A recent study has found that using propane in homes and commercial sites can be a significant way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that some say contribute to climate change.
Recent research commissioned by the Propane Education & Research Council reveals that propane is a greener fuel choice than electricity for major residential and commercial applications, including space heating and water heating.
The study, produced by independent research firms Nexight Group and Energetics, found that propane-powered furnaces, water heaters, hybrid heating systems, and combined heat and power (CHP) systems significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions when compared with models powered by electricity from the U.S. grid.
“Energy production and use generate GHG emissions that can contribute to climate change,” said Bridget Kidd, PERC’s director of residential and commercial programs. “The results of this study show that propane is a low-carbon fuel source that produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions than many competing energy options over a wide range of applications.”
Propane-powered residential furnaces emitted 73% fewer GHGs than similar electric models. Residential tankless water heaters emitted 37% fewer GHGs, storage tank water heaters emitted 39% fewer GHGs, and hybrid systems (electric heat plus propane furnace backup) emitted 30% fewer GHGs.
Study results for commercial systems and appliances told a similar story. Propane-powered furnaces emitted 34% fewer GHGs, while storage and tankless water heaters emitted 49% fewer GHGs. Combined heat and power systems that produce electricity and heat emitted 44% fewer GHGs than electricity supplied by the grid.
The Nexight Group/Energetics study is the latest resource from PERC highlighting the benefits of propane over electricity. The Virtual Propane Energy Pod Home
“We commissioned this study to provide government leaders, business owners, and consumers with the type of information they need to make informed energy decisions that are better for the environment,” Kidd said. “Builders and other construction professionals across the country are discovering that propane-powered systems and appliances are very competitive in terms of energy costs, efficiency levels, and emissions. Our new research supports the many compelling reasons to choose propane over electricity.”
DOWNLOAD THE REPORT via DropBox here.