My utility says it is extending Cold Weather Rule protections. What does that mean?

Each utility’s policy is a little different. Strictly, Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule applies to residential customers who (1) make no more than 50 percent of the state median income and (2) use on their utility for their primary heat source. Between October 15 and April 15, an eligible customer can’t be disconnected if they enter into a payment plan with utility and keep up with payments. If a customer doesn’t meet the eligibility requirements or doesn’t make timely payments, they can be disconnected.

Some utilities are keeping the Cold Weather Rule protections in place for as long as the state is under a Governor-declared emergency. However, many utilities are going farther than that. You can find your utility’s policy below and call them for clarification – or call CUB (651-300-4701) if you have any questions.

Can my service be disconnected during COVID-19?

Maybe. Some utilities are not disconnecting any residential customers for non-payment during the emergency, but most utilities are extending Cold Weather Rule protections, which DO allow for disconnections. Minnesota does NOT have a statewide moratorium on utility disconnections.

Do these protections apply to my small business?

No. The Cold Weather Rule is for residential customers only. Some utilities are suspending disconnections for small businesses or offering other kinds of flexibility. Contact your utility for details.

This website says my utility is offering extra protections, but they didn’t offer them to me. What can I do?

Call your utility to clarify what is going on, and call CUB (651-300-4701) if you don’t get all the answers you need. Some utilities are still sending disconnection notices even though they are not actually shutting off power right now. (Yes, it is confusing.) Please let us know if your utility isn’t doing what they have stated that they will.

I need electricity to run medical equipment, and I'm afraid my power will be shut off. What can I do?

Minnesota law requires utilities to keep electric service on "where a medical emergency exists or where medical equipment requiring electricity necessary to sustain life is in use." You will need to provide certification from a medical provider. If you have an overdue balance, you can be required to make a payment plan. Contact your utility so they are aware of your medical need, and they will tell you what you must provide.

I can’t afford my utility bills. What can I do?

• Ask your utility to make a payment arrangement with you that works for your current financial circumstances. If your circumstances change, call your utility and ask to adjust the plan.
• Consider Energy Assistance if you are eligible. You currently only need to show one month’s income, and the limit for crisis grants has increased to $1,200 – so you can contact energy assistance again even if you met your annual maximum before COVID-19 started.
• Consider your utility’s affordability program if you are eligible.
• Conserve energy and reduce your future bills.
• Call CUB (651-300-4701). We help the average person save $150 in 20 minutes, and if you have high bills, you could save substantially more, and we can advocate for you if you’re having issues with your utility.

On March 25, the Minnesota Commissioner of Commerce and PUC chair sent a request to the state’s electric and gas utilities asking that, for the duration of the national security or peacetime emergency, utilities voluntarily:

1. Extend Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for nonpayment of bills and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for nonpayment.
2. Waive late fees that any residential or small business customer incurs because of the economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic.
3. Arrange payment plans for customers requesting help during this time that is based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

These are utilities’ responses to the state’s request and links to additional information the utilities have made public. For those utilities that have not yet responded to the request, we provide what information CUB is aware of through public statements or our communications with utility staff. We are continuing to update this list with utility policies as they are submitted. (If you get an error message after clicking on a link, try the link again. It’s a quirk of the eDockets system).

Jump to: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Agralite Electric Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, delaying residential disconnections due to non-payment or failure to abide by an existing payment plan. Waiving late fees for current billing cycle (as of March 30); waiving future late fees will be on a month-to-month basis. Arranging payment plans with customers who request. Agralite’s statement did not address the state’s request to reconnect customers who are currently disconnected for non-payment.

Aitkin Public Utilities: Waiving all late fees. Arranging payment plans with customers. The utility’s statement did not address the state’s requests to restrict disconnections and reconnect customers who are currently disconnected for non-payment.

ALP Utilities (Alexandria): Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting residential disconnections due to non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Alvardo: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Anoka Municipal Utility: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Argyle: The city council meets on April 7 and will adopt a resolution at that time.

Arlington: The City Council will vote April 6 to approve the recommendations of the Department of Commerce and Public Utilities Commission.

Arrowhead Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. Additional information.

