Xcel Energy has requested another rate increase through the Public Utilities commission (PUC). The $240M hike includes $53M to cover carrying costs for excess capacity.
Black Hills Energy recently received $23M in rate increases to recoup costs associated with additional generation construction.
The story behind the capacity increase begins in 2004 when Xcel told Black Hills they would not extend the contract for 300 MW of generation. Xcel energy predicted they would need an additional 1000 MW of capacity by 2010 and could not spare any generation. Since then, the forecast has been cut to 292 MW. Meanwhile, Black Hills built two gas fired plants at the Pueblo Airport of 180 MW and 200 MW, costing them $227M and $260M. The PUC allowed the $23M hike to Black Hills to help recoup the total generation construction cost of $487M and additional transmission costs.
Now Xcel wants ratepayers to pay for the excess generation due to their planning miscalculation.
I received a notice of change of electric rates from Xcel Energy that states the request is for $141.9M. The interim request is $100M or about $2.70 per month for the average residential customer. The new charge will be included in the GRSA line of our bills.
Archive for December, 2011
Xcel $240M rate increase request
Saturday, December 31st, 2011rebate updates
Saturday, December 31st, 2011The Xcel Energy rebate is now at $1.00 per watt, and the Renewable Energy Credit (REC) is 9 cents per kWh. A 5 kW system will receive a $5000 upfront rebate, and about $675 per year for 10 years ($56.25 per month) if the system output is 7500 kWh per year. (based on optimum installation orientation and performance)
The Governor’s Energy Office (GEO) closed down the Recharge Colorado rebate program as part of the state office. Now the Recharge Colorado program is a non-profit organization that continues to assist renewable customers through rebates and technical assistance. see www.rechargecolorado.org
