Propane Autogas Vehicle Inspection Grant Program

The Propane Autogas Vehicle Inspection Grant Program is administered by the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing propane usage through safety, training, and research initiatives across the United States. This grant is part of PERC's efforts to increase awareness and educational access to propane autogas technologies in the automotive service sector. The program is designed to enhance classroom instruction at U.S. technical and community colleges by integrating a propane-specific curriculum and hands-on training tools. Eligible institutions will receive a total of $7,500 in grant support. This includes a propane autogas training aid—valued at over $5,000—that visually and functionally demonstrates the components of a propane autogas vehicle using a detailed model of a pickup truck frame. The remaining $2,500 will support instructor participation in a mandatory Train the Trainer program and promotional activities for the curriculum's integration into the school’s offerings. Travel costs for the training are expected to be paid from this grant portion, though lodging and some meals are covered separately by PERC. To qualify, applicants must represent a U.S.-based educational institution or career center currently offering an automotive class and be willing to incorporate the propane curriculum. A designated Propane Advisor—typically a technician experienced with propane autogas vehicles or a propane industry professional—is required to support instructors during curriculum delivery. The course content includes modules on propane fuel, safety protocols, vehicle systems, and inspection techniques, with an emphasis on practical application and NFPA 58 compliance. Applications open on September 1, 2025, and close on December 19, 2025. Notifications of acceptance or denial are sent in January. Accepted applicants must submit a participant agreement, W9, and a commitment letter from the Propane Advisor to receive funding and training equipment. The Train the Trainer class will take place on June 9–10, 2026, at Wake Technical Community College in Raleigh, North Carolina. The first class should be delivered in Fall 2026 or Spring 2027, and final reporting is due to PERC by June 1, 2027. The program is issued on an annual basis. Recipients are expected to promote the curriculum, participate in PERC outreach, and provide feedback via final reporting that includes course materials, promotional data, and photographic documentation. This initiative ultimately aims to expand the skilled propane technician workforce and ensure safer, more informed adoption of autogas systems nationwide.

Ensure Advisor selection and paperwork completion early; training date is fixed and mandatory.