Xcel Energy Unveils New Stock Plan

10/27/2010

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Xcel Energy, Inc. announced today that it has adopted a new Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan (the “Plan”), enabling shareholders to reinvest cash dividends and purchase additional Xcel Energy common shares.

The Plan, which takes the place of the existing Dividend Reinvestment and Cash Payment Plan, contains enhanced features that allow both existing and first-time Xcel Energy shareholders to purchase shares of common stock through Wells Fargo Shareowner Services, the Plan Administrator. Shareholders and other persons may obtain a copy of the prospectus for the Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan and enrollment form by contacting Wells Fargo Shareowner Services at (877) 778-6786.

Xcel Energy (NYSE: XEL) is a major U.S. electricity and natural gas company, with operations in 8 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 at the company’s website.

This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities nor shall there be any sale of such securities in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under securities laws of any such jurisdiction.The offer is being made solely through the Plan prospectus.

Source: Xcel Energy, Inc.

Contact:

Xcel Energy, Inc.

Media Relations, 612-215-5300

www.xcelenergy.com