Printer Friendly Version

Propane Is Clean Energy

Propane's unique molecular properties make it much safer and cleaner than related petroleum-based energy sources.

Although propane is refined from petroleum products, its unique molecular properties make it much safer and cleaner than related petroleum-based energy sources.

 

·         Virtually non-combustible. Propane won't ignite when combined with air unless the source of ignition reaches 940° F.

·         Low emissions. Propane gives off less than half the greenhouse gas emissions that electricity does, considering that more than half of the nation's electricity is produced by coal-fired power plants. Propane exhaust creates 60 percent to 70 percent fewer smog-producing hydrocarbons than gasoline, according to studies by the Southwest Research Institute.

·         Nontoxic. Propane is nontoxic and insoluble in water. Because it's released as a gas, it doesn't spill, pool, or leave a residue. That means propane is not harmful to soil or water in the unlikely event of a tank leak.

Propane Is Energy Efficient 

Builders and homeowners concerned about the cost of energy should consider efficient, high-performing propane.

 

With energy costs rising faster than wages, it's never been more important for construction professionals to help homeowners make wise energy choices. In many situations, propane can provide a homeowner with significant cost savings over time.

Take propane tankless water heaters, for example. They can reduce wasted standby energy by as much as 20 percent, and cost up to 60 percent less to operate than standard electric water heaters. And because they heat water on demand, they save the American family 10 percent to 20 percent of its daily water use. Propane tankless water heaters are Energy Star-qualified — electric water heaters are not.

A home's resale value is also important to your customers. By using an energy-efficient fuel source for major appliances, you'll enhance both the initial sales price and resale value of the homes you build.

 

Propane Is Green Energy 

Measured by carbon footprint, propane is one of the greenest energy sources available.

 

Studies from organizations including the Environmental Protection Agency reveal that propane is an attractive option for avoiding greenhouse gas emissions in nearly any application.

Propane gives off less than half the greenhouse gas emissions that electricity does, considering that more than half of the nation's electricity is produced by coal-fired power plants. Additionally, at the point of use, propane has a lower carbon content than gasoline, diesel, heavy fuel oil, or ethanol. Natural gas (methane) generates fewer carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per Btu than propane, but natural gas is chemically stable when released into the air and produces a global warming effect 25 times that of carbon dioxide. This means that 1 lb. of methane produces the same effect on climate change as 25 lbs. of carbon dioxide.

 

Propane Helps You Reach Green Building Standards

Construction professionals who use propane can earn more than 100 points toward the National Green Building Standard™.

 

Construction professionals who use propane can earn more than 100 points toward the National Green Building Standard™. The Green Building Guidelines incorporate environmental considerations into every phase of the home building process, from lot design and preparation to construction to homeowner education. 

The use of propane earns builders and remodelers high points in the categories of indoor environmental quality and resource, energy, and water efficiency. By building with propane, in fact, your project can be halfway to bronze. You can learn more about the Green Building Guidelines from the National Association of Home Builders green Web site nahbgreen.org.