Cold Weather Rule Goes Into Effect This Weekend

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- It's that time of year when the apples are ripe for picking, the leaves are changing, the sun is setting faster, and the cold weather rule goes into effect.

Xcel Energy said the Cold Weather Rule will go into place starting on Saturday, Oct. 15. The rule helps protect those who can't afford their bill from getting their service disconnected during the winter months.

The Cold Weather Rule will remain in effect until April 15.

Eligible customers will first need to show that disconnection would affect their primary heating source. They also need to commit to a monthly payment that won't go above 10 percent of their household income. And if they get a notice of proposed disconnection, they must immediately contact the utility company and commit to a payment plan.

Xcel said it would also provide contact information for local community energy assistance programs.

For more information on the Cold Weather Rule, customers can call Xcel Energy's 24-hour residential customer service line at 1-800-895-4999.