PERC Focusing on Growing Off-Season Sales

At its meeting in Atlanta on March 28, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) approved projects to help grow off-season sales by advancing new propane technology and strategically market propane to consumers and builders. The action came as a response by PERC to the downturn in the U.S. economy and to high propane prices.

PERC approved projects to support the growth of the propane engine fuel market, including a marketing development program designed to educate potential customers on the benefits of on- and off-road propane-powered vehicles. Another program will expand marketing efforts for the new propane-powered Blue Bird Vision school bus, putting school districts behind the wheel for a test drive.

It also approved projects to commercialize new propane technologies, such as NovelAire Technologies’ (Baton Rouge, La.) desiccant dehumidifier, which improves air quality in homes and businesses during the most humid months of the year. PERC also plans to continue with its research and demonstration programs for propane steam and heat applications that effectively control weeds and pests on the farm.

…Builder Outreach. An outreach program to builders, who the Council says are an integral part of the energy decision-making process, was also approved. It will do this by participating in various builder trade shows over the next year, including the International Builders’ Show. The goal of the program is to educate builders, contractors, architects, and others on the benefits of building with propane.

“We all are feeling the impact of this economy right now,” said PERC president and CEO Roy Willis. “But we can build upon propane’s inherent strengths to keep the industry strong and growing. Propane is a clean and efficient source of energy, and we have products entering the marketplace that have the potential to significantly increase sales.”

…Other Business. PERC approved development of web-based interactive consumer safety education messages for use by marketers or others who want to educate customers in new and effective ways with safety messages. It also approved a curriculum realignment of the Certified Employee Training Program (CETP) Vapor Distribution courses “Appliance Start-up & Installation” and “Residential & Small.”