Xcel Energy 2013 Annual Report Download - page 7

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last five years. On the public safety side, we work with many
different groups—from first responders to first graders—to
teach them about natural gas and electric safety. While safety
is an area where we can never let up, we are pleased to report
that our focus is delivering results.
Looking ahead with optimism
Investments in our system, of course, provide organic
growth for the long term, and we are looking ahead. As
the economy continues to recover, we’ve identified other
promising opportunities, particularly in our Southwestern
Public Service Co. territory.
Major energy industry developments, especially in oil fields
in Texas and southeastern New Mexico, could result in an
estimated electricity demand of 500 to 900 megawatts over
the next decade. That’s enough energy to serve 375,000 to
675,000 homes for a year. In 2013 alone, electricity demand
increased almost 10 percent in the area.
Again, we are committed to building the right projects at
the right time to meet the needs of customers and ensure
continued economic development and job growth. Since 2010,
we’ve been actively planning, permitting and constructing new
and upgraded power lines and substations.
In partnership with the city of Denver, Xcel Energy is testing
LED streetlights in Denver’s Highlands neighborhood to
determine their viability for customers. In recent years, this
energy efficient lighting has made great strides in technology
and application flexibility. In similar partnerships across its
service territory, the company is gathering valuable information
about how the lighting performs in a variety of situations and
weather conditions.
Notably, “The partnership between Denver Public Works and
Xcel Energy on the LED streetlight pilot project is already
producing dividends,” said Jose Cornejo, the city’s manager
of public works. “The Denver Police Department is reporting a
dramatic reduction in nighttime crime in the pilot area, and we
expect the cost savings to be equally as dramatic.”
Xcel Energy plans to increase its portfolio of wind energy by
40 percent, the company announced in 2013. In addition to its
environmental benefits, wind energy saves customers money
and provides a valuable hedge to the price of other, more
volatile fuels.
ANNUAL REPORT 2013
XCEL ENERGY
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