Blog
Energy justice requires educated consumers
Published June 29, 2020 Energy plays a large part in our lives. It heats our homes and buildings, transports people and products around the world and powers our electronics. Energy is also linked to complex global issues of access and equity. Not everyone has access to reliable energy services, and for low-income households, energy bills…
Xcel grid modernization efforts move forward: CUB watching for consumer protections
Published June 29, 2020 The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) recently gave Xcel Energy the go-ahead for significant investments to modernize its local electricity grid. On May 29, the PUC approved Xcel’s plan to install smart meters for customers as well as the related communications network, and invest in additional advanced technologies in their electricity…
Assistance with energy bills
Published June 26, 2020 Are you worried about getting your energy bills paid? Maybe you are already falling behind? It’s stressful to worry about bills piling up, having your electricity or natural gas shut off, or not being able to get your propane tank filled. Getting your utilities shut off or having an empty fuel…
Help with energy bills: Keeping the farmhouse bright and comfortable
Originally published June 16, 2020 on Minnesota Farmers Union’s website With many farms struggling to make a profit and possibly having less income from off the farm work due to COVID-19, farmers are facing unprecedented struggles to pay routine bills. Did you know there is a program to help pay energy bills and avoid shutoffs?…
Minnesota’s regulated utilities ordered to reconnect shutoff customers, temporarily stop penalizing customers for overdue bills
Published June 23, 2020 Last Thursday, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) adopted recommendations from CUB and partners to reconnect gas service to thousands of Minnesotans who are currently shut off and to strengthen consumers’ shutoff protections during COVID-19 and beyond. CUB has joined together with Energy CENTS Coalition, Minnesota Community Action Partnership, and Legal…