Austin Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Bagley Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Barnesville Municipal Utility: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Battle Lake: Waiving late fees. Will not disconnect customers March-June. The response did not address the state’s requests regarding reconnecting customers who are currently disconnected or arranging payment plans.

Baudette Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting residential disconnections due to non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Beltrami Public Utilities: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

BENCO Electric Cooperative: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Benson: Expanding and extending Cold Weather Rule protections; suspending customer shutoffs and reconnecting customers; arranging payment plans. The utility’s statement did not address the state’s request regarding late fees.

Biwabik Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Blooming Prairie Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Blue Earth Light & Water: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting residential disconnections due to non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Breckenridge Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Brown County Rural Electric Association: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Buffalo: Shutoffs of utilities are being put on hold while the crisis in underway. Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Buhl: Will not shut off water or electric services for non-payment; new late fees will not be charged; disconnect notices will continue to be sent. At the conclusion of this policy, customers will be required to set up a payment plan to satisfy past-due account balances. Depending on circumstances, these payment plans will not exceed three months in length. Failure to set up a payment plan will result in disconnection.

Caledonia: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential, commercial, and industrial late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. The utility's statement did not address the state’s request to reconnect customers who are currently disconnected.

Centennial Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

CenterPoint Energy: Suspending residential disconnections for non-payment for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Extending Cold Weather Rule protections, including by reconnecting customers who have been disconnected. Waiving residential and small business late fees during the crisis. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. Additional information.

Chaska: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Clearbrook: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Connexus Energy: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections until May 15 and possibly further, if Governor-issued emergency is extended. Residential members who set up flexible payment arrangements during the extended Cold Weather Rule will not be assessed late fees for the duration of the arrangement. Setting up payment arrangements based on the resources and circumstances of members. As a result, residential members are not being disconnected at this time.

Cooperative Light and Power (Two Harbors): Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Crow Wing Cooperative Power and Light: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential and small business customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Dakota Electric Association: Suspending disconnections for the foreseeable future. Offering to reconnect disconnected customers under the terms of the Cold Weather Rule with no payments or deposits. Waiving future late fees for residential, farm, irrigation, small local business, and mid-size commercial members. Making flexible payment arrangements, recognizing changing financial resources and circumstances of members due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional information.

Delano Municipal Utilities: Suspending electric and water disconnects until future notice. Extending Cold Weather Rule protections to May 15. Waiving late fees until future notice. Accepting mutually agreed-upon payment arrangements from any customer. The utility’s statement did not address the state’s request to reconnect customers who are currently disconnected for non-payment.

Detroit Lakes Public Utilities Commission: Extending Cold Weather Protection rules through at least May 13, including electric, water, and sewer services. Waiving late fees for the duration of the emergency declaration upon notice that they have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 emergency declaration. Arranging payment plans with customers based on the financial resources and financial circumstances of the individual customers.

Duluth (ComfortSystems): Extending Cold Weather Rule protections for both gas and water by restricting disconnection of residential and small business customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. Additional information.

East Central Energy: Suspending disconnections for nonpayment until the Stay At Home order is lifted. Members will continue to receive disconnect notices. Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. Additional information.

East Grand Forks Water and Light: Tentatively agrees to PUC recommendations. The Water and Light Commission will officially adopt the recommendations at its meeting on Wednesday, April 1.

Elbow Lake: Extending Cold Weather Protection for those who are qualified. Postponing disconnection due to delinquent accounts for those who suffer hardship due to COVID-19. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. Requiring documentation to show that hardships are incurred due to COVID-19. Continuing disconnects for customers who do not qualify for Cold Weather Protection or who have not shows COVID-19-related hardship. Continuing disconnect notices. Additional information.

Elk River Municipal Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protection by restricting disconnection of residential and small business customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Fairfax: All disconnects are suspended for the next two billing cycles (as of March 19, could be extended. Businesses and residential customers may request to have bills deferred until the Governor’s emergency declaration is lifted; the City will then work with all parties to arrange payment plans. No late fees or other burdensome charges will be applied during. The utility’s statement did not address the state’s request to reconnect customers who are currently disconnected for non-payment.

