You may know that natural gas comes from deep underground. So, you might wonder if propane is also mined in a similar way. And, you might be surprised to know that most propane today is derived from natural gas production.
Natural gas contains a mix of different gases, including propane, when it is extracted from the earth. Propane is extracted from liquid compounds as the natural gas is being processed to prevent condensation from forming in natural gas pipelines.
Because propane is created through the processing of natural gas and crude oil, it is largely a domestic product. In fact, about 90% of the American propane supply is generated right here in the United States! That abundant, right-at-home supply makes propane a reliable fuel choice for your Greene County, NC, home, farm or business.
Back in 1910, more people were buying cars, and an American chemist, Walter O. Snelling, was performing research into gasoline storage and evaporation to meet the rising need for gas stations. In the process, he learned that certain evaporating gases could be changed into liquids—particularly propane.
Snelling then created a method to bottle this liquid gas, leading to the creation of the propane industry. The term bottled gas is still used today for propane, which is formally called Liquified Petroleum Gas or LPG. And while propane for cars didn’t become the norm, propane is used today to fuel some vehicles, as well as forklifts.
Today, propane is one of the cleanest sources of energy around – not to mention one of the most versatile and efficient ways to power just about any equipment you need to keep your family safe and comfortable in any season.
Propane produces minimal emissions, and unlike natural gas, propane does not contain methane, a potent greenhouse gas. In fact, it was recognized as an alternative fuel in both the 1990 Clean Air Act and the 1992 National Energy Policy. Propane also doesn’t harm soil or groundwater – an important factor when it comes to determining whether a fuel is “green.”
But scientists are working to make propane even cleaner.
Modern-day William Snellings have developed renewable propane that, like biofuels, is made from fats, vegetable oils and certain types of grease. Since it is molecularly identical to propane, there will be no need to replace or alter existing propane appliances and equipment. And, as renewable propane use increases, it will reduce our greenhouse gas emissions nationwide, helping fight the effects of climate change.
While it is not in common use yet, renewable propane gas has positioned itself to be a major part of the clean fuel conversation in the years ahead.
Whether you’re ready to make the switch, or have more questions, the knowledgeable and friendly pros at Rand Wade team are happy to answer all your questions about the benefits of a propane-fueled home. And, we can get you started, with the right size propane tank for your needs, reliable propane delivery and more.
Contact us for more information today.
