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CenterPoint Energy files request to adjust natural gas distribution rates for Minnesota customers

The utility continues to make major investments in safety and reliability, including modernizing infrastructure to prevent leaks and comply with stricter federal regulations

2019-10-28T05:00:00Z

MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 28, 2019 - CenterPoint Energy (NYSE: CNP) today filed an application with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) requesting an adjustment to distribution charges for the company's natural gas business in Minnesota.

CenterPoint Energy logo. (PRNewsFoto)

The proposed rate adjustment would support major investments in the continued safety and reliability of the approximately 14,000-mile pipeline system that serves more than 860,000 CenterPoint Energy customers in Minnesota.

Specifically, if the rate adjustment is approved, it would help cover the rising costs of infrastructure projects to replace or upgrade pipelines to prevent leaks and comply with more stringent federal pipeline regulations. It would also help cover costs related to a growing number of local road construction and other public works projects that require CenterPoint Energy to relocate pipelines and equipment. Current rates do not provide adequate revenue to cover these increased costs.

"Our customers and communities benefit from the essential investments we make to ensure the safety and reliability of our natural gas distribution system," said Brad Tutunjian, vice president of the Minnesota region for CenterPoint Energy. "For example, we are modernizing our infrastructure and replacing many existing pipelines with even more resilient materials that will maximize safety."

Tutunjian added: "About 80 percent of the homes in our Minnesota service area depend on natural gas for heat. As another winter heating season arrives, CenterPoint Energy is committed to delivering reliable, affordable clean energy that is available around the clock, even on the coldest days, to keep Minnesotans safe and warm."

With the proposed adjustment, the average residential customer bill would increase by about $4.80 per month. Currently, the average residential customer pays about $55 per month for natural gas service, with most of these costs incurred during the winter heating season.

Even with the proposed adjustment, monthly bills for the average CenterPoint Energy residential customer in Minnesota would still be nearly 35 percent lower than a decade ago, due to a decline in natural gas prices partially offset by increases in delivery rates.

Since 2013, CenterPoint Energy has invested more than $1 billion in its network of natural gas pipelines and equipment serving Minnesota customers. The company expects to invest an additional $1 billion over the next five years. These increased investments reflect an industry-wide trend, partly in response to federal pipeline regulations. If approved, the proposed new rates would result in a revenue increase of about $62 million annually, or 6.8 percent.

Major CenterPoint Energy projects in Minnesota include:

Inspecting, upgrading and replacing transmission and distribution pipelines as part of a comprehensive integrity program to address pipes at risk of corrosion or leaks;
Replacing all 43 miles of cast iron pipelines in CenterPoint Energy's Minnesota system, a project that was completed in 2017, eliminating a pipe material that contributed to methane emissions;
Replacing or upgrading 479 miles of unprotected or bare steel distribution pipelines;
Replacing 61 miles of a high-pressure, large-diameter transmission pipeline (known as the Metro Belt Line Project), originally installed in the 1940s and 1950s;
Replacing nearly 15,000 copper service lines;
Replacing and moving outside more than 89,000 indoor residential meters, with new service lines, as a safety measure to provide direct access to shut-off valves; and
Deploying state-of-the-art technology to quickly and efficiently detect even the smallest leaks, which supports both safety and methane reduction.

In addition to improved safety and reliability, these investments help protect the environment and prevent greenhouse gas emissions. For example, permanent replacement of all cast iron and many bare steel pipelines and the use of advanced leak detection technology have already resulted in an 18 percent reduction in methane emissions from the company's Minnesota operations since 2013.

CenterPoint Energy's request seeks approval to change the basic and delivery charges on a customer's bill, which together make up about half of the total bill and cover the costs of distributing natural gas, including operations, maintenance, taxes and other expenses. The proposed changes would affect individual monthly bills differently, depending on natural gas use and customer type.

