• Real-time access to vital data, ensuring your tanks are continuously monitored and protec ted
• Daily readings of key cathodic indicators, including voltage, current, and moisture levels
• Meet critical compliance standards set by NFPA and CR49 regulations
• and IP67 standards for robust safety and durability
• Remote connec tivity through cellular, satellite, and cloud integration for seamless access to data from any where
The Mopeka Cathodic Sentinel has transformed how we ensure the cathodic protec tion and regulator y compliance of our underground tanks. By providing real-time updates on moisture levels, current, and voltage, and seamlessly integrating this data with our backwell as having the data to estimate the life of the anode bags. Immediate aler ts on any compliance and fully compliant, safeguarding both our customers and their tanks for the long term.”
— Colton Wilson, Operations Manager at Nelson Propane Gas Inc.
Proudly American owned and operated, Mopeka® provides unparalleled Tank Monitoring and Cathodic Protection solutions to over 1 million customers worldwide. With >99% accurate readings, our por tfolio boasts award-winning and patented Sonar, Mobile, Satellite, and Cloud based ser vices and solutions tailored to empower all liquid-based enterprises, including Propane, Butane and Distillate Fuels
To lear n more about Mopeka Cathodic Sentinel go to: https://mopeka.com/mopeka-cathodic-sentinel/
Highlights from Headquarters
Bill Van Hoy
TPGA Executive Director
As we all gear up for winter season, which will hopefully include heating propane deliveries, it’s a great time to read about some of the new ways propane is being used.
Interestingly, our primary features this month are about EV vehicles and buses. Sounds like a disconnect, but no one in our industry will be surprised to hear that the rapid adoption of EV vehicles has intersected with limitations on the availability of electricity.
Guess what clean energy is available to help when electricity is unavailable? I know you know the answer. Propane, of course. It’s important for all of us to recognize the various ways propane is supporting the adoption and use of propane fleets. If fleets or school districts in your areas are turning to EVs, you should be prepared to help them. While some of these fleets might be looking at investment in mobile propane powered generators as an emergency or stopgap measure, others are realizing that having a variety of ways to charge their new EV fleets makes them less vulnerable to power outages and disruptions.
While lots of folks seem to be keen to jump on the EV bandwagon, we know that propane-powered buses are a much better solution. They cost one-third of the price of electric versions, refuel in 5-6 minutes (versus 6-8 hours), and can drive more than twice as far as electric counterparts.
The Environmental Protection Agency currently is offering $965 million in grants to replace older school buses (page 16). It’s a great opportunity for your local school district. PERC has lots of assets for you to share with your community.
Time is running out to participate in the 2024 Texas Duty to Warn mailing program. It’s first come, first served with a deadline of December 4 (page 20).
October was busy with both TPGA and NPGA board meetings here in Texas. It was wonderful to see our cohorts from around the nation in San Antonio, which is always a great host. Photos from both events are on pages 22 and 23.
Enjoy your holidays with loved ones. I am thankful for your continued partnership and support in keeping our industry strong and purposeful.
Texas Propane
TPGA staff
Bill Van Hoy ................. bvanhoy@txpropane.com Executive Director
Assoc. At Large Director: Crystelle Markley, Superior Energy Systems, 512-944-4177
Assoc. At Large Alternate: Jimmie Grant, Martin Gas Sales, 713-851-6155
Nominating Chair: John Walter, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109
NPGA Director: Mark Garrison, Allstar Fuel, 806-296-6353
Off the Grid: Propane Powers
Waymo’s Google Driverless
EVs in Texas
The marriage of propane and electric vehicle (EV) technology might seem unconventional, but in Texas, where innovation meets necessity, it’s driving the future of autonomous vehicles. Waymo, a selfdriving technology company, recently deployed its fleet in Austin with the help of propane-powered EV chargers—a solution that bypassed grid limitations and highlighted the potential of propane as a prime power source for EV infrastructure. This project isn’t just a cool tech story; it’s a huge opportunity for propane marketers to step into the rapidly growing EV sector.
Waymo, founded in 2016, began its public autonomous ridehailing trials with the Early Rider Program in Arizona’s Metro Phoenix in 2017. After expanding to San Francisco in 2022 and Los Angeles in 2023, Waymo brought its service to Austin. By early 2025, Waymo plans to operate its Waymo robotaxi fleet 24/7 across 37 square miles of Austin, offering rideshare and food delivery services. The fleet will consist of fully autonomous, all-electric Jaguar I-PACE vehicles, managed by Uber, while Waymo will remain responsible for the testing and operation of the Waymo Driver.
Why Propane?
