Cold Weather Rule starts Oct. 1, caps winter utility payments
Minnesota's Cold Weather Rule starts Oct. 1, 2026, blocking heat shutoffs for customers who enroll in payment plans and capping winter utility payments to help households afford heating.[1]
The protections run through April 30, 2027.[1] Xcel Energy says eligible customers who seek Cold Weather Rule protection can get monthly payment plans capped at 10% of household income.[1] More than 600,000 Minnesota families — roughly 25% of households — are income-eligible for energy assistance, a group the rule aims to protect.
The rule requires utilities to offer payment plans that prevent winter shutoffs when customers enroll, giving households an alternative to immediate disconnection if they owe bills.[1] Customers who think they qualify should contact their utility or local energy assistance office to learn how to enroll.
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📌 Key Facts
- Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule runs from Oct. 1, 2026 through April 30, 2027, prohibiting heat shutoffs for inability to pay when customers enter payment plans.
- More than 600,000 Minnesota families — roughly 25% of households — are income‑eligible for energy assistance.
- Xcel says eligible customers who seek Cold Weather Rule protection can get monthly payment plans capped at 10% of household income.
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