Ontario's Energy Minister Supports Propane as a Reliable, Clean and Safe Energy Solution - Minister Bob Chiarelli Tours Propane Facility in Ottawa

OTTAWA, March 17, 2015 /CNW/ - The Canadian Propane Association (CPA) today welcomed Ontario's Minister of Energy, the Honourable Bob Chiarelli, to the W.O. Stinson & Son head office and propane facility in Ottawa, Ontario. Minister Chiarelli toured the facility and discussed the important role propane plays in Ontario.

"The Canadian Propane Association is delighted that Minister Chiarelli appreciates that propane is a vital part of Ontario's energy mix," says CPA General Manager, Andrea Labelle. "We are also thrilled to showcase a facility that serves as a great example of the industry's commitment to the communities and customers we serve across Ontario and throughout Canada. Today's host is just one of over 60 retail members in Ontario who are keeping their customers warm and powering industry, while supporting their local communities."

Over the past year, the CPA worked with Minister Chiarelli and Ministry of Energy officials to educate consumers on the industry's commitment to providing consumers with a clean, safe and reliable source of energy. The winter of 2013-2014 was a challenging time for many businesses and consumers, as weather caused delays in the delivery of a range of goods and services, including energy supplies such as propane. The winter of 2014-2015 has also been colder than average; however, the propane industry learned from the previous year and implemented a number of strategies to guarantee supply and improve delivery.

"As a reliable and versatile source of energy, propane continues to play an important role in Ontario," says Minister Chiarelli.  "We want to commend the Canadian Propane Association and all Ontario propane businesses for meeting demand this winter in conditions as challenging as the year before."

The propane industry in this province supports the livelihood of over 3,000 Ontarians and each year provides more than $250 million in tax revenue. The industry invests millions of dollars in infrastructure to build on strong standards of safety, efficiency and customer service. "Propane companies are constantly improving delivery and customer satisfaction in a highly competitive marketplace. Our members are doing this by adding infrastructure, increasing storage facilities, improving monitoring systems and listening to customers. We want to ensure that we continue to exceed the needs and expectations of propane users across Canada," says Labelle.

Propane is a clean and efficient Canadian energy source. Its portability, affordability and versatility make it an essential energy source for home heating in remote communities, the mining sector and the agriculture industry. It is also a cost-effective fuel option for school buses, and public and private fleets.

Labelle adds, "Propane emits fewer greenhouse gases than most fuels, making it an important energy source for Ontario's low-carbon future. The Canadian Propane Association and its members look forward to continuing to work with the Ontario Government to provide access to clean, efficient and affordable energy for consumers."

About the Canadian Propane Association
With over 400 members, the Canadian Propane Association (CPA) is the national association for a growing, multi-billion dollar industry that impacts the livelihood of tens of thousands of Canadians. The CPA develops and produces industry training materials, offers an emergency response assistance plan to its members and provides advocacy services for the propane industry.

SOURCE Canadian Propane Association

Media Inquiries: Allison Mallette, Manager, Research & Communications, [email protected], 416.220.2244