When Waymo needed a reliable power source for their autonomous fleet, they encountered challenges with grid access in Austin. According to Steve McCoy, with Blossman Gas, “Waymo was ready to deploy in Austin but wasn’t confident ERCOT would have consistent power when they launched.” Blossman Gas, which recently set up roots in Texas and owns Trico Propane in both Rogers and Granger, stepped in to provide a solution. Blossman Gas and Trico Propane are members of Alliance AutoGas, a national consortium focused on the promotion of AutoGas as a viable alternative fleet fuel, including propane marketers’ fleets.
With just 10 days to get the charging infrastructure operational, they installed two 1,000-gallon propane tanks to power six EV chargers with propane generators, getting the entire system up and running in only seven days, ahead of the tight deadline. For
three months, propane powered Waymo’s chargers while ERCOT worked to get the grid connected. “We delivered 800 to 900 gallons every other day,” said Jack Walzel of Trico Propane, ensuring the fleet of 50 autonomous vehicles had the power they needed.
Still Standing By: Propane for Backup Power
Since Waymo is now connected to the grid, Blossman Gas and Trico Propane are in discussions to provide backup power for the driverless fleet, while also helping Waymo meet their sustainability goals. To help Waymo meet their sustainability goals, the propane team is prepared to supply renewable propane for backup power, standing by with two 8,000-gallon tanks of renewable propane at their Trico Propane office in Granger, should Waymo decide to move forward with this backup environmentally friendly solution.
“We were working on providing renewable propane to Waymo before the grid connected,” said McCoy, adding that propane’s sustainability potential makes it a smart choice for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
A Growing Opportunity for Propane
As Texas continues to expand its EV network, propane can play a key role in locations where the electric grid falls short with prime power or as a backup for peace of mind and energy security. Texas has seen a significant increase in the number of electric vehicle charging stations in recent years, with thousands of public charging stations now in operation, making it one of the leading states in EV infrastructure. Waymo’s consideration of propane for a power source underscores how propane marketers can step into this growing space. “We had to dedicate a truck and monitor the system closely to make sure they never ran out of propane,” said Walzel, stressing the importance of being flexible and responsive to clients’ needs.
What Marketers Need to Know
If propane marketers across Texas want to tap into this opportunity, Walzel offers a few key pieces of advice. First, be prepared to provide consistent fuel delivery—EV charging sites will require regular refueling, potentially on short notice. “You’ve got to be ready to go seven days a week, night or day. The load can vary, so you need to monitor the system closely and be prepared to make deliveries at a moment’s notice to keep things running smoothly,” Walzel states.
Second, work closely with clients to determine the right size of propane tanks based on their fleet and charger needs. “They’ll want at least 24 hours of fuel storage, so if the grid goes down, they have time before we get another truck out there,” Walzel explained.
Image courtesy of Waymo.
Moreover, this isn’t just about temporary or emergency power. With discussions already underway about incorporating renewable propane into Waymo’s operations, propane’s role in the EV ecosystem is evolving.
The Road Ahead
Waymo’s driverless cars are just the beginning. As McCoy and Walzel continue to push the boundaries of propane use in EV charging, Texas propane marketers should take note. This new application of propane is not only a cool innovation but also a major opportunity for those ready to seize it. From prime power to backup, propane has proven it can keep EVs moving, even when the grid can’t.
For those looking to get ahead of the curve, McCoy advises, “Stay flexible, stay responsive, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box.” As more EV chargers roll out across the state, propane is positioned to be a critical part of the solution.
Propane-Powered EV Charging Technologies – Another Solution
While the story highlights propane generators powering EV chargers, there are other similar solutions, like packaged propane-powered EV charging system. These propanepowered charging units offer a self-contained solution with propane built in for charging electric vehicles independent of the grid. These units, which can be portable or permanently installed, offer a powerful alternative for fleet operations.
A prime example of a propane-powered EV charging system is the Pioneer eMobility e-boost propane-powered EV Power Pod. These units offer a versatile and efficient solution for charging electric vehicles off the grid. With power outputs ranging from 30 kW to over 1 mW, the e-boost Power Pods can accommodate a variety of EV charging needs. Their portable design allows for easy deployment in fleet yards, parking lots, and other locations, providing a reliable and sustainable power source for electric vehicle fleets.
Read more about these units charging electric school buses on Page 12.
Tracy Wells John Percy Mike Armstrong East Texas West Texas South Texas
Fueling Innovation: Propane-Powered EV Chargers Solve School District Power Challenges
Electric school buses are capturing the attention of school districts across the country, driven largely by the influx of grant money that school districts are eager to capitalize on since grants cover a majority of the cost of the bus. This recent surge in electric adoption surprisingly presents an opportunity for propane retailers to offer school districts a recharging solution, propane-powered EV chargers.
