Xcel Energy: Cold Weather Rule Starts Thursday

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Officials with Xcel Energy say the "Minnesota Cold Weather Rule" goes into effect on Thursday and customers who need assistance paying their bills this winter can get help.

Xcel officials say under the rule, eligible customers won't have their service disconnected between Oct. 15 and April 15, 2016, if the disconnection shuts off the customer's primary heating source. Customers must commit to a monthly payment that does not exceed 10 percent of the household income.

Customers must also contact Xcel Energy immediately and set up a payment plan if they receive a disconnection notice. Xcel said it will also provide contact information for local community energy assistance programs.

For more information, contact Xcel Energy's 24-hour customer service line at 1 (800) 895-4999.