In Brief

Welcome to this week’s Members-Only Monday Morning Messenger from the Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA).

In the first story of the morning, TPGA is encouraging members to get involved in an important Texas Railroad Commission runoff election and support the candidate the Association believes will help the Texas propane industry the most.

In the second story, a newly adopted Texas program could create fresh opportunities for propane-powered backup energy systems at critical facilities across the state.

In the third story, propane marketers have another opportunity to engage directly with the residential construction industry at one of Texas' largest builder events.

And finally, more than $116 million in Texas grant funding is now open, including opportunities tied to propane vehicles and infrastructure projects.

Also, check out this week’s Quick Links for fast access to propane industry hiring resources and member savings opportunities.

Important Dates

May 2026
GeneratioNext
School Presentations

May 19–20, 2026

PERC Advisory Committee Meeting

May 25, 2026

Memorial Day

May 28, 2026

PERC Webinar

Autogas Growth

May 31, 2026

Badge deadline for
Texas Builder Expo

More Dates

TPGA Backs Jim Wright for

Railroad Commission Runoff

The Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA) is writing to share why this runoff election for the Texas Railroad Commission matters — and why we are supporting Chairman Jim Wright for re-election. He is facing a runoff election against Bo French.

Chairman Wright has spent decades working in and around the oil and gas industry and brings the real-world experience and deep understanding of energy that Texas demands. Under his leadership, the state has reached record levels of oil and natural gas production — supporting jobs, strengthening our economy, funding schools and infrastructure, and helping keep America energy secure. When Texas energy is strong, Texas communities are strong. This is not a role for the inexperienced. The stakes are too high.

That is why TPGA is proud to support Chairman Jim Wright for re-election, and we encourage you to do the same.

Early Voting: Monday, May 18, 2026 – Friday, May 22, 2026

Runoff Election Day: Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Commissioner Wright is endorsed by Texas Oil & Gas Association, Texas Association of Builders, Texas Farm Bureau, Lt. Governor, Dan Patrick, Speaker of the House, Dustin Burrows and RRC Commissioner Craddick and Christian as well as a multitude of others.

Learn more about Commissioner Wright at: wrightfortexas.com

Find Polling Location

Texas Backup Power Package Program Final Rules Adopted

This month, the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) adopted a new rule establishing the Texas Backup Power Package (TBPP) Program. The program will help fund the installation of TBPP systems at critical facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, emergency response centers, and water utilities to supply emergency power during extreme weather and other emergencies.

The TBPP Program will provide grants and loans to qualifying critical facilities for the design, procurement, installation, and operation of backup power packages. Eligible facilities include hospitals, assisted living facilities, police and fire stations, emergency communication centers, community heating or cooling centers, storm shelters, water and wastewater facilities, and other sites essential to community health, safety, and well-being.

Under the rule, backup power packages must be capable of operating for at least 48 continuous hours without disruption or refueling. The systems must include a combination of natural gas or propane generation, battery storage, and solar generation designed to provide reliable power during prolonged outages and emergency conditions.

Now that the rule has finally been adopted, we expect program guidelines and application materials to be released in the coming months. TPGA will share those materials once they become officially available so members can provide them to critical facilities in their communities.

Engage Homebuilders at Texas Builder Expo in San Antonio

The Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) invites you to join us at the 2026 Sunbelt Builders Show™, hosted by the Texas Association of Builders, on July 22–23 at the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas.

As one of the largest building industry events in North America, the Sunbelt Builders Show draws thousands of builders, developers, and industry professionals looking for the latest innovations and energy solutions. It’s a powerful opportunity for propane providers to connect with the residential construction market.

ProCOT will showcase propane construction incentives, introduce new technologies, and answer builders’ frequently asked questions.

Booth Hours

Tuesday, July 22 – 9:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, July 23 – 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Get Involved

✔️ One complimentary badge per Texas propane company is available for those who sign up to staff the ProCOT booth (first come, first served).

✔️ Additional badges may be purchased.
ProCOT will invoice you after the show.

✔️ A surcharge may be charged if it is after the deadline.

✔️ All badge holders must work at least one booth shift.

✔️ No-shows will be billed the full badge cost.

Registration Deadline: May 31, 2026

$116 Million Available Through TCEQ Rebate Grants Program

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is now accepting applications for its latest TERP grant funding program supporting alternative fuels, including propane vehicles and infrastructure projects. Applications will be accepted through July 28, 2026, while funding remains available.

• $116 million total funding available

• $30 million reserved for small businesses

• $20 million available for new propane vehicle purchases with no replacement requirement

• Remaining funds support replacing older diesel vehicles with new propane ones.

• Propane refueling infrastructure funding is also available

• Grants awarded on a first-come, first-served basis

Map of the eligible counties

Learn More

For program details or free grant-writing assistance through the American Energy Institute and Propane Council of Texas partnership, contact Heather Ball at 512-484-8535 or heather@americanenergyinstitute.com.