Xcel Energy Outages, Billing and Customer Response
Are you looking to provide feedback on a Public Safety Power Outage?
Please visit the PSPS feedback page here.
Beginning in 2024, the Public Utilities Commission noticed a significant increase in complaints and comments from the public regarding outages and billing issues on Xcel Energy's electric system. Media outlets across the state also reported on the outages. In response, the Commission ordered staff to open an investigation into these issues, which found the following:
- Xcel customers have been experiencing a trend of more outages and outage minutes since 2015, even after accounting for severe weather events
- System-wide outage minutes in 2024 were significantly higher than the trend between 2015-2023
- Outages were widespread across Xcel’s service territory in Colorado
- Wildfire Safety Operations were a significant driver of outages in 2024 but did not fully account for higher levels of outages
- The 15 worst performing feeders--which transmit power from a power source, such as a substation or distribution point, to consumers--account for a substantial portion of 2024 outage minutes
- Low staffing levels for customer service personnel corresponded with significant drops in customer service performance
- Consumers are experiencing a high number of billing complaints with unusually long resolution timelines.
Xcel responded publicly to the Commission investigations, acknowledging the challenges customers faced in 2024 and committing to improving performance in each of these areas. The Commission then ordered Xcel to report quarterly on a variety of outage and customers service metrics.
As the PUC continues to receive complaints from Xcel customers on these issues, we have created this new, easy-to-use platform for customers to share their experiences and ideas. This input will help the PUC better understand the scope of remaining issues as it determines next steps. Information collected here will be added to Proceeding Number 25M-0265E.
As this proceeding moves forward, we will provide updates through this tool.
Are you looking to provide feedback on a Public Safety Power Outage?
Please visit the PSPS feedback page here.
Beginning in 2024, the Public Utilities Commission noticed a significant increase in complaints and comments from the public regarding outages and billing issues on Xcel Energy's electric system. Media outlets across the state also reported on the outages. In response, the Commission ordered staff to open an investigation into these issues, which found the following:
- Xcel customers have been experiencing a trend of more outages and outage minutes since 2015, even after accounting for severe weather events
- System-wide outage minutes in 2024 were significantly higher than the trend between 2015-2023
- Outages were widespread across Xcel’s service territory in Colorado
- Wildfire Safety Operations were a significant driver of outages in 2024 but did not fully account for higher levels of outages
- The 15 worst performing feeders--which transmit power from a power source, such as a substation or distribution point, to consumers--account for a substantial portion of 2024 outage minutes
- Low staffing levels for customer service personnel corresponded with significant drops in customer service performance
- Consumers are experiencing a high number of billing complaints with unusually long resolution timelines.
Xcel responded publicly to the Commission investigations, acknowledging the challenges customers faced in 2024 and committing to improving performance in each of these areas. The Commission then ordered Xcel to report quarterly on a variety of outage and customers service metrics.
As the PUC continues to receive complaints from Xcel customers on these issues, we have created this new, easy-to-use platform for customers to share their experiences and ideas. This input will help the PUC better understand the scope of remaining issues as it determines next steps. Information collected here will be added to Proceeding Number 25M-0265E.
As this proceeding moves forward, we will provide updates through this tool.
Share Your Story
Have you had an experience with Xcel's customer service follow up? Or an outage experience? We'd love to hear from you.
Note: These stories are posted publicly but your name does not need to be included. Please do not share identifying information if you wish to remain anonymous.
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Arvada Westwoods Power Outages
by Sam M., 2 days agoWe have had 4-5 power outages in the last couple weeks without any explanation. These were not planned outages and happened on perfectly sunny, normal weather days. This is unacceptable.- June 12, June 16, June 21, June 22
We have had 4-5 power outages in the last couple weeks without any explanation. These were not planned outages and happened on perfectly sunny, normal weather days. This is unacceptable.- June 12, June 16, June 21, June 22
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Disconnection Threats with No Remedy Possible
by Someone, 2 days agoXcel sent me a final notice for disconnection because their contractor was not able to access my meter for smart meter replacement. The instructions to avoid disconnection are to schedule an appointment directly with their contractor. The issue is that the contractor cannot be contacted and all you hear when calling is that the voice mailbox of who you are trying to reach has not been set up. If Xcel is going to threaten to shut power off, they should ensure the remedy is actually possible. I have no control over an incompetent contractor.
