Do I Qualify for the Colorado Medical Exemption Program (CMEP)?

For Current Xcel Energy Customers Only:

For medical reasons, your household may use more electricity to help manage your health condition. However, if you use more than 606 kilowatt hours of power per month in the summer (June through September) and make 400% or below of the federal poverty level, you are eligible for a reduced summer rate through CMEP.

The deadline to apply is May 1^st. Your rates will be reduced from June-September.

The two-page application can be found here.

You must sign and complete the patient form (front page) and have your health care provider sign and complete the Health Care Provider Certification Form (back page).

Fax your completed application to Chronic Care Collaborative at 303-955-7538 or mail to:

CCC-Energy Program
PO Box 461657
Aurora, CO 80015-9998

If you have any questions or need help call 303-993-5056.

For Current Black Hills Energy Customers Only:

Black Hills Energy offers a lower rate year-round if your household is below 250% of the federal poverty level, have a medical need and your energy usage is above 780 kWh usage.

The two page application can be found here. There is no deadline for Black Hills Energy customers.

To apply, sign and complete the patient form (front page) and have your health care provider sign and complete the Health Care Provider Certification Form (back page). Black Hills customers must include proof of income.

Fax your completed application to Chronic Care Collaborative at 303-955-7538 or mail to:

CCC-Energy Program
PO Box 461657
Aurora, CO 80015-9998

If you have any questions or need help call 303-993-5056.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What should I do if I need help, have questions, or would like a mailed copy of the application?
  • Call Sabrina at 303-993-5056

• Can the application be filled out electronically?
  • Yes

• Which medical conditions qualify?
  • Medical conditions that require higher electric energy usage include life support equipment in your home. Some examples include home dialysis, oxygen and CPAP machines, and electric wheelchairs.
  • Chronic diseases could include multiple sclerosis, lupus, or epilepsy.
  • The prescribed use of medications which keep your body temperature high could also qualify.
  • Any condition your health care provider certifies that you require higher electric usage due to your health status or condition.

• Will the energy company know my medical condition or income?
  • NO! The Chronic Care Collaborative is a nonprofit which administers the program and certifies you as eligible. Neither energy company has your private information.

• What is 400% of the federal poverty level in 2021?

• What is 250% of the federal poverty level in 2021?

How do rates change for Xcel customers through CMEP?

• • Many customers pay higher electric rates in the summer. They are charged a standard rate for the first 500 kilowatt hours of electricity, and a higher rate for anything over 500 kilowatt hours in one billing period. This tiered rate can make summer bills much higher, largely if power use is over 606 kilowatt hours per month. The Colorado Medical Exemption Program offers those who qualify a single, reduced rate for all electricity used from June through September. The program not only lowers billing rates, but also removes the Tier 2 rate for using more electricity. Standard rates return October 1. For more information, please see the Xcel fact sheet.

• How do rates change for Black Hills customers through CMEP?
  • Customers enrolled in CMEP will pay a flat rate for electricity. The rate is $0.11094 per kilowatt-hour of electricity used and will be in effect year-round. Participants will continue to pay for all other riders and charges on their Black Hills Energy bill, including the monthly customer charge.

• Do I need to provide proof of income with my application?
  • No for Xcel Energy. Yes for Black Hills Energy.

Will my personal information remain private?

• • Yes, your private information will not be share with energy companies. The Chronic Care Collaborative staff determines eligibility and does not share your private medical or household income with the energy companies.