MN Cold Weather Rule Now In Effect

From October through April 30, 2026, eligible LREC members can request protection from service disconnection due to non-payment during winter months via the MN Cold Weather Rule (CWR).

To be considered eligible, residential homeowners or renters must:

• Complete and submit an Inability to Pay (ITP) Declaration form provided by their cooperative or utility, and;
• Have a household income, not individual, that is less than 50% of the state median household income, (verification required) and;
• Enter into and make reasonable timely payments under a mutually agreed upon payment agreement that considers the financial resources of the household

Additional CWR details and instruction on how to complete/submit the required ITP form, as well as information on other energy assistance programs and a list of financial assistance agencies, can be found by visiting the Energy Assistance page on our site.