One of the biggest challenges for school districts is realizing that acquiring electric buses is only part of the equation; they also need to invest in new recharging infrastructure. Often, districts overlook the need for chargers until the buses arrive, only then realizing the enormous amount of electricity required.
The power demand for direct current fast chargers (DCFCs) can rival that of an entire neighborhood’s electricity needs, posing a significant challenge for school districts transitioning to electric buses. This is where propane-powered EV charging stations come into play as a practical and cost-effective alternative.
A Practical Solution to Electric Infrastructure Challenges
As highlighted with Waymo in the previous article, the sluggish pace of electrical infrastructure development can lead to delays of months, and sometimes even one to three years, as electric companies work to upgrade equipment to support increased demand. In rural areas, this challenge is even more pronounced. Much of rural America is missing the essential infrastructure, such as power lines, substations, and transformers, required to handle the increased demand from electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. According to Scott Bradley of Pioneer eMobility, installing this infrastructure is often not economically viable for utilities due to low population density and high costs. Upgrading the grid in these areas requires significant investment and prolonged timelines.
This is where propane-powered EV chargers offer a faster and more cost-effective alternative. In areas with inadequate power supply, propane-powered charg-
ing solutions provide school districts with a flexible, reliable, and affordable way to charge their electric buses without overwhelming the grid or stretching budgets. By offering these propane-powered EV chargers to electric bus fleets, propane marketers can present a crucial solution for districts that have opted for electric buses but lack the infrastructure to support them.
Cost-Savings to District
Opting for propane to charge electric buses can lead to substantial cost reductions. The initial investment in propane EV charging solution is also lower than the expenses associated with upgrading or installing new electrical systems. Not to mention the maintenance costs for propane-powered systems are reduced, contributing to a lower total cost of ownership. This combination of factors makes propane a financially savvy option for EV charging, particularly in areas where budget constraints are a concern.
Another Benefit: Undisrupted Power
In a recent article, "The Power Behind the Power," the Propane Education & Research Council touts, “These units are also valuable in unexpected situations. In the event of a power outage or natural disaster, propane-powered EV charging stations can continue to operate independently of the electrical grid. During unexpected disruptions, this ensures that electric school buses can be charged and ready to transport students, or even assist in the aftermath. For school districts in areas prone to severe weather, this capability can be invaluable.”
"The Power Behind Power" article goes on to quote, Scott Bradley of Pioneer eMobility, “When people move to electric, their first concern after ‘can I charge my vehicle’ is ‘what if there’s a blackout?’ So, we’re seeing people keep these units
as backup power, getting rid of the diesel generators, and using propane generators for clean power.”
A New Opportunity for Propane Marketers
For propane marketers, this presents a new opportunity to support the EV transition. By offering off-grid charging solutions, they can help bridge the gaps in electric infrastructure, particularly in rural areas where power shortages and delays are most acute.
Pioneer eMobility’s e-Boost system expands these offerings with flexible charging units ranging from 30 kW to over 1 mW, available in various configurations, including skid, truck, trailer, and pod setups. Each unit includes built-in propane tanks, providing an adaptable solution that can meet the unique needs of any fleet. Whether as a temporary or permanent option, these units offer schools and fleets the flexibility to deploy charging infrastructure that fits their immediate and long-term goals without relying on costly power grid upgrades.
As Scott Bradley with Pioneer eMobility explained during a recent discussion, “For eight school buses, we use about 205 gallons of propane per night, which amounts to 41,000 gallons annually”.
Case Study: LAUSD’s PropanePowered EV Charging
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is at the forefront of using propane-powered charging solutions to meet the demands of its growing electric school bus fleet. Faced with a three-year delay in securing adequate utility power for its 200 new electric Bluebird buses, LAUSD turned to propane-powered chargers as a fast, cost-effective solution.
The district has invested $7.1 million in 25 e-Boost Mobile propane units to support its electric buses. This initial deployment will power 200 buses, advancing LAUSD’s plan to electrify more than 1,000 buses in its fleet of over 3,000 vehicles, which includes buses, trucks, cars, and vans. Each e-Boost unit, mounted on an open trailer for easy mobility, comes equipped with eight Level 2 AC chargers, delivering 19.2kW per charger to efficiently charge buses overnight.
LAUSD will use over 1 million gallons of propane per year for 200 buses.
The Future of Propane-Powered EV Charging
As propane increasingly integrates into the EV ecosystem, it offers more than just a stopgap solution. For many districts, it represents a long-term strategy for managing the power needs of growing electric fleets. Looking ahead, propane marketers have a pivotal role in ensuring that this off-grid charging solution remains a cornerstone of the broader shift towards electrification in transportation. "Propane-powered EV charging stations sup-
port this transition by providing a practical, scalable and environmentally friendly solution for keeping electric buses charged and ready to go," touts PERC.
