Gov. Scott Walker instructed the Department of Administration’s Division of Energy Services on Monday to release seven million dollars in energy assistance benefits for low-income families who use propane to heat their homes.
Wisconsin is currently experiencing propane shortages due to unusually cold temperatures, a major propane pipeline being closed for maintenance and the current wet season, which requires more propane than usual to dry wheat.
The governor asked the Economic Development Authority to expedite an $8 million loan guarantee program to assist propane suppliers obtain the gas on the wholesale market and deliver it to consumers.
“While we cannot produce more propane ourselves, I have directed additional funds be made available to help our most vulnerable citizens pay for the fuel they need and ensure propane dealers are able to obtain and deliver the supply we do have,” Walker said in a statement.
The governor urged legislators to approve an assembly bill to make natural gas more accessible to consumers, as an alternative to propane.
