September 26, 2019
Regarding the Sept. 18 lohud.com news story “New York’s battle over natural-gas pipelines: Why it may impact your bill and the climate”
While state regulators contemplate natural-gas pipelines and greenhouse-gas emissions, and businesses are concerned about supply, this may be an opportunity to explore options beyond the status quo. Propane is an efficient substitute for natural gas, and it is immediately available throughout New York.
Propane is a non-toxic, EPA-certified clean fuel that can help New York residences and businesses reach environmental and sustainability goals. It’s actually a waste product that is left over when natural gas and oil are refined. So, using propane reduces greenhouse gas emissions that would otherwise be produced.
And for those considering using electric in place of their planned natural gas supply, it’s worth noting that propane equipment produces 30% to 40% fewer carbon emissions than electric units and heats faster than many electric appliances — which is a great benefit on its own, but also saves customers money.
The propane industry is also growing. And for those who are concerned about or looking for jobs, there are ample opportunities with propane companies right here in New York.
There is yet another reason to consider propane during this lack of natural gas service: For businesses and homeowners who still want to connect to natural gas if/when it becomes available, a professional technician can convert propane appliances for use with natural gas. This involves changing some of the internal parts to compensate for the different pressures between propane and natural gas.
Our family business has had an established presence in New York since my grandfather founded this company in 1968. We now have 27 of our own propane distribution centers in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New England, and a staff of more than 400 individuals. That doesn’t even include other available propane suppliers.
So, although this is a challenging time for New York residents and businesses, maybe this disruption is just what we needed to stop and evaluate all of the options available to us. Not only can propane help the individuals who have been impacted by the natural gas moratorium, but in certain scenarios, propane is a more valuable fit for many residents — which may have been overlooked otherwise.
(Original post here)