Propane Shortage Affecting Wisconsin

In rural parts of our state, many Wisconsinites rely on the use of propane fuel, also referred to as liquefied petroleum (LP) gas, to heat their homes.  Currently, a shortage of propane is affecting much of the country, including Wisconsin and the Midwest.  The shortage is attributable to numerous factors including an unusually cold winter, the shutdown of a pipeline that previously supplied a substantial portion of the region’s propane supply, and a fall harvest that saw increased use of propane for corn drying.

To address the shortage in Wisconsin, the Governor has issued executive orders relaxing certain trucking regulations in an effort to increase the state’s supply of propane.  Additionally, the U.S. Department of Transportation has issued a declaration of emergency that will also aid propane transporters to meet demand.

The limited supply of propane is also resulting in burdensome price increases for many consumers.  Individuals affected by the shortage are encouraged to contact their county’s social services office to inquire about their eligibility for assistance under the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP).  For more information you may contact the energy assistance call center at 1-866-HEATWIS (432-8947).