In accordance with Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule (216B.096), electric service cannot be disconnected for nonpayment between Oct. 1 and April 30 if electricity is the primary heat
source and ALL of the following statements apply:
• Your household income is at or below 50 percent of the state median household income. Income may be verified on forms provided by MLEC or by the local energy assistance provider.
• You enter into and make reasonably timely payments under a payment agreement that considers the financial resources of the household.
• You receive referrals to energy assistance, weatherization, conservation, or other programs likely to reduce your energy bills from MLEC.
Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule does not completely stop winter disconnects.
Before disconnecting electric service to residential members between Oct. 1 and April 30, Mille Lacs Energy Cooperative must provide:
• A 30-day notice of disconnection;
• A statement of members’ rights and responsibilities;
• A list of local energy assistance providers;
• Forms on which to request Cold Weather Rule protection; and
• A statement explaining available payment plans and other options to continue service.
Energy Assistance Program
The Energy Assistance Program (EAP) is a federally funded program through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which helps low-income renters and homeowners pay for home heating costs, electric, and furnace repairs.
To learn more about the EAP program or to apply for assistance:
• Visit the Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Assistance website, https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/consumer-assistance/energy-assistance/, for more details and to access the application portal.
• Contact your county EAP service provider for additional information and assistance.
MLEC exists because of you, and we are dedicated to the people and communities we serve. If you are having difficulty paying your electric bill and do not qualify for these programs, please contact MLEC.