Inaugural Conference Fosters Exchange of Information, Ideas About New ‘Technology Driving Growth’
Drawing together members of the global propane industry in a technical setting for the first time ever, the World LP Gas Association (WLPGA) and the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) present the 2006 LP Gas Global Technology Conference (GTC), to be held in conjunction with the 19th annual World LP Gas Forum on October 17-20 at the Palmer House Hilton in Chicago. While the Forum seeks to expand the future growth of the propane industry, the GTC provides the global LP gas community with the opportunity to learn about and discuss the new propane-related innovations that will help fuel the realization of this goal.
Expanding on the overall theme of Technology Driving Growth, the GTC focuses specifically on technical advances in the fields of distributed power generation, autogas, operations, agriculture, fuel quality, and safety, as well as residential, commercial, and industrial technologies. Approximately 40 papers will be presented, representing technologies from 16 countries.
“The presentations and interactive technical demonstrations will give attendees a first-hand look at current and future technologies,” said Roy Willis, president and CEO of PERC and chairman of the WLPGA Global Technology Network. “This exchange of technological information and ideas among research entities and the worldwide industry is crucial to increasing global market opportunities for propane.”
One technology highlight to be featured at the GTC is a cutting-edge gas engine driven heat pump that can supply space heating, cooling, hot water heating, and electricity. The propane-fueled pump saves energy, reduces carbon dioxide, and can be used in areas facing electricity shortages. This technology is a high priority for the U.S. propane industry because of its ability to increase off-season load to balance the large winter demand.
Another featured innovation is a new technology-based business model developed and deployed by Ferrellgas that utilizes handheld computers, satellite and cellular communications, and routing software. This technology combines customer demand forecasting with real-time driver communications to produce highly efficient deliveries. Using this model, Ferrellgas significantly reduced operating and capital costs and improved customer service and retention, demonstrating that a technology-based business model can be affordable and significantly improve operating cash flow.
Bringing these innovations and industry members from across the globe to Chicago makes it easy and affordable for U.S. propane industry members to attend the conference. For a $350 fee, attendees have access to all of the presentations at the GTC, save up to 15 percent on the standard nightly room rates at the Palmer House Hilton, and receive discounts at nearby Chicago attractions. Above all, attendees have the opportunity to learn and contribute to the future success of the LP Gas industry.
“Sharing technology on a global scale holds far-reaching benefits for individual businesses as well as the industry as a whole,” Willis said. “Together we can ensure that propane will continue to efficiently serve the world as a preferred energy source.”
Sponsored by major LP gas and equipment suppliers including AmeriGas, UGI Corporation, BP, Ferrellgas, Ferrell North America, and Blue Rhino, among others, the 2006 World LP Gas Forum will also include an exhibition showcasing new cutting-edge technologies, equipment, and services from LP gas companies around the globe, as well as a Gala Dinner at the world famous Field Museum of Natural History for post-business hours networking in a relaxed atmosphere.
For more information on the events or to register for the GTC or the 2006 World LP Gas Forum, visit www.wlpgasforum2006.com or contact PERC’s Lesley Garland at (202)452-8975 or WLPGA’s Volker Andresen at +33 1 58 05 28 00.
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The World LP Gas Association (WLPGA) unites the broad interests of the worldwide LP Gas industry into one independent organization. Established in 1987, the WLPGA is the authoritative voice of the international LP Gas industry with a membership spanning the globe. It brings together private and public companies involved in one, several or all activities of the industry. Producers, marketers, transporters, equipment manufacturers, distributors, national and regional LP Gas associations, and consulting engineering firms are all represented. WLPGA is based in Paris, France. For more information, visit www.worldlpgas.com.
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is a nonprofit 501(c)6 trade organization that is authorized by the Propane Education and Research Act of 1996 (PERA), Public Law 104-284. PERC was created "to enhance consumer and employee safety and training, to provide for research and development of clean and efficient propane utilization equipment, and to inform and educate the public about safety and other issues associated with the use of propane." PERC is based in Washington, D.C., and is dedicated to promoting the safe, efficient use of propane as a preferred energy source. For more information, visit www.propanecouncil.org.