Green Energy Innovations: Propane to Biopropane

Propane has been providing clean energy to America for over 100 years. In this timeframe, propane has compiled a stellar safety record and has seen the applications for this clean fuel expanding into different arenas. From farms to fleets, backyards to businesses, to homes and hearths, propane has become an energy solution for America and a friend of the environment.

In addition to residential use, more and more propane applications are extending to businesses in Missouri. Municipalities, school districts, fleets, transit vehicles and landscaping companies have realized the environmental benefits and cost savings of powering their fleets with propane. With many more businesses in Missouri jumping aboard, these visionaries are doing their part for a carbon-neutral future.

Biopropane Offers a Greener Solution

Scientists and engineers have been exploring the future of propane and finding ways to make it even better. They have some exciting news to share with the introduction of biopropane. Biopropane, or BioLPG, has been gaining popularity worldwide. On a molecular level, biopropane and propane are identical. This is a way of saying that the two can intermix without the time and expense of conversion. Or, they can coexist in the same equipment without any modification. This means that your forklift, fleet vehicle or backup generator works just as seamlessly with either fuel source.

Biopropane is made in the same manner as biofuels, utilizing animal and vegetable fats as ingredients. What’s important is the benefit to the environment. Biopropane has a carbon intensity score of less than one-half of propane. These advancements have propelled biopropane from fossil fuel into a renewable energy solution.

Combined heat and power (CHP)

Combined heat and power, also known as cogeneration, is gaining popularity with businesses and homes that have the desire to save money while reducing dependence on the electrical grid. CHP uses a propane-driven engine to supply power and electricity. CHP units are placed on the property and therefore don’t suffer the transmission losses seen from power lines that stretch hundreds of miles.

CHP units then capture the thermal energy from the engine to heat buildings and water. Think of this as a self-contained power source that offers both savings and energy independence. Many businesses have set the goal to become energy resilient. Combined heat and power when partnered with propane allow for energy resilience that is good for the environment.

Propane Takes to Space

Lastly, while the benefits of propane have been established here on Earth, propane is extending its benefits into space. Technology is Taking Off with Propane, describes how one company, Orbex, has turned to biopropane to fuel their rockets.

Using BioLPG, Orbex has developed the world’s most environmentally friendly space rocket. Whether within our atmosphere or beyond, propane is providing environmentally friendly solutions that power the world.