In an article from Total Landscape Care, see the six steps they list if you are considering switching your lawnmowers to propane:
1. Establish a relationship with a propane-fuel provider in your area.Metro Lawn provides a propane fuel program to help your business go green and save green.
Offering the only complete conversion program from beginning to end, Metro Lawn professionals will train your team on propane conversions and tailor a program to provide Fuel Your Way™.
2. Assess the age and condition of your current equipment.
Determine if you’re a candidate for new propane-powered equipment or an aftermarket conversion of your existing equipment.
When choosing new, research available equipment and determine if your preferred mower brand has a model available. More than a dozen OEMs now manufacture propane-powered mowers or EPA and CARB certified conversion kits.
Converting also requires research and consideration. EPA certified equipment is required for many incentive and/or rebate programs. Anti-tampering laws often prohibit the modification or removal of OE emissions reduction and fueling equipment. Additionally, engine and equipment manufacturers may void their warranty if unauthorized conversion equipment is installed. It’s important to check with a specific manufacturer for details.
3. Consider applying for the Propane Education & Research Council’s (PERC) Propane Mower Incentive Program (PMIP) before you realize the purchase of your new propane mower. This will ensure you receive the incentive for your purchase of a propane mower.
The PMIP provides recipients with up to $1,000 for a qualifying new OEM propane mower or $500 for a qualifying conversion of a gasoline mower to propane.
4. Research state incentive programs that may be available to you. A list of associations is available here.
Additional incentives at the local, state, or federal level can be found by visiting the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency here.
5. Talk with your propane retailer about refueling options and determine the best option for your needs. Also understand local laws about handling propane. Laws pertaining to the use, storage, and handling of alternative fuels can vary by region, state, or even municipality. It’s always best to check with your local authority having jurisdiction; however, a summary of state laws can be found here.
6. Transitioning a fleet of mowers to propane can give you a competitive edge over competition. You’ll be able to market your company’s sustainability efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which is something customers are demanding and bids are requiring. Be sure to accurately track your fuel costs, run time, and maintenance schedules for your new or converted propane units against the data from your gasoline or diesel units.
Studies show that propane-fueled commercial mowers produce almost 50 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions and 80 percent fewer carbon monoxide emissions compared to a gasoline-powered commercial mower.
Propane is a safe, clean burning fuel that is not harmful to the environment. Propane will improve efficiency, decrease spills and pilferage and is a cost-effective fuel source. In many places, propane mowers can be used on ozone action days when other mowers can’t.
If you are interested in learning more about converting your fleet to propane, please contact us here.
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