The request does not apply to the cost of natural gas, which makes up the other half of a typical customer bill. The wholesale price of natural gas changes monthly depending on market prices. This price is passed on directly to customers with no mark-up, and CenterPoint Energy does not profit from the sale of the natural gas.

The Public Utilities Commission will likely decide on the requested rate adjustment in late 2020 or early 2021. In the meantime, the Commission will set temporary rates on an interim basis, which would take effect on Jan. 1, 2020, and remain in place until a final decision is made. The requested interim rate increase is about 5.8 percent more than the current rate.

If the final approved rates are lower than the interim rates, CenterPoint Energy would refund customers the difference, including interest. If the final approved rates are higher than the interim rates, customers would not be charged the difference.

Public hearings will be held early next year to provide customers and other interested parties the opportunity to comment on the rate request, followed by formal hearings at the Public Utilities Commission.

Customers with questions about the proposed change to natural gas distribution rates can call CenterPoint Energy at 612-372-4727 or toll-free 800-245-2377, or visit the company's website at CenterPointEnergy.com/RateCase.

About CenterPoint Energy
Headquartered in Houston, Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. is an energy delivery company with regulated utility businesses in eight states and a competitive energy businesses footprint in nearly 40 states. Through its electric transmission & distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution businesses, the company serves more than 7 million metered customers in Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas. CenterPoint Energy's competitive energy businesses include natural gas marketing and energy-related services; energy efficiency, sustainability and infrastructure modernization solutions; and construction and repair services for pipeline systems, primarily natural gas. The company also owns 53.8 percent of the common units representing limited partner interests in Enable Midstream Partners, LP, a publicly traded master limited partnership that owns, operates and develops strategically located natural gas and crude oil infrastructure assets. With approximately 14,000 employees and nearly $34 billion in assets, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.

This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this news release, the words "would," "estimate," "expect," "may," "will" or other similar words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions of management which are believed to be reasonable at the time made and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Any statements in this news release regarding future events, such as future legislative and regulatory filings, actions and decisions, including the timing and impact of such actions and decisions, the amount and timing of, and expected benefits derived from, proposed investments, the impact of the proposed rate adjustments on costs of various projects, the expected impact of the proposed rate adjustments on customer bills, the performance and expected benefits of various projects, including relating to emissions reductions, expected actions in response to temporary and final approved rate changes, the projected impact to customers and any other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement contained in this news release speaks only as of the date of this release. Factors that could affect actual results include timing and impact of future regulatory and legislative decisions, general economic conditions, effects of competition, weather variations, changes in business plans, financial market conditions and other factors discussed in CenterPoint Energy's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 and other reports CenterPoint Energy or its subsidiaries may file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

For more information, contact
Communications
Ross Corson: 612.321.4879
Media.Relations@CenterPointEnergy.com

SOURCE CenterPoint Energy, Inc.

Recent News

CenterPoint Energy provides tips to help Indiana customers stay safe and warm during upcoming cold snap

Indianapolis – Dec. 12, 2025 – With colder temperatures expected across Indiana this weekend, including highs in the teens and lows below zero, CenterPoint Energy reminds customers that it has a comprehensive cold weather action plan in place and is prepared for potential impacts from the colder weather. CenterPoint teams are monitoring conditions, coordinating with agencies and emergency responders, as appropriate, and remain ready to deploy resources as needed to maintain safe and reliable service. The company encourages customers to have their cold weather plan in place as well.

Natural gas preparedness actions in Indiana
CenterPoint prepares year-round for cold weather through proactive steps that support safe and reliable delivery of natural gas service to Indiana communities. The company's efforts include:

Monitoring the natural gas systems 24/7 and implementing cold weather action plans to support delivery of service.
Conducting infrastructure projects to modernize the company's natural gas distribution systems.
Checking critical systems and equipment ahead of extreme winter weather to prepare for high demand and cold temperatures.
Staging staff across the company's service area, ready to respond to potential service issues safely and as quickly as possible.

