October 1 marks start of Minnesota’s winter utility shut-off protections
St. Paul, MN — The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) reminds Minnesotans that the state’s annual Cold Weather Rule protections take effect October 1 and remain in effect through April 30.
The Cold Weather Rule helps protect residential customers from having their natural gas or electric service disconnected during the winter if they are behind on their bills. The protection is not automatic. Customers who are having difficulty paying their utility bills must contact their utility and establish a payment plan. Customers must make and keep the payments under the plan to remain protected.
“Winter energy costs can put real pressure on household budgets, particularly for Minnesotans already facing financial challenges,” said Commissioner John Tuma. “If you’re worried about keeping up with your energy bills, now is the time to take action. Reach out to your utility to discuss your options as well as other resources that may be available to help you through the winter.”
How the Cold Weather Rule works:
- Make and keep a payment plan. If you do, your utility service cannot be disconnected or must be reconnected.
- Customers with household incomes at or below 50% of the state median income cannot be required to pay more than 10% of their monthly household income toward current and past-due heating bills.
- All residential customers, regardless of income, may be eligible to arrange a payment plan with their utility to maintain service through the winter.
The Cold Weather Rule applies only to natural gas and electric utilities. It does not apply to delivered fuels such as fuel oil, propane, or wood. While state law requires propane distributors to offer budget payment plans, customers using delivered fuels are encouraged to contact their providers directly to discuss payment options.
Energy assistance
Minnesotans who are struggling to pay their energy bills may also qualify for the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program, administered by the Minnesota Department of Commerce. The program is available to both homeowners and renters.
Eligible households can receive benefits of up to $1,400, along with additional support for certain energy emergencies. Energy Assistance can also help Minnesotans who use delivered fuels such as propane, fuel oil or wood, which are not covered by the Cold Weather Rule.
Income eligibility is based on household size. Learn more or apply at Minnesota Energy Assistance Program.
Questions about your utility service? The PUC can help. The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission’s Consumer Affairs Office can help Minnesotans understand their rights and options if they are having difficulty paying their utility bills. Staff are available Monday through Friday by:
About
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission regulates three cornerstone service industries in Minnesota's economy: electricity, natural gas and telephone. The Commission’s mission is to create and maintain a regulatory environment that ensures safe, adequate, and efficient utility services at fair, reasonable rates consistent with State telecommunications and energy policies. It does so by providing independent, consistent, professional, and comprehensive oversight and regulation of utility service providers. Learn more at mn.gov/puc.
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