Energy crisis comes at bad time of year for Wisconsin

Gov. Tony Evers announced Jan. 9, he signed Executive Order 253, declaring an energy emergency in Wisconsin. Because of persistent challenges caused by severe regional winter weather and its impact on the distribution of residential heating fuel, including heating oil and propane, the order will allow for the swift and efficient delivery of these products, throughout the state.

“From coast to coast in the U.S., winter storm Blair has impacted residents and industries alike,” said Evers. “This has increased demand for heating fuel and caused strain on delivering essential products across our state, including fuel for home heating, which is critical for the health and safety of folks during the Wisconsin winter.”

According to the Public Service Commission’s Office of Energy Innovation, multiple suppliers report challenges, such as long lines at terminals and having to drive farther distances to collect needed products.

Executive Order 253 will provide a 30-day waiver of certain state and federal hours-of-service restrictions, allowing suppliers to get caught up from weather-related delays. The order can be found in its entirety, at https://content. govdelivery.com/attachments/WIGOV/2025/01/09/ file_attachments/3124959/EO253-EnergyEmergency. pdf.

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“Getting residential heating fuel, like propane and heating oil moving now, to those who need it, will help Wisconsinites remain safe,” said Evers, “as we continue to face cool and freezing temperatures in the coming months.”