Propane’s Future Blueprint: Insights from PERC Chairman Chris Hill

How the council’s new research agenda aims to boost safety, profitability, and innovation across the industry

Chris Hill, president and CEO of Meritum Energy, sits at the helm of the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) as its chairman. In a recent interview with LP Gas, Hill outlined the council’s strategic direction for the next three years, emphasizing a data‑driven approach to tackling the twin challenges of price volatility and supply chain resilience. “Our focus is on delivering actionable research that drives profitability and safety for every propane professional,” Hill said, underscoring the council’s commitment to practical solutions that can be deployed on the front line.

Under Chris Hill’s leadership, PERC is expanding its research portfolio to include advanced leak‑detection technologies, predictive analytics for seasonal demand forecasting, and a refreshed safety curriculum that reflects the latest regulatory updates. The council is also launching a series of regional workshops aimed at helping small‑to‑mid‑size distributors adopt best practice operational standards. Hill highlighted that “by bringing together academia, equipment manufacturers, and end‑users, we can accelerate the adoption of innovations that lower costs and improve safety for everyone in the supply chain.”

The chairman also addressed the growing competition from alternative fuels, noting that propane’s low carbon intensity remains a competitive advantage when paired with modern efficiency upgrades. He urged industry executives to leverage PERC’s upcoming market trend reports to inform capital allocation decisions, especially as the market anticipates a surge in demand for propane‑powered heating during the upcoming winter season. For many operators, the council’s research will serve as a roadmap to navigate both regulatory pressures and the evolving energy landscape.

For propane businesses looking to stay ahead, Hill’s interview signals that PERC will be a critical partner in 2026 and beyond. The council’s emphasis on safety, technology, and market intelligence aligns closely with the needs of retailers, distributors, and fleet managers striving to maintain solid margins while delivering reliable service.

Information for this article was provided by LP Gas Magazine.