Winter looms, and Michigan propane dealers are prepared

Enbridge’s Line 5 will play a pivotal role

Dec. 3, 2025

Arctic blasts. Possible polar vortex. More snow. Colder temps.

It’s not officially winter yet, but parts of Michigan have already experienced their share of a wintery mix.

Weather forecasters are predicting that a weakened polar vortex could have a big impact on the U.S. this winter. A weakened polar vortex increases the chances of cold air spilling south into the U.S., potentially causing colder and snowier conditions, especially in the Midwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast regions. The disruption is expected to bring an early winter blast to the northern U.S. in December.

So how do Michiganders stay warm?

Many rely on propane.

“Excel Propane has been proactive in procuring propane from multiple wholesalers and employing a range of hedging strategies to support consistent and stable pricing,” said Wayne Kohley, chairman of Excel Propane.

Excel Propane is a family-owned company (father and two sons) with five local offices servicing customers in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan.

Michigan propane dealers say they are prepared for the 2025-26 winter. A big chill landed just as December started and could extend through the New Year.

“Propane plays a vital role in Michigan by providing reliable and affordable energy for consumers living in areas that are not served by natural gas infrastructure,” continued Kohley.

 

“Line 5 is a critical piece of energy infrastructure that ensures a steady, reliable supply of natural gas liquids used to produce propane for homes, farms and businesses across Michigan.”

—Wayne Kohley, chairman of Michigan-based Excel Propane

According to the Energy Information Agency (EIA), the state is first in residential consumption of propane in the U.S. It makes sense that Michigan topped all states in residential propane sales in 2024. Michigan ranked second behind California in overall propane sales, which includes businesses and homes.

“Propane also supports essential industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation, helping maintain year-round productivity. As a flexible, dependable and clean fuel source, propane contributes to both the economic stability and energy resilience of the state,” said Kohley.

Keeping energy flowing

Some people may be unaware, but Enbridge’s Line 5 pipeline plays a major role in keeping homes and businesses warm in Michigan. The pipeline carries natural gas liquids (NGLs) which are refined into propane that feeds the State of Michigan.

“The Line 5 pipeline is a lifeline for Michiganders when it comes to providing heat,” said Paul Meneghini, Enbridge manager of community engagement in Michigan.

“The pipeline serves about 65% of the Upper Peninsula’s propane needs. To drive home the point, our state ranks #1 along all states in residential propane sales, which means a bunch of folks count on Line 5 day in, day out,” said Meneghini.

Line 5 provides certainty for consumers, businesses

The safe and efficient operation of Line 5 helps stabilize supply chains, prevents seasonal shortages, and supports the propane industry’s ability to meet customer needs, especially during peak winter demand.

Consider these numbers posted by the state of Michigan:

• About 320,000 households use propane as their primary heating fuel.
• Michigan relies on petroleum products to meet about a third of its energy needs.

Propane dealers and distributors support the continuous operation of the pipeline.

“Maintaining Line 5 is essential to protecting both energy reliability and economic stability throughout the region,” said Kohley.

“Without Line 5, Michigan will face significant propane shortages and much higher propane prices, especially in the winter, when propane demand is at its highest.”