Energy In Cleveland: Propane, Coal & Natural Gas Facts

By Cath Buhr


If you live in Ohio, such as in Cleveland, propane is just one of several energy sources that you might consider using. Coal, nuclear power, natural gas, hydroelectricity and renewable energy sources are other options used throughout the state. Here are a few facts about propane and how it measures up to other energy sources.

One fact that might surprise you to learn is that no propane is produced in Ohio. In fact, most of the Columbus propane or Cleveland propane you buy is produce in Texas. When petroleum or natural gas is refined, propane is one of the gases that is produced. After the propane has been separated from its initial source, it is then stored in massive salt caverns. Eventually it will be transported to Ohio either by truck or train or perhaps through a pipeline.

The production of your Columbus propane occurs at about the same rate every month, just like coal, natural gas and nuclear power. When the weather turns colder, the demand for these fuel sources increases. While there might be surplus of propane in August, there could be shortages during a very cold January or February. The demand also translates to higher prices, and you definitely can see an increase in Cleveland propane prices as well as in other towns.

If you use another fuel source, such as coal, you probably have made note of the rising costs of energy during the winter. Most fuel sources are more expensive during the winter months, simply because the demand is so high. Of course, if you are a coal customer and not a Columbus propane customer, you are stuck paying these high winter prices. With propane, you can pre-buy plenty of propane for the winter and buy this fuel when the prices are very low. Unlike other fuel sources, this ability to buy off-season means you can always get the best Cleveland propane prices and potentially save hundreds of dollars.

Another advantage of Cleveland propane is that you can buy as much as you want, and store it for future use. For instance, you can pre-buy propane and your Columbus or Dayton propane supplier will store it for you or, if you have a large enough property, you can install a very large tank and fill it up when prices are very low. That is something you simply cannot do with coal, nuclear power or natural gas.

Finally, Dayton propane as well as Cleveland propane and propane everywhere else in the country is not a greenhouse gas. This clean fuel will not harm the environment or groundwater, even if it is spilled. Coal and wood burning produces huge amounts of carbon and natural gas also is a greenhouse gas and quite dangerous if it leaks. Nuclear power has many safety issues, include the waste that is produced to create the energy. Solar power is clean and green, but often not as cost-effective to install as propane and it can take many years before you start seeing a savings after you add solar panels to your home.




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