In its Winter Fuels Outlook for the coming winter (released Oct. 8), the Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects U.S. households to see little change in their home heating costs compared to last year. While it ultimately depends on the household’s region and chosen heating fuel, the EIA reports “retail energy prices in our forecast are less than they were last winter, but temperatures across much of the country are set to be colder this year, meaning homes will use more energy for space heating.

Columbus, Ohio (Oct. 8, 2024) — The Worthington Enterprises Inc. board of directors announced Joseph Hayek as the company’s next president and chief executive officer (CEO) effective Nov. 1. Hayek, who currently is the company’s executive vice president, chief financial and operations officer, will replace Andy Rose, who is retiring.

Folger Gas recently hosted on-site training for employees at their Hiawassee, Georgia branch, led by SEPATEC staff members. The program provided hands-on, real-world training, saving costs on travel while boosting employee engagement and expertise in propane system installation and safety.

Ray Murray Inc. (RMI) has announced the appointment of Jeff Hopsicker as vice president and minority owner. Hopsicker joins RMI after a decade of investment banking experience and has served as a member of RMI’s Board of Directors since November 2019. 

Guttman Energy, Inc. and Source One Transportation have acquired Weaver Energy, Inc., a long-standing fuel distribution business in Lititz, Pennsylvania. Cetane Associates facilitated the transaction, providing advisory services, with Shane Weaver praising their guidance throughout the sale process.

Jeff Landry (Louisiana) and Chris Sununu (New Hampshire) recently unveiled a new coalition to support smart state energy policies, including principally the policy of energy choice. According to the press release, “The Governors’ Coalition for Energy Choice will help state leaders formulate smart energy policies that will benefit working families, businesses, and our communities.” 

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) announced the launch of a new book by President and CEO Tucker Perkins, titled “Path to Zero: 12 Climate Conversations That Changed the World.” In this book, Perkins endeavors to showcase “pivotal discussions with global experts on climate change and sustainable energy solutions.”

West Palm Beach, FL (Sept. 25, 2024) — Blue Peak Resources, a merger and acquisitions consulting firm, announced the sale of Freedom Propane, Red Hook, New York, to Combined Energy Services of Monticello, New York.

Canada's primary underground propane inventories increased by 6.2% in September, according to the Canada Energy Regulator. The total represented a month-to-month increase of 98 Mcm. Compared to a year earlier, stocks were higher, with 15.5 Mcm, or 0.9%, more product on hand.

Propane storages in the West started September a bit higher at 1149.6 Mcm, which corresponds to 7.2 MMbbl, the agency reported. From August to September, volumes increased by 16.5 Mcm, or 1.5%, and were 137 Mcm more the year prior's level of 1012.6 Mcm.

Fourteen students graduated from the PPATEC HVAC & Energy Professional Program on Sept. 13, many already securing jobs in the industry. The program prepares students for in-demand, well-paying careers, with several receiving scholarships to support their training.
ThompsonGas has acquired the propane, commercial motor fuels, and lubricants business of WTG Fuels, LLC. The acquired delivered fuels business will operate in Midland, Texas, under the continued leadership of the WTG Fuels team.
Tounge Associates has hired Matt Porter, the founder of Tidewater Oil Company, as a senior advisor to the company's M&A advisory team. In this role, Porter will assist Tounge Associates in guiding companies through the M&A process.
During the latest mid-month period, Mont Belvieu and Conway both experienced significant price decreases. Mont Belvieu postings fell 12.25 cents/gal, while Conway postings dropped 7.15 cents/gal, with spot prices following similar downward trends at both locations.
NPGA has received a large sum in a grant aimed at improving training opportunities around the safe handling and use of propane.
Vermont's Clean Heat Standard would require propane importers to retire clean heat credits, raising costs by up to $2.12 per gallon. The Propane Gas Association of New England opposes the plan, citing harm to low-income communities.