Cold Weather rule takes effect

Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule is in place from Oct. 1 to April 30 each year. Under this state statute, eligible residential energy customers are protected from service disconnection for these seven months if the disconnection would affect the customer’s primary heating source. However, customers must set up and keep a monthly payment plan to be protected.

If customers have a past-due balance on their bill or are struggling to keep up, they should contact their provider to explore options and set up a payment plan to avoid disconnection.

The Cold Weather Rule does not forbid winter shut-off. If you receive a shut-off notice in winter, you must act promptly to apply for Cold Weather Rule protection and set up a payment plan. Minnesota Power customers can call 218-722-2625 or 800-228-4966.

Service will be subject to disconnection without further notice if customers do not make the agreed upon payments or new arrangements.