MPR News Staff

MPR News/90.1

Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program is receiving more than $105 million in federal funding to help low-income residents in the state pay their heating bills this winter.

“Heating your home is a necessity in Minnesota, and we do not want anyone’s health or safety put at risk because they cannot afford to pay for heat,” said Commerce Commissioner Steve Kelley on Tuesday. “The Energy Assistance Program is an essential safety net for those who struggle to pay their energy bills.”

Homeowners and renters who earn less than half of the state’s median income are eligible to apply for heating assistance.

In 2018, the program paid nearly 126,000 households in Minnesota an average of $545, according to the Department of Commerce.

Funding, which is limited, is on a first-come, first-served basis.  The Minnesota Commerce department will accept applications until June 1 of next year, or until the money runs out.

For more information about the program, call 800-657-3710 or visit the Energy Assistance Program page at mn.gov/commerce/eap.jsp