As concern for energy reliability surges nationwide, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is marking National Propane Day by encouraging fleet owners to explore propane autogas as a reliable, on-site energy solution that can support greater peace of mind during power outages or severe weather.

October 7 marks the fourth annual National Propane Day, and this year’s theme, “Prepare with Propane,” is a reminder of propane autogas’s reliability, said PERC officials. 

A recent report from the U.S. Department of Energy warns that blackouts in the U.S. could increase 100-fold by 2030 as the electric grid struggles to meet growing demand. 

For fleet owners that rely on a rigid energy source, that could mean the difference in responding during an emergency, ensuring children make it home from school, or keeping critical supplies moving. Because propane autogas is stored on site, never degrades, and isn’t reliant on the power grid for distribution, it remains ready even during widespread power disruptions, officials said.

“As someone who spent years managing school transportation, I understand firsthand how critical it is to keep vehicles moving,” said Joel Stutheit, senior manager, autogas business development, at PERC. “When a fleet goes down, everything stops. Propane autogas gives fleet owners a level of control that other energy sources can’t. It’s dependable, affordable, and always ready, no matter what’s happening with the grid.”

Propane’s Usage as Reliable, Sustainable Fuel

Today, more than 60,000 propane autogas vehicles are in operation across the U.S., providing reliable service to transit agencies, delivery companies, emergency response fleets, utility crews, and other organizations. 

The energy source is not only resilient but also clean, producing up to 96% fewer nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions than diesel. It offers lower fuel and maintenance costs, supports better air quality, and contributes to more consistent uptime, said PERC.

In addition to propane autogas vehicles, the energy source is also helping electric fleets become more resilient with propane-powered EV charging systems. Powered by a propane generator, and in some cases wind and solar, these off-grid charging solutions can be installed in remote locations, disaster zones, or depots without permanent infrastructure, ensuring vehicles stay charged even when the grid is down.

Now in its fourth year, National Propane Day is not only a celebration of propane’s energy benefits, but also a moment to recognize the propane professionals who make clean transportation possible.

“From bobtail delivery drivers who make sure customers have energy when they need it to propane autogas service technicians that keep vehicles operating safely on the road, National Propane Day is also a celebration of them,” said Joel Stutheit. “We depend on these professionals to keep clean, reliable transportation running every day. Their dedication is what helps fleets stay prepared, no matter what challenges come their way.”