Energy Assistance

Energy Assistance Program

Find help paying your electric bill when times get tough.

The Energy Assistance Program is designed to assist income eligible households with the cost of energy/heating their homes. The EAP is federally funded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Grants are available for the following:

• Renters or homeowners
• Households with income at or below 50 percent of the state median income
• Eligibility is based on household size, income, fuel type, and energy usage

Visit the Energy Assistance Program website to learn more and apply or contact one of the agencies listed at the bottom of this page.

Cold Weather Rule

The Minnesota Cold Weather Rule (MN Statute, Ch. 235, Sec. 216B.097) protects residential utility customers during the cold winter months. Under this rule, your electric service will not be disconnected from October 1^st through April 30^th because of non-payment provided you meet ALL following conditions:

• You declare an inability to pay.
• Your total household, not individual, income is less than 60% of the state median income. You must provide the necessary documentation to support this condition.
• You enter into and make reasonable timely payments under a payment agreement that considers the financial resources of the household.
• You receive referrals to energy assistance, weatherization, conservation, or other programs likely to reduce the customer’s energy bills.

If you do not meet all of the above conditions, then you do not qualify for the winter shut-off protection. However, you still can continue to receive electric service if you call us to make a mutually acceptable payment arrangement.

Residential customers who cannot qualify for winter shut-off protection and who cannot pay their full bill may make special payments over an extended period of time. To arrange for scheduled payments, call (800) 552-7658 or email lrec@lrec.coop.