PUC Reviews Plans for Utility Customer Outreach and Approves Schedule to Lift Disconnection Moratorium on August 2

St Paul, Minnesota – After ordering the suspension of service disconnections and related late fees when the COVID-19 pandemic began, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (Commission) met today to consider recommendations by consumer advocates and others to a return to normal utility practices. The Commission ordered utilities to submit transition plans that ensure customers will be made aware of energy assistance funding that is available, as well as payment assistance programs.

The Commission recognizes that consumers have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the Commission voted on a proactive plan that will ensure consumers are aware of upcoming dates when normal utility practices will resume and are able to apply for increased funding available through the American Rescue Plan.

The Commission also approved a measure that will end the practice of negative credit reporting by rate-regulated utilities. Further, the Commission ordered utilities to not charge late fees or penalties for customers who have entered a payment plan.

Chair Katie Sieben said, “Utility customers who have past due balances should set up a payment plan with their utility. Also, customers that have outstanding utility bills should apply for energy assistance programs. There is money available to help if you are struggling.”

In Minnesota, more than 350,000 customer accounts are past-due on their electric and gas bills. Important dates in the Commission’s plan include:

May 3, 2021, utilities will be required to conduct outreach to customers.

June 1, 2021, utilities will resume sending disconnection notices.

August 2, 2021, companies will resume utility disconnections.

Commissioner Sullivan said, “We want to ensure Minnesotans have the tools needed. With an increase in federal funding for energy assistance in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Minnesotans should call their Energy Assistance Program provider. They should also inquire about additional balance-relief options offered by the utilities and other partner agencies.”

At risk consumers should call their utilities now.

To avoid disconnection, consumers can call their local Energy Assistance Program (EAP) provider. For help finding a local EAP provider, call 1-800-657-3710, or visit The Energy Assistance Program . Eligible Minnesota renters can receive help with rent and utility bills. RentHelpMN will help Minnesotans who have fallen behind on their rent, or fear that could happen, visit COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance , or call 211.

Need additional help?

The PUC Consumer Affairs Office (CAO) is available to answer questions and to provide consumer mediation services. Ratepayers can contact the CAO at 651-296-0406, or 1-800-657-3782. Email at consumer.puc@state.mn.us.

About

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission regulates three cornerstone service industries in Minnesota's economy: electricity, natural gas, and telephone service. The Commission’s mission is to create and maintain a regulatory environment that ensures safe, adequate, and efficient utility services at fair, reasonable rates consistent with State telecommunications and energy policies. It does so by providing independent, consistent, professional, and comprehensive oversight and regulation of utility service providers. Learn more at mn.gov/puc

Please contact Will Seuffert, 651-201-2217 or will.seuffert@state.mn.us if you have any questions.

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