Cold Weather Rule in Effect October 1, 2026 – April 30, 2027
As colder weather approaches, McLeod Co-op Power wants members to know about programs and protections that may help if paying an electric bill becomes difficult. The Cold Weather Rule, military disconnection protections, and local Energy Assistance resources are available to eligible households.
If you are concerned about your bill over the cold weather months (October – April), contact MCPA today at 320-864-3148 so we can help you understand your options
An An electric cooperative must not disconnect and must reconnect the utility service of a home between October 1 and April 30 if the disconnection affects the primary heat source for the residential unit and all of the following conditions are met:
- Your total household income, not individual, is less than 50% of the State Median Income.
- You have contacted McLeod Co-op, have set up a payment arrangement, and are reasonably current with your scheduled payments.
It’s important to understand that the Cold Weather Rule still allows electricity to be shut off for non-payment. You will only be protected if electricity provides your primary source of heat and you meet the conditions above. Before disconnecting service to a residential member during the cold weather months, MCPA will provide a disconnect notice, statement of member rights and responsibilities, a list of local energy assistance providers, and available payment plans or options to the affected member. Inability to pay forms are available upon request.
Energy Assistance Providers:
United Community Action Partnership (800) 992-1710 Willmar: (320) 235-0850 Hutchinson: (320) 587-5244
McLeod County Social Service Center (320) 864-3144; (800) 247-1756 Hutchinson: (320) 484-4330
United Community Action Partnership (320) 523-1842
Sibley County Public Health & Human Services (507) 237-4000; (866) 396-9963 / MN Valley Action Council (800) 767-7139 Gaylord: (507-237-2981) Mankato: (507) 345-6822
Scott-Carver-Dakota Community Action Agency (952) 496-2125
Wright County Community Action (320) 963-6500
Military Disconnection Protection Policy
Minnesota law provides certain protections from electric service disconnection when a member of a household has been ordered to active military duty, including deployment or a permanent change in duty station.
To receive protection, member must:
- Notify McLeod Co-op Power and provide required verification.
- Enter into and maintain an eligible payment arrangement with MCPA
Failure to meet or maintain these requirements may result in loss of protection and possible disconnection.