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For Immediate Release:
November 8, 2024
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Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
Contact: Cori Rude-Young, 651-201-2241
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Public Utilities Commission looks at utility metrics for safety, reliability and service quality
St. Paul, Minn. – On Thursday, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) reviewed and approved the 2023 Safety, Reliability, and Service Quality (SRSQ) Reports submitted by Minnesota Power, Otter Tail Power, and Xcel Energy. Each year, investor-owned utilities in Minnesota are required to submit these reports to ensure their operations prioritize safety, reliability, and consumer benefits.
The MPUC’s annual review process holds utility providers accountable and fosters transparency for continuous improvement in their services across the state. Each utility’s report provides a comprehensive look into how well they are meeting key metrics in safety protocols, grid reliability, and service quality for Minnesota residents.
In response to issues regarding disconnections and reliability in Xcel’s 2023 SRSQ report, the MPUC required the company to:
- Increase the existing threshold of final contact for disconnection to require Xcel to use two methods of electronic communication, including either text message or email in addition to voicemail (where the company has received customer consent).
- Reduce its down payment requirements and modify its disconnection and payment agreement practices to include consideration of individual household financial circumstances.
- Prohibit from sending disconnection notices until a customer’s balance reaches $180 past due, or a past due balance is below $300.
- Wait at least 10 days after sending a disconnection notice before disconnecting a customer.
- Submit proposals to reconnect disconnected customers during extreme heat and poor air quality events.
"The Commission is committed to ensuring that utility companies uphold the highest standards of safety and reliability while delivering quality service to Minnesota’s communities,” said Commissioner Hwikwon Ham. “The review and approval process underscores our commitment to fostering a dependable energy infrastructure that serves customers responsibly and transparently.”
These reports are part of annual regulatory dockets maintained by the MPUC, which are designed to track utility filings and recurring reports, like those on cold weather protection, jurisdictional status, and other performance metrics. Learn more on our website.
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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