Gas and electric bill assistance
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission's Consumer Affairs Office (CAO) can help Minnesotans find options to help pay your gas and electric bills, and assist consumers with complaints on energy and telecommunications utility services, service quality, billing problems, and service disconnections and reconnections. They administer enrollment in the state’s Telephone Assistance Plan (TAP). The CAO can also help you with issues related to solar energy, distributed generation, and community solar gardens.
While the Commission does not regulate sewer and water service, there may be financial assistance available to help you pay your bill. Learn more at the Department of Commerce.
To get in touch with the Consumer Affairs Office, call at 651.296.0406 or 800.657.3782 or email at consumer.puc@state.mn.us. There are Spanish and Hmong language speakers on staff.
Beware of scams impersonating the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission is aware of scam activities where individuals or organizations falsely claim to represent the PUC. These scams may involve fraudulent phone calls, emails, or notices offering utility bill discounts to sign up for services, attempting to collect payments or obtain sensitive information.
The PUC will never offer bill discounts, threaten service disconnection, request payments or ask for your banking or credit card information. Stay informed and stay safe.
Click here on how to report potential scams.
Options to help with gas and electric bills
Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program offers up to $2,000 to cover your costs for heat, power and water, and is free to households with eligible incomes. Both renters and homeowners can qualify.
United Way 2-1-1 is a free service that can help find agencies and resources during a crisis, such as emergency needs for food, shelter, utilities, or mental health. Dial 2-1-1.
The Salvation Army HeatShare program provides emergency assistance to pay utility bills. The emergency assistance can be used to pay for natural gas, oil, propane and electricity.
The Weatherization Assistance Program offers free home energy upgrades that will permanently reduce your energy costs.
Low income electric rate discount - If you receive energy assistance, you may also qualify for a credit on your electric bill. Contact your electric utility company for information.
Low-income Gas Affordability Program (GAP) - If your home is heated with natural gas and you qualify for Energy Assistance, you also may qualify for GAP. Contact your gas utility company for information.
