Minnesota’s Cold Weather Energy Rule Takes Effect Today
The Minnesota Cold Weather Rule takes effect October 1st, and Xcel Energy wants to ensure that residential customers who need assistance paying their energy bills this winter can get the help they need.
Under the rule, residential customers are protected from service disconnection from Oct. 1 through the following April 30, if the disconnection would affect the customer’s primary heating source. Customers must immediately contact their utility and set up a payment plan if they receive a disconnection notice.
“We want to remind customers that we are here for them if they need help with their bills,” Randy Cantu, senior director, Contact Center Operations at Xcel Energy. “We offer a variety of assistance options, including self-service channels, and encourage customers to reach out—whether online or by phone—to make payment arrangements if they’re having difficulty keeping up.”
Income-eligible customers who contact Xcel Energy for Cold Weather Rule protection can establish plans to make monthly payments not to exceed 10 percent of household income and may qualify for additional energy efficiency and conservation programs. Xcel Energy will also provide contact information for local community energy assistance programs.
Xcel Energy recently contacted customers with information about the Cold Weather Rule. For more information, customers can talk with one of our dedicated customer care agents or use our automated phone system by calling 1-800-895-4999. Customers also have the option go online and login to My Account by visiting xcelenergy.com/MyAccount.
Additionally, customers can visit the Xcel Energy website for more information about the Cold Weather Rule and energy assistance options.
