Governor Tony Evers signed Executive Order #56 on October 30th which creates a 30-day exemption for licensed commercial
drivers to be exempt from federal and Wisconsin ‘hours of service’ restrictions.
There are a number of important points to consider about the propane supply in Wisconsin and how this will impact commercial
and residential customers.
Executive Order #56 allows relief from federal and state hours of service restrictions for carriers and drivers of commercial
motor vehicles who are transporting propane and experiencing long wait times at terminals. The waiver is a proactive measure
that enables efficient deliveries in response to the late harvest and significant agricultural demand in the Midwest.
There is no shortage of propane in Wisconsin. In fact, propane supply is abundant. The United States continues to be a net
exporter of propane, and there is more than enough to satisfy our customer demand. According to the U.S. Department of
Energy’s Energy Information Administration (EIA), U.S. propane inventories as of October 18 were 99.985 million barrels, or 88.1
days of supply. This is 9 million barrels higher than last year at this time.
While there is no shortage of propane in the supply chain, there is increased demand due to the corn drying needs as farmers
harvest their crops. With the onset of colder weather, commercial and residential customers are turning up their thermostats.
While the propane industry cannot predict the weather or control crops, we can our customers make plans to deal with the
seasonal changes. As an industry, we have been planning for many different scenarios and working with our customers to
help them plan to meet their fuel needs.
Here are a few tips for consumers from the Wisconsin Propane Gas Association:
• Make sure you have an adequate supply of propane and contact your provider before your tank is empty. This will help
you avoid running empty if inaccessible roads delay deliveries.
• Consider installing UL-listed propane gas detectors and carbon monoxide detectors for additional security. Always follow
the manufacturer instructions for installation, location, and maintenance.
• Consider purchasing a propane generator. When other power sources fail, a propane generator can keep your house
operating without interruption.
About the WPGA:
The Wisconsin Propane Gas Association (WPGA) is a statewide trade association representing propane retailers and suppliers.
The WPGA also directs the Wisconsin Propane Education and Research Council WiPERC which provides education, training and
communications for the propane industry in Wisconsin. The WPGA and the WiPERC are managed by The Capitol Group. For more
information visit www.wipga.org
