Under the rule, income eligible residential customers are protected from service disconnection between October 15 and April 15, if the disconnection would affect your primary heating source.

Customers who receive a notice of proposed disconnection must contact their utility company and commit to a monthly payment not to exceed 10% of household income. Xcel Energy will refer customers to local energy assistance programs if needed. Customers can apply for Cold Weather Rule protections by contacting Minnesota Energy Resources at 1-800-889-9508. Additional information is available at www.minnesotaenergyresources.com/home/cold_weather.aspx.