Edina Residents To Pay More For Heat This Winter: Xcel

EDINA, MN — Edina residents should expect to see more expensive bills from Xcel Energy this winter, due to nationwide increases in natural gas costs.

The energy company said inflation and pandemic-related supply chain issues are major reasons why natural gas has hit its highest price since 2014. The price for heating oil has doubled in the past year.

The average Xcel customer in Minnesota could be forced to pay about $165 more for heating this winter than last.

Matt Lindstrom, a spokesperson for Xcel Energy, told Patch that natural gas production has “not yet rebounded” from pandemic-related challenges while there is also greater demand throughout the U.S.

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"We don't make a profit on fuel provided to natural gas customers or purchased for the generation of electricity as the cost of fuel is passed directly to our customers,” Lindstrom said.

The energy company has taken several steps to minimize the effects of increased natural gas prices, he said, including contracting for some natural gas ahead of the winter, putting extra inventory into fuel oil tanks, and purchasing financial hedges.

Xcel customers who are struggling to pay their bills may qualify for payment plans and energy assistance. Other incentives and rebates are also available.

Xcel’s tips for reducing winter heating costs:

• Adjusting your thermostat a few degrees and installing a programmable thermostat
• Open drapes and blinds to maximize heat from direct sunlight
• Run ceiling fans in a clockwise direction to push warm air down from the ceiling, adding comfort and savings.
• Keep interior doors open to help circulate air more freely and maintain constant heating levels.
• Operate energy-intensive appliances, such as electric space heaters, water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines and dryers, during early morning and late evening hours.

Editor William Bornhoft contributed to this report.