Xcel Energy Seeks PUC Approval for $356 Million Recovery That Would Lift Colorado Bills 9.9% by August 2026

Overview

• Xcel filed with the Colorado Public Utilities Commission to recover roughly $356 million in prior expenses tied to grid safety, reliability and electrification work completed since 2022.
• The company estimates average residential electric bills would rise 9.9%, about $9 on a $100 bill, with small commercial rates up about 9.3%–9.4% and large commercial up about 7.3%–8.6%.
• The request includes partial recovery of about $49 million in 2024 excess wildfire‑liability insurance premiums and incorporates a 9.8% return on equity for investors.
• Xcel proposes a $10 million company contribution to expand affordability programs, aiming to double enrollment, allow income self‑attestation and cap eligible households’ electricity costs at 1.5% of income.
• The case now proceeds through testimony and public comment, is separate from Xcel’s $5 billion Distribution System Plan under review, and excludes costs related to the Marshall Fire settlement.