Safety tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to keep safety at the forefront of their minds as they heat their homes:

Immediately report a suspected natural gas leak. If there's a “rotten egg" odor of natural gas present, immediately leave on foot, go to a safe location and call both 911 and CenterPoint Energy at 800-227-1376. Don't use electric switches and outlets, phones (including cell phones), drive or start a car inside or close to the location or do anything that could cause a spark.
Keep natural gas meters clear. Use a broom to gently remove snow, but avoid using a shovel, which can cause damage. If ice builds up, let it melt naturally rather than trying to chip or melt it away. Keep the area around the meter clear of snow piles to allow safe access in an emergency.
Use space heaters safely. Make sure a space heater has an automatic shut-off, and keep children, pets and all items at least three feet away from it. A space heater that uses natural gas, propane or wood should be vented to the outside. Stoves and ovens should never be used for space heating.
Test carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms to make sure they work properly. Change batteries regularly. Alarms don't last forever, so replace them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Know the signs of CO poisoning. Early symptoms such as headache and fatigue are similar to the flu, but without a fever. Continued CO exposure can lead to more severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, difficulty thinking clearly and fainting. If everyone in a household is experiencing these symptoms, it could be CO poisoning. If CO poisoning is suspected, leave the area immediately, get fresh air and call 911.

Energy-saving tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to consider implementing easy tips that can help manage energy usage, including:

Make sure the heating system is operating safely and efficiently. Change or clean the furnace filter regularly to help maximize the furnace's efficiency and life.
Turn down the thermostat. Lowering the thermostat at night or when away for at least eight hours can potentially save on heating costs. With a programmable thermostat, a heating system can work around a customer's schedule.
Keep warm air in and cold air out of the home. Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal leaks around doors, windows and other openings such as pipes or ducts. Towels can also be rolled up and pushed against the bottom of a door's interior. Close fireplace dampers when not in use to prevent heat loss.
Use window coverings and blinds effectively. If it's sunny outside, open window coverings during the day to capture warmth from the sun, and close coverings at night to keep warmth inside.
Circulate warm air with ceiling fans. Set ceiling fans to turn clockwise and slowly to move warm air from the ceiling to living levels.

Resource Hub available for customers
To help customers manage energy use and bills during cold weather, CenterPoint offers an online Customer Resource Hub. The hub provides easy access to billing tools, energy efficiency programs and tips and other resources. To learn more, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/ResourceHub.

CenterPoint Energy provides tips to help southwestern Indiana customers stay safe and warm during upcoming cold snap

Evansville, Ind. – Dec. 12, 2025 – With colder temperatures expected across southwestern Indiana this weekend, including highs in the teens and lows in the single digits, CenterPoint Energy reminds customers that it has a comprehensive cold weather action plan in place and is prepared for potential impacts from the colder weather. CenterPoint teams are monitoring conditions, coordinating with agencies and emergency responders, as appropriate, and remain ready to deploy resources as needed to maintain safe and reliable service. The company encourages customers to have their cold weather plan in place as well.

Electric and natural gas preparedness actions in southwestern Indiana
CenterPoint prepares year-round for cold weather through proactive steps that support safe and reliable delivery of electric and natural gas service to southwestern Indiana communities. The company's efforts include:

Monitoring the electric and natural gas systems 24/7 and implementing cold weather action plans to support delivery of service.
Conducting infrastructure projects to modernize the company's electric and natural gas distribution systems.
Checking critical systems and equipment ahead of extreme winter weather to prepare for high demand and cold temperatures.
Staging staff across the company's service area, ready to respond to potential service issues safely and as quickly as possible.