Xcel sent me a final notice for disconnection because their contractor was not able to access my meter for smart meter replacement. The instructions to avoid disconnection are to schedule an appointment directly with their contractor. The issue is that the contractor cannot be contacted and all you hear when calling is that the voice mailbox of who you are trying to reach has not been set up. If Xcel is going to threaten to shut power off, they should ensure the remedy is actually possible. I have no control over an incompetent contractor.
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Power outage
by David Berman , 3 days agoYet another power outage at my address today with Xcel. Three times yesterday. Another one earlier in the week. This is not acceptable and at least deserves an explanation for why it’s happening.
David Berman
6336 Coors Lane
Arvada Co 80004Yet another power outage at my address today with Xcel. Three times yesterday. Another one earlier in the week. This is not acceptable and at least deserves an explanation for why it’s happening.
David Berman
6336 Coors Lane
Arvada Co 80004 -
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Continuous short outages in Arvada colorado
by Michael Goertz, 3 days agoI live in Arvada Colorado and have had multiple times in the last week the power completely shut off with no warning, no message during the outage, or any communication at all from Xcel energy. It stays off for about 1-2 hoursI live in Arvada Colorado and have had multiple times in the last week the power completely shut off with no warning, no message during the outage, or any communication at all from Xcel energy. It stays off for about 1-2 hours -
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Frequent outages for no reason
by Tanya Herron, 5 days agoThe power has gone out for the third time in one week with no warning and no explanation from Xcel. There is no justification other than their own cost savings and greed. If they can’t handle the wind that is normal along the front range, they should not be in charge of this utility. There is no acknowledgement of the impact this has on residents. There is never a timeline given as to the extent of the outage or any information given. They pretend by sending notices after the power is cut, and if you text the update line it... Continue reading
The power has gone out for the third time in one week with no warning and no explanation from Xcel. There is no justification other than their own cost savings and greed. If they can’t handle the wind that is normal along the front range, they should not be in charge of this utility. There is no acknowledgement of the impact this has on residents. There is never a timeline given as to the extent of the outage or any information given. They pretend by sending notices after the power is cut, and if you text the update line it just says it is unknown when it will be restored. This is unacceptable when consumers have no other choice.
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Outages and communication problems
by P.O. Consumer , 5 days agoI am writing you all because of ongoing issues with Xcel Energy, and they are not at all being held accountable.
I’d like to start with the safety shut offs that have occurred several times in recent months and the lack of transparency to Colorado residents, particularly Jeffco who seems to have the most shut offs by far. First of all, Xcel customers went days with no updates during the shut offs. I checked the website so many times and the information just stayed the same. No updated ETA on restoration and 0 updates on the “progress” of checking “hundreds... Continue reading
I am writing you all because of ongoing issues with Xcel Energy, and they are not at all being held accountable.
I’d like to start with the safety shut offs that have occurred several times in recent months and the lack of transparency to Colorado residents, particularly Jeffco who seems to have the most shut offs by far. First of all, Xcel customers went days with no updates during the shut offs. I checked the website so many times and the information just stayed the same. No updated ETA on restoration and 0 updates on the “progress” of checking “hundreds of miles of power lines.” Not only has there been no transparency, but these shut offs lasted DAYS after the wind events stopped in Colorado. I really want to know why this timeline makes any sense at all. In total, I estimate that I had over 8 days of no power between both shut offs. Over a WEEK!
The shut offs are just the start of Xcel’s reliability issues. I can recall AT LEAST 3 times or more since these wind events months ago where the power has been cut when there were ZERO planned outages. I understand that power outages can occur from time to time, but why is this continuously happening when it’s sunny and 80 outside? Flash forward to today. They cut the power AGAIN. This time for over 3 hours if not longer. Then they send a text saying power to be restored around 7:40, then power came back on a few minutes after that. That’s a 2.5 hour difference. Why are they Incapable of communicating correct information? There’s just no reason for it.
I want to address the area out of outages. Every time there is an outage (planned or not) Union West Apartments is effected and NONE of the surrounding commercial nor residential buildings are affected. And when I say next door - I literally mean the VA next to me, the street lights, etc. NEVER LOSE POWER. Why are certain areas being affected repeatedly and others not at all???
I am healthy and in my 30s. I can survive a few hours in a stuffy or chilly apartment. What about my pets? What about the elderly, ill, and other at risk populations? That’s the biggest concern.
