Get ready for winter heating needs with lower propane prices

Friday, October 6, 2023

Iowa's Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig wants to remind people who use propane for heating that it's a good idea to get ready for winter. Right now, propane prices are lower than they were last year, and there's more propane available than usual. This means it's a good time to prepare for colder weather.

Even though it might feel like summer, we know winter is coming, and it's a good time to fill up your propane tank if you use it to heat your home or barn. With lower prices and more propane around, it's a smart move to get ready for winter now.

The United States Energy Information Administration (EIA) recently shared some data. As of October 4, there's plenty of propane in the country—about 101.4 million barrels, which is enough for about 134.6 days of supply. In the Midwest region, propane supplies are even higher than they were last year, with 26.8 million barrels available.

In Iowa, the average price of propane on October 4 was $1.53 per gallon, down from $1.89 a year ago. Starting on October 2 and going until March 2024, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship will be keeping track of the weekly average propane prices in coordination with the EIA. You can find this information in their weekly fuel reports.

In 2019, Iowa had some problems with propane supply because there was a high demand for drying grain, and it got really cold early in the season. To avoid similar issues, Secretary Naig and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship have been working with a group of propane experts. This group includes people from the Governor's office, the Iowa Legislature, the Iowa Propane Gas Association, propane suppliers, and agricultural groups. They're making plans to handle any problems with propane supply.

If you're a farmer or work in agribusiness and you're worried about running out of propane during winter, you can get help. You can call Paul Ovrom at the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship at 515-242-6239 or email him at paul.ovrom@iowaagriculture.gov. You can also contact Michelle Wicker at the Iowa Propane Gas Association at 515-564-1260 or email her at mwicker@iapropane.org.

So, in simple terms, with lower propane prices and more propane available, now is the time to get ready for winter heating needs. Preparing now will help you stay warm and comfortable during the colder months.