Safety tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to keep safety at the forefront of their minds as they heat their homes:

Use space heaters safely. Make sure a space heater has an automatic shut-off, and keep children, pets and all items at least three feet away from it. A space heater that uses natural gas, propane or wood should be vented to the outside. Stoves and ovens should never be used for space heating.
Test carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms to make sure they work properly. Change batteries regularly. Alarms don't last forever, so replace them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Know the signs of CO poisoning. Early symptoms such as headache and fatigue are similar to the flu, but without a fever. Continued CO exposure can lead to more severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, difficulty thinking clearly and fainting. If everyone in a household is experiencing these symptoms, it could be CO poisoning. If CO poisoning is suspected, leave the area immediately, get fresh air and call 911.
Immediately report a electric outage or downed power lines. Customers should never approach downed lines and should assume they are live. If a downed line is spotted, leave the area and call 911 and CenterPoint Energy at 800-227-1376.
Immediately report a suspected natural gas leak. If there's a “rotten egg" odor of natural gas present, immediately leave on foot, go to a safe location and call both 911 and CenterPoint Energy at 800-227-1376. Don't use electric switches and outlets, phones (including cell phones), drive or start a car inside or close to the location or do anything that could cause a spark.
Keep natural gas meters clear. Use a broom to gently remove snow, but avoid using a shovel, which can cause damage. If ice builds up, let it melt naturally rather than trying to chip or melt it away. Keep the area around the meter clear of snow piles to allow safe access in an emergency.

Energy-saving tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to consider implementing easy tips that can help manage energy usage, including:

Make sure the heating system is operating safely and efficiently. Change or clean the furnace filter regularly to help maximize the furnace's efficiency and life.
Turn down the thermostat. Lowering the thermostat at night or when away for at least eight hours can potentially save on heating costs. With a programmable thermostat, a heating system can work around a customer's schedule.
Keep warm air in and cold air out of the home. Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal leaks around doors, windows and other openings such as pipes or ducts. Towels can also be rolled up and pushed against the bottom of a door's interior. Close fireplace dampers when not in use to prevent heat loss.
Use window coverings and blinds effectively. If it's sunny outside, open window coverings during the day to capture warmth from the sun, and close coverings at night to keep warmth inside.
Circulate warm air with ceiling fans. Set ceiling fans to turn clockwise and slowly to move warm air from the ceiling to living levels.

CenterPoint Energy provides tips to help Ohio customers stay safe and warm during upcoming cold snap

Dayton, Ohio – Dec. 12, 2025 – With colder temperatures expected across Ohio this weekend, including highs in the teens and lows in the single digits, CenterPoint Energy reminds customers that it has a comprehensive cold weather action plan in place and is prepared for potential impacts from the colder weather. CenterPoint teams are monitoring conditions, coordinating with agencies and emergency responders, as appropriate, and remain ready to deploy resources as needed to maintain safe and reliable service. The company encourages customers to have their cold weather plan in place as well.

Natural gas preparedness actions in Ohio
CenterPoint prepares year-round for cold weather through proactive steps that support safe and reliable delivery of natural gas service to Ohio communities. The company's efforts include:

Monitoring the natural gas systems 24/7 and implementing cold weather action plans to support delivery of service.
Conducting infrastructure projects to modernize the company's natural gas distribution systems.
Checking critical systems and equipment ahead of extreme winter weather to prepare for high demand and cold temperatures.
Staging staff across the company's service area, ready to respond to potential service issues safely and as quickly as possible.

Safety tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to keep safety at the forefront of their minds as they heat their homes:

