Automatic Bill Credit: Making Energy More Affordable for Everyone 

Minnesota is leading the way toward cleaner, more reliable energy—but the burden of energy costs is not shared equally. For many households with lower incomes, keeping up with utility bills often means making difficult choices about where to spend limited resources. 

That’s why the Automatic Bill Credit (ABC) program is such a breakthrough. Designed to address energy burden directly, this innovative program automatically provides bill credits to customers with low incomes and high energy bills—no applications or paperwork required. 

The idea emerged from community conversations held at Sabathani Community Center, where residents shared their experiences with energy costs and the barriers to receiving assistance. Together with Xcel Energy and Fresh Energy, these insights shaped a new approach: one that identifies areas of need through data mapping and delivers help where it’s needed most. 

Today, more than 17,000 customers are receiving this automatic bill credit in the pilot phase – helping households pay bills on time, strengthen credit, save money, and build pathways toward financial stability and generational wealth. 

Sabathani CEO Scott Redd shared: 

“I deeply appreciate Xcel Energy’s commitment to supporting our community through the Automatic Bill Credit. At Sabathani Community Center, we see firsthand how energy costs can be a burden for many households, especially during the colder months. This credit provides immediate and much-needed financial relief to households already facing economic challenges. It’s more than just a discount — it’s a sign that our partners are listening and responding with real, tangible help. Initiatives like this align perfectly with our mission to uplift and empower South Minneapolis residents, and we’re proud to stand alongside Xcel and partners like Fresh Energy in creating a stronger, more equitable Minnesota.”

We’re grateful to Fresh Energy for producing a short video that highlights this groundbreaking collaboration between community and utility partners—and for including Sabathani’s voice in the story. 

Watch the video below to learn more about how community-centered innovation is shaping a cleaner, fairer energy future for Minnesota.