Is liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) a viable energy source for residential and commercial properties in the future?
The heating transition raises many questions for property owners: Which energy sources will still be permitted in the future? How can efficiency, environmental compatibility, and availability be combined? Liquefied petroleum gas (a mixture of propane and butane) is a versatile answer that has proven effective for both residential and commercial properties. With new legal regulations and the option of using biogenic LPG, it remains a strong choice – now and in the long term.
Key advantage: flexible and available
A major benefit of LPG is its independence from fixed supply networks. Especially in rural areas or remote commercial zones where connection to the natural gas grid is often not possible, LPG provides a reliable solution. It can be stored in tanks or cylinders and used directly on site. This flexibility enables a wide range of applications – from heating residential properties to industrial uses and temporary heating on construction sites.
Why LPG will continue to play an important role
The legal framework for the use of LPG has been updated by the legislature through the new Building Energy Act (GEG). Key points that support the long-term viability of LPG include:
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Integration of renewable energies: LPG heating systems may continue to be installed, but from 2029 they must incorporate a minimum of 15 per cent renewable energy – such as biogenic LPG. By 2040, this share will increase to 60 per cent.
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Supplementation with biogenic LPG: Biogenic LPG is already available on the market. It is produced from renewable raw materials such as organic residues or vegetable oils and can be used in existing LPG heating systems without technical modifications. This makes the energy source more climate-friendly and sustainable in the long term.
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Reliable transitional solution: LPG allows for a gradual shift to renewable energies. It offers property owners the opportunity to modernise their systems now without needing to replace them entirely.
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Environmental compatibility and efficiency in practice
LPG burns more cleanly than other fossil fuels. Compared to fuel oil, it produces around 15 per cent fewer CO₂ emissions, and combustion takes place with virtually no particulate matter or soot particles. This not only protects the environment but also extends the service life of heating appliances, as fewer residues accumulate.
In addition, LPG heating systems can be ideally combined with renewable energies. A common solution is to link them with solar thermal systems for hot water generation or photovoltaic systems to support heating output.
Compared to fuel oil, LPG is the better form of heating energy. LPG produces around 15 per cent fewer CO₂ emissions and burns virtually without emitting particulate matter or soot particles.
LPG as a strong solution for the heating transition
LPG stands out for its versatility, environmental compatibility, and future-proof applications. Thanks to clear legal regulations and the availability of biogenic LPG, it remains a reliable energy source that meets the requirements of the energy transition. Property owners can already heat sustainably with LPG today while remaining flexible for future developments.
For further information and support in choosing the right system, it’s worth visiting the DVFG’s Heating Navigator.
LPG vs. natural gas
Unfortunately, even the media often fail to distinguish correctly between LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) and LNG (liquefied natural gas). They are frequently lumped together or, out of ignorance, simply referred to as LPG – even when LNG is actually meant.
While natural gas is delivered centrally via a heating network and pipelines to appliances such as gas condensing boilers, LPG is a decentralised form of energy. LPG is stored in tanks or gas cylinders and is then supplied to gas boilers or gas cookers.
For clarification: There are significant differences, and this article focuses on LPG – typically a mixture of propane and butane – abbreviated as LPG in English. These distinctions and further details are well explained in this article: https://progas.de/fluessiggas-ratgeber/wissen/unterschied-erdgas-und-fluessiggas.
FAQ – LPG as an energy source
What are the advantages of using LPG as an energy source for buildings?
LPG is independent of the natural gas grid, can be stored flexibly in tanks or cylinders, and is ideal for rural areas or remote commercial properties. It is versatile – suitable for heating, hot water supply and even industrial applications.
Why is LPG a reliable energy source for the future?
The Building Energy Act (GEG) ensures the long-term use of LPG, provided an increasing share of renewable energies is integrated. Biogenic LPG is already available and can be used in existing systems without technical modifications.
How environmentally friendly is LPG compared to heating oil?
LPG emits around 15 percent less CO₂ than heating oil and burns almost without fine dust or soot particles. This protects the environment and extends the service life of heating systems.
Can LPG be combined with renewable energies?
Yes, LPG heating systems can be ideally combined with solar thermal energy or photovoltaics – for example, to improve the efficiency and sustainability of hot water generation or heating support.
What is the difference between LPG and LNG?
LPG is a mixture of propane and butane stored decentrally in tanks or cylinders. Liquefied natural gas (LNG), on the other hand, is distributed centrally via pipelines. The two energy sources differ clearly in terms of technology and logistics.