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Public Utilities Commission (PUC) Newsletter |
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Xcel Energy Proposes "Large Load Tariff,” Proceeding No. 26AL-0137E
On April 2, Xcel Energy filed a new “Large Load Tariff” proposal, Proceeding No. 26AL-0137E, to address high-demand energy projects, such as large-scale data centers.
Under the proposal, large-load customers (those requiring 50 MW or more) would be required to cover the costs of the specific transmission lines, substations, interconnection upgrades and new electric generation capacity needed to serve them. New customers using between 20 and 50 MW may also be subject to the tariff. The tariff proposal also includes:
- Preventing existing ratepayers from subsidizing the infrastructure upgrades required for new, large-scale industrial growth
- Requiring large customers to sign contracts of 15 years or more, ensuring they remain invested in the system they helped expand
- Minimum monthly payments and early-termination charges to protect the utility from "stranded costs" if a data center closes or scales back
- Pathways for large users to pursue and utilize innovative, carbon-free power.
At the April 29 Weekly Meeting, the Commission will decide whether to set Xcel Energy’s Large Load Tariff for hearing and suspend its effective date by 120 days per statute, and to establish a notice and intervention period. More information on this proceeding, including a schedule for interventions and public comment, will be posted on the PUC Electric Rate Case Key Proceedings webpage as it becomes available.
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Key Issues Before the Commission
The PUC invites all to learn more about the key issues before the PUC here. This resource provides background information on the many cases that come before the Commission, as well as updates on current proceedings.
Update: Xcel Energy’s 2025–2030 Gas Infrastructure Plan, Proceeding No. 25A-0220G
At its April 15 Weekly Meeting, the Commission held deliberations on Xcel Energy’s 2025–2030 Gas Infrastructure Plan (GIP), Proceeding No. 25A-0220G.
The proceeding serves as a comprehensive roadmap for Xcel Energy’s natural gas system, outlining approximately 60 infrastructure projects designed to ensure system safety and reliability while navigating Colorado's transition toward clean heat and electrification.
Gas infrastructure planning is a relatively new process for the Commission, utilities, and stakeholders. Following the update of Rule 4552, the Commission established formal requirements and a recurring filing schedule for gas utilities. Under these rules, utilities are required to file a GIP every two years to ensure long-term transparency and alignment with state goals.
The Commission held Public Comment Hearings on Jan. 20, 2026 and Nov. 18, 2025. A final written decision on the case will be issued this spring.
For more information, visit the PUC’s Gas Infrastructure Plan webpage, search the E-Filing System for Proceeding No. 25A-0220G, or watch the April 15 meeting on YouTube (starts at 2 hour, 12 minute mark).
Colorado Power Pathway: Update for Elbert County, Proceeding No. 25A-0354E
On April 6, the Commission reached a final decision on Xcel Energy’s appeal of Elbert County’s denial of land use permits for the construction of Segment 5 of the Colorado Power Pathway Project through Elbert County, Proceeding No. 25A-0354E. Segment 5 is part of the 550‑mile 345-kV Pathway Project, which will connect customers with electric resource generation opportunities in northeastern, eastern, and southeastern Colorado.
The Commission granted Xcel Energy’s request to authorize construction along the proposed route in Elbert County. In addition, the Commission ordered Xcel Energy to pay a $2.5M impact fee to the County. The Commission’s deliberations can be found on the PUC YouTube page and the final written order can be found in the PUC E-Filings using the Proceeding No. 25A-0354E. Visit the Additional Key Energy Proceedings webpage to learn more about Proceeding No. 25A-0354E.
The Commission will consider the El Paso County Colorado Power Pathway Permit Appeal, Proceeding No. 25A-0355E on April 29.
2026-27 Renewable Energy Compliance Plan Approved for Xcel Energy, Proceeding No. 25A-0194E
At the March 18 Weekly Meeting, the Commission reached a final decision regarding Proceeding No. 25A-0194E, the 2026-27 Renewable Energy Compliance Plan (RECP) for Xcel Energy.
The Commission upheld the Recommended Decision previously issued in this matter and includes:
- Integration of new storage technologies to balance intermittent renewable resources and maintain system reliability;
- Improved grid resilience with support of rooftop and community solar gardens;
- Enhancement of income-qualified and disproportionately impacted community programs;
- A 2% cap that applies to the incremental cost of renewable compliance (Renewable Energy Standard Adjustment charge or “RESA”).
A final written decision will be issued soon and more information can be found on the PUC E-Filings system using the Proceeding No. 25A-0194E.
