Courtesy Buhrmaster Energy Group
By Liz Witbeck
Propane is said to be one of the most efficient sources of energy. Millions of Americans use propane instead of other heating alternatives.
“Many people like propane because of the versatility,” said Ken Buhrmaster, owner of Buhrmaster Energy Group, which merged with Shaw Propane, 1470 Route 9, Fort Edward, and serves the Lake George Glens Falls region.
Shaw Propane has seen many recent trends in the propane and fuel industry, he said.
“A lot of people are purchasing propane in rural areas,” noted Buhrmaster. “These are people who previously used oil and are making the switch.”
“It is a competitive industry. There are many companies to choose from. There are different types of delivery, types of services,” Buhrmaster said. “There is the ability to choose your own supplies.”
Buhrmaster is the fourth generation in his family to be involved in the energy industry. His family started the business in 1913. They currently serve 12 counties throughout New York state.
Propane is liquefied petroleum gas. It is used to heat the appliances in the home or any other number of uses. It is a valuable alternative to natural gas or heating oil.
It can be used for fireplaces, stoves, dryers, water heaters and more. Homeowners may choose to heat their homes with a boiler. Almost anything that can run on electricity within the home can run on propane.
Another benefit of propane is that it can be stored completely at the home of the customer. A company can deliver the propane directly to the customer. Homeowners can choose to purchase their own tank or rent it from a company. There is no need to be connected to a utility line.
Propane is considered to be an environmentally friendly energy, he said. Because it is a gas, it will not leave any residue or cause any spills in the home. It is a nontoxic product and is safe to use. Using propane in the home cuts emissions of toxins and carcinogens. It is a more energy efficient option than gasoline.
Buhrmaster believes that the industry will continue to grow.
“We are seeing increasing supplies of propane. There are more pipelines coming into this area, as a result of increased fracking,” he said. “This bodes well for the industry and supply. Prices are going to remain stable. It will keep the industry growing for the foreseeable future.”