Dakota Electric’s rate case remains under review by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC). As shared in previous updates, a Settlement Agreement was filed in June between Dakota Electric, the Minnesota Department of Commerce, and the Minnesota Office of the Attorney General. The agreement, if approved, would increase the cooperative’s annual revenues about 9.62% or $20.88 million.

The MPUC is expected to make a final decision in early 2026. In the meantime, the interim rate increase of 9.5% will remain in effect. If the approved overall increase is lower than interim rates, we will refund members the difference with interest. If the overall increase is higher, we will not charge members the difference for the interim period. The new rates will go into effect at the end of this case.

Dakota County residents who need help paying their energy bills can apply for support through the Community Action Partnership (CAP) Agencies’ Energy Assistance Program. The program helps eligible households with heating and utility costs during the colder months.

Accepting applications October 1 – May 31. For more information or to apply, visit www.capagency.org, call 651-322-3500.

Address Confidentiality Program

Safe at Home helps survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and other crimes, and anyone who fears for their safety, by establishing a confidential mailing address and providing a mail forwarding service.

While Dakota Electric needs members’ actual addresses to establish and maintain electric service, we use Safe at Home addresses for communicating with members and take special steps to protect Safe at Home participants’ addresses. If you participate in Safe at Home, alert Dakota Electric and provide your Safe at Home mailing address.

To learn more, contact the office of the Minnesota Secretary of State by calling 1-866-723-3035 or visit the Minnesota Secretary of State website.

EnergyStar is being phased out, but you can still find energy-efficient appliances for your home. Even without the EnergyStar label, look for the yellow Energy Guide label, which shows estimated annual energy costs and usage. You can also check the Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) Tier List online to see which appliances meet high-efficiency standards.

Small changes at home can help you save energy and money, no matter the equipment you have. Adjusting your thermostat, keeping appliances clean, and checking fridge seals can all make a noticeable difference in energy use and costs.