Ely: Extending Cold Weather Rule protection by restricting disconnection of residential and small business customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Fairmont Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Federated Rural Electric Association: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Fosston: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential and small business customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Freeborn-Mower Cooperative Services: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Glencoe Light and Power Commission: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential and small business customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Goodhue County Cooperative Electric Association: Refraining from residential customer disconnections. Suspending all late fees. Arranging payment plans for customers requesting help based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. The utility’s statement did not address the state’s request to reconnect customers who are currently disconnected for non-payment.

Grand Marais Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential and small business customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. This policy was awaiting approval from the utility’s governing body as of March 30.

Grand Rapids Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Granite Falls: Not processing any utility shutoffs during the peacetime emergency. No penalties applied to outstanding balances at the end of April. Arranging payment plans with customers. Policy will be reviewed on a monthly basis.

Great Plains Natural Gas Company: Not disconnecting for nonpayment at this time. Waiving late fees and interest. Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential and small business customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. Additional information.

Greater Minnesota Gas: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections related to restricting disconnection of residential customers and reconnecting customers. Waiving late fees for residential and small business customers incurred because of the economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customers.

Hawley Public Utilities: Not disconnecting any customers until June 1. Waiving late fees through June 1. Arranging payment agreements with customers requesting help.

Henning: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting residential disconnections due to non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Hibbing Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential and small business customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Hutchinson Utilities Commission: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential and small business customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative: The utility is continuing to send delinquent notices; the notices state “payment is due on or before May 1,” instead of the normal 12 days from date of notice. All late fees are being waved on past-due balances for the February billing period (March bill). The utility is making payment arrangements with customers. The utility’s statement did not address the state’s request to reconnect customers who are currently disconnected for non-payment.

Itasca-Mantrap Cooperative Electric Association: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Jackson: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Janesville: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Kandiyohi Power Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans that are equitable and sustainable. There are no members currently disconnected.

Keewatin: Not charging late fees. Extending the Cold Weather Rule. Not disconnecting residential customers. Working with residential and business customers on payment plans. These policies will remain in place until the peacetime emergency due to COVID-19 is over.

Kenyon: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by suspending residential disconnections for non-payment and reconnecting occupied homes where service has been disconnected. Waiving late fees for all customers. Working with customers by making payment arrangements.

Lake City Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting residential disconnections due to non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Lake Country Power: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Lake Crystal Municipal Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting residential disconnections due to non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Lake Park: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Lake Region Electric Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Lanesboro Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Le Sueur: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting residential disconnections due to non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Litchfield Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting residential disconnections due to non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Luverne: Customers will not be disconnected due to non-payment during the period of the emergency. Late fees waived for all customers during the period of the emergency. Utility will work with customers to arrange payment plans.

Lyon-Lincoln Electric Cooperative: Delaying residential disconnection for non-payment during the state peacetime order. Waiving late fees for current billing cycle related to the current peacetime emergency order (April 3). Arranging payment plans. The response did not address the state’s request regarding reconnecting customers who are currently disconnected.

Madelia Municipal Light & Power: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Madison: Suspending shutoffs scheduled for April 7 due to non-payment. Late fees will not be applied to bills in the April 15 billing cycle, and the city will reassess at the next cycle. Making arrangements for payment. The utility’s statement did not address the state’s request to reconnect customers.

Marshall Municipal Utilities: The utility agrees to the state’s three requests. It initiated this on March 18 and plans to continue until mid-year; it will reevaluate in June.

McLeod Cooperative Power Association: Suspending disconnections and late payment fees. Waiving credit card fees. Members must contact the utility to set up a reasonable payment plan that includes paying at least a portion of their bill. Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. Additional information.

Meeker Cooperative Light and Power: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections. Waiving late fees. Providing flexibility in payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the member.

MiEnergy Power Cooperative: Acknowledging the extended Cold Weather Rule and working with members accordingly as needed. Suspending late penalty charges until further notice. Working with customers to arrange payment plans.

Mille Lacs Energy Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Minnesota Energy Resources: Suspending residential and small business disconnections. Reconnecting customers entering into payment plans. Waiving late fees for residential and small business customers who have entered into payment plan. Additional information.

