Understanding the Minnesota Cold Weather Rule

The Minnesota Cold Weather Rule helps protect eligible residential customers from utility service disconnection during the winter months. The program applies from Oct. 1 through Apr. 30 and follows the requirements of Minnesota Statute 216B.097.

Who is eligible?

Residential customers may qualify for Cold Weather Rule protection if:

• Their household income is at or below 50 percent of the state median income. RPU may verify income directly or through the local energy assistance provider.
• They receive public assistance, including energy assistance, that uses the same income eligibility guidelines.
• They enter into a payment agreement based on their household’s financial resources and make payments by the agreed upon due date.
• They receive referrals to energy assistance, weatherization, conservation or other programs that may help lower energy bills.

If these conditions are not met, utility service may be disconnected for nonpayment during the Cold Weather Rule period.

How to receive protection

Customers must complete a Cold Weather Rule application to receive protection from service disconnection during the cold weather period.

Before disconnecting residential service between Oct. 1 and Apr. 30, RPU will provide:

·         A notice of proposed disconnection.

·         An explanation of the customer’s rights and responsibilities. Information about local energy assistance providers.

·         A form to declare an inability to pay.

·         Information about payment plans and other options to help maintain utility service.

RPU is also required to notify the local energy assistance provider before a residential service disconnection.

Local Energy Assistance

Three Rivers Community Action provides energy assistance for eligible households.

Phone: 800-277-8418
Website: threeriverscap.org

Third Party Notification

Customers who are elderly, have an illness, plan to be away during the winter

or have limited English proficiency may designate a trusted third party, such as a family member, friend or community organization, to receive notice if a disconnection notice is issued.

Applications & Forms

Access the Cold Weather Rule Application and Third-Party Notification Request Form or contact RPU Customer Care at 507-280-1500.

Important Reminder

Customers with a past-due balance who do not have an active payment arrangement and a Cold Weather Rule application on file may still be at risk of service disconnection, even during the Cold Weather Rule period from Oct. 1 through Apr. 30.