Cold Weather Rule Goes Into Effect Tuesday, October 1st

(KNSI) – Minnesota’s Cold Weather rule starts today, preventing ratepayers burdened by high heating bills from being disconnected from their utility provider.

The Public Utilities Commission Communications Director Cori Rude-Young told KNSI News the law is to protect people from losing their heat, but “You need to set up and make a payment plan with your utility.” Talking with the service provider is key as disconnections can still happenen even while the rule is in effect. “It might be 80 degrees outside, call your utility Make sure you have a payment plan in place that works and stick to it.”

For those who are behind or struggling to catch up on heating bills can sign up for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, sometimes referred to as the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program, through Tri-Cap in Waite Park. It pays up to $2,000 towards heat, power, and water costs or repairing or replacing a broken heating system. Qualifying households may also be eligible for more help in a crisis to keep from being disconnected or to get reconnected.

Rude-Young says everyone can apply for one or both programs. “Whether it’s the energy assistance program or the cold weather rule. This is for renters and homeowners. So, if you rent, you are also covered. So, please don’t think just because you do not own your home that does not mean you don’t qualify.”

The MNPUC has staff with information to help you navigate the cold weather rule at 1-800-657-3782 or online. For Help with LIHEAP, contact Tri-Cap.

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