Minnesota Power: Suspending disconnections for residential and small business (general service) customers facing financial hardship in relation to the coronavirus pandemic; extending the Cold Weather Rule through May 31, with further consideration at that time; arranging payment plans and options based on customers’ financial resources and circumstances. Waiving late payment charges for residential and small business (general service) customers who are affected by the pandemic. Waiving reconnection fees during normal business hours for residential and small business (general service) customers previously disconnected for non-payment. Additional information.

Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative (Jordan): Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. Additional information.

Moorhead Public Service: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. More information.

Moose Lake Water and Light: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Mora Municipal Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Morgan: Voiding penalties beginning the March billing cycle (April bills). Waiving residential late fees during this period. Arranging payment plans with customers. Continuing to send disconnect hangers to remind residents that charges still need to be paid. The utility’s statement did not address the state’s request to reconnect customers who are currently disconnected for non-payment.

Mountain Iron Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

New Prague Municipal Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Nashwauk: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

New Ulm Public Utilities:Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Newfolden: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Nielsville Electric Utility: Extending the Cold Weather Rule, waiving late fees, and contacting residents to make payment plans. This policy is in effect until April 30 unless the state directs otherwise.

Nobles Electric Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

North Branch Municipal Water and Light: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

North Itasca Electric Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

North St. Paul: Will not disconnect utility services and will waive late fees until further notice, provided customers contact us and enter into a mutually agreed upon payment plan that meets individual circumstances. The utility's statement id not address the state’s request to reconnect customers who are currently disconnected.

North Star Electric Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Northwestern Wisconsin Electric Company: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections and ceasing disconnections for non-payment during the health emergency. Waiving late fees on all customer classes during the health emergency. Working out payment plans with all customers that meet their needs during the health emergency. No Minnesota customers are currently disconnected for non-payment.

Otter Tail Power Company: Suspending disconnections and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or peacetime emergency. Waiving late fees. Working with customers to establish payment plans that account for the current circumstances. Additional information.

Owatonna Public Utilities: Suspending customer shut-offs. Reconnecting customers who were previously disconnected Waiving all late fees. Working with customers on payment arrangements. Additional information.

People’s Energy Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. Additional information.

Peterson: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Pierz: Discontinued penalties and disconnections for the months of March and April. The City Council will consider the state's request at its meeting on May 11. The utility's filing did not address whether it reconnected customers or made payment arrangements during March and April.

PKM Electric Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Preston Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Princeton Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Proctor Public Utilities: Effective with the April billing cycle for service in March and continuing for a time period TBD, not disconnecting water or electric utilities for non-payment; not charging new late fees. At the conclusion of this time period, customers will be required to st up a payment plan to satisfy past-due account balances or face disconnection. Depending on circumstances, payment plans will not exceed three months. Additional information.

Randall Public Utilities: Waiving late fees, extending cold weather protection and making payment arrangements with electric or natural gas customers experiencing a hardship due to the COVID19 outbreak.

Red Lake Electric Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Red River Valley Co-op Power: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. Additional information.

Redwood Electric Cooperative: Extending the Cold Weather Rule and extending Cold Weather Protection to commercial services. Waiving late fees. Working with members to make payment arrangements.

Redwood Falls Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential and small business customers for non-payment. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. The utility’s statement did not address the state’s request to reconnect customers who are currently disconnected for non-payment.

Renville-Sibley Cooperative Power Association: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Rochester Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Roseau Electric Cooperative: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections through Governor’s peacetime emergency. Waiving late fees to members who qualify for Cold Weather Rule protection (under 50% state median income). Reversing late fees for members who do not qualify but demonstrate hardship due to the pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial situation of the individual member.

Round Lake: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Runestone Electric Association: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Rushford Municipal Electric: Will extend the Cold Weather Rule and will not disconnect residential customers for nonpayment. Will waive late fees for those with economic issues. Do and will continue to arrange payment plans for customers. The response did not address the state's request regarding reconnections.

Sauk Center Public Utilities: Making payment arrangements for customers based on their financial resources and circumstances. The response did not address the state’s requests regarding disconnections, reconnections, or late fees.

Shakopee Public Utilities: suspended disconnections for at least 30 days beginning March 17.

Sioux Valley Energy: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

South Central Electric Association: Suspending disconnections for non-payment. Reconnecting any members previously disconnected upon their request. Waiving late fees. Working with members to make payment arrangements.

