PERC shares findings of commercial landscaper propane survey

More than a third of commercial landscapers are considering propane to power their equipment fleets, according to a recent survey commissioned by the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC).

Specifically, the survey found that 34 percent of landscape contractors answered they were somewhat or very likely to purchase a propane mower within the next three years.

“We’ve seen solid growth of propane equipment in the commercial landscape market over the past four years, and this survey only reinforces our belief that the growth will continue its trend upwards as more commercial landscapers understand the financial and environmental benefits of operating a propane mower fleet,” said Jeremy Wishart, deputy director of business development for PERC.

Commissioned by PERC and conducted by Wiese Research Associates, the survey results consisted of 150 landscape contractors’ answers to questions that sought to learn more about their existing perceptions and purchase habits, with regards to commercial propane equipment. Survey participants were screened to ensure relevance and maintain proportional representation across the United States.

The survey found there is still some misinformation in the industry with regards to propane.

“While we’re pleased to see so many contractors taking propane equipment into consideration, there were some responses in the survey that show we still have work to do,” Wishart said. “Fortunately, PERC has already created resources to help solve some of the existing barriers respondents said they have before transitioning a fleet to propane.”

For example, 38 percent of contractors who responded that they were less favorable to propane equipment said that was because they did not know where to find propane.

Fortunately, PERC is already providing a way to connect contractors to local propane retailers, who can act as a professional guide for contractors transitioning a fleet to propane. With the Find a Propane Retailer tool, available at propane.com/fpr, entering a zip code allows contractors to search for a local propane retailer in their area to contact.

Another survey result found only 15 percent of respondents were aware of existing equipment incentives to help with the upfront purchase costs of purchasing new propane mowers.

Contractors may be happy to know PERC’s Propane Mower Incentive Program offers them $1,000 for every new propane mower purchase or $500 for a certified conversion.

To learn more about PERC’s Find a Propane Retailer tool and Propane Mower Incentive Program, visit www.propane.com.