Evers declares energy emergency to get trucks of propane, fuel oil through Wisconsin

Wisconsin governor declared an energy emergency.

"Due to persistent challenges caused by severe regional winter weather and its impact on the distribution of residential heating fuel, including heating oil and propane."

Wisconsin is not suffering under a winter storm, but Illinois, Indiana and a line of states from Missouri to Virginia were hit by a winter storm last week. And another winter storm is currently freezing parts of the south.

Wisconsin is seeing the impacts in long wait times at fuel depots and delays for truckers bringing things into the state.

“From coast to coast in the U.S., Winter Storm Blair has impacted residents and industries alike. 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,” Evers said in a statement. “Getting residential heating fuel like propane and heating oil moving now to those who need it will help Wisconsinites remain safe as we continue to face cool and freezing temperatures in the coming months.”

The order means truckers who are hauling loads of fuel oil or propane, or other necessities are exempt from some of Wisconsin’s hours-of-service restriction. That means drivers can work longer hours to make up for the delays at fuel depots.

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission’s Office of Energy Innovation is reporting “challenges such as long lines at terminals and having to drive further 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 governor’s office announced.