About Pioneer eMobility -
e-Boost Pioneer eMobility specializes in offgrid, mobile, and temporary electric vehicle charging solutions. Their technology allows for charging in locations without grid connection or extensive infrastructure. This is particularly beneficial for fleet operations, remote areas, and events.
Keep your cylinders from falling victim to tampering!
Fueling the Fast Lane: Propane’s Winning
Formula in Drag Racing
Did you know that propane autogas powers more than just pickups, buses, and bobtails? It’s also fueling drag racing—one of the most intense and high-performance sports on the planet. A prime example is Susan Roush McClenaghan, a six-time national champion drag racer who competes in a propane-powered Mustang. As the daughter of racing legend Jack Roush, she’s no stranger to innovation, proving that propane-powered performance doesn’t have to sacrifice sustainability.
Head-to-Head: Propane vs. Conventional Fuels
Susan, who has claimed two titles with the National Muscle Car Association (NMCA) and four with the National Mustang Racing Association (NMRA), races in the “open fuel” class, meaning propane competes against traditional fuels without any performance handicaps.
“It’s just fuel to fuel,” says Roush McClenaghan, underscoring that propane holds its own on the racetrack. In fact, her best time in the quarter mile is an impressive 9.07 seconds at 154 mph.
Unleashing Propane’s Horsepower
For nearly a decade, Susan has been racing and winning with her propanepowered Ford Mustang, equipped with an 890-horsepower Coyote engine, superchargers, and two fuel injectors per cylinder. The high-octane rating of propane means there’s virtually no difference in horsepower compared to traditional race fuels like C14—just a four-horsepower gap. Susan has reached speeds of 150 mph in just 9.19 seconds, demonstrating the raw power of propane on the track.
The same technology that powers these race cars—liquid propane injection—can be found in the propanepowered Blue Bird Vision school buses, bobtails and chassis, which use a Ford engine platform similar to the one in the Mustangs. This connection shows the versatility and reliability of propane
across various applications, from the open road to the race track.
A Champion’s Journey: Dual Wins in 2023 and Beyond
Roush McClenaghan dominated in 2023, winning dual championships in
NMRA Exedy Racing Clutch Modular Muscle and NMCA MagnaFuel Open Comp. She continues racing in 2024, proving that propane is not only cleaner and domestically produced, but also a high-performance fuel that rivals traditional race fuels.
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
Limited Time Only: $965M
Available for Clean School
Buses
Funding Available
SPREAD THE WORD! The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) is offering $965M in funding to replace school buses, including propane, between $20K-$35K per propane school bus.
and improved engine performance, while providing a cleaner, safer, and more costeffective transportation solution for school districts.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants include school districts, school transportation contractors, and school transportation associations. Eligible old buses for
Available Propane: Marketing Assets
replacement must be 2010 or older diesel models, to be scrapped and replaced with cleaner propane buses.
Application Details
Rebate applications can request funds for replacing up to 50 buses at a time. Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by January 9, 2025.
Learn More
You can learn more about the EPA Clean School Bus Program by going to https://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus.
Available Assets to Help You
Market School Buses
Refueling v. Recharging Case Study
A fact sheet that explains the differences between recharging electric school buses and refueling propane buses.
Propane vs. Electric Buses
Infographics
This series of infographics demonstrates
how propane-powered school buses are a much better option than electric to meet sustainability goals.
Energy for a Brighter Future: Propane vs. Electric School Buses Handout
Propane buses offer many of the same environmental benefits of electric — but at a fraction of the cost. Share this piece with school districts, parents, and other stakeholders to compare propane school buses and electric school buses.
Energy for a Brighter Future: Comparing Propane vs. Diesel School Buses Handout
Propane is the environmentally friendly, healthy choice for school districts. Share this piece with school districts, parents, and other stakeholders to show how propane school buses compare with diesel school buses.
Download these assets at https://propane.com/resource-catalog.
Isn’t it time to trust that your insurance works as hard as you do?
Yellow Rose Propane
• You will receive good old fashioned customer service.
• You will be educated about your policy coverages and shown where you might be vulnerable.
• You will receive multiple options for your insurance.
PERC Offers Fuel Sampling & Analysis Program
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) offers an on-demand Fuel Sampling & Analysis Program to help ensure consistent fuel quality. In partnership with Foran Forensics, a Houstonbased fuel testing facility, PERC allows propane marketers to submit fuel samples for expert analysis on an as needed basis when they suspect fuel concerns. This testing helps marketers rule out fuel quality as a cause of equipment performance issues. In the rare cases where fuel quality is a factor, Foran Forensics provides a detailed report, using the findings to further enhance the propane industry’s ability to deliver the highest quality fuel.
