Xcel Energy Gas/Electric Customers
The Energy CENTS Coalition works with Xcel Energy to offer the POWER On and Gas Affordability Program (GAP). These programs offer low-income households in Minnesota the opportunity to receive a discount on a portion of their monthly electric bill (through the POWER On program) and monthly gas bill (through the Gas Affordability program). Discounts are based on household income and how much energy you use. If you have a past due bill with Xcel Energy, POWER On and GAP will also help with a monthly credit toward your past due bill.
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To participate in the POWER On & Gas Affordability program, certain program rules apply:
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You must pay your monthly Xcel Energy bill on time. If you fall behind on your payments, you will be removed from the program and ineligible to reapply until the next calendar year. You may be subject to service disconnection, as well
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You must receive Energy Assistance program funds for the current heating season. To find your provider call 1-800-657-3710 or click here
Here’s how the POWER On & Gas Affordability program works:
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Based on your household income, you will be required to pay a set amount each month for your electricity and/or natural gas service
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Each time you make your payment by your due date, Xcel Energy will apply your POWER On/GAP discount to your bill
Frequently Asked Questions
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What if my discount is not showing on my Xcel bill? If you made your full budget payment by your due date, and you do not see your discount on your Xcel bill, call Xcel Energy at 1-866-975-7327. It may take a billing cycle for your discount to show on your bill.
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Why does my Xcel Energy bill have a different amount due? Your bill from Xcel Energy is always going to show the total amount that you owe. You just need to pay your budget payment each month to receive your discounts and remain on the program.
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What if I have a credit balance on my bill? If you have a credit balance on your bill, you do NOT need to make a payment. Discounts will not be applied to your account if you have a large credit balance or if no payment is made.
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What happens if I miss making my budget payment? If you miss two payments, you will be removed from the program and cannot re-apply until the next calendar year. You will have to pay your full balance due, and Xcel Energy can take various credit actions, including shutting off your service.
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How long does this program last? As long as you continue to make your monthly payment and meet the eligibility guidelines, you can remain on the program. After one year, we will re-evaluate your budget and credit amounts based on updated usage, current balance and income information. If you have not received Energy Assistance for the current heating season, you may be removed from the program at that time.
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What if I pay a different utility for my gas or electric bill? Contact that utility company to see if they offer an affordability program and ask them how to apply.