DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 30, 2006--Xcel Energy today began
soliciting bids for a photovoltaic (PV) solar power plant that will be
located in Colorado's San Luis Valley to produce about 13,700-megawatt
hours of electricity a year.
Today's announcement coincides with the company's solicitation of
request for proposals for bidders to build, own and operate the plant.
The solicitation may be viewed at www.xcelenergy.com/rfp.
The PV facility will benefit Colorado by using the sun to generate
electricity for homes and businesses. It will produce no air emissions
and use no water on site. When complete, it could supply power for as
many as 1,800 homes. The company anticipates construction will begin
in 2006 and be completed by the end of 2007.
"This facility will put the San Luis Valley on the map for solar
power production and will also add significantly to the region's
economy," said Pat Vincent, president and CEO, Public Service Company
of Colorado, an Xcel Energy company. "This PV plant combined with Xcel
Energy's Solar Rebate program will help bring us closer to meeting the
state's Renewable Energy Standard."
This project and the rebates being offered for on-site solar
installations will be paid for out of funds approved by the voters
when they passed Amendment 37.
Note to Editors: a photo of a similar facility to what we intend
to build can be obtained by calling 303-294-2300.
Xcel Energy (NYSE:XEL) is a major U.S. electricity and natural gas
company with regulated operations in 10 Western and Midwestern states.
Xcel Energy provides a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related
products and services to 3.3 million electricity customers and 1.8
million natural gas customers through its regulated operating
companies. Company headquarters are located in Minneapolis. More
information is available at www.xcelenergy.com.
CONTACT: Xcel Energy
Media Relations, 303-294-2300
www.xcelenergy.com
SOURCE: Xcel Energy