Maintaining high fuel quality is crucial for the propane industry to retain current customers and expand into new markets.
Industry-Wide Program Benefits
• Saves marketers the time and expense of performing their own fuel analysis.
• Enables a quick industry response to marketer requests and concerns.
• Provides baseline fuel analysis data that can inform future efforts to ensure high propane fuel quality.
• Demonstrates the propane industry’s commitment to providing high-quality fuel to end users.
How To Submit Samples
Complete and return a brief questionnaire at https://www.surveymonkey.
The fuel sampling kits include a 2.2-liter stainless steel cylinder (center) for collecting fuel, glass containers for collecting deposit samples, and a manifold.
com/r/FuelSamplingProgram2020 to help document the problem.
If the issue merits further investigation, PERC will coordinate with Foran Forensics to facilitate sending you a sample collection kit and/or help arrange sample shipment. PERC may also ask for photos and videos as well.
After analyzing the sample, Foran Forensics will send you the results, so you can take appropriate action, if needed.
At the completion of the program, Foran Forensics will provide PERC with a summary of the contaminant and fuel quality problems found overall in the group of tested fuel samples.
PERC can also recommend certain procedures to prevent contamination in the future.
Key Program Contacts
Propane Education & Research Council
Satish Guda, Manager, Research & Development phone: 202-452-8975 email: satish.guda@propane.com
Foran Forensics
Christine S. Foran, Senior Chemist 8726 Long Point Road, Suite J74 / Houston, TX 77055 phone: 281-900-2074
Time Running Out to Participate in 2024 Texas Duty to Warn Mailing Program
Don’t miss this critical opportunity to protect your company and customers by participating in the 2024 Duty to Warn Safety Mailing Program. Duty to Warn is a vital responsibility in tort law, requiring you to warn others about potential hazards to prevent harm. Ignoring this duty can lead to severe consequences, including negligence claims.
Compliance is easier than you think. The Propane Council of Texas offers a comprehensive Duty to Warn Safety Mailing Program, providing a Texasspecific safety brochure covering essential topics like what to do if you smell gas and carbon monoxide safety.
What are safety topics covered in the brochure?
• What is propane?
• If you smell gas or suspect a leak
• Can you smell it?
• Propane gas detectors
• Carbon monoxide
• Appliance maintenance
• Texas consumer safety notification
• Running out of gas
How does it work?
1. Texas propane retailers go to www.procot.org/dutytowarn
2. Complete the online registration form & upload your Texas propane customer mailing list to the form.
3. Registration package is automatically sent to a third-party mail house.
4. You will receive email confirmation as soon as your registration is received.
5. Your company name is ink jetted on to the Texas safety mailer.
6. The safety mailer is sent to your Texas customers within 30 days by non-profit bulk mail.
7. Once mailed and payment is received, you will receive a postage receipt and notarized affidavit from the mail house that your mailing is complete.
What does it cost?
The biggest savings to you is there is no cost for the brochure when mailed in Texas. ProCOT covers the big cost, the postage, to Texas customers.
Each Texas retailer participant is responsible for two pass-through fees. You, the retailer, are only responsible for a small $38 fulfillment flat fee and 9.5 cents list processing fee per address.
Important mailing list tips
Virtually every software program containing customer information can be exported into a spreadsheet mailing list. All lists must be uploaded to online registration. Please do not email lists. No PDFs. Mailing lists must be in Excel or csv file.
Please remove customer notes, like COD, Cash Only, etc. If this is next to their name, this will print on the outside of the mailer.
Sample mailing list
Deadline.
Act now, because time is running out. The deadline to have your mailing go out in 2024 is December 4, 2024. The program is first come, first served while stock is available during the 2024-2025 heating season.
Hiring Red, White & You Texas Job Fairs: Find Veterans
Hiring Red, White & You! is a statewide hiring event that connects veterans, transitioning military members, and military spouses to employers across Texas with over ten years of hiring success. Hiring Red, White and You has been working to connect Texas veterans with employers since 2012. In that time, the Texas Workforce Commission has:
• Worked with more than 24,000 employers
• Connected more than 137,000 job seekers to meaningful job opportunities
• Helped facilitate over 3,400 same-day hires
The 2024 Hiring Red, White, and You! Job Fair will be held statewide from November 1-22 with traditional in-person events and opportunities to participate virtually.
