We read Jane Gall's letter, Natural gas suggestions, that was printed in the Prince George Citizen on Jan. 23 with interest. Yes, natural gas is part of the solution - but so is propane - to contributing to a lower emission future for Canadians and to solving a very complex problem.
Propane is an abundantly available, low-emission, Canadian-produced energy source, which does everything that natural gas does, with a similarly small impact on our environment. It is available here and now, without government subsidy and without customers having to dig into their wallets to build expensive networks.
While the cost of natural gas is often less than propane, there are other outlays that need to be considered. As Jane notes, the initial infrastructure cost to distribute natural gas to rural areas is often out of reach for most rural property owners and others.
Natural gas makes sense where the expansion is, in itself, economically viable and where there is a significant, ready-to-go, commercial and residential ratepayer base. Nobody knows exactly what energy markets will look like in 40 years' time, so does it make sense to invest many millions in infrastructure that has an uncertain future? Municipalities, homeowners and businesses must give serious consideration to the advantages of propane.
Propane requires no large infrastructure expenditure and is distributed by local companies that provide many jobs and who support their home communities. Recognized for its low emissions and environmental impact by the Alternative Fuels Act, it is one of the cleanest and most versatile fuels in existence. Propane is perfect for applications as diverse as heating commercial and residential buildings, fuelling vehicles, drying crops and powering industrial processes.
The propane industry urges energy consumers and municipal stakeholders to consider the full picture when making decisions about their energy future.
Access to reliable, cost-effective and low-emission energy is important for rural communities in Canada. Local propane suppliers are here to talk and help you choose energy options that are best for you and future generations. Get in touch with us.
Nathalie St-Pierre
President and CEO, Canadian Propane Association
