Retailers and farmers rate propane attributes. (ŠIstockphoto.com)
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The propane industry has targeted 2010 as the year the agricultural industry recognizes propane as the preferred energy source.
About 80 percent of U.S. farms use propane because of its environmental and economic benefits, according to a PERC fact sheet
published about two years ago.
Key Propane Attributes Important in Agriculture
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To promote propane in the agricultural sector, a group of propane and agricultural leaders have identified the activities
with the brightest future for the agricultural industry.
These activities are thermal agriculture, crop/food conditioning, power and nutrient management. Thermal agriculture involves research and development of equipment to control pests such as weeds, insects and dangerous pathogens
that could have a negative affect on the production of agricultural commodities.
Propane Use in Agricultural Operations
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Crop/food conditioning research develops technologies that protect or enhance agricultural commodities through harvesting,
processing and storage.
Agriculture Annual Propane Expenditures
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Power activities focus on the validation and demonstration of power generation technologies for agricultural uses. Investments
are made in engines, fuel cells and microturbines.
Nutrient management research develops technologies that help farmers dispose of or remediate waste materials.