Immediately report a suspected natural gas leak. If there's a “rotten egg" odor of natural gas present, immediately leave on foot, go to a safe location and call both 911 and CenterPoint Energy at 800-227-1376. Don't use electric switches and outlets, phones (including cell phones), drive or start a car inside or close to the location or do anything that could cause a spark.
Keep natural gas meters clear. Use a broom to gently remove snow, but avoid using a shovel, which can cause damage. If ice builds up, let it melt naturally rather than trying to chip or melt it away. Keep the area around the meter clear of snow piles to allow safe access in an emergency.
Use space heaters safely. Make sure a space heater has an automatic shut-off, and keep children, pets and all items at least three feet away from it. A space heater that uses natural gas, propane or wood should be vented to the outside. Stoves and ovens should never be used for space heating.
Test carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms to make sure they work properly. Change batteries regularly. Alarms don't last forever, so replace them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Know the signs of CO poisoning. Early symptoms such as headache and fatigue are similar to the flu, but without a fever. Continued CO exposure can lead to more severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, difficulty thinking clearly and fainting. If everyone in a household is experiencing these symptoms, it could be CO poisoning. If CO poisoning is suspected, leave the area immediately, get fresh air and call 911.

Energy-saving tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to consider implementing easy tips that can help manage energy usage, including:

Make sure the heating system is operating safely and efficiently. Change or clean the furnace filter regularly to help maximize the furnace's efficiency and life.
Turn down the thermostat. Lowering the thermostat at night or when away for at least eight hours can potentially save on heating costs. With a programmable thermostat, a heating system can work around a customer's schedule.
Keep warm air in and cold air out of the home. Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal leaks around doors, windows and other openings such as pipes or ducts. Towels can also be rolled up and pushed against the bottom of a door's interior. Close fireplace dampers when not in use to prevent heat loss.
Use window coverings and blinds effectively. If it's sunny outside, open window coverings during the day to capture warmth from the sun, and close coverings at night to keep warmth inside.
Circulate warm air with ceiling fans. Set ceiling fans to turn clockwise and slowly to move warm air from the ceiling to living levels.

With subzero temperatures expected across Minnesota, CenterPoint Energy provides important reminders to help customers save energy while staying safe and warm

Broll of energy efficiency and safety tips is found here.

MINNEAPOLIS – DEC. 11, 2025 – Over the coming days, subzero temperatures are expected throughout Minnesota. CenterPoint Energy reminds customers that it has a comprehensive cold weather action plan in place and is prepared for potential impacts from the colder weather. CenterPoint teams are monitoring conditions, coordinating with agencies and emergency responders, as appropriate, and remain ready to deploy resources as needed to maintain safe and reliable service. The company encourages customers to have their cold weather plan in place as well.

CenterPoint is highlighting important energy-saving and safety resources to help lower heating bills, while keeping customers safe and warm.

Preparedness actions in Minnesota
CenterPoint prepares year-round for cold weather in Minnesota through proactive efforts, such as:

Staging crews across the company’s service area to respond to potential service issues safely and as quickly as possible.
Monitoring the natural gas system 24/7 and implementing cold weather action plans.
Leveraging natural gas, propane and/or liquefied natural gas stored ahead of the winter heating season.

Winter Energy Guide
CenterPoint provides its Winter Energy Guide, an online resource hub for customers throughout the winter heating season, featuring important safety, energy savings and bill management tips to help customers stay safe and warm. CenterPoint encourages customers to use this helpful resource to create their own cold weather plans so to stay prepared for the colder weather ahead.

Tips customers can take to save energy and money
CenterPoint encourages customers to use these easy tips to make a difference on monthly heating bills:

Lowering the thermostat by 7-10 degrees at night, or when away for at least eight hours, can potentially save 10% on heating costs. Customers using a programmable thermostat to have the heating system work around their schedule.
Changing or cleaning the furnace filter to maximize efficiency.
Using window coverings and blinds effectively. If it’s sunny outside, open window coverings, and close coverings at night to keep warmth inside. If the sun’s not shining, keep window coverings closed.
Sealing leaks with caulk or weather-stripping around doors, windows and other openings such as pipes or ducts. Close fireplace dampers when not in use to prevent heat loss.
Circulating warm air with ceiling fans by setting them to turn clockwise slowly to move warm air to living levels.

Smart actions to stay safe

Use space heaters safely. Make sure a space heater has an automatic shut-off, and keep children, pets and all items at least three feet away from it. A space heater using natural gas, propane or wood should be vented to the outside. Stoves and ovens should never be used for space heating.
Test carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms to make sure they work properly. Change batteries regularly. Alarms don’t last forever, so replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Know the signs of CO poisoning. Early symptoms such as headache and fatigue are similar to the flu, but without a fever. Continued CO exposure can lead to more severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, difficulty thinking clearly and fainting. If everyone in a household is experiencing these symptoms, it could be CO poisoning. If someone suspects they could have CO poisoning, leave the area immediately, get fresh air and call 911.
Smell gas? Act fast! Natural gas has a distinctive rotten egg smell. If anyone detects this odor, they should leave their location immediately without using electrical switches or phones. Once in a safe location, call 911 and CenterPoint Energy.

Payment assistance resources and support available for customers

CenterPoint is dedicated to supporting customers who may have difficulty paying their energy bill. Throughout the year, but especially in the winter months when home heating costs are historically higher, CenterPoint encourages those facing hardship to call CenterPoint to find out about payment arrangements, energy efficiency programs and agency resources that may be available. To learn more, customers should call 800-245-2377 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday-Friday, or visit CenterPointEnergy.com/PaymentAssistance.

CenterPoint Energy, Enel launch program to help southwestern Indiana businesses earn incentives for flexible energy use

Evansville, Ind., and Andover, Mass., December 11, 2025 – CenterPoint Energy and Enel North America have launched a new demand response program for commercial, institutional, and industrial organizations in southwestern Indiana. This initiative, called the CenterPoint Energy Aggregated Demand Response Program, enables organizations to earn incentive payments for making targeted energy reductions that help CenterPoint Indiana Electric maintain local grid reliability.

“Our focus remains on delivering reliable service to our customers and communities every day," said Muss Akram, Vice President of Utility Strategy at CenterPoint. “Through this program, we're working with Enel to strengthen reliability, manage demand and provide our customers an opportunity to be compensated for supporting the grid when it's needed most."

Demand response programs provide an opportunity for organizations to earn incentive payments while helping maintain a reliable electric system. When utilities or grid operators experience supply and demand constraints, they dispatch local organizations that have agreed to reduce energy usage during these times of high demand.

Commercial, institutional and industrial organizations in the CenterPoint Indiana Electric service territory are eligible to enroll in the new program. As the exclusive demand response provider for this program, Enel will work with organizations to define participation strategies, manage enrollment and execution, and maximize revenue from participating. During a demand response dispatch, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) will instruct Enel's network of participants to curtail electricity usage in anticipation of emergency conditions on the grid. Common reduction strategies include modifying manufacturing processes, adjusting HVAC equipment and reducing non-essential lighting.

This program builds on CenterPoint's existing Smart Cycle demand response program for residential customers. Those participating in the Smart Cycle program can earn a one-time $75 enrollment credit and a $7.50 bill credit each month from March through November for participation. To learn more about this program, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/SmartCycle.

Enel is the world's largest demand response provider. In North America, Enel's demand response customers have earned over $1.9 billion in payments since 2011.

About CenterPoint Energy, Inc.
CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is a multi-state electric and natural gas delivery company serving approximately 7 million metered customers across Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Texas. The company is headquartered in Houston and is the only Texas-domiciled investor-owned utility. As of September 30, 2025, the company had approximately $45 billion in assets. With approximately 8,300 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been serving customers for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.

Enel North America, part of the Enel Group, is a proven renewables leader delivering clean, flexible and sustainable energy solutions. The company develops, builds, owns and operates renewable power plants and demand response solutions, with 12 gigawatts (GW) of installed wind, solar and energy storage capacity and nearly 5 GW of demand response capacity in the US and Canada. Enel is a top-five industry leader for clean power, demand response and utility-scale battery storage capacity in the United States. Learn more at enelnorthamerica.com and on LinkedIn and YouTube.