Commission Approves Settlement Agreement on Black Hills Energy Economic Development Rate, Proceeding No. 25A-0500E
At the April 8 Weekly Meeting, the Commission approved, with modifications, Black Hills’ Economic Development Rate (EDR).
The approved settlement, filed on Feb. 19, represents a collaborative effort between the utility, Commission staff, and the Office of the Utility Consumer Advocate to modernize the rate incentives used to attract and retain large-scale commercial and industrial operations in Southern Colorado with an intent to foster job creation. Black Hills' proposal for an EDR is supported by the City of Pueblo, Pueblo County, City of Cañon City, and the Pueblo Economic Development Corporation (PEDCO).
Economic Development Rates are provided in state statute as a way to encourage business expansion and relocation by offering temporary rate discounts to qualifying high-load customers. The Commission’s decision in this proceeding also:
- Standardized Eligibility: Clarifies the criteria to receive an EDR, ensuring that discounts are only provided to businesses that can demonstrate the discounted rate is a decisive factor in their decision to locate or expand within the Black Hills service territory and bring economic development benefits to the area.
- Grid Impact Protections: Protects existing residential and small business customers by preventing “cost-shifting” and adding several additional provisions to help ensure that EDR participants cover their own direct costs.
To view the final written decision, visit the PUC E-Filings system and Proceeding No. 25A-0500E.
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Commission Programs and Other Updates
In Honor of Pam Fischhaber - Inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award
The PUC is proud to announce that the late Pam Fischhaber, Deputy Director of Public Safety for Rail, Pipeline Safety and Transportation, was posthumously honored by the Transit Safety Oversight Association (TSOA) with its first-ever “Lifetime Achievement Award.”
In a tribute to her impact on the industry, the TSOA officially named this prestigious honor the “Pam Fischhaber Lifetime Achievement Award.” It will be presented annually to individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to transit safety. The inaugural award recognizes Pam’s monumental contributions to the State Safety Oversight community. Her leadership was instrumental from the very beginning:
- Founding Member: Pam was one of the original visionaries behind the creation of the TSOA
- First President: She served as the association’s first President, setting the strategic foundation for transit safety collaboration nationwide
- Safety Excellence: The award celebrates her lifelong dedication to developing robust safety standards and mentoring the next generation of oversight professionals
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PUC Held Public Comment Hearings on Atmos Energy Rate Hike
On April 2, the PUC held two virtual public comment hearings regarding Atmos Energy’s proposal, Proceeding No. 25AL-0499G, to increase natural gas rates. The Key Details of Atmos’ Proposal:
- The Request: Atmos sought a $17.56 million (13.8%) net increase in annual revenue to cover infrastructure investments and operational costs.
- Proposed Impact: Residential monthly bills were projected to rise between $5.32 and $5.61, depending on the region.
- Tax Adjustments: The company also requested a new rider to account for the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act and changing tax laws.
The Commission will continue to accept written and oral testimony via email, mail, and online. An unopposed settlement by all parties was filed April 15, which will be considered by the Commission. Check the PUC Calendar for more details. For more information, see the PUC’s Gas Rate Case Key Proceeding webpage for Proceeding No. 25AL-0499G.
CIM Informs Commissioners on Utility Demand Response and Demand Flexibility Programs
On March 31, the PUC hosted a Commissioners' Information Meeting (CIM) focused on the evolving landscape of Utility Demand Response and Demand Flexibility programs.
Commissioners reviewed how demand response acts as a "virtual power plant," allowing utilities to reduce or shift energy usage during peak periods (such as extreme heat or cold) to avoid system strain. The session highlighted new "Demand Flexibility" initiatives that use smart technology—such as managed EV charging and smart thermostats—to automatically align energy use with times when renewable generation is high and costs are low. Presentations touched on the integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and how advanced metering and data systems can provide more precise, real-time responses to grid conditions.
View the March 31 CIM and associated presentation materials on the PUC’s CIM webpage.
April Public Safety Update: Digging Safely, 9-1-1 Awareness & National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week
As spring projects begin across the state, the PUC is highlighting critical safety initiatives this month. Governor Polis officially proclaimed April 2026 as "Dig Safely Month" in Colorado.
This year’s observance marks the 40th anniversary of Colorado 811, our state’s vital one-call notification system. With nearly 60% of gas pipeline damage in Colorado caused by excavation, the PUC reminds all residents and contractors that state law requires contacting 811 at least three business days before breaking ground. Whether you are planting a single tree or installing a fence, this free service ensures underground utility lines are marked, preventing costly repairs, service disruptions, and—most importantly—serious injury.
