Cold Weather Rule

Cold Weather Rule and Winter Assistance

Staying warm and connected during the winter months is essential, especially when managing your energy bills becomes a challenge. Here’s what you need to know about protections and assistance available for residential members:

Cold Weather Rule

The Cold Weather Rule helps protect residential members from disconnection during winter if they are unable to pay their electric bill in full. 

The electric cooperative or municipal electric utility will not shut off your service if the temperature
is forecasted to be 20 degrees Fahrenheit or colder during the following 24-hour period, including the day your service is scheduled to be shut off.

The Cold Weather Rule does not completely prevent disconnections during this period. If you receive a disconnection notice, it’s important to act promptly.

Iowa’s Winter Moratorium Law (November 1 – April 1)

Iowa’s winter moratorium law provides additional protection for members certified through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This law prevents utilities from disconnecting electric or natural gas service used for home heating during this period.

While disconnection is prohibited for qualified customers, it’s important to continue making payments toward your energy bills to avoid accumulating debt. Protections under the moratorium end on April 1.

Tip: Make small, consistent payments each month to avoid a large balance and potential disconnection in April when the Cold Weather Rule ends.

Need Help?

We encourage members to apply for assistance (information is available here) or contact us for more information about payment arrangements and available programs. 

Staying proactive can make a big difference in staying warm and connected this winter.