Effective inventory management is essential for propane businesses to navigate the complexities of fluctuating demand and operational challenges. As the propane industry continues to evolve, companies must adopt strategies that allow them to stay competitive while maintaining efficient service levels. Here are some ways propane retailers and wholesalers can optimize their operations, ensuring they are… Continue reading Fueling Efficiency: Strengthening Propane Business Operations

The global energy sector is evolving rapidly as alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, and electricity gain momentum. For propane businesses, this shift presents both great challenges and great opportunities. Understanding these dynamics and positioning propane as a viable, complementary energy source is key to thriving in this changing environment. The Consumer Shift Toward… Continue reading Bridging the Energy Gap: How Propane Complements Renewables

The push to electrify everything, including equipment at ports, has faced significant challenges, raising concerns about its practicality and long-term benefits. Ports are essential hubs for global trade, handling immense amounts of cargo daily, but the effort to transition entirely to electric-powered equipment has exposed a variety of issues, from operational inefficiencies to environmental impact… Continue reading Why “Electrifying Everything” Isn’t Working for America’s Ports

The way your business presents itself can be the deciding factor in attracting and retaining customers. Simply providing a reliable service isn’t enough anymore. Propane companies must focus on showcasing their unique value and building a strong, recognizable brand. This is essential, not only to stand out, but also to foster lasting customer relationships and… Continue reading Help Your Company Stand Out with Strong Branding

Propane companies play a critical role in keeping communities fueled, but handling hazardous waste is a necessary responsibility of theirs that requires careful management. This guide covers essential practices for managing hazardous waste effectively, from identifying waste types to safe storage and disposal. Following these protocols will assist propane companies in staying compliant and protecting… Continue reading From Tanks to Toxins: Mastering Hazardous Waste Management

Handling overdue payments is one of the challenges propane businesses face regularly. Addressing these issues thoughtfully will do much to help you recover payments while preserving solid customer relationships. With a structured and friendly approach, balancing financial recovery and maintaining trust is possible. Here’s how to make that happen. Start with Clear Payment Terms The… Continue reading Managing Overdue Payments with a Positive Approach

Propane supplies are expected to be plentiful this winter, offering relief for homeowners and businesses reliant on propane for heating. Industry experts point to healthy production levels, ample reserves, and consistent infrastructure performance as key factors ensuring that the market will remain stable during the coming colder months. Strong Propane Stock Levels The U.S. propane… Continue reading Will Propane Supplies Meet Winter Demand This Year?

Are you a propane business owner looking to set up a storage yard or to increase the efficiency of one you already own? Effectively organizing your propane storage is vital for safety, accessibility, and profitability. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to achieve an optimal layout for your propane storage yard. Planning… Continue reading Optimizing Your Propane Storage Yard

The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) is actively engaging with the U.S. Department of Labor to address critical safety concerns related to Process Safety Management (PSM). This safety program, overseen by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), sets stringent requirements for facilities handling over 10,000 pounds of hazardous materials. Propane facilities were previously exempt… Continue reading Enhancing Safety in Propane Operations

As winter draws near, propane businesses must prepare to meet surging demand while navigating potential supply challenges. Demand for propane spikes as temperatures drop, making effective supply management and risk mitigation essential. Strategic planning, including price protection and enhanced inventory insights, can help propane companies seamlessly manage seasonal pressures. This guide covers essential strategies for… Continue reading Winter-Ready Strategies to Ensure Consistent Propane Supply

In recent months, electricity prices across the United States have seen another significant increase, adding to the already rising cost of living and doing business. The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) has reported that electricity prices have been steadily climbing, with no immediate relief in sight. For propane businesses, this shift presents both challenges and… Continue reading Electricity Prices on the Rise Again

The propane industry plays a crucial role across various sectors, from residential heating to powering commercial and agricultural operations. Yet, the industry faces a unique set of challenges that can impede operational efficiency, safety, and profitability. As customer expectations evolve and regulatory demands grow, propane companies must address key issues such as safety, compliance, tank… Continue reading Beyond Delivery: The Propane Everything App

NEW MILFORD, Conn. – December 04, 2024 – Cetane Associates (“Cetane”) is pleased to announce that ShepGas, LLC. (“ShepGas”), located in Mt. Pleasant, SC, has acquired Carolina Gas Co, LLC. (“Carolina Gas”), located in Mt. Pleasant, SC. The transaction closed on November 8, 2024.  Carolina Gas was established in 1998 by Steve and Wanda McDuffie.… Continue reading Cetane Announces the Sale of Carolina Gas

