Energy Emergency Declared By Evers Amid Winter Storms In Wisconsin

WISCONSIN — Governor Tony Evers on Thursday signed an executive order declaring an energy emergency in Wisconsin because of limited fuel deliveries amid winter storms.

The order allows for efficient delivery of fuel and also seeks to streamline restoration efforts in case of a power outage in the state, the governor's office said. The governor's order provides a 10-day waiver from certain federal and state requirements for energy emergency response suppliers. The measure will allow fuel suppliers to catch-up after weather delays and help for quicker arrival of out-of-state workers if neccesary, the release said.

"Since Wisconsin had several weather-related power outages recently, and more could occur from this weather event due to downed trees and ice on lines," read the news release, "eliminating barriers for energy emergency responders is essential, especially for out-of-state line workers."

Liquid fuel deliveries via truck, barge and particularly rail are limited, a news release from the governor's office said. Further, multiple liquid fuel terminals in the state have reported limited supplies for distribution which may cause a need for out-of-state aid, the news release said.

“Over the past days and weeks, Wisconsinites across the state have braved snow and ice storms, with more the next couple of days, combined with high winds and extremely cold temperatures. The health, welfare, and safety of our neighbors depend on access to fuel for home heating,” said Evers in the release. “Getting liquid fuel products moving now to those who need it and making it as easy as possible for utility crews to restore power, if needed, will help our folks stay safe.”

The executive order, effective until Jan. 1 at the latest, suspends IFTA and IRP requirements for carriers and drivers transporting liquid fuel and relief effort supplies.