Xcel Energy Requests Minnesota Wind Energy Proposals

03/15/2007

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Xcel Energy is looking for new sources of Minnesota wind energy and is inviting potential wind project owners and developers to submit their proposals.

The effort is part of Xcel Energy's Community-Based Energy Development (C-BED) program. In 2005, the Minnesota Legislature directed that each utility establish a tariff for the purchase of C-BED wind energy. The purpose of the tariff is to encourage and promote broader local participation in wind energy development.

Beginning March 20, 2007, Xcel Energy will be accepting proposals for new Minnesota wind generation resources to be in commercial operation by Dec. 31, 2008. Xcel Energy will seek approvals for any resulting power purchase agreements from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission.

For details and instructions, bidders should go Xcel Energy's Web site at www.xcelenergy.com/rfp. The submission deadline is April 20, 2007.

Xcel Energy is working toward a goal of producing 30 percent of its energy from renewable sources by the year 2020. A key component in Xcel Energy's strategy to meet that goal is the development of new sources of wind energy.

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 3.3 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.

Source: Xcel Energy

Contact: Xcel Energy, Minneapolis Media Relations, 612-215-5300 www.xcelenergy.com