News Releases

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. - Beginning April 21 and continuing through April 26
residents in northwestern Wisconsin may notice a helicopter flying over some
neighborhoods and rural locations as Xcel Energy inspects its electric transmission lines.
Xcel Energy's transmission lines in Wisconsin and Michigan extend east from the
border of Minnesota to the Eau Claire area and north from La Crosse to Ironwood,
Mich.
The helicopter flights enable crews to look for defects or loose fittings. Trouble
spots that could cause power outages will be identified and later repaired, reducing the
number of equipment-related outages on the transmission system.
"These inspections give us a 'birds-eye' view of the transmission system and allow
us to fix potential problems before they occur," said Ralph Melgard, Xcel Energy's
supervisor of Field Operations. "The patrols and the associated maintenance are
important to continue to provide reliable electric service to our customers."
The patrols will take place during daylight hours, and the helicopter will fly within
50 feet of the lines or hover near a transmission structure if something needs a closer
look. Typically, the flights are conducted at speeds of 30 to 45 miles per hour.
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Xcel Energy is committed to reducing its impact on the environment by reducing
emissions, promoting conservation and using renewable energy. Xcel Energy is the No. 1
wind power provider in the United States, according to the American Wind Energy
Association and a leading provider of renewable energy in Wisconsin.
Visit www.xcelenergy.com for more information.

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