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Cold Weather Rule

The Cold Weather Rule, Section 216B.097 of the Public Utilities Act, in effect from October 1 through April 30 in Minnesota, governs how we handle disconnects; it does not prohibit them. Electric cooperatives cannot disconnect a residential consumer for nonpayment if the disconnection would affect the primary heat source, and all of the following conditions are met:

  1. You declare an inability to pay by completing the Inability to Pay form.

  2. Provide proof of last three months of total gross household income.

  3. Your total gross household (not individual) income is less than 50% of the state median income, or you provide proof you are a current recipient of any public assistance with qualifying income requirements, including energy assistance.

  4. Your account is current or reasonably on time with a payment plan or you make and keep a mutually-acceptable payment plan at any time that considers the financial resources of the household. 

ECE works with members during the Cold Weather Rule period, just as we do throughout the year. We encourage members to call us if they are struggling to pay their electric bill. We are here to help!

Download the Minnesota Cold Weather Rule: Disconnect Notice of Residential Member Rights and Possible Assistance brochure and Inability to Pay Form.

Wisconsin residents

Although WI laws do not provide cold weather shut-off protection, we abide by the same cold weather collection practices in WI and MN.

If you have questions regarding payment policies or the Cold Weather Rule, please call ECE at 1-800-254-7944.

Energy Assistance Program income guidelines

Minnesota Income Guidelines

Wisconsin Income Guidelines

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©2023 East Central Energy. All Rights Reserved. All information on this website can be made available in an alternate form by calling 1-800-254-7944.

  • Your Cooperative
    • About Us
      • Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
      • History
      • About Touchstone Energy
    • Capital Credits
    • Careers & Job Openings
    • Cogeneration
    • Directors and Districts
      • Board Meetings
    • Hours & Locations
    • Member Resource Council
    • Sustainability
    • Statement of Non-Discrimination
    • Power Concerns
    • Red Flags Rule
  • New Construction
    • Residential
    • Commercial
  • Residential
    • Billing & Payment
      • Charges & Fees
      • Payment Options
      • Understanding My Bill
    • Assistance Information
    • Cold Weather Rule
    • Military Rule
    • Landlord Preauthorization Agreement
    • Power Outage
    • Medical Alert
    • Renewable Energy
      • Solar Energy
      • Wind Energy
    • Sales Tax Exemptions
    • Start or Stop Service
    • Together We Save
    • Contact Us
  • Programs & Rebates
    • 2023 residential program highlights
    • Residential Rebates
    • Air Source Heat Pump
    • Storage Space Heating
    • Storage Water Heating
    • Interruptible Water Heating
    • Ground Source Heat Pump
    • Electric Vehicles
    • Dual Fuel
  • Business
    • Charges & Fees - Commercial
    • Contact Us - Business Accounts
    • Economic Development
    • Cost Saving Programs
    • Business Bulletin
    • Energy Saving Tips
      • Business Energy Evaluation
    • Payment Options Business
    • Start or Stop Service - Commercial
    • Rebates - Commercial
  • Contractors
    • Before Working Overhead
    • HVAC Contractors
    • Power Line Emergencies
    • Resources for Electricians
  • Safety
    • Downed Power Lines
    • Generator use
    • Storm Information
    • Call Before You Dig
    • Copper Theft
    • Request a presentation
    • Safe Electricity
  • Community
    • Operation Round Up
      • Grants
    • Scholarships
    • COOPx
    • Community Award
    • Caring Members
    • Youth Tour
    • Community Partnership
    • Parents and Educators
    • Watt's Cookin'
    • Co-op Connections
  • Trees & Lines
    • Emerald Ash Borer
    • Storm Damage & Downed Lines
    • Tree Concerns & Requests
    • Tree Planting Guidelines
    • Vegetation Management Plan
  • Newsroom
    • Co-op Advantage Newsletter
    • News & Events
    • Power Talks Podcast
    • Media Inquiries
    • Pollinator Blog
    • Video Gallery
    • Annual Report