The use of commercial propane mowers continues to expand. This past summer, at least 15,000 of them were in operation across the country, according to the Propane Education & Research Council. And there are more choices than ever as over 135 models are now produced by 12 manufacturers in a variety of zero-turn, wide-area walk behind and stand-on units. https://www.propane.com

After the EPA upped the total renewable fuel-blending obligation for the 2018 Renewable Fuel Standard to 19.29 billion gallons, Brian Jennings, CEO of the American Coalition for Ethanol, issued a statement that said that the increase helps to "reassure retailers that it makes sense to offer E15 and flex fuels to their customers."

In spite of battery technology advances, the search for new combustible fuels continues. Researchers have developed a system that could potentially convert carbon dioxide emissions from power plants into an engine fuel. And, in an attempt to reduce the costs of producing hydrogen fuel, which can be used in internal combustion engines, from water, scientists created a photocatalyst, an important tool in the process, that doesn't require expensive precious metals in its makeup.

PERC offers these tips when considering equipment upgrades for 2018:
Look back at last year's operations and its challenges, and take stock of your current fleet to help determine if it's time to repair or replace equipment.

Check with local dealers and OEMs for any promotions, incentives or deals on equipment, and the financing options being offered.

Talk to other contractors as to what worked or didn't for their operations.

Investigate PERC's Propane Mower Incentive Program. https://tinyurl.com/yd3yo5z7