A new family-owned propane supplier is about to shake up the local market, promising competitive rates and improved service options for residents and businesses in the qathet region, including Texada and Savary islands.
ProFuel Propane, founded by local entrepreneur Taran Brown, is set to launch on April 1, bringing what Brown describes as “true competition” to an industry long dominated by a single provider. Determined to offer an alternative, Brown partnered with Borealis Fuels & Logistics, a North American company that buys propane at the same wholesale rates as major suppliers.
This arrangement, says Brown, allows ProFuel to sell propane at prices that are up to 50 per cent lower than competitors.
ProFuel plans to offer a full suite of propane services for residential, commercial and industrial supply. The company will operate a 3,500-gallon bulk delivery truck, capable of filling new and existing tanks of various sizes. ProFuel will also lease or sell new tanks to customers who are ready to switch providers.
For those who rely on smaller cylinders, such as 20 or 100 pound tanks, ProFuel’s tank-exchange program will be available at partner locations around qathet, including the Shinglemill Pub & Bistro, Top Of The Hill Solutions and Aero Parts and Tires.
For households or businesses looking to switch from their current provider, Brown promises a smooth, worry-free process at no extra cost. Licensed gas fitter Curtis Csuk will remove the existing tank and replace it with a ProFuel tank, transferring any remaining propane so nothing is lost.
“The tank is already there, installed, and the customer shouldn’t have to pay again just to change companies,” says Brown. “We’ll move the old tank out of the way, pump the propane into the new one, and handle the return of the old tank to the current provider.”
One notable expansion is onto Savary Island, which has never had dedicated on-island bulk delivery.
“We’re bringing a new service to Savary—commercial and residential bulk tanks. Many island residents have already signed contracts. We’ll be out there installing tanks and making deliveries as soon as we can get our equipment in place.”
In an area where inclement weather and ferry schedules can complicate deliveries, ensuring a steady supply of propane is crucial. ProFuel will use satellite-enabled technology that allows homeowners and ProFuel staff to monitor propane levels in real time.
“It’s fully automated,” explains Brown. “Each tank sends a tiny data ping—no Wi-Fi or cell service required—so we know when levels drop and can schedule deliveries before anyone runs out.”
Brown says with multiple weekly barge runs and a high-capacity bulk truck, ProFuel does not expect to face shortages, even during peak demand in the busy summer camping season.
Brown, who serves on the Powell River Chamber of Commerce board, highlights ProFuel’s commitment to giving back to the community. The company is sponsoring local events like Powell River Logger Sports and the Chamber Cup Golf Tournament.
“We plan to spend our money, time and resources here,” says Brown. “Our entire team is local, and we want to make sure our success benefits Powell River and the surrounding islands. Every time someone chooses ProFuel, more of that money stays in the community.”
Although ProFuel is focusing first on qathet, Brown sees potential to expand to more remote areas such as Refuge Cove and Cortes Island. For now, however, the priority is to grow steadily and maintain reliable service for the many residents who have already expressed interest.
“We don’t want to over-promise and under-deliver,” says Brown. “It’s been overwhelming, in a good way, to see so many people excited about a new propane option. We want to make sure we meet their needs right from the start.”
For more information, or to enquire about switching services, call 604.344.4208, email [email protected], or drop by 7327 Duncan Street.
