The Highlights of PERC’s 2026 Strategic Plan

Propane delivery companies planning for long‑term success should take note: the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) finalized its 2026 strategic plan and budget, bringing clarity to industry priorities for the next three years. With a $46.3 million budget focused on safety, workforce development, and market expansion, PERC is aligning propane’s institutional resources with tangible outcomes that delivery companies can plug into now.

At the heart of the plan is workforce readiness — a direct response to persistent labor challenges across the propane sector. PERC is investing in training and education initiatives designed to bolster driver, technician, and office staff competencies. For delivery companies, this translates into access to structured curricula that improve safety performance, reduce on‑the‑job incidents, and strengthen compliance with NFPA and DOT standards.

Another major pillar is market expansion and awareness. Recognizing that propane’s value extends well beyond traditional uses, PERC is prioritizing campaigns that emphasize propane’s reliability, portability, and lower emissions. This messaging helps delivery companies reinforce the benefits of propane — especially when engaging residential and commercial customers evaluating energy alternatives.

Here’s how delivery companies can make the most of PERC’s strategic direction:

• Integrate industry training tools into onboarding and continuing education programs to build competence and reduce turnover.
• Leverage PERC content and insights in your own customer communications to reinforce propane’s clean, reliable attributes.
• Participate in PERC events and dockets as a way to stay ahead of emerging trends and contribute to discussions that shape best practices.

PERC’s renewed emphasis on structured growth, professional development, and elevated propane valuation offers delivery companies a roadmap for scaling responsibly. Aligning business strategies with these priorities can lead to improved safety, better employee engagement, and a stronger competitive position in an energy market increasingly focused on sustainability.