This happens nearly every month and when you check the website, ZERO transparency. Did a car hit a pole? Is there some sort of grid failure that isn’t being addressed? Colorado residents would be much more understanding if Xcel took just a moment or 2 to explain their outages. I believe whole heartedly that Xcel is doing this on purpose OR there is a grid failure that isn’t being addressed properly. From my research, a utility loses money and has nothing to gain during a power outage - which I find very difficult to believe in this case. I myself am a claims investigator - so please know I’ve looked at his from every possible angle and it still comes down to what I believe is intentional unplanned shut offs. Xcel is likely profiting more after shut offs than on a normal day because of the amount of energy it takes to heat/cool residential and commercial buildings alike.
Jefferson County has by far been unfairly affected by these outages. Xcel has got to go if they can’t figure this out!
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Frequent Outages
by Cb, 8 days agoWe have had frequent outages on back to back 90+ degree days with no response or justification from Xcel.
We have had frequent outages on back to back 90+ degree days with no response or justification from Xcel.
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frequent outages
by Kat80128, 8 days agoMy neighborhood has experiences frequent outages since 2024, which are separate from the severe weather outages. Xcel appears to have misrepresented this when responding to reports on the number of events, stating my neighborhood only had two last year--that's incorrect, I kept track of each one and including multiple outages on the same day, the count was 13 (7 if you group the same-day ones together). It's already begun this summer, with an outage on the eve of the hottest day so far this year.
Xcel keeps getting approved for rate increases, but doesn't appear to be making any changes... Continue readingMy neighborhood has experiences frequent outages since 2024, which are separate from the severe weather outages. Xcel appears to have misrepresented this when responding to reports on the number of events, stating my neighborhood only had two last year--that's incorrect, I kept track of each one and including multiple outages on the same day, the count was 13 (7 if you group the same-day ones together). It's already begun this summer, with an outage on the eve of the hottest day so far this year.
Xcel keeps getting approved for rate increases, but doesn't appear to be making any changes to solve the outage issues. It's one thing where there are severe weather events and customers are given advance notice (though note, this rarely happens elsewhere), but these are surprise outages. Xcel claims to have fixed the issue--saying it was something to do with the automatic shutoff trigger being set to January's settings, so increased AC use in summer was triggering it--however, my neighborhood is still having unexplained outages.
It's unacceptable, and rather than continuously giving Xcel approved rate increases, they should be required to show solid proof that they are investing in, upgrading, and fixing infrastructure BEFORE they are allowed to request rate increases. As is, Xcel is clearly unable to responsibly run a public, necessary service, and should not be allowed to run a monopoly when better service could be available. Right now, customers are just feeding their profits for no returns. -
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Frequent Power Outages
by Karen2011, 9 days agoI have experienced a large increase in power outages this year (2026). Power has gone out 150% more often this year. I work from home so this is extremely disruptive. It is even more frustrating as the heat has been excessive this year. Today is 98 degrees and it is extremely hot in my home due to the power going out at the hottest part of the day. It seems Xcel needs to look at upgrading infrastructure.I have experienced a large increase in power outages this year (2026). Power has gone out 150% more often this year. I work from home so this is extremely disruptive. It is even more frustrating as the heat has been excessive this year. Today is 98 degrees and it is extremely hot in my home due to the power going out at the hottest part of the day. It seems Xcel needs to look at upgrading infrastructure. -
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Medically fragile woman put in jeopardy
by mbosworth , 10 days agoMy 81-year-old mother lives in the Lakewood region and is heavily oxygen dependent. On multiple ocassions within the last month, Xcel has turned off power without notice, leading to dangerous situations each time. The most recent occurred while she was asleep, and medical complications were severe. Multiple phone calls with their representatives resulted only in the recommendation to call 911. We were not notified about their medical needs home registration. The other resident in the home has dementia making the situation even that more dire. In one instance, a hotel had to be sought for multiple days, as Xcel would... Continue readingMy 81-year-old mother lives in the Lakewood region and is heavily oxygen dependent. On multiple ocassions within the last month, Xcel has turned off power without notice, leading to dangerous situations each time. The most recent occurred while she was asleep, and medical complications were severe. Multiple phone calls with their representatives resulted only in the recommendation to call 911. We were not notified about their medical needs home registration. The other resident in the home has dementia making the situation even that more dire. In one instance, a hotel had to be sought for multiple days, as Xcel would not give any estimation of power restoration. This is an expense, along with additional medical attention required, is extremely burdensome to people trying to age in their homes with fixed incomes. My mother's life is literally on the line.
File a Complaint
If you have already contacted Xcel about an issue, and allowed sufficient time for a response, but it remains unresolved, you can submit a complaint to the PUC.
Proceeding Information
Information collected here will be added to Proceeding Number 25M-0265E.