Xcel Energy 2004 Annual Report Download - page 16

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Xcel Energy Annual Report 2004
14
Employee and retiree volunteerism is another component of the company’s
community care effort. In 2004, we commemorated the 15th anniversary of the
Kitchen Appliance Marking Program. More than 1,530 visually impaired customers
have benefi ted from the free service, in which Xcel Energy retiree volunteers apply
raised markings to the dials of appliances to promote safe and effi cient use.
In 2004, Xcel Energy conducted its most successful United Way campaign in the
company’s history. Employees and retirees pledged more than $2 million, an 18-
percent increase over 2003 and well above the goal of $1.8 million. The company
matches employee and retiree contributions, for a total of more than $4 million
going to United Way organizations across our service territory.
To contribute to the fi nancial health of our communities, we support a variety
of economic development efforts. In North Dakota, we provided seed money to
the North Dakota State University Research and Technology Park in Fargo, hoping
to attract high-tech companies to the area. In early 2005, the park included six
companies, providing about 400 jobs and contributing 3,150 kilowatts of demand
to Xcel Energy’s system.
In a unique community partnership, we completed the Platte substation relocation
project in the summer of 2004. Working with the city of Denver, Xcel Energy moved
a substation from land along the Platte River to make room for a recreational area on
a site commonly known as the birthplace of Denver. We agreed to trade land with
the city, which contributed to the cost of moving the substation. In addition, Xcel
Energy and other partners worked together to creatively landscape the site of the
newly relocated substation.
Xcel Energy also is a strong supporter of women- and minority-owned businesses. In
2004, we spent more than $103 million through our supplier diversity program.
With strong commitments to excellent operations, environmental protection, customer
service and community, Xcel Energy is in a good position to achieve its Building the
Core strategy. These commitments will carry us forward as we build value for you.
strong commitments to excellent operations