Blog
PUC doesn’t yet allow CenterPoint, other gas utilities to charge customers for Feb. price spike
Published May 26, 2021 This past February, severe cold weather in Texas and the Midwest caused natural gas prices to spike nationwide. The price spike was caused by a “perfect storm” of: (i) increased demand (many households rely on natural gas for heat), (ii) reduced supply (some gas pipelines literally froze up in Texas and…
Minnesota regulators do not approve CenterPoint’s proposed investment in advanced meters
Published May 18, 2021 I recently wrote a blog about CenterPoint Energy’s petition to begin installing smart meters at the homes and businesses of its Minnesota customers. Like any time a regulated utility asks to spend its customers’ money, this proposal required approval by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC). CUB recommended that the Commission…
Now hiring: Paid part-time communications and outreach intern
Published April 27, 2021 CUB is seeking a motivated intern to support our outreach and communications programs. The intern will support CUB’s outreach events, assist with CUB’s communications strategies, and help people understand their electric and gas bills, how to reduce energy waste and save money, and their options for renewable energy. Until further notice,…
More Minnesotans eligible for Energy Assistance, application deadline extended
Published April 22, 2021 More Minnesota households are now eligible for Energy Assistance and have more time to apply for these important benefits. The household income eligibility guidelines have increased from 50% of the state median income to 60% of the state median income. This applies either to a household’s annual income or the three…
Major Minnesota electric and gas utilities will resume shutoffs August 2
Published April 21, 2021 Last Thursday, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) adopted a transition plan to allow the state’s regulated utilities to resume service disconnections of residential customers. These utilities had been prohibited from disconnecting residential customers for nonpayment since the spring of 2020. The PUC approved a plan that will allow shutoffs to…