NEW MILFORD, Conn. – December 04, 2024 – Cetane Associates (“Cetane”) is pleased to announce that ShepGas, LLC. (“ShepGas”), located in Mt. Pleasant, SC, has acquired Carolina Gas Co, LLC. (“Carolina Gas”), located in Mt. Pleasant, SC. The transaction closed on November 8, 2024. Carolina Gas was established in 1998 by Steve and Wanda McDuffie.… Continue reading Cetane Announces the Sale of Carolina Gas
Safety in the propane industry is foundational. With a variety of tasks that require meticulous attention and skill, industry workers need to be well-prepared to handle any on-the-job risks effectively. The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) offers an exceptional resource for this in the form of their Propane Personal Safety Course, designed to educate… Continue reading Promoting Safety with PERC’s Propane Personal Safety Course
A great customer service team is the backbone of any successful business. In the propane industry, where service reliability and client satisfaction are crucial, a skilled team can build trust, solve problems quickly, and keep clients happy and loyal. Here are the qualities of an outstanding customer service team and why it’s important to get… Continue reading What Makes a Customer Service Team Stand Out?
Handling customer cancellations gracefully and trying to win them back are critical components in maintaining a strong business reputation and a solid customer base. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to approach this sensitive issue. Listen and Understand First, it’s vital to listen to why a customer is canceling. Whether it’s due to cost, dissatisfaction… Continue reading Winning Back Customers After Cancellations
The propane market continues to play a key role in the global energy mix, driven by its widespread use across various residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Propane, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is a versatile hydrocarbon that can be easily stored and transported. Its efficiency and lower carbon emissions make it an attractive option for… Continue reading Propane Market Growth: Key Drivers and Trends
NEW MILFORD, Conn. – November 14, 2024 – Cetane Associates (“Cetane”) is pleased to announce that Santa Energy, located in Bridgeport, CT, has acquired West Oil Company, Inc. (“West Oil”), located in North Adams, MA. The transaction closed on October 15, 2024. West Oil Company was founded in 1949 by Edward and Dorothy West. They… Continue reading Cetane Announces the Sale of West Oil
The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) is actively engaging with the U.S. Department of Labor to address critical safety concerns related to Process Safety Management (PSM). This safety program, overseen by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), sets stringent requirements for facilities handling over 10,000 pounds of hazardous materials. Propane facilities were previously exempt… Continue reading Enhancing Safety in Propane Operations
Optimizing the timing of discounts in your propane business is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge without sacrificing profitability. This detailed guide provides insights into the strategic timing of promotions and how these tactics can specifically benefit your bottom line. Understanding the Best Times for Discounts Off-Peak Seasons The demand for propane noticeably drops as… Continue reading Smart Timing for Discounts in Your Propane Business
As a propane business owner, staying informed about the latest regulations is essential. New standards introduced in the propane industry often focus on enhancing safety, environmental standards, and operational efficiency. Understanding and adapting to these changes is vital to maintain compliance and avoid penalties, which can directly impact your bottom line. Understanding New Regulations Updated… Continue reading Navigating New Propane Regulations
Exploring international markets may offer significant opportunities for propane businesses looking to expand. Understanding the impact of export opportunities can help these businesses leverage global demand to increase their growth and profitability. Broadening Market Reach Expanding into international markets opens up new opportunities for propane businesses. By exporting, companies are not only limited to domestic… Continue reading How Exports Affect Propane Businesses
Propane has emerged as a reliable energy source for critical power needs, especially in areas prone to grid disruptions. A recent discussion between Microgrid Knowledge and Bert Warner from the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) highlighted the role of propane in combined heat and power (CHP) systems. These systems not only ensure energy resilience… Continue reading Propane Enhances On-Site Power Reliability with CHP Systems
On November 5, Washington state voters decisively passed Citizen Ballot Initiative No. 2066, marking a significant victory for energy choice. The initiative, supported by a coalition including the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA), prevents the state from banning or limiting natural gas and propane usage in residential and commercial buildings. This outcome empowers consumers to… Continue reading Washington State Voters Uphold Energy Choice, Reject Anti-Gas Policies
If you’re running a propane business, you know that every dollar counts significantly when expanding or upgrading equipment. Tax breaks can make these investments substantially more affordable, helping you invest more money into your business. Here’s how tax breaks can make a difference in your propane business and how they might impact your growth. How… Continue reading How Tax Breaks Fuel Growth in Propane Investments
Social media is a powerful tool for connecting with customers, but it’s an easy arena in which to slip up. Propane companies can sometimes unwittingly make mistakes that hinder their online presence and customer engagement. Here’s what to watch out for. Ignoring Customer Engagement One of the biggest mistakes companies make online is not responding… Continue reading Common Social Media Errors Propane Companies Make
Hiring the right technicians is crucial for the success of your propane business. Here are five key qualities to consider when evaluating candidates for this all-important position: 1. Technical Expertise First and foremost, a proficient propane technician must possess a solid foundation in technical skills. This includes knowledge of propane equipment and systems, safety protocols,… Continue reading What Should You Look for in New Technicians?
