What is LPG?

• LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas: propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10) are non-toxic hydrocarbons, heavier than air and lighter than water.  They become gaseous at a normal temperature and atmospheric pressure.  They turn to a liquid state under pressure or refrigeration and their volume then decreases by 274.

• Their heating value is relatively high compared to other types of energy. For example, you need between 3 and 6 kg of wood to reach the heating value of 1 kg of propane: 13.8 kwh.

Daily use of LPG

• Whether in cylinders or tanks, LPG is known for its household use: cooking, hot water and heating.  It can also be used in industry and agriculture, as well as a charge in petrochemical installations.

• Ten million vehicles worldwide currently use LPG.

New LPG uses are under development:

• Leisure activities, for example, with the use of cylinders for cooking in camping cars, gas barbecues and heated parasols.

• As distribution is channeled, the tank is no longer reserved to a single household.  Customers can be invoiced separately depending on their consumption displayed on a meter. 

• Even more ecological, propane is used as a temporary energy source in solar energy installations.