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. Contact your utility. The…
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 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…
Published April 21, 2023 Spring provides unique opportunities to save on your energy bills as the weather starts to change. Of course, spring in Minnesota is often unpredictable: one day you’ll have the heat on; the next day, the windows are open. Here are some tips to manage your energy use, bills, and comfort during…
Published January 13, 2023 Over the course of the past year, Minnesotans have seen the impact of higher natural gas prices on their utility bills. As outlined in several of CUB’s prior blog posts, affordability programs are available to utility customers to help them manage the costs of these bills and allow them to keep…
Published November 28, 2022 As temperatures continue to drop and fall festivities wrap up, it’s time to start preparing for winter. While it was nice to have the sun out again for a short holiday weekend to bring warmth to family gatherings, the snow and cold we saw earlier this month are indicators of the…
Published November 1, 2022 Minnesota households are bracing for higher heating costs this winter. Many households that qualify for Energy Assistance can receive additional discounts on their electric and/or gas service through their utility. Each utility’s program is a little different, but most of these programs cap participants’ bills at 2-4% of the households’ income…
Published September 29, 2022 There’s nothing quite like fall in Minnesota. The fall colors and cooler temperatures make it perfect for enjoying the weather outside and inside our homes. When it comes to energy use, early fall and late spring are typically our lowest energy use months because we don’t have to heat or cool…