Safety in the propane industry is foundational. With a variety of tasks that require meticulous attention and skill, industry workers need to be well-prepared to handle any on-the-job risks effectively. The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) offers an exceptional resource for this in the form of their Propane Personal Safety Course, designed to educate… Continue reading Promoting Safety with PERC’s Propane Personal Safety Course

The propane market continues to play a key role in the global energy mix, driven by its widespread use across various residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Propane, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is a versatile hydrocarbon that can be easily stored and transported. Its efficiency and lower carbon emissions make it an attractive option for… Continue reading Propane Market Growth: Key Drivers and Trends

NEW MILFORD, Conn. – November 14, 2024 – Cetane Associates (“Cetane”) is pleased to announce that Santa Energy, located in Bridgeport, CT, has acquired West Oil Company, Inc. (“West Oil”), located in North Adams, MA. The transaction closed on October 15, 2024.  West Oil Company was founded in 1949 by Edward and Dorothy West. They… Continue reading Cetane Announces the Sale of West Oil

The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) is actively engaging with the U.S. Department of Labor to address critical safety concerns related to Process Safety Management (PSM). This safety program, overseen by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), sets stringent requirements for facilities handling over 10,000 pounds of hazardous materials. Propane facilities were previously exempt… Continue reading Enhancing Safety in Propane Operations

As a propane business owner, staying informed about the latest regulations is essential. New standards introduced in the propane industry often focus on enhancing safety, environmental standards, and operational efficiency. Understanding and adapting to these changes is vital to maintain compliance and avoid penalties, which can directly impact your bottom line. Understanding New Regulations Updated… Continue reading Navigating New Propane Regulations

Propane has emerged as a reliable energy source for critical power needs, especially in areas prone to grid disruptions. A recent discussion between Microgrid Knowledge and Bert Warner from the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) highlighted the role of propane in combined heat and power (CHP) systems. These systems not only ensure energy resilience… Continue reading Propane Enhances On-Site Power Reliability with CHP Systems

On November 5, Washington state voters decisively passed Citizen Ballot Initiative No. 2066, marking a significant victory for energy choice. The initiative, supported by a coalition including the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA), prevents the state from banning or limiting natural gas and propane usage in residential and commercial buildings. This outcome empowers consumers to… Continue reading Washington State Voters Uphold Energy Choice, Reject Anti-Gas Policies

If you’re running a propane business, you know that every dollar counts significantly when expanding or upgrading equipment. Tax breaks can make these investments substantially more affordable, helping you invest more money into your business. Here’s how tax breaks can make a difference in your propane business and how they might impact your growth. How… Continue reading How Tax Breaks Fuel Growth in Propane business Investments

In the fast-paced world of propane distribution, supply surprises can occur at any moment. As we move toward the end of the year, propane businesses must be prepared for potential disruptions that could impact their operations and customer service. Factors such as unexpected weather changes, geopolitical issues, or shifts in demand can all affect propane… Continue reading Weathering the Storm: Smart Strategies for Unforeseen Propane Supply Challenges

Strong customer relations are the backbone of any successful business, including those in the propane industry. Enhancing how you connect with clients can increase satisfaction, loyalty, and sales. Here are some effective strategies to improve customer interactions, making every touchpoint an opportunity to impress and engage. Train Your Team in Customer Service Excellence Your employees… Continue reading Boosting Client Relations in Propane Sales

As a propane business owner, knowing whether to repair or replace your propane tank is crucial for managing costs and ensuring operational efficiency. Here, we provide a detailed guide on making this decision effectively, considering both the immediate and long-term impacts on your business. Understanding the Lifespan of Propane Tanks Propane tanks are robust and… Continue reading Should You Repair or Replace Your Propane Tank?

The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) is advocating for a crucial two-year extension of the Alternative Fuel Tax Credit (AFTC). This incentive, set to expire on December 31, 2024, plays a significant role in promoting the adoption of alternative fuels, including propane autogas, by offsetting costs for businesses and consumers alike. The tax credit supports… Continue reading Why Extending the Alternative Fuel Tax Credit Matters

As the year draws to a close, the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) is calling for nominations for its annual awards, which celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals to the propane industry. These awards are a meaningful way to recognize the efforts that drive safety, advocacy, and innovation in this energy sector. The awards open… Continue reading Recognizing Excellence: NPGA Award Nominations Due Dec. 1