The Minnesota Department of Commerce is urging eligible households to apply now for energy assistance through Minnesota’s federally funded Energy Assistance Program (EAP). Even though federal funding is on hold due to the government shutdown, they continue to accept and process applications. All income-eligible Minnesotans - including renters and homeowners - are strongly encouraged to apply now.

Under normal circumstances, Minnesota would receive its annual funding by early November, allowing payments to begin before peak heating season. The state has not yet received new funds for the 2025-2026 winter season. Payments for heating bills, emergency fuel deliveries, and furnace repairs will be delayed.

The state recommends that households take the following steps to protect their heat and electricity services from interruption.

Apply for the Energy Assistance Program

Apply for the EAP to make sure your household is in the system when funds are available.  Learn more on Hennepin County's Community Action Partnership website and complete an application

Set up a payment plan with your utility company

Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule offers some protection from utility shutoffs. To protect your service, you must set up and follow a payment plan. To set up a payment plan, contact Minnesota's Commission's Consumer Affairs Office at consumer.puc@state.mn.us or 651-296-0406 or 1-800-657-3782. Find more information on the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission website.

Residents can also apply for local utility affordability programs

Local gas and energy companies, CenterPoint Energy and Xcel Energy, offer several affordability programs.

CenterPoint Energy program

• Gas Affordability Program
  The Gas Affordability Program (GAP) offers customers receiving help from EAP an opportunity to receive additional discounts. Learn about GAP and how to apply

Xcel Energy programs

• PowerOn and Gas Affordability Program
  PowerOn and Gas Affordability Program (GAP) offers low-income households an opportunity to receive a discount on their monthly electric bill. Learn more and how to apply on the Energy CENTS Coalition website
• MN Senior Discount Program
  The Minnesota Senior Discount Program offers electric customers who are 62 or older a $15 discount per individual for each billing period. Learn more about the discount program and how to apply
• Low Usage Affordability Credit (LUAC)
  The Low Usage Affordability Credit (LUAC) offers income-qualified customers with low electric usage a bill credit. Learn about LUAC and how to apply on Xcel Energy's website
• Medical Affordability Program (MAP)
  Medical Affordability Program (MAP) offers affordable electricity based on income and medical needs. Learn about MAP eligibility and how to apply on Xcel Energy's website

Other resources

The Citizens Utility Board website has more information on the Energy Assistance Program. Visit their website to find more heating and power resources