Minnesota Public Utilities Commission

Colorado and Minnesota regulators took opposing approaches to utility gas infrastructure spending. Colorado rejected Xcel Energy’s $567 million gas expansion plan, favoring cheaper electric alternatives, while Minnesota upheld line extension allowances (LEAs), allowing gas utilities to charge customers for new pipelines. Minnesota’s decision risks higher bills and delays clean energy transitions as gas use declines and electric options like heat pumps gain popularity.

Xcel Energy customers in Minnesota are frustrated with proposed rate increases, which were reduced by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) but still result in a $5.59 monthly average rise for residential customers. The PUC approved a $211 million total increase over 2025 and 2026, significantly lower than Xcel's initial request, while public comments highlighted concerns about affordability. The final rates may lead to refunds if they fall below interim rates.

Eagan Capital is suing Eagan over the city's data center moratorium, claiming it infringes on the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission's regulatory authority. Other cities like Inver Grove Heights have also imposed similar moratoriums on energy-intensive data centers. Unrelated developments include a hospice workers' strike, a lawsuit by former EPA biologists, and a new bank branch aimed at reducing racial wealth disparities.