The PUC and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) are proud to announce participation in two vital public safety initiatives this April: National 9-1-1 Education Month and National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (NPSTW), April 12-18, 2026.
National 9-1-1 Education Month: In an era of evolving technology, we encourage Coloradans to familiarize themselves with advanced tools like Text-to-9-1-1 and to always "Know Your Location," as wireless calls may not always provide an exact address.
National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week: April 12-18, 2026: This week honors the professionals who respond to emergency calls, dispatch emergency professionals, and deliver life-saving assistance. National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week recognizes the incredibly important work of 9-1-1 call takers and dispatchers across the country, including in Colorado, where approximately 1,460 9-1-1 call takers and dispatchers work every minute of every day to help connect individuals experiencing police, fire, or medical emergencies with appropriate first responders, making public safety telecommunicators the "first" first responders.[1]
For More Information:
- To learn more about the PUC’s 9-1-1 Program, click here
- To sign up for local emergency alert program visit the DHSEM Website
By staying informed and practicing safe digging, we can work together to keep our communities connected and secure throughout the season.
[1] Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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PUC Alerts Students to Avoid Fraud & Hire Permitted Moving Companies
The PUC reminds parents and students, as they move to or from university or college campuses, to protect themselves when hiring a moving company. The PUC is the primary regulator of Household Good Movers in Colorado. The PUC protects consumers by regulating moving companies, ensuring that movers are properly permitted and insured and moving vehicles have been verified to be in a safe and working condition.
The PUC urges students, and anyone using a moving company, to follow these guidelines when hiring a moving company:
- Get a written contract. All household goods movers must have a written estimate and contract. Each mover must also have a Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) permit number that has the letters, HHG.
- If you are unsure whether a moving company is permitted, ask the PUC! If you want to check a permit or file a complaint with the PUC, visit the PUC Household Goods Movers webpage or call 303-894-2070.
Using a mover that is not permitted can potentially lead to theft and/or uninsured damage of your property. No moving company can withhold any of your property to force payment.
If you have any concerns about your moving company, contact the PUC online, via the complaint form or call the Consumer Affairs hotline, at (303) 894-2070. For more information on protecting your property when moving, visit the PUC Household Goods Movers webpage and this Household Goods Fraud Alert.
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Notable Hearings & Upcoming Events
The information below is subject to change, please check for updates at the PUC calendar: puc.colorado.gov/puccalendar.
Inclusive Community Solar Outreach Opportunities
The PUC oversees investor-owned utility implementation of the community solar garden (CSG) program. CSGs are mid-sized solar arrays that generate electricity for the electric grid. Rather than installing solar on their own home or business, customers can subscribe to a portion of a community solar garden and receive credits on their utility bill for the electricity it generates on their behalf.
Senate Bill 24-207 created a new community solar program, the Inclusive Community Solar (ICS) program. The PUC is creating new rules to adopt and enforce the program requirements outlined in SB24-207. As Commission staff develops the proposed rules, it is seeking input from customers and organizations—particularly those in disproportionately impacted communities—about what they would like to see addressed in the rules.
There are numerous ways to engage in the forthcoming rulemaking, which is expected to formally launch this Summer. Ahead of the notice of proposed rulemaking (NOPR), customers are invited to join Commission staff at the following pre-rulemaking sessions to learn more about the program and share input with the Commission informally.
ICS Learning Session
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What: Interactive educational session on community solar geared toward DI Community organizations and community members
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When: Tuesday, May 12, 4PM - 6PM. Register here for the Zoom link
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ICS Public Comment Meeting 1
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What: Virtual forum to learn more about, and share feedback on, the planned rulemaking scope. This is geared toward customers and organizations in the following counties served by Xcel Energy: Adams, Alamosa, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Chaffee, Clear Creek, Denver, Douglas, Eagle, Gilpin, Jefferson, Lake, Larimer, Mesa, Summit, and Weld.
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When: Tuesday, May 26, 4PM - 6PM. Register here for the Zoom link for Xcel Energy customer-focused meeting
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ICS Public Comment Meeting 2
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What: Virtual forum to learn more about, and share feedback on, the planned rulemaking scope. This is geared toward customers and organizations in the following counties served by Black Hills Electric: Crowley, Custer, Fremont, Otero, Pueblo, and Teller.
