Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a vital energy source, celebrated for its cleanliness and efficiency. Its ability to transition seamlessly from gas to liquid makes it exceptionally versatile and suitable for a range of applications from residential heating to critical industrial processes¹.
John Scanu, bulk LPG business development manager at Supagas, based in Griffith, NSW, with over two decades of industry experience, highlights the importance of bulk LPG.
“Industries across Australia depend on bulk LPG to maintain continuous and efficient operations within their organisations. At Supagas, we’re dedicated to fulfilling this demand by providing a reliable supply of high-quality LPG,” Scanu said.
Scanu detailed the logistics involved in bulk LPG delivery.
“Our fleet of rigid tankers delivers LPG to B Double Road tankers, ensuring a structured delivery process. This system ensures that various industries receive the necessary fuel to operate efficiently and without interruption,” he said.
Scanu underscored the critical nature of safety in LPG handling, noting, “safety is our top priority. Every individual at Supagas involved in handling LPG undergoes rigorous training in safe practices and transportation”.
“Supagas is very rigorous with compliance around LPG, whether it’s in a small BBQ cylinder, a large LPG vessel or multiple large LPG vessel installations. We always refer to and abide by the relevant Australian Standards codes relating to LPG.” he said.
Supagas’s commitment to its customers extends beyond safety. “We provide expert advice on vessel choices and have a dedicated scheduling department.
“For our large-scale users, semi-direct deliveries via semi-trailers from LPG sources to customer sites significantly reduce delivery costs and enhance service efficiency. This approach is tailored for facilities with on-site storage capacities over 36,000 litres, typical of our major clients.”
This illustrates how Supagas customises its services to meet individual client needs.
“Every bulk LPG customer has a delivery schedule. We gauge the customer’s usage and schedule deliveries based on consumption, ensuring regular planned deliveries,” Scanu said, highlighting Supagas’s commitment to logistical efficiency. “Supagas is actively expanding its footprint, especially in regional Australia.”
Scanu discussed a case study demonstrating the adaptability and impact of Supagas’s solutions in remote areas.
“Several years ago, farmers in the Riverina Irrigation Area of NSW expanded their operations to include a cotton processing plant. Our role was crucial in establishing the necessary infrastructure,” he said.
“We sourced a large LPG vessel to accommodate the expected growth of cotton, which we anticipated becoming the premium crop for local farmers.
“We anticipated the company’s growth beyond the initial three years of cotton production. Ultimately, we settled on a 90,000-litre LPG vessel, which now consumes a semi-trailer load of gas (36,000 litres) every five days during peak production times.”
This foresight has resulted in a decade-long relationship, with the customer continuing to express high satisfaction with Supagas’s services.
Discussing the environmental impact of LPG, Scanu said “using LPG can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions”.
He explained that it offers a sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources like electricity for heating and cooking, noting that LPG’s efficiency “makes it the preferred choice for environmentally conscious businesses and households, capable of lowering CO₂ emissions by up to 25 per cent”.2
“Every customer is important to us; no job is too big or too small. The Supagas slogan, ‘Yes We Can,’ epitomises our commitment to customer satisfaction,” Scanu said.
“This signifies our 24/7 dedication, ensuring that customers receive the gas they need and that any issues are resolved, regardless of the circumstances.”
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