Upcoming Job Fairs
Nov. 1 - Houston, TX
Nov. 5 - Odessa, TX
Nov. 6 - Virtual
Nov. 6 - Round Rock, TX
Nov. 6 - San Marcos, TX
Nov. 6 - San Antonio, TX
Nov. 6 - Fort Cavazos, TX
Nov. 6 - San Angelo, TX
Nov. 6 - Dallas, TX
Nov. 6 - Tyler, TX
Nov. 7 - Corpus Christi, TX
Nov. 7 - Austin, TX
Nov. 7 - Frisco, TX
Nov. 7 - Orange, TX
Nov. 7 - Nacogdoches, TX
Nov. 7 - Del Rio, TX
Nov. 7 - Texarkana, TX
Nov. 7 - Amarillo, TX
Nov. 7 - Lubbock, TX
Nov. 7 - Denison, TX
Nov. 12 - Bryan, TX
Nov. 13 - El Paso, TX
Nov. 13 - Victoria, TX
Nov. 13 - Mission, TX
Nov. 13 - Red Oak, TX
Nov. 14 - Brownsville, TX
Nov. 14 - Laredo, TX
Nov. 14 - Abilene, TX
Nov. 14 - Waco, TX
Nov. 14 - Wichita Falls, TX
Nov. 19 - Arlington, TX
For detailed address information, regions covered, and additional details, please visit this link: https://www.twc.texas. gov/services/veterans/hiring-red-white-you.
NPGA
TPGA
October
board meeting
2024
Members, Ed Varney, Metsa & J Sells, Rego
Chairman, Tom Van Buren, Congressman Tony Gonzales, & NPGA CEO, Steve Kaminski
Board Meeting 2024 October
How the Army National Guard Saves
$60,000 Annually with CHP
Two military support facilities in the Northeast demonstrate the energy and carbon emissions savings that combined heat and power systems can achieve
A.J. Ballard has a passion for finding new ways to make his buildings more resilient and efficient.
As energy manager for the Maine Army National Guard (MEARNG), Ballard wasn’t content with building envelope im-
provements and a solar photovoltaic installation at MEARNG’s Aviation Support Facility in Bangor, Maine. Instead, Ballard has pioneered the use of microcombined heat and power (micro-CHP) systems in MEARNG’s facilities to cut energy costs and carbon emissions while improving resilience and redundancy. Combined heat and power systems save energy and reduce carbon emissions by reusing the heat that is produced when generating electricity. Ballard worked with Dalkia Aegis, a manufacturer, developer, and installer of propane and natural gas micro-CHP systems, to design CHP systems for two of his facilities. The first, a 75-kW micro-CHP system at the Aviation Support Facility, demonstrated how much energy savings micro-CHP can achieve, says Dan Burke, vice president of sales and marketing for Dalkia Aegis.
“We know that it’s cut 30 percent of the facility’s energy consumption, creating about $60,000 of savings per year,” Burke says. The project, which won an Energy Star CHP award, served as a model for future CHP projects with the Army National Guard and specifically for MEARNG’s new Northern Maine Readiness Center (NMRC), a 45,000-squarefoot facility in Presque Isle, Maine, serving the Army National Guard 185th Engineer Support Company.
At the Maine Army National Guard’s Northern Maine Readiness Center, two 10kW micro-CHP units provide domestic hot water and primary heating for the building’s radiant slabs. Photo by Maj. Carl Lamb.
Fueling CHP with Propane
The Army National Guard has locations all over the country, and not all facilities have access to natural gas. MEARNG’s Aviation Support Facility and NMRC, for example, could not ac-
cess natural gas to power the CHP system, so Dalkia Aegis designed the systems to run on propane. “Propane provides that resilience factor,” Burke says. “Even if there is natural gas, some of the facilities that are mission-critical could have both natural gas and propane. Our systems have the ability to run on both.”
The NMRC uses two 10-kW microCHP units from Yanmar as the primary heat sources for the low-temperature radiant slabs used in the building, as well as for domestic hot water. The micro-CHP units are tied together with propane boilers for backup heat, with the boilers kicking in automatically when additional heat is needed or if the CHP systems go down.
The micro-CHP system also meets a new directive from the Army to provide resilience and redundancy in its facilities by providing a backup power source. If the NMRC is affected by one of Northern Maine’s numerous outages caused by an aging grid or severe weather, the CHP units continue generating power to keep the facility’s administrative offices functioning.
“Given the storms of the century that are now happening every year, more and more attention is being paid to the expense and the issues that occur when a building doesn’t have power,” Burke says. “It causes folks to reconsider how they look at resilience and backup power. A diesel generator may not do it anymore.”
Fewer Carbon Emissions Than Grid Energy
While energy savings have historically been the primary driver for facilities looking at CHP systems, resilience and carbon footprint reduction have become more important in recent years, Burke says. He sees a common misconception among potential clients that because micro-CHP systems run on propane or natural gas, that they are creating additional carbon emissions.
