An Exceptional Energy
As a clean, lower carbon, efficient and innovative energy it offers benefits to consumers, industry and the environment. With immediate and global availability, environmental benefits, its natural by-product origin, transportation flexibility and diverse application, LPG plays a pivotal role in the transition towards a more secure, sustainable and competitive energy model. Source: World LP Gas Association
A Recycled product
LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) is a mixture of gaseous hydrocarbons, produced from natural gas and oil extraction (66%) and from oil refining (34%). As an associated gas, it is automatically generated during the production of methane and during the refining process itself. If LPG wasn’t captured at this point, it would have to be destroyed through flaring or venting, an unacceptable waste of an immediately available and exceptional energy source.
Where can it be used?
One of LPG’s greatest strengths is its versatility, with over 1000 different uses: in the home for heating and real flame cooking; in the garden for barbecues; in your vehicle to lower your transport costs; commercially in forklift trucks, farming, industrial heating, catering and caravan parks to name but a few. Further examples of the various uses of LPG can be found in our LPG at Home, LPG in Business and Autogas sections on this site.
Propane & Butane – What’s the difference?
LPG exists in two forms: Propane and Butane. The difference in their properties means that they are particularly suited to specific uses. Propane’s lower boiling point suits outdoor storage and is primarily used for central heating, cooking and numerous commercial applications. Butane, which doesn’t work in colder conditions, is best used indoors and is perfect for powering indoor portable heaters.
How is it stored?
Once again, LPG’s versatility allows it to be stored and transported in different ways depending on its intended use. For central heating and larger commercial applications, LPG will be stored in bulk storage vessels, either above or below the ground. Where less gas is required, or space is at a premium, there is a complete range of portable cylinder sizes available.
LPG as a Hybrid Fuel
In an ideal world, we would all satisfy our energy needs from natural sources such as the sun, wind or water. Research into harnessing energy from these natural sources is being pursued, but, despite these endeavours, energy from renewable sources will continue to satisfy only a fraction of the global energy demand for decades to come. The overwhelming majority of our needs will continue to be met by a range of fossil fuels. LPG is perfectly placed to accelerate the development of renewable energy by serving as a clean back up fuel for intermittent renewable sources.