Spring Valley Public Utilities: Suspending disconnections during the COVID-19 outbreak. Waiving late fees for all customers. Working with customers to arrange payment plans. The response did not address the state’s request regarding reconnecting customers who are currently disconnected.

St. Charles: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

St. Peter Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Staples: Extending Cold Weather Protection, for those who are qualified, until May 13 or the state emergency is lifted, whichever is longer. Postponing disconnection due to delinquent accounts for residential and small business customers that suffer hardship due to COVID-19. Waiving late fees that residential and small business customers incur due to COVID-19. The City will require a payment plan from accounts that are delinquent due to hardship caused by COVID-19 and will request documentation to show that hardship occurred due to COVID-19. The City will continue with (but may delay) disconnects as usual for those who are delinquent and do not qualify for Cold Weather Protection, and who have not shown hardship due to COVID-19.

Stearns Electric Association: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric: Restricting disconnections during the requested time frame. Waiving late penalty charges to residential and small business customers during the requested time frame. Making mutually agreed-upon payment arrangements during the requested time frame. The response did not address the state’s request regarding reconnecting customers who are currently disconnected.

Stephen Public Works and Utilities Department: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Todd Wadena Electric Cooperative: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections during the state’s peacetime emergency. Working with members on reasonable payment arrangements; waiving late fees. The utility specified that its message to members is: “During these difficult times, Todd Wadena will work with our members to avoid disconnection. Please email or call our office.” No members are currently disconnected.

Traverse Electric Cooperative: Acknowledging the extended Cold Weather Rule and working with members accordingly as needed. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Tyler: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Virginia Public Utilities: It is utility's standard practice to follow Cold Weather Rule all year, and it will continue to do so during the pandemic. Making payment arrangements with customers and extending terms for those facing financial hardship due to COVID-19. Suspending disconnections "for residential and commercial customers who work within the criteria of the Cold Weather Rule and who are facing financial hardship resulting from the coronavirus pandemic." Effective April 1, waiving late fees for residential and commercial customers affected by coronavirus pandemic.

Wadena: The City of Wadena Utilities are following all three recommendations during the Governor Walz issued Emergency order #20-01. The City will continue with the extension of the Cold Weather Rule, waive late fees and arrange payment plans for circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic as long as the order is in place.

Warren: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections indefinitely. Extending protection to customers that are not covered by the Cold Weather Rule but are unable to pay their bill. Suspending late fees indefinitely; arranging payment plans.

Waseca: Not disconnecting any residential or commercial customers for non-payment. Waiving all electricity late fees. Setting up payment plans for customers unable to pay. There are no disconnected properties that are currently occupied. Additional information.

Wells Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Westbrook Public Utilities: Extending Cold Weather Rule to May 15. Waiving late fees and credit card fees. Working with customers who have been affected by COVID-19 to set up payment plans.

Wild Rice Electric Cooperative: Consistent with Cold Weather Rule protections, refraining from residential disconnections and reconnecting previously disconnected customers as part of reasonable payment plan. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Windom: Suspending service terminations until May 31. Waiving late fees for electric, water, wastewater, and telecom services for the May and June billings. Working with customers to make payment arrangements.

Winthrop: Extending Cold Weather Rule protections by restricting disconnection of residential customers for non-payment and reconnecting customers who have been disconnected for the duration of the national security or state peacetime emergency. Waiving residential and small business late fees incurred due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer.

Worthington Public Utilities: Extending the Cold Weather Rule protections through at least May 15. Expanding Cold Weather Rule protections to include water service. Waiving late fees during the emergency declaration. Arranging payment plans based on the financial resources and circumstances of the customer. The response did not address the state’s request regarding reconnecting customers who are currently disconnected.

Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association: Suspending disconnections for nonpayment. Suspending late fees for members who have incurred negative economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans with members. Additional information.

Xcel Energy: Not disconnecting residential customers for non-payment until future notice. Waiving late fees for residential and small business customers affected by the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. Arranging payment plans that reflect the financial resources and circumstances of each customer. The response does not specifically address the state’s request regarding reconnecting customers who are currently disconnected but states that Xcel has “voluntarily undertaken all of the actions identified in the Commission and Department’s letter.” Additional information.