Rhoads Energy’s focus is to provide innovative, environmentally responsible solutions for the energy needs of their customers, while also providing top-notch customer service. In Cecil and Harford Counties they provide propane, heating oil and diesel delivery services. Rhoads has the largest propane storage capacity of any propane provider in their service area.
Jerome Rhoads opened the business in 1917 selling kerosene from a railcar in Southern Lancaster and Chester Counties in Pennsylvania. Today, the company employs 168 individuals who are all owners, and their service area includes Central and Southeastern Pennsylvania, as well as Cecil and Harford Counties. In 2023, Rhoads Energy purchased Solanco Propane which enabled the company to expand to this area.
The most challenging aspect of the business is that the energy market can sometimes be easily affected by uncontrollable factors such as the season and even world politics. One of the most exciting and interesting aspects of Rhoads Energy is that they have curated a portfolio that currently serves the needs of 7 school districts who have converted some or all of their diesel bus fleet to propane Autogas which has allowed these districts to see firsthand the positive impact that decision has made on students’ health, budget savings, and the environment.
Supporting the local community with time, treasure and talent is important to Rhoads. They live by the belief that it is critical to give back to the communities their customers and employees call home.
The current CEO is Michael DeBerdine who is a third generation employee. His grandfather, Michael DeBerdine Sr. was an orphan who became Mr. Rhoads’ first employee in 1917. His sister, Jennifer (DeBerdine) Goldbach, recently retired from the company but is still working parttime and is the North East Chamber Vice President!