As we step into 2025, finding practical ways to save on everyday expenses is at the top of many South Africans’ minds. Switching to Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) with a supply from SimsGas can be a smart, reliable and versatile, year-round alternative strategy to cut energy costs, especially amid high electricity prices and frequent supply interruptions. LPG’s flexibility – from cooking and water heating to space heating and cooling – makes it an excellent choice for year-round use. By incorporating LPG into your energy solution, you can enjoy lower bills, a reduced carbon footprint and a move toward a more sustainable lifestyle.
Why LPG is a Cost-Effective Energy Solution for 2025
- Lower Energy Costs: In South Africa, the cost-effectiveness of LPG has become increasingly evident, especially as electricity prices continue to soar. Recent media reports indicate that Eskom, the state-owned power utility, plans to raise electricity tariffs by 36% next year. This dramatic increase in electricity costs makes LPG a more appealing option for many households, allowing them to save money while still enjoying essential services like cooking, heating, heating water and even, cooling.
For context, many families find that a full 9kg LPG cylinder purchased at about R300, can last them an entire month for cooking and heating, while the same amount spent on electricity might only cover two weeks of usage. This stark difference in energy costs is a compelling argument for considering LPG as a more economical alternative in the upcoming year. - Efficiency: LPG appliances, such as stoves and water heaters, tend to be more efficient than their electric counterparts. LPG stoves provide immediate heat, reducing cooking times and overall energy consumption. Similarly, LPG water heaters can heat water twice as quickly as electric models, meaning less energy is used overall. This efficiency translates into reduced utility bills, particularly for households that rely on water heating.
- Predictable Pricing: The price of LPG tends to be more stable compared to electricity, which can fluctuate dramatically due to various factors, including government policies and demand. By choosing LPG, you can better predict your monthly energy expenses, helping you manage your household budget more effectively.
- Multiple Uses: LPG can be used for a wide range of applications beyond just cooking and heating. This versatility means that households can consolidate their energy needs into one source, thereby simplifying their energy management and potentially lowering costs. With uses including heating and cooking, LPG serves as a comprehensive energy solution.
- Size Options for Customised Supply: LPG is available in various bottle sizes – such as 9kg, 14kg, 19kg and 48kg—allowing households to choose the supply that best suits their consumption needs. This flexibility ensures that you can order just the right amount of gas, avoiding waste and unnecessary expenses.
- Availability of Online Ordering and Delivery: With the convenience of ordering LPG online, maintaining a steady supply becomes effortless. This eliminates the risk of running out of gas unexpectedly, which could lead to last-minute, often more expensive purchases from local shops.
How to Save on Energy Bills with LPG Appliances
Using LPG appliances for high-energy activities, such as cooking, water heating, space heating and even cooling, allows you to significantly cut back on electricity consumption:
- Cooking: LPG stoves provide rapid heating, reducing cooking times and minimising energy use. Unlike electric stoves, LPG stoves offer immediate temperature control, making them both cost-effective and efficient.
- Heating Water: An LPG water heater typically heats water faster than electric alternatives, which is particularly useful in winter. By switching to an LPG heater, you reduce electricity use and lower your monthly bills.
- Space Heating: In colder months, an LPG heater offers a warm and efficient heat source. It provides immediate warmth, is easy to control, and doesn’t add to your electricity load. This option is particularly valuable when electricity prices peak or during power supply disruptions.
The Environmental Benefits of Choosing LPG
For households interested in a cleaner, lower-impact lifestyle, LPG is a strong alternative to traditional energy sources. It not only emits fewer pollutants than coal but also offers an efficient burn, meaning less waste, greater energy value and a clean power alternative.
- Lower Emissions: LPG produces up to 33% less CO₂ than coal and significantly fewer pollutants like sulphur and nitrogen. This makes it an environmentally friendly option that aligns with sustainable living goals.
- Cleaner Air Quality: Because LPG burns cleaner than traditional fuels, it emits fewer particles that can contribute to air pollution. For South Africans using indoor gas stoves or heaters, LPG provides a healthier alternative that’s less likely to impact air quality.
- Reduced Coal Dependence: By choosing LPG, households lessen the strain on South Africa’s coal-based power grid, making LPG a smart choice for sustainability-conscious families.
Transitioning to LPG: Tips for a Smooth Start to the New Year
For those new to LPG, here are some tips to ease the transition:
- Invest in Safety Tools: Consider a propane detector to monitor indoor LPG usage. These detectors alert you to any leaks, keeping you and your household safe from potential risks.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: LPG burns cleanly, but ventilation is essential for safety. Open a window or ensure airflow in the room when using gas indoors to prevent any build-up.
- Check Your Setup Regularly: Inspect your LPG setup regularly to check for leaks or issues with pipes, valves, or cylinders. If you notice any abnormalities, contact a professional to assess and repair the system.
- Understand Gas Cylinder Sizes and Uses: Get familiar with different gas bottle sizes and their intended uses. Small 9kg bottles are ideal for small-scale cooking or occasional use, while 19kg and 48kg bottles are suitable for heating, cooking, and water heating.
As you consider your options for energy savings in 2025, these reasons underscore LPG’s position as a financially viable choice for reducing monthly expenses while maintaining comfort and convenience at home.
By starting the new year with LPG, you’re choosing a more sustainable, cost-effective, and adaptable energy source for your home. Whether it’s cooking up a family meal, staying cool in summer or heating up on a winter’s night, LPG is a versatile energy source that helps South Africans cut back on electricity costs while keeping comfortable year-round.
Are you in the business for a more sustainable and efficient energy source? Contact SimsGas today.
Order your LPG Gas online: https://simsgas.co.za/shop/
Phone: 0861 746 7427
Email: jhbsales@simsgas.co.za
We will deliver to your home or business, so order today!
Johannesburg Phone: 011 494 4232
Durban Phone: 031 902 6533
Email: jhbsales@simsgas.co.za
Resources:
https://cnbc.africa/2024/south-africa-poised-for-lpg-gas-boom-amid-electricity-price-hikes/
https://cnbc.africa/2024/south-africa-poised-for-lpg-gas-boom-amid-electricity-price-hikes/
https://www.news24.com/citypress/business/eskom-asks-energy-regulator-for-36-electricity-price-increase-20240925