If you live in New Jersey and use propane, you will find the information below useful as a reference when looking around for the best propane deal. However, these official data are averages and should not prevent you from requesting detailed quotes from companies. Only then will you have facts that apply to your situation specifically.

Propane usage and spending

Unfortunately, not much information is available on propane usage and spending in New Jersey. Usage is likely to be below the national average of 464 gallons of propane per year and given climate and distance from the Midwest and the Gulf Coast, New Jerseyans probably spend more on propane than national averages ($973 for propane, $957 on propane for heating).

Propane and energy statistics, 2009 figures / Source: US Energy Information Administration

Propane prices

At $3.358 per gallon on average over the 2012-2013 heating season, propane in New Jersey is considerably higher than the US average propane price ($2.436). Again, this is because New Jersey suffers from a colder climate than the US, which pushes propane prices up since more people need propane in winter. Similarly, distance from the Midwest and the Gulf Coast, the country’s two major propane supply sources, makes prices increase.

Nonetheless, the graph below illustrates propane price trends over the 2012-2013 heating season and should be a useful reference when checking trends in the prices propane suppliers offer. It will be a useful tool in comparing propane companies as you request detailed quotes from those you prefer.

Propane companies

All of the countrywide propane companies, Ferrellgas, Amerigas and Suburban Propane, have outlets in New Jersey. Other companies either have outlets in the state (e.g., Paraco Gas) or serve the state from a location in New York (NY) or Pennsylvania (PA) (e.g., Cress Gas or Eastern Propane), depending on your location.

Start by making a list of the propane companies in your area. Once you have done this, list your propane requirements in terms of pricing, budget option, services, maintenance, etc. This should enable you to request detailed quotes from these companies. Comparing these offers should lead you to the best propane deal.

The propane industry and regulations

Through the New Jersey Propane Gas Association, the New Jersey propane industry is represented in government and legislative affairs. The NJPGA also organizes networking events for the coordination and dissemination of propane-related issues and activities. It promotes training and education among members of the propane industry, including in terms of safety. The industry’s activities fall under the New Jersey Administrative Code, Title 5, Chapter 18: Liquefied Petroleum Gas. Activities are overseen by the New Jersey Liquefied Petroleum Gas Education and Safety Board.