What is LPG?

LPG stands for Liquefied Petroleum Gas – a very versatile, portable and manageable fuel that’s a naturally occurring byproduct of the oil extraction process. LPG is easily stored and delivered in cylinder and bulk tank form, and as it produces far lower carbon emissions than oil, coal, peat and even electricity, is one of the cleanest conventional fuels available.

LPG changes from liquid into gas by introducing the right amount of pressure, at which point it turns into gas vapour, which is then drawn off as you use it. A pressure regulator keeps the gas pressure constant as the cylinder or bulk tank empties, until there is no remaining liquid left.

Types of LPG

LPG comes in two types – propane and butane. Propane is stored in bulk tanks or a variety of red, green or grey cylinders (sizes: Patio Gas, 11kg, 34kg and 47kg), while butane is stored only in cylinders. Butane cylinders are either yellow or blue, and come in the following sizes: 1kg, 4.5kg, 5kg and 11.34kg.

Propane performs best at low temperatures, allowing it to be stored outdoors in tank or cylinder form all year round. Butane performs best at a temperature of 10 degrees Celsius, making it more suitable for indoor use, and only suitable for outdoor use during summer months.

Each type of LPG cylinder is specially made to store propane or butane in its liquid state, under moderate pressure, until it is used.

Why LPG is better

LPG is one of the cleanest conventional fuels available
LPG emits 11% less CO₂ than heating oil, 33% less than coal and a massive 58% less than electricity*, making it kinder to the environment and more sustainable in the long term
This enables the user to cook, heat and even generate electricity cleanly and efficiently
As it burns more cleanly than other fuels, LPG can actually improve both indoor and outdoor air-quality
LPG is an ideal partner fuel for renewable energies such as solar or wind power
LPG has a secure, abundant supply.

*Source: Sustainable Energy Ireland – Energy in Ireland Report 2009