Commercial Propane vs. Electric Systems

Written on: November 6, 2023

Propane or electric? Which is better for businesses?

From speed — to power — to convenience on the maintenance front, propane is easier and more cost-effective for businesses to deal with, when compared with electricity. Here’s a comparison of the two:

• Energy Source: Propane is a hydrocarbon gas that is typically stored in tanks on-site. It’s a versatile and clean-burning fuel source. Electric systems rely on electricity, which is typically sourced from the grid. The source of this electricity can vary, including fossil fuels, renewable sources, or a mix.
• Cost: Commercial propane can be cost-effective, especially in areas with easy access to propane supply. In many cases, electric systems can be more expensive than propane. Propane-powered equipment and appliances are economical whether your operation includes distribution warehouses, logistics centers, internal material-handling centers, production studios or something else.
• Efficiency: Propane systems are generally efficient and can provide consistent and reliable energy for various commercial applications, such as heating, cooking, and power generation. The average efficiency of propane is 90%, meaning it heats up super quickly, enabling your project to move swiftly and efficiently.
• Energy Independence: The reliability of electric systems is contingent on the stability of the local power grid, making them vulnerable to power outages. Propane systems provide energy independence, as they’re not reliant on grid electricity. This can be crucial during power outages or in remote locations. Propane offers energy independence for businesses, as it can be stored on-site, reducing the corporation’s reliance on external energy sources. With your tank on your property, supply issues across your region or even in your own community will not affect your ability to get your job done.
• Environmental Impact: Propane is a cleaner-burning fuel compared to some other fossil fuels and is considered more environmentally friendly than oil or coal. The environmental impact of electric systems depends on the source of the electricity. Using electricity from renewable sources, such as wind or solar, can make electric systems more environmentally friendly, but most electricity is sourced using power from fossil fuels.
• Tax Incentives: In some cases, corporations may be eligible for tax incentives or rebates for using propane as an alternative fuel, which can further improve cost-effectiveness.

Propane vs. Electric forklifts

From performance – to – convenience – to – maintenance, here’s a look at propane vs. electric forklifts.
If you’re on the fence between electric and propane forklifts for your business in Metro Atlanta, look at these comparison points:

• Performance – When compared with electric-powered forklifts, propane-powered models come out on top. They can be run around the clock and work better on inclines. Their ability to push substantial loads at full capacity lasts longer. Perhaps most important, they also are faster. Electric forklifts reach 8 to 9 miles per hour, whereas the usual range of propane forklifts is 9.5 to 10.5 mph.
• Convenience – If you need to refuel a propane forklift, all you must do is replace the empty cylinder with a full one. However, if you’re working with an electric model, you need to charge the battery — and the forklift can’t operate while the battery is charging. If an unexpected power outage takes place, your business could experience unnecessary — and avoidable — delays.

In the discussion about propane vs. electricity, propane is also ideal for heating purposes. That’s right: Forklifts aren’t the only way propane comes out ahead of electricity. When the temperature drops, propane uses less energy than electricity for heating comparable spaces.

Georgia Gas Distributors Provides the Highest Quality Propane

Propane offers several advantages that can make it an advantageous choice for corporate applications. Since 1957, Georgia Gas has provided businesses in a range of industries across the Metro Atlanta area with energy-efficient, clean-burning fuel. We are positioned to provide you with the fuel you need — whether it’s for a motor home, a generator, your forklift fleet or autogas vehicles. Consider us your one-stop shop for refueling. Contact us today to learn more about the projects and services we offer!

We’d love for you to join us at Georgia Gas Distributors, so become a customer today!