Key points at a glance
- Extreme cold is driving up natural gas prices for customers.
- Decreasing and conserving your natural gas use through Friday, Jan. 30 will help minimize the impact on your natural gas bill.
- This volatility is not expected to impact the availability of natural gas.
Extreme cold weather across Minnesota and much of the country is leading to volatile natural gas markets, causing prices to increase.
This is not expected to impact the availability of natural gas, but it may lead to higher bills.
Minnesota Energy Resources expects this price volatility could last through the end of the week.
Here are some actions you could take to help reduce your natural gas usage and minimize the impacts to your bill:
- Lower your thermostat. That uses less natural gas and will save you money. Add layers or blankets to keep warm.
- Close blinds or drapes at night and avoid opening doors to retain heat. Open blinds during the day to let in heat from the sun.
- Avoid using secondary natural gas heating sources, such as natural gas fireplaces.
- Use natural gas ranges sparingly. Prepare food with slow cookers or microwaves.
What Minnesota Energy Resources is doing for customers
Minnesota Energy Resources is working to keep bills as low as possible. Minnesota Energy Resources does not profit from the cost of natural gas; customers pay what the company pays.
Help is available 24 hours a day on the Minnesota Energy Resources website, through the Minnesota Energy Resources app or by phone at 800-889-9508.
Tools for managing energy costs
Financial assistance is available. The State of Minnesota expects to provide more than $110 million in low-income heating help this winter. If you are concerned about your bill, please contact Minnesota Energy Resources right away. The company offers several options to help you manage energy costs and find savings.
- Payment plans and energy assistance: Options are available if you cannot pay your energy bill due to financial difficulties.
- Budget Billing: Avoid seasonal variations in your bill.
- Rebates and programs: Make saving energy easy by getting rebates for energy-efficient upgrades and smart thermostats, and sign up to receive a free water conservation kit.
For more energy-saving tips, go to minnesotaenergyresources.com.