Public Power Week

A full week of celebrating public power kicked off Monday, even though MMUA’s member communities appreciate it year-round.

In the US, more than 2,000 public power utilities serve communities across 49 states. This week, help spread the word about how your hometown utilities provide affordable, reliable power. See how your local utilities are celebrating, and explore APPA’s Public Power Week resources for help promoting the occasion.

Cold weather rule

Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule began on October 1. The rule covers natural gas and electric service, but not delivered fuels such as propane, fuel oil, or wood. State law requires propane distributors to offer budget payment plans; customers using delivered fuels should contact providers about other options.

Homeowners and renters who need help paying utility bills may qualify for the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program, administered by the Department of Commerce.

For help with utility service, billing, or Cold Weather Rule rights, contact the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission Consumer Affairs Office.

• Website: mn.gov/puc/cwr
• Email: consumer.puc@state.mn.us
• Phone: 651-296-0406
• Toll-free: 800-657-3782

Read more here and see MMUA's resources on the cold weather rule (login required).

Minnesota data centers: Public scrutiny intensifies while progress continues

Three Minnesota developments over the past week highlight different dimensions of the state's data center growth.

Attorney General Keith Ellison filed comments with the Public Utilities Commission on Thursday, October 1, saying that Google’s agreement with Xcel Energy to power a hyperscale data center in Pine Island could negatively impact Xcel’s other customers by shifting nearly a billion dollars in extra costs to them. This week, a new coalition of nine environmental organizations calling itself No Dirty Data Centers MN, launched a website it describes as nonpartisan to address voters’ concerns about health, environmental, and financial risks.

Meanwhile, at a Monday night meeting, Hermantown’s council unanimously approved an Alternative Urban Areawide Review for Google’s proposed data center, advancing its environmental review.

All of these developments underscore questions about infrastructure costs, reliability, and who pays as the debate continues. MMUA expects that the new legislature will weigh in on these topics as well. After the November election, the two parties' proposed paths to addressing data center growth will become clearer as committee leaders are chosen and initial activities for the 2027 legislative session begin. MMUA will work alongside members and legislators to help develop workable solutions that support utilities’ ability to serve new demand while protecting ratepayers.

Former Wells Public Utilities super Ray Wigern dies at 84

Ray was with Wells Public Utilities for 28 years and served on MMUA’s board. He retired in 2003 and will be missed in the Minnesota municipal utilities community.

Read his full obituary here.

Community Connect Grant program

USDA’s Community Connect Grant program is offering funding to help expand high-speed broadband access in rural communities lacking reliable service. The program supports the construction, acquisition, or improvement of broadband infrastructure, with a focus on connecting homes, businesses, and critical community facilities such as schools, health care providers, and public safety offices.

Eligible applicants include local governments, utilities, nonprofits, and Tribal entities serving rural areas without sufficient internet access. In addition to infrastructure, projects may include equipment, digital literacy training, and free community access points.

This funding opportunity aims to strengthen economic development, improve access to essential services, and enhance quality of life in underserved communities. Utilities and local partners interested in broadband expansion are encouraged to review eligibility requirements and consider applying.

View this PDF for more information.

Regulatory Knowledge and Compliance in Municipal Utilities
October 14, 2026

10:00 am–12:00 pm

Webinar

MMUA’s online DUEL elective courses are open to anyone looking to strengthen their leadership and professional toolkit.

Regulatory Knowledge and Compliance in Municipal Utilities will provide leaders with the tools and resources to navigate the complex environment of utility regulations.

This is a virtual course taught by a live instructor and takes just two hours—practical learning that fits your schedule. Not a DUEL participant? No worries! You can register too. If you decide to join a DUEL cohort within two years, we'll count these courses towards your elective requirements.

Crisis communication and media relations for utility leaders
November 19, 2026

10:00 am–12:00 pm

Webinar

In today's fast-paced media environment, utility leaders must be prepared to communicate clearly, confidently, and strategically—especially during times of crisis. This course equips participants with the tools and techniques to manage public messaging, engage with media outlets, and maintain stakeholder trust when the stakes are high.

MMUA’s online DUEL elective courses are open to anyone looking to strengthen their leadership and professional toolkit.

This is a virtual course taught by a live instructor and takes just two hours—practical learning that fits your schedule. Not a DUEL participant? No worries! You can register too. If you decide to join a DUEL cohort within two years, we'll count these courses towards your elective requirements.

2026 T&O Conference

December 8–10

Holiday Inn & Suites, Saint Cloud

Registration now open!

The Technical & Operations Conference (or "T&O") is a not-to-be-missed event for managers, crew leads, lineworkers, and others who get things done for utilities and municipalities. This is the perfect venue to join fellow hometown professionals to hear interesting speakers on timely topics, participate in discussions, share ideas, and connect with friends old and new.

Check out the great lineup of speakers, presentations, and topics that will be covered during this year's T&O Conference! Plus, learn about new products and services and speak with supplier representatives during the trade show.

MMUA's hotel block is available here. Our room block closes on November 7. We suggest you make your reservation as soon as possible as availability cannot be guaranteed.

Early bird rates end on November 8. Advance registration closes November 25.

2026 Transformer School and

Pre-conference Workshop

December 14–17

MMUA Training Center

Make plans to join us in Marshall, MN for essential transformer skills training!

Transformer School covers three-phase transformer connections. In addition to classroom instruction, participants will troubleshoot problems and make repairs on miniature transformer banks.

We also offer an optional Pre-conference Workshop, covering basic single-phase transformer connections and theory. This session is ideal for those new to transformers or anyone looking for a refresher on the fundamentals.

Note that training takes place Monday–Thursday this year. For more information or to register, please click the links below to register. Register by November 19, 2026, for best rate. Advance registration closes on November 30, 2026.

The Resource

Did you know that you can read our newsletter online? Access the latest edition of The Resource to read news related to water, gas, and electricity matters in Minnesota. Our newsletter covers the activities of members, as well as local, regional, national, and international utility news.

MMUA Events Calendar for 2026

The 2026 calendar lists enrichment and training opportunities that can help individuals enhance their skills and knowledge in the utility industry. Watch for emails with event-specific information. Download the calendar here.