In the fast-paced world of propane distribution, supply surprises can occur at any moment. As we move toward the end of the year, propane businesses must be prepared for potential disruptions that could impact their operations and customer service. Factors such as unexpected weather changes, geopolitical issues, or shifts in demand can all affect propane… Continue reading Weathering the Storm: Smart Strategies for Unforeseen Propane Supply Challenges
In today’s digital age, a robust online presence is crucial for any business, including those in the propane industry. An often-overlooked strategy to enhance online visibility is gathering and leveraging customer feedback through surveys. When integrated with tools like Google My Business (GMB), customer surveys can significantly improve a company’s reputation, visibility, and engagement with… Continue reading Boosting Online Presence for Propane Businesses
Getting through the propane permitting process can feel like a maze. But with the proper steps, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let’s look at practical ways to make the process easier and more efficient. Understand the Rules and Requirements The first step is knowing what permits are needed for your propane business. This varies… Continue reading Propane Permitting Made Simple
Strong customer relations are the backbone of any successful business, including those in the propane industry. Enhancing how you connect with clients can increase satisfaction, loyalty, and sales. Here are some effective strategies to improve customer interactions, making every touchpoint an opportunity to impress and engage. Train Your Team in Customer Service Excellence Your employees… Continue reading Boosting Client Relations in Propane Sales
As a propane business owner, knowing whether to repair or replace your propane tank is crucial for managing costs and ensuring operational efficiency. Here, we provide a detailed guide on making this decision effectively, considering both the immediate and long-term impacts on your business. Understanding the Lifespan of Propane Tanks Propane tanks are robust and… Continue reading Should You Repair or Replace Your Propane Tank?
The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) is advocating for a crucial two-year extension of the Alternative Fuel Tax Credit (AFTC). This incentive, set to expire on December 31, 2024, plays a significant role in promoting the adoption of alternative fuels, including propane autogas, by offsetting costs for businesses and consumers alike. The tax credit supports… Continue reading Why Extending the Alternative Fuel Tax Credit Matters
Attending industry events can be a game-changer for propane business owners. It’s a great chance to make connections, find new business opportunities, and learn from others. But successful networking takes more than just showing up. Here are some tips to help you make the most of these events. Set Clear Goals Before You Go Before… Continue reading How Can You Network Effectively at Industry Events?
Managing debt is a crucial part of running a successful propane business, especially as you look to grow and expand. Effective debt management can enhance your financial stability and allow you to capitalize on opportunities without overextending your resources. Here’s a straightforward guide to handling debt wisely in your propane business. Understand Your Current Debt… Continue reading Smart Debt Handling for Propane Companies
As the cooler months approach, many homeowners face the challenge of keeping their outdoor spaces usable and inviting. With propane-powered solutions, extending your outdoor season becomes easier and more efficient. Whether it’s heating patios, fueling outdoor kitchens, or keeping pools warm, propane offers a reliable and cost-effective way to enjoy outdoor living even when temperatures… Continue reading Extend Your Outdoor Season with Propane
As the year draws to a close, the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) is calling for nominations for its annual awards, which celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals to the propane industry. These awards are a meaningful way to recognize the efforts that drive safety, advocacy, and innovation in this energy sector. The awards open… Continue reading Recognizing Excellence: NPGA Award Nominations Due Dec. 1
Every Veterans’ Day, communities across the United States pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation. At Eastern Propane & Oil, dedication to supporting our veterans is deeply embedded in its corporate ethos. Located in Springvale, Maine, Eastern has been a family-operated beacon of support for the military community since… Continue reading Eastern Propane & Oil Champions Veteran Support
As the propane industry navigates another busy year, it’s important for professionals and business leaders to come together and discuss the future of the industry. The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) Winter Board Meeting is an excellent opportunity for stakeholders in the propane sector to connect, share insights, and address both the challenges and opportunities… Continue reading Save the Date: NPGA Winter Board Meeting Set for February 3-5, 2025
Public relations (PR) is much more than simply sending press releases or responding to media questions. For propane companies, having a thoughtful and well-crafted PR strategy can go a long way in building trust, shaping public perception, and creating and developing business opportunities. Read on to discover how your propane business can propel itself forward… Continue reading Building a Strong PR Strategy for Your Business
Understanding your competitors’ methods can give your propane business a much-needed boost. Analyzing their strategies and tactics will do much to help you anticipate market shifts, refine your offerings, and differentiate yourself. Here’s how you can proceed with this vital undertaking and what it means for your business. Identify Key Competitors Begin by listing your… Continue reading How Competitiors Shape the Industry
Raising propane prices is never easy, but it’s sometimes necessary due to market conditions or operational costs. How you communicate these increases can significantly affect how your customers react. Clear and honest communication helps maintain trust while minimizing any negative impact. Let’s explore the best ways to handle these difficult conversations with your customers. Be… Continue reading Communicating Propane Price Increases with Customers
