; Mark Smith of Home Depot Pro; TPGA District 10 Director Josh Nowlin, McCraw Propane; and TPGA President-Elect Allen Wells, Baygas, at the 2nd quarter meetings in Austin.

TPGA District 2 Director Matt Brock, McAdams Propane, and TPGA District 1 Director David Collett, Gas & Supply, catch up on East Texas matters at TPGA 2nd quarter meetings in Austin this past June.

Board Vice President Larry Baty, Cadenhead Servis Gas; Chris Burchfield, Gas Equipment Company; and David Fulbright, White Distributors talk shop at the TPGA summer meetings in Austin, TX.

August 2021 •

Texas Propane

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Classifieds

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FOR SALE (2) 90,000 gallon, 250 psi, saddles, 2006 (2) 18,000 gallon, 250 psi, skidded, 2011 Contact: Jim Oliver 936-755-6108 petrostar@pdq.net

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Calendar

Index to Advertisers

AUGUST

12-18 National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

10 September ads due for Texas Propane magazine 12-14 2021 Crossroads TPGA Propane Expo & Conference Corpus Christi, TX

SEPTEMBER

3 Fall Propane Living Subscriptions & Mailing Lists Due 6 TPGA & PSC office closed for Labor Day 10 October ads due for Texas Propane magazine 12-14 2021 NPGA Fall TS&S Committee Meeting Colorado Springs, CO

OCTOBER

5-6 PERC Advisory Meeting Tampa, Fl 10 November ads due for Texas Propane magazine.

18-20 2021 NPGA Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo Atlanta, GA 20 NPGA Fall Meeting & Board of Directors Meeting Atlanta, GA

Bergquist 24 BLT Tanks 17 Cunningham Gas Products 31 Enterprise Products 20 Fisk Tank Carrier Inc. Outside Back Cover Gas Equipment Company 31 Legacy Energy Consulting 18 Lone Star Energy Group 29 Longhorn Propane 28 Lumbermen’s Insurance Agency 9 Maquinado de Equiposy Tanques SA de CV 13 Marshall Excelsior 15 Marshall Young Insurance 21 Meeder Equipment Co. 5 Pinnacle Propane Inside Front Cover Propane Service Corporation 25 Quality Steel Corporation 23 Rural Computer Consultants 19 Westmor Industries 25 White River Distributors 12

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August 2021 •

Texas Propane

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Propane With Purpose

Genstove: KickStarter Project Offers Gadget Charging with Camping Stove

cooled by the water basket creates electricity that flows into the connected portable battery pack. Users can either through-charge devices like smartphones or Bluetooth speakers from the 3,200mAh lithium pack’s USB output or store the power for later use.

Viva Plus estimates that it will add 1 percent to a smartphone’s battery after a minute of charging. Beyond charging off the stove, the battery pack can charge via a USB-C charging cable or a portable solar panel.

While proof of concept is still a work in progress, a recent KickStarter project out of South Korea has the potential to open up a new avenue for campers and people who are either off grid or need backup in a power outage.

Genstove, created by South Korea’s Viva Plus, provides a thermoelectric charging solution that is generated by heat waste produced by cooking with propane (or butane). It provides a universal solution for cooking and charging simultaneously.

The Genstove packs its burner, thermal generator and watercooling basket into a cylindrical main body below a two-piece pot stand. As the stove boils or sautés, heat flux from the waste heat

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The KickStarter campaign made its goal and the first set of stoves were sent out to backers. Next steps for the company are not clear from the website. You can check out the pitch at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/genstove/genstove-the-gas-stove-poweredgenerator/description.

Viva Plus is a Korean startup company. The development of Genstove came out of an idea from the cooking process of our daily lifeApproximately 70 percent of the heat energy used from cooking is wasted, and the product founders aim to harvest the energy for reuse. They said, “We thought the idea could be a great solution for people who live in an era of energy scarcity like us.” It took the company about two years to develop the product.

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