Snyder Declares Energy Emergency In The UP

LANSING (WWJ/AP) - Gov. Rick Snyder has issued an executive order declaring a State of Energy Emergency in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

The order, issued Friday, allows drivers to exceed the number of hours and consecutive days they can transport propane in Michigan due to a temporary shortage of the fuel in some parts of the UP.

Propane is commonly used for heating homes in rural areas not served by natural gas.

"Michiganders and those visiting the Upper Peninsula who rely on propane for heat and other uses are in our thoughts," said Snyder. "This executive order will help make sure that there is enough supply in the coming days and weeks until problems are resolved."

Snyder's office says the shortage was caused by increased demand due to high propane use to dry crops in the Midwest and Great Plains area, early winter weather and repairs to a pipeline.

He also declared a similar energy emergency in January due to a propane shortage caused by demand due to cold weather and a pipeline repair at a propane terminal in Rapid River, just north of Escanaba.

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