The fireplace is the only fixture in the home that runs on gas. If you wish to use the fireplace, please contact a local gas company to have a propane tank delivered and installed. They can also help you ignite the pilot light in the fireplace (instructions are located next to the pilot, beneath the fireplace, behind the bottom panel).
We have used Southern Propane, but there are many other options. The cost is usually around $25, plus the cost of the gas. We have used between $100-200 in gas over the winter months each year. (1 large tank is usually about $100).