Mike Willetts inducted into the International Lineworker's Hall of Fame

Mike Willetts, MMUA Director of Training and Safety, has been inducted into the 2025 class of the International Lineman’s Hall of Fame. The ceremony took place October 16, 2026, in Overland Park, Kansas, recognizing his decades of contributions to lineworker safety, education, and public power. Willetts joins a class honoring people whose work has made a lasting difference to the electric utility industry.

Pictured above are some of MMUA's staff members who joined Willetts and his family to celebrate the occasion. Watch for full coverage of the event in the December/January issue of The Resource.

Minnesota receives $111.3 million for heating assistance

Federal officials released approximately $3.6 billion for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) on October 9, including $111.3 million for Minnesota. This initial release represents 90 percent of the funding available under the continuing resolution. Utilities should direct customers struggling with energy bills to Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program and local providers, which determine eligibility and authorize payments directly to utilities.

To receive payments, utilities must register with the state and sign the vendor agreement through eHEAT. Participating utilities should coordinate with providers to prevent disconnections, restore service, and credit payments within five business days. Funds cover eligible customer energy costs, including arrears.

See the press release, the state funding table, the vendor agreement, and Minnesota program information.

Pulsar advances northern Minnesota helium facility

Pulsar Helium, Inc. is moving forward with plans for a commercial-scale helium facility in northern Minnesota, a development that could help establish a new industry in the region.

The company has accepted an $85.5 million equipment supply proposal for its proposed Rare Gas Hub, including a helium liquefaction plant and a carbon dioxide capture plant. Pulsar is considering a Lake County location, although the project remains subject to due diligence, site and utility evaluations, permitting and regulatory approvals.

Pulsar has cited the region’s transportation infrastructure, electrical capacity and skilled workforce as advantages.

Read more here.

Xcel Energy proposes a two-year rate freeze

Xcel filed its proposal with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, suggesting that it would postpone raising electricity rates in exchange for using federal tax credits earlier than planned. Xcel expects to receive those credits through the federal Inflation Reduction Act for five battery projects in the state.

The credits would allow Xcel Energy to invest $4.5 billion in Minnesota's electric system over the next two years.

Read more 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.

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 skills and add valuable tools to their 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, St. Cloud

MMUA's annual 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.

Register early for best rate! Early bird registration rates end on November 8. Advance registration closes November 25. Please click the link below to register.

Don't forget to make your hotel reservation! 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.

2026 Transformer School and

Pre-conference Workshop

December 14–17

MMUA Training Center

Make plans to join us in Marshall, Minnesota, 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, for best rate. Advance registration closes on November 30.

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.