Propane & Household Energy Use In The United States

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By Cath Buhr


If you are one of the many Americans concerned about protecting our environment, you might be researching various types of fuel or energy. Many common sources of energy can be quite harmful to the environment, but there are a few that are readily accessible and less harmful. Propane is one energy option that can help you reduce your environmental impact, as well as helping reduce energy costs.

Coal is a troublesome source of fuel, spewing four million tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere each year. No matter where you stand on the issue of climate change, coal pollution does aggravate allergies, asthma and other lung issues. Still, nearly half of our power is derived from the burning of coal, and there are hundreds of coal plants in the United States.

Of course coal isn't our only common fuel source, natural gas accounts for about 27 percent of yearly energy generation. When natural gas pipes are well-maintained, natural gas can be an excellent fuel source. However, if leaks occur, this releases methane into the atmosphere and scientists have found that methane is even more harmful for the atmosphere than carbon dioxide, as it traps heat far more efficiently, contributing to climate change.

While nuclear power is an option that emits none of these toxic greenhouse gases, it certainly has its drawbacks. The waste produced at a nuclear power plant has to be stored carefully for more than 1,000 years, and building nuclear power plants is extremely expensive. The maintenance of the nuclear power plant also is quite high, even though the energy is produced more efficiently and far more cheaply than with coal. Of course, there also is always the possibility of a problem with a nuclear reactor, although natural gas and coal explosions can be devastating as well.

Solar power and wind power are two sources of power that produce no greenhouse gases and, of course, are completely renewable sources of energy. There will always be energy from the sun and there will always be wind, although the amount of energy garnered by the sun or wind depends upon your location on the globe. While both sources of energy are gaining steam, it will be some time before these are truly viable sources of energy for the masses.

If you need a greener, cost-effective source of energy now, it might be wise to consider propane. This is a greener fuel than either natural gas or coal, and the prices can be quite affordable, especially during the warmer months of the year. If you need to start Ohio propane delivery, Pennsylvania propane delivery, Maryland propane delivery or propane services in another state, contact Thrifty Propane. They offer pre-buy specials for their clients, allowing them to purchase large amounts of propane when prices are at their lowest.




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