Xcel Energy joins Upper Midwest transmission expansion study related to renewable energy development

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9/17/2009

MINNEAPOLIS – Xcel Energy is participating in a comprehensive study of Upper Midwest transmission expansion related to renewable energy development.

"Our service territory includes some of the nation’s richest wind power resources," said Kent Larson, Xcel Energy’s vice president of transmission and operating services. "We want to ensure the plans developed will balance customer costs, integrate our CapX2020 plans and support state and national renewable energy mandates."

The Strategic Midwest Area Transmission Study (SMARTransmission Study) was unveiled last month by Electric Transmission America (a transmission joint venture between subsidiaries of American Electric Power and MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company), American Transmission Company, Exelon Corp., NorthWestern Energy and MidAmerican Energy Company. The study will examine transmission infrastructure needed to support renewable energy development and transport to consumers in the Upper Midwest, the Ohio River Valley, and farther East.

The SMARTransmission Study will augment and complement the ongoing CapX2020 transmission expansion initiative to ensure continued reliable electricity service in the Upper Midwest region and to increase access to renewable energy sources.

The sponsors have retained Quanta Technology LLC to evaluate extra-high voltage transmission alternatives in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin – portions of which lie in Xcel Energy’s service territory – and in Iowa, Indiana, Ohio and Illinois.

The study is scheduled for completion in early 2010, and results will be coordinated and shared with the Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator and PJM Interconnection.

"We are pleased to have Xcel Energy participate in the SMARTransmission Study," said Lisa Barton, ETA president. "Xcel Energy brings a depth of technical expertise and renewable generation development that will enhance the analysis of transmission alternatives."

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Xcel Energy (NYSE: XEL) is a major U.S. electricity and natural gas company with regulated operations in eight Western and Midwestern states. Xcel Energy provides a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity customers and 1.9 million natural gas customers through its regulated operating companies. Company headquarters are located in Minneapolis. More information is available atwww.xcelenergy.com

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News Source : Xcel Energy joins Upper Midwest transmission expansion study related to renewable energy development