Minnesota Energy Resources is urging customers who are behind on their energy bills to reach out as soon as possible to avoid disconnection. The state’s Cold Weather Rule expires April 30.
Minnesota Energy Resources works with customers year-round to offer payment plans and help with energy assistance. If a customer establishes and maintains a payment plan, they are not at risk for disconnection.
Disconnection is always a last resort
Customers behind on their bills can go to minnesotaenergyresources.com or use the Minnesota Energy Resources app to set up payment arrangements and connect with financial and energy assistance options. They can also call 800-889-9508.
Beware of scammers
Unfortunately, scammers often try to take advantage of the end of the Cold Weather Rule.
Scammers will often pretend to be from Minnesota Energy Resources. They may even manipulate caller ID to display “Minnesota Energy Resources” or use a recording that sounds like it’s from the company.
Scammers will threaten to turn off customers energy in a short amount of time and demand immediate payment — often with a prepaid debit card, third-party digital payment app like Zelle or Venmo, or unusual payment method such as bitcoin.
These are all warning signs. If customers are ever in doubt about a phone call, they should hang up and call Minnesota Energy Resources.
Additional tips are available online.
Simple ways to manage costs
Minnesota Energy Resources encourages customers to manage their energy use all year long. Go to the Minnesota Energy Resources website for a checklist and more ways to save.