MVAC processing energy assistance applications despite ongoing government shutdown

MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) - Despite the federal shutdown, Minnesota Valley Action Council (MVAC) Energy Assistance Program (EAP) continues to process applications.

MVAC says they are doing this so applications will be ready when the federal funds arrive. MVAC expects the agency will not receive funding until at least one month after the federal government re-opens, based on communication from the Minnesota Department of Commerce.

In the meantime, MVAC reminds residents to:

· Continue to pay your bill

· Contact your energy vendor to make payment arrangements

· Ask your energy vendor about the cold weather rule.

Minnesota’s “Cold Weather Rule” began October 1 and runs until April 30. Under the rule, both homeowners and renters are protected from service disconnections if it would impact their primary heating source.

The state requires all natural gas and electric utilities to offer this protection. The rule however, does not apply to delivered fuels; oil and propane or wood.

Customers need to immediately contact their utility company and set up a payment plan if they receive a disconnection notice.

MVAC encourages residents to apply for their energy assistance program now. Applications are available on the MVAC website at www.mnvac.org/programs/energy. Applications are also available at all nine MVAC offices.

Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program is federally funded and administered by the Department of Commerce, which works with local service providers throughout the state.

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