Published December 1, 2023 Heating our homes is a major energy expense in Minnesota. The amount we pay can vary significantly based on the type of heating system and type fuel used. Around 20 percent of Minnesota households heat their homes using electricity, especially in greater Minnesota. If these homes use electric resistance heat (think…
Published November 7, 2023 As days get colder and nights get longer, Minnesotans are reminded of another never-ending cycle: utilities across the state have yet again requested to increase rates. On November 1, 2023, CenterPoint and Xcel Energy filed petitions with the Public Utilities Commission seeking to raise rates for natural gas service and Minnesota…
Published November 7, 2023 For many Minnesotans, we’ve already received our first snowfall of the season, and though we may be entering into a brief period of warm weather, winter loves to come back with a vengeance. Take a look at our winter energy savings tips to make sure that you’re prepared for the cold…
Published November 1, 2023 In February 2021, Winter Storm Uri caused natural gas prices to spike across the country. Over a five-day period, Minnesota’s four largest gas utilities incurred approximately $660 million in extraordinary costs serving their Minnesota customers. Most of those costs continue to be recovered today through surcharges added to Minnesotans’ bills. Thankfully,…
Published October 31, 2023 CUB is excited to welcome the two newest members of our team: Olivia Carroll, Regulatory Advocate, and Kayla Lamson, AmeriCorps Home Energy Corps Member. Olivia joined the Citizens Utility Board in August 2023 as a Regulatory Advocate upon graduating from the University of Minnesota Law School with a concentration in Environmental…
Published October 27, 2023 On October 26, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) accepted a settlement agreement that limited rate increases for customers of Minnesota Energy Resources Corporation (MERC). Under the settlement, the company lowered its request to raise rates from approximately $32.7 million to $21.2 million, a more than $11.5 million reduction. As a result, the residential rate…
Published October 24, 2023 We are pleased to share Clean Heat Minnesota: a diverse, statewide coalition of Minnesotans working for clean, affordable energy for heating, cooking, and appliances. Announced today, Clean Heat Minnesota is organizing for a state in which everyone can heat their homes and workplaces with reliable energy at consistent, affordable prices, while…
Published October 10, 2023 October is Energy Awareness Month, and we’re here to provide all the tips you could need to help you save money on your energy bill while being as energy efficient as possible. The cold months are slowly settling in, and that means taking a few steps to prep for winter. Check…
Published October 1, 2023 October is Energy Awareness Month, and CUB is here to provide all the information you need to keep your bills low, reduce your energy usage, and keep your household comfortable this fall and coming winter. Energy Assistance We’re starting off the month by getting the word out about Energy Assistance in…
Published September 26, 2023 So, you’re a few months behind on your energy bill, and you’ve received a disconnection notice. Don’t panic – there are avenues to find your way out of this situation and keep your power or gas on without breaking the bank. Keep reading for our step-by-step guide to avoiding disconnection: 1….
