PERC Announces Winners of Energy for Everyone Innovation Award

Richmond, Va. (April 3, 2025) — The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) announced the winners of its Energy for Everyone Innovation Award during its council meeting on April 3, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Chris Hill, vice-chairman of marketers for PERC’s Council, recognized three state entities for their innovative use of state rebate funds to align with the PERC Council’s strategic priorities, including market growth, new technology placement and safety. PERC’s state rebate program allocates a portion of its annual budget to state entities, allowing them to develop programs within their states that align with PERC’s statutory requirements.

“It’s very important to PERC and our Council to recognize these efforts happening at the state level,” said Bridget Kidd, COO of PERC. “The innovation and implementation of key programs at the state level is encouraging and an exciting way to assess concepts that could be implemented elsewhere.”

The Virginia Propane Research & Education Foundation (VAPREF) won first place for their Heat Pump Helper Rebate Program. VPREF’s program sparked strong interest and awareness in propane-fueled hydronic heating solutions, providing several companies with valuable hands-on experience in the installation and operation of this technology in Virginia.

The Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) won second place for their collaboration with a low emissions technical expert. Thanks to this partnership, ProCOT utilized targeted outreach, consultations and webinars to help streamline access to regional, state and federal autogas grants for fleets in Texas. This project secured $4.8 million in grants for clean, low emission propane school buses.

The Southeast Propane Alliance (SEPA) won third place for their sponsorship of the Smart Cities Connect Conference and Expo. As a sponsor of Smart Cities Connect, SEPA shared propane’s benefits with urban planners, technologists and other industry experts through their speaking engagements, exhibitions and strategic marketing opportunities at the conference.

The winners of the Energy for Everyone Innovation Award were chosen by members of PERC’s Advisory Committee Steering Committee. Using their extensive knowledge and experience in the propane industry, the judging panel selected these winners based on their impact, creativity and alignment with program objectives to increase market share in these target areas.