NATURAL GAS

MN COLD WEATHER RULE

Trouble paying your bill? Avoid disconnection

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) created the Cold Weather Rule (CWR) to protect residential customers from facing natural gas shut-off if they cannot pay their bill in full. The rule offers extra protection from October 1st through April 30th of each year.

To avoid disconnection, or reconnect your service you MUST either pay your gas bill in full OR call Community Coops immediately to create and follow a payment arrangement.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Call us toll-free at (888) 935-2281

Your financial circumstances, current balance owing and any anticipated billings for natural gas will be considered when determining your payment arrangement. If a mutually agreed upon payment arrangement cannot be reached, you have the right to appeal through the MPUC.

Community Coops will also provide a list of agencies that may be able to offer you additional assistance. Under the CWR, special payment terms are available to customer who:

• Apply for and receive Low Income Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) funding assistance in Minnesota, or
• Meet set income guidelines by the State of Minnesota but do not receive energy assistance, and
• Provide verifiable proof of income

It is important to understand that if you are not able to keep your agreed upon payment arrangement, you must call CCLP to request a change. If you fail to sign and return your written payment arrangement document or make timely agreed upon payments your service could be disconnected.

You have the opportunity to have a third party notified if your natural gas service is scheduled to be disconnected. This program helps individuals who live alone, are disabled, are elderly, or cannot read English. A third party is able to make payment arrangements on your behalf, however is not required or obligated to pay your bills.

To learn more about Customer Rights and Responsibilities, get a list of Energy Assistance Agencies or request a Third Party Designation Form, please call Community Coops at (888) 935-2281