PERC approves funding for 2023 programs, other projects

November 11, 2022 By Brian Richesson

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) met Nov. 8-9 in Destin, Florida, and approved the following funding requests:

The Propane Education & Research Council meets Nov. 8-9 in Destin, Florida. (Photo by LP Gas staff)

$12,863,000 for the 2023 integrated marketing and communications plan. It encompasses total programming for all markets, digital development, corporate communications/market support as well as environmental thought leadership. PERC says the program in 2023 will build on the momentum that its new brand identity, “PROPANE Energy for Everyone,” has achieved in increasing awareness and positive perceptions of propane through messages to consumer and business audiences.
$5,410,000 for the 2023 environmental campaign and partnership with states program. The nationwide consumer awareness campaign is designed to carry PERC’s brand identity and messages, supported by customized regional campaigns.
$1,250,000 for the 2023 Propane Construction Incentive Program, which provides funds (up to $1,500 per home) to builders who construct new homes with propane as the fuel of choice. In return, PERC will gain emissions data that can be used to demonstrate the benefits of building a mixed-fuel home.
$1,228,600 for 2023 industry outreach, covering meeting expenses, as PERC promotes and educates the industry on various programs and initiatives.
$980,000 for CETP modularization development – round 3, phase 2 – to update programs related to the design and installation of exterior vapor distribution systems and placing vapor systems and appliances into operation.
$927,000 for consumer safety materials update and validation testing, ensuring the materials meet ANSI Z535 standards and are communicated and delivered in an effective manner.
$595,010 for the fabrication and commercialization of a self-propelled, propane-fueled band steam applicator. The unit, using steam to control soil nematodes and weed seeds, aims to help farmers displace diesel and replace toxic fumigants.
$400,000 for the 2023-24 Propane Farm Incentive Program, which provides a financial incentive of up to $5,000 toward the purchase of new propane-powered farm equipment. PERC says it will provide $200,000 annually over 2023 and 2024, and a new online portal will make the application process easier for farmers.
$212,305 for CETP and program updates to coincide with the new edition of NFPA 58, set for release in 2023.
$200,000 change order for 2022 workforce outreach support, which would allow up to 40 technical schools and community colleges to receive grants through the Technical School Grant Program. The program offers $10,000 to schools looking to expand their classroom lab and curriculum to include a propane-specific program.
$175,000 for a study designed to provide PERC with the tools to calculate the marginal emissions associated with the growth of the electric grid. As the grid grows, the energy used for different components of that growth are often the dirtier choices, the council explains.