FARGO - (KFGO-AM) -- Xcel Energy is still asking its natural gas customers to conserve while it monitors gas supplies after a pipeline explosion in Manitoba.
The utility says two other pipelines may have been damaged. The three lines provide the primary supply of natural gas to northwestern Minnesota, eastern North dDakota and western Wisconsin.
You're asked to lower your thermostat to 60 degrees and avoid using gas appliances and fireplaces. Xcel's Senior Vice-President for Operations, Kent Larson, says conservation by customers has helped keep the system stable. He says the affected areras are now receiving gas from Michigan and the Twin Cities.
Customers of Great Plains Natural Gas, including those in Crookston, Pelican Rapids, Fergus Falls, Breckenridge-Wahpeton have also been asked to reduce their use of natural gas.