In reality, because micro-CHP systems are so efficient, they can heat and power a facility with fewer carbon emissions than relying on today’s power grid. “CHP is something that folks can do today that reduces your carbon footprint immediately,” Burke says. That feature resonates particularly for building owners and architects working in cities where carbon emission reductions are mandated by law.
In the near future, facilities may also
be able to bring cleaner fuels into the mix such as hydrogen, which can be mixed with propane or natural gas, and renewable propane or natural gas.
Architects and engineers might also be surprised by the small footprint and quiet operation of today’s micro-CHP systems. A typical unit fits in a 4-by-8-foot footprint about as large as a sheet of plywood, and with noise levels around 70 decibels, they can be the quietest piece of equipment in the boiler room. That makes them a great option for facilities where
lots of people are using heat and hot water, such as multifamily buildings; healthcare and nursing homes; hospitality and athletic centers; prisons; and, of course, Army bases and barracks.
“The NMRC is being used as an example with other Army National Guard bases and military installations as a positive example and something that others should do,” Burke says.
Republished from the Propane Education & Research Council’s propane.com
Inside the Industry
NPGA Works to Secure Pilot Program to Deploy Propane-Powered Generators at Military Bases
This summer, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 8070, the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement Act and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25). The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is the annual authorization bill to fund the United States military that Congress has passed for 63 straight years.
During the House Armed Services Committee’s consideration of the bill, Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI) offered an amendment directing the Department of Defense (DOD) to establish a pilot program to install propane-powered generators at an eligible domestic military installation. As the DOD looks to fortify its energy generation capabilities against severe weather, cyberattacks, and overall grid instability, propane is poised to partner in this effort to increase energy resiliency for America’s armed forces. The Committee adopted this amendment and passed the bill, and ultimately, the full House of Representatives passed the bill on June 14th. The Senate has yet to pass its version of the NDAA, which did not include this pilot program in the base text of the legislation.
Propane generators emit fewer harmful emissions, are quieter, and have significant maintenance cost savings compared to diesel generators, which are currently the on-demand power generation of choice for the military. This program will lead to a baseline comparison for the DOD to compare the enormous benefits propane fuel can bring to DOD operations instead of diesel fuel. NPGA will continue to work with Senate stakeholders as the full Senate considers its own bill later this year.
In Memoriam
Gus Lynn Moore, 82, of Chireno, Texas, passed away September 27. He worked many years as a propane delivery driver in East Texas, retiring from Automatic Gas Company in Nacogdoches with 36 years of service. He enjoyed playing dominoes and had a great passion for the outdoors, especially deer hunting, camping, and fishing, along with gardening. His family is in our thoughts.
Bruce Wayne Kubena, 61, of Ellinger passed away September 30. His career in the automotive industry began at Don Morrison Ford in Columbus, Texas, and he later transitioned to La Grange Ford in 1990, where he dedicated 23 years of service. In 2007, Bruce found a new calling as a truck driver for Fayetteville Propane Company, ensuring the warmth and comfort of countless homes in the surrounding counties and communities. He spent much of his time volunteering for the Ellinger Volunteer Fire Department, where he was an active member for 45 years and held the role of secretary for 35 years. He was also an active member of the Fayetteville Volunteer Fire Department. Bruce’s role extended beyond administrative duties as he became a mentor to the junior fire fighters in his later years, embodying the spirit of guidance and protection in the new generation of volunteers. His commitment to helping others was further demonstrated in his work as a first responder. Bruce was always ready to help people in need, immediately running to put on his uniform and gear and get the fire trucks ready to go at the station. Bruce’s life was indeed one of giving, and his impact on those he helped will not be forgotten.
Join Us for the TSD Conference
The Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) will participate in the upcoming Transporting Students with Disabilities & Special Needs Conference and Trade Show, a national school bus transportation conference hosted in Texas to promote propane microbuses for school districts. It could not have come at a better time with two open grant rounds.
Expo Dates: November 10-11, 2024
Event site: Embassy Suites Dallas-Frisco Hotel & Convention Center
7600 John Q. Hammons Drive Frisco, TX, 75034, US
Room: Grand Ballroom
Want to engage with school transportation officials? Join us next month in the ProCOT booth for the TSD Conference.
Register to work the ProCOT booth. Badges are $150 per person to participate. Register at www.procot.org
Member
Limited Time Only: Time Running Out to Apply for $1,600 to Install Heat Pump Helper
You can receive up to $1,600 for installing a Heat Pump Helper through the Heat Pump Helper Personal Use Program. Traditional electric heat pumps struggle in cold weather, causing higher electric demand and inconsistent heat. The Heat Pump Helper™ uses hybrid technology to boost efficiency, reduce costs, and improve comfort.
