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 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 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….
Published September 14, 2023 In two recent posts, we discussed the components of the electric grid and the important role that transmission plays in maintaining grid reliability and lowering energy costs. This background is essential to understanding why recently proposed projects will benefit the grid and utility customers. This post introduces the transmission system expansion…
Published July 31, 2023 On Thursday, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) ordered utilities to maximize the benefits of the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) in future planning and cost recovery proceedings. When the IRA was signed into law nearly a year ago, it became the most significant energy investment in U.S. history, providing nearly $400…
Published July 27, 2023 Any Minnesotan opening their natural gas bill already knows this: the cost of gas delivered to our homes and businesses continues to rise year over year, and many ratepayers are feeling the pain. After many years of gas price declines, much of the noticeable increase in the last few years has…
Published July 24, 2023 Xcel’s electric rate case is not the only reason the company’s customers will see their electric bills increase. Recently, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) heard a petition from Xcel to recover the costs associated with installing advanced meters. While these meters can provide customers with significant benefits, they are expensive. Cost…
Published July 18, 2023 Last week, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (the Commission) approved a proposal to automatically enroll CenterPoint Energy customers who receive Energy Assistance into a program that caps customer bills at an affordable payment each month. These changes will go into effect on January 1, 2024. Gas Affordability Programs (GAPs) offer income-eligible…
