Comment #18 paid $4.35 for diesel today.
That almost makes it worthwhile to buy a diesel generator and heat electrically.
In theory, “fracking” is supposed to recover significant amounts of natural gas liquids like propane.
I wonder where all that surplus has gone?
Consumed by the frigid temperatures, I guess.
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Comment #18 paid $4.35 for diesel today.
That almost makes it worthwhile to buy a diesel generator and heat electrically."
Sure. Some of the cheap 6hp and 10hp engines go further on a gallon of fuel than equivalent gassers (~ 9-13hp) with generator heads to match. It would at least be a good setup for thawing plumbing or other quick tasks (needs special installation considerations with excellent protection from moisture, good clearance from items not fireproof, checking while running, etc.).
Here's a great way for avoiding propane costs for places with many sun days in a year.
$2K Solar Space + Water Heating -- One Simple DIY Systemhttp://www.builditsolar.com/Projects/SpaceHeating/DHWplusSpace/Main.htm
That can be modified in various ways, and there are some other good designs at the site.
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In theory, “fracking” is supposed to recover significant amounts of natural gas liquids like propane."
Yes, for a short while in each location, while oil prices are up enough.
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I wonder where all that surplus has gone?"
Much of it was exported. Now propane is up 50%, even in parts of the West, where temperatures are much warmer than usual. I paid that price a few days ago.
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Consumed by the frigid temperatures, I guess."
Some of it, yes. There was a published claim that propane was used in the fall to dry out large quantities of wet corn.