To participate in the $1,600 rebate program for Texas propane employees:
1. Complete the HPS Interest Form at https://www.procot.org/ heatpumphelper
2. Fill out the 2024 Personal Use Program Form upon approval.
3. Attend an online training session.
4. Complete the PERC Survey after installation.
Interest forms are due before November 30, 2024, and installations must be before the extended deadline of January 15, 2024.
For questions, call (800)325-7427 ext. 2 or email info@propanecounciloftexas.org.
Propane Living Reaches 145,000 This Fall
Consumers all over the great state of Texas received the Fall/ Winter issue of Propane Living produced by the Propane Council of Texas. The most recent edition reach over 145,000 Texans.
The Fall/Winter edition included information on the importance of not running out of gas, how to read your gas gauge, spotlighted different heating solutions as well as propane school buses.
Watch for more information in 2025 on how you can subscribe to future editions.
Texas LPG Job Board: Search 516 Job Candidates
The Propane Council of Texas has partnered with GeneratioNext Propane Pros. Through the website www.nextgenpropane. com, we offer several free features that make it a valuable resource for propane businesses including:
• Large Pool of Qualified Applicants: With over 5,450 active and qualified candidates nationwide and over 516 in Texas, propane businesses can access a vast talent pool.
• Targeted Search: Employers can find potential hires based on criteria such as location, experience level, CDL certification, and more.
• Applicant Profiles: Detailed candidate profiles, including resumes, education, and skills, empower employers to make informed decisions.
• Easy Job Posting: Propane businesses can post open positions with clear descriptions, locations, and salary ranges to attract suitable applicants.
If you have questions, please contact Michelle Wilson at michelle_wilson@bostonenv.com or 774-259-9424.
1949 Old Chicago 30,000 gal propane storage tank located in Taylor, Tx with land or without. Includes all valves, bulkhead, pump, hoses, and support. Approved for operation in 2017 by RRC. Asking $50,000 for everything or with land $450,000.
Purchase & Sale Pre-Owned Propane Tanks Garrett Insurance Agency, Inc
please reply to irthrasher@yahoo.com.
PetroStar Equipment Resources
CALENDAR
NOVEMBER
10
Ad deadline for November Magazine 10-11
TSD Conference Frisco, TX 11
Texas Legislature pre-filing begins 11
TPGA, ProCOT & PSC Closed for Veteran's Day 28-29
TPGA, ProCOT & PSC Closed for Thanksgiving holiday 30
Heat Pump Helper Interest Forms Due
DECEMBER
4
Texas Duty to Warn 2024 Deadline
5-6
PERC Council Meeting Naples, FL 10
Ad deadline for January Magazine 24-25
TPGA, ProCOT & PSC Closed for Christmas 31
TPGA, ProCOT & PSC Closed for New Year's
JANUARY
1
TPGA, ProCOT & PSC Closed for New Year's 10
Ad deadline for the February magazine 14
89th Texas Legislature convenes 15
Deadline to install Heat Pump Helper under Personal Use Program (PUP)
PROPANE with PURPOSE
U.S. Airforce Turns to Propane to Protect its Airspace
The city of Wichita Falls and the U.S. Air Force are engaged in a turf war with nature. They’ve turned to propane cannons to disperse cattle egrets, which have roosted near the Kickapoo Downtown Airport and the Wichita Falls Regional Airport.
These big birds pose a significant strike threat to planes. Birds of this size can cause extensive damage, and potentially cause an aircraft crash.
The city, Sheppard Air Force Base and federal wildlife officials have decided the safest and most effective solution is to use propane cannons and pyrotechnics to persuade the egrets to roost elsewhere.
Each evening, during roosting time, the propane cannons will fire until the egrets adopt a new homesite.
The last egret strike in the area
was in July 2013 and resulted in the loss of an $8 million T-38. The pilots ejected safely.
A company that provides a variety of propane cannons, Wildlife Control Supplies, has both single shot and multiple shot cannons. Their M8 Multi-Bang Cannon is the industry standard used by more bird and wildlife control experts than any other LP gas cannon. It works by producing random series of single, double and triple clusters of shots. Time duration between series of shots is adjustable from 30 seconds to 15 min-
utes. The piezo ignition generates as many as 200,000 shots, and the M8 is capable of producing approximately 5,000 shots per five gallon LP gas cylinder.
The use of multiple shots at irregular intervals over a short period of time has been proven as one of the most effective methods of bird and wildlife dispersal.
It is designed to be fired in an open field and placed on a flat ground. For best results, the company suggests changing locations and varying the rate of fire often.
T e x a s , a s w e l l a s p r i c e t r e n d s .
T h e w e e k l y u p d a t e g i v e s i n v e n t o r y l e v e l s
a n d s u p p l y u p d a t e s p e r r e g i o n o f t h e U n i t e d
