EAU CLAIRE, Wis. - Xcel Energy announced today it is making a donation of $100,000 to the Keep Wisconsin Warm Fund, a nonprofit, public/private partnership that provides energy-related assistance for customers across the state.

"The need for heating assistance has increased significantly this season," said Tim Bruer, executive director, Keep Wisconsin Warm Fund. "We are very grateful for Xcel Energy's donation."

The Keep Wisconsin Warm Fund was established in 1996 and assists thousands of people every year who face a number of situations that create financial challenges. About 95 percent of those helped are elderly, families with young children or people with disabilities.

"With the record-breaking cold weather, we know that many residents are finding it more difficult to pay their heating bills this winter," said Mark Stoering, president and CEO, NSP-Wisconsin, an Xcel Energy company. "We are dedicated to our customers and the communities we serve, and this donation to KWWF is one way we can provide a helping hand to those customers most in need."

In addition to the company's 24-hour Customer Contact Center where customers can get information resources that offer financial assistance, Xcel Energy has specifically trained representatives to assist customers with special needs, such as the elderly and those with serious medical conditions. Also, in partnership with Focus on Energy, Xcel