The Minnesota Cold Weather Rule goes into effect on October 15. The Cold Weather Rule was established by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission to provide protections for residential customers that are behind or cannot make their full utility payment during the winter months, provided that electrical utility service is required to operate the residence’s primary heat source. The Cold Weather Rule applies from October 15- April 15.

In order to avoid disconnection or to have service reconnected, customers must either bring their balance current or call RPU to set up a payment plan before October 15. Payment Plans must be kept current during the Cold Weather Rule months in order to avoid disconnection. Customers may need to take additional steps and requirements necessary to comply with the Cold Weather Rule.

For concerns regarding high energy use, customers can take advantage of RPU’s energy conservation tips and energy audits to reduce energy consumption. To set up a payment plan, customers can call RPU customer service at 507-280-1500.

About Rochester Public Utilities

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 45,000 customers. Water customers number more than 34,000. RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive. Current initiatives include fuel cell research, wind power, and photovoltaic offerings.

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Letters recently mailed to Rochester residents advertising home water service protection are in no way affiliated with RPU. The letters state that residential customers can cover their home water service for a monthly fee through Home Serve.  

RPU has a program called Service Assured® to cover underground utility repair for both electric and water services. Service Assured® is available to RPU residential customers living in single-family homes or single-owner duplexes, and some townhome associations, individual twinhomes, and triplexes where each unit has its own service line.

Customers can call RPU at 507-280-1500 to sign up for RPU Service Assured®.

About Rochester Public Utilities

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 45,000 customers. Water customers number more than 34,000. RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive. Current initiatives include fuel cell research, wind power, and photovoltaic offerings.

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