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When: Thursday, May 28, 4PM - 6PM. Register here for the Zoom link for Black Hills Electric customer-focused meeting
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ICS Pre-Rulemaking Workshop
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What: Interactive workshop to explore implementation of specific ICS provisions, such as capacity acquisition and Income Qualified (IQ) customer enrollment, into the Commission’s rules
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Tuesday, June 9, 1PM - 5PM, Register here for the Zoom link
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To request Spanish or ASL, please contact Megan.Castle@state.co.us two weeks in advance of each hearing. Visit the PUC Inclusive Community Solar webpage for more information.
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Monthly Commission Public Comment Opportunity
The Commission accepts virtual public comment during the Commission's 2nd weekly meeting of the month (i.e., the 2nd Wednesday). The PUC holds formal meetings at 9 AM every Wednesday of the month, except for holidays. All meetings are streamed on the PUC’s YouTube page. Due to building construction, the meeting will be held virtually.
- Wednesday, May 13, 9 AM
- Registration in advance is encouraged, but not required, for public comment. The registration link will be posted on the Friday before the hearing, is available here, and can be accessed from the PUC Calendar.
- Please note: Comments may not be about any matter currently before the commission, which includes any topic on the agenda for that meeting and comments specific to any currently pending proceeding.
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Xcel Energy Electric Rate Increase Proposal Remote Public Comment Hearings, Proceeding No. 25AL-0494E
Xcel filed this electric rate case proposal on Nov. 21, 2025, and is seeking a $356 million increase in annual revenue, which is an estimated 9.9% bill increase for average residential customers—roughly $9.94 more per month starting in late August 2026.
As with all rate cases, this electric rate case will follow a process that closely scrutinizes every aspect of Xcel’s requests. The process includes review by PUC’s own staff of economists, engineers and accountants. A PUC final decision is expected in Q3 2026 with proposed rate implementation in August 2026 (if approved).
Remote Electric Rate Increase Public Comment Hearings Information
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Tuesday, May 19, 4PM - 6PM: Register here for the Zoom link
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Tuesday, June 16, 4:30PM - 6:30PM: Register here for the Zoom link
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To request Spanish or ASL, please contact Megan.Castle@state.co.us two weeks in advance of each hearing. To learn more about the hearing, visit the PUC’s Electric Rate Case Key Proceedings webpage.
Xcel Energy Gas Rate Increase Proposal Remote Public Comment Hearings, Proceeding No. 25AL-0438G
Xcel Energy filed its Natural Gas Rate Case proposal on Dec. 29, 2025. According to Xcel, increased rates would fund critical infrastructure projects that modernize the system, enhance safety, and support Colorado’s transition toward a cleaner energy future.
If the proposal is approved as filed, residential customers could see an average monthly increase of approximately 11.4% ($7.59). Small businesses could see an average monthly increase of approximately 13.0% ($36.47).
Xcel is also proposing a $5 million shareholder-funded contribution to its Gas Affordability Program. This funding would come from Xcel Energy profits—not from customer rates—to provide a stronger safety net for income-qualified customers through increased bill credits and expanded disconnection protections.
Remote Gas Rate Increase Public Comment Hearings Information
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Tuesday, May 21, 11AM - 1PM: Register here for the Zoom link
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Tuesday, July 28, 4PM - 6PM: Register here for the Zoom link
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To request Spanish or ASL, please contact Megan.Castle@state.co.us two weeks in advance of each hearing. To learn more about the hearing, visit the PUC Gas Rate Case Key Proceedings webpage.
Other ways to submit public comment and for more information
Public comments should reference the Proceeding Number.
- Submit written comments using the Commission’s online form
- Submit through email at dora_puc_comments@state.co.us
- Mail comments to the Commission’s offices at: Colorado Public Utilities Commission, 1560 Broadway, Suite 250, Denver, CO 80202
- Calling (303) 869-3490 to leave oral comments (English and Spanish options)
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Tentative Commission Upcoming Calendar April 2026
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Below is information on upcoming key issues before the Commission in April 2026. Please note:
- The dates, times and subjects detailed below are subject to change. Visit the PUC calendar, puc.colorado.gov/calendar or the PUC final Commission hearing agenda from the home page.
- All documents in a docket can be found through the eFiling System using the Proceeding Number.
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Date
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Case
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Issue
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April 29
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Xcel Energy Large Load Tariff
(26AL-0137E)
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Whether to set Xcel Energy’s Large Load Tariff for hearing and suspend its effective date by 120 days per statute, and to establish a notice and intervention period.
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Xcel Energy El Paso County CPP Permit Appeal
(25A-0355E)
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Whether to grant Xcel Energy’s appeal of El Paso County’s denial of a land use permit for a segment of the Colorado Power Pathway
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