News > CEO’s Message – November 2025

CEO’s Message – November 2025

As Prices Increase, We’re Here to Help

If you’ve recently purchased groceries, completed any vehicle maintenance, visited the doctor or done any other business, you understand the cost of products and services continues to increase. Electric utilities like Stearns Electric have also faced increasing costs which, based on our financial forecast, will ultimately lead to increases in your monthly electric bill in the not-to-distant future. 

As the days get colder, electricity becomes even more essential to keep homes warm and comfortable. Rising costs across the board can lead to tough financial times for our members, and we know tough times can make it hard to pay your electric bill. 

Please know that your local electric cooperative is here to help as best we can. 

WORKING TOGETHER
If you ever find yourself struggling to pay your monthly electric bill, please reach out to our Member Accounts team at (800) 962-0655 and we will work with you to keep the power on whenever possible. We can work with you in person at our headquarters office or even over the phone to set up an acceptable payment arrangement to avoid disconnection. 

Because we’re a cooperative, we all share the cost of providing electricity throughout our service area. When bills go unpaid, it affects everyone. To keep rates fair for all members, we may need to disconnect service for nonpayment – but only as a last resort. Our team makes several phone calls and visits before disconnecting a member, and they work quickly to reconnect members once balances are paid. 

Note: The federal government shutdown has impacted financial assistance programs and funding. If you are struggling to pay your monthly electric bill, please contact our Member Accounts team to set up an acceptable payment plan to avoid disconnection. This includes members who are already eligible for energy assistance program (EAP) benefits through another organization. 

COLD WEATHER RULE
As of October 1, the Minnesota Cold Weather Rule is in effect for qualifying members. Per state statute 216B.097, your electric service will not be disconnected for non-payment between October 1 and April 30 if electricity is the primary heat source and you meet Cold Weather Rule requirements. 

In order to qualify for shutoff protection, you must meet certain qualifications, which are available at stearnselectric.org. 

BEWARE OF SCAMS
We have many protocols in place to ensure our members’ account information remains safe and secure, but we have noticed an increased number of scams impacting our members. 

Remember, we will NEVER demand immediate payment from you. We will ALWAYS ask you to verify your information. If you get a call demanding immediate payment on your account or threatening disconnection of your electric service: 

1. Hang up. 
2. Call Stearns Electric Directly – 24/7 at (800) 962-0655. 
3. Remember – You are in Control – Do NOT call the number back. Do NOT share personal or financial information. 

YOU’RE NOT ALONE
If you’re facing financial difficulty, please reach out to us. We are here to help. 

Sincerely,

Matt O’Shea
Chief Executive Officer