Not sure if MVEC will be the power provider at your new location?
Use this interactive map from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC). MVEC’s service area is highlighted in yellow. Utility boundaries across the state are established and regulated by the PUC.
New Service Installation Steps
- Set up an MVEC account. Start by submitting a Residential or Business/Builder application using a button below.
2. Have your electrician:
- Install a meter socket and service panel.
- Apply for a state electrical permit.
- Notify MVEC when the service is ready to be energized.
3. An MVEC designer will visit the site to determine installation needs.
- Charges are assessed; if applicable, payment is required before scheduling.
- MVEC crews will be assigned to complete the work.
- Allow 2-4 weeks for completion after the site is ready.
*New Residential Account includes a home, a stand-alone garage, or other new building on your property.
MVEC’s Winter Construction Fees are now in effect. Learn more
Builders & Developers
Our team is here to help builders and contractors learn about the benefits of installing Energy Wise residential solutions. Here are frequently asked questions and resources.
Resources
- QI Certification (required for A/C and air-source heat pump programs)
- Builders and Developers Rebate
- Call 8-1-1 Before You Dig
Wiring Diagrams for Energy Wise Installations
Installing Energy Wise Equipment? The wiring diagrams below help ensure proper installation.
- Contact MVEC or your electrician with any questions.
- Diagrams are for reference only and not intended as full installation specifications.
- MVEC is not responsible for unapproved equipment installations.
- All wiring must be completed by the owner or a licensed electrician and inspected by a local or state electrical inspector before MVEC can schedule your meter installation.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when using a saver switch.
Important: Once your Energy Wise meter is ready, call (952) 492-2313 to schedule installation. Energy Wise discounts will not begin until the meter is installed.
Builders Deposit Policy
Deposit requirements:
- The builder has had 2 or more unpaid accounts in the past 3 years (even with good credit).
- The builder has tampered with or diverted MVEC’s electric service.
- The builder receives a disconnection notice (deposit rules vary by location).
- The builder has had 2 returned payments in the past 12 months.
Ways to avoid a deposit:
- Sign up for Automatic Bill Pay (monthly payments withdrawn from a checking or savings account).
Deposit Billing:
- If the builder cancels Automatic Bill Pay within the first year, a deposit will be charged.
- If an existing deposit is $100 or more below MVEC’s required amount and there’s been a site visit in the past year, the builder will be billed for the difference.
- Two returned payments will also trigger a deposit requirement.
Deposit Refunds:
Deposits (plus interest) are returned after 5 years of on-time payments. The 5-year period starts from the date the final deposit payment is made. After 5 years, builders can request a deposit review once per year.
FAQs
In a typical housing development, the meter socket should be placed on the house corner nearest to MVEC’s power source (transformer, pedestal, or wire stub). Please call MVEC to determine which lot corner the dedicated power source is located.
If the meter socket is located beyond the house’s closest corner, on the back of the house, or on the side opposite the power source, additional charges will apply. For rural or non-typical installations, a site visit by an engineer may be required to determine the best placement of the meter socket and other equipment.
You may need to meet with an MVEC engineer on-site to determine the best location for wiring and equipment. In some cases, a line installation agreement and easement may also be required.
Your electrician will need to set up a temporary service at MVEC’s power source on the lot corner, complete with provisions for a simple hookup by MVEC’s maintenance crew. As with a permanent service, the electrician will need to obtain a state electrical permit and notify MVEC that the service is ready. Additional charges will apply. A typical time frame for connection is about 3 business days.
Weather-related charges will be assessed when conditions create additional labor or alternative installation methods. These usually happen between October and April, but may occur anytime there is excessive rain, mud, snow, or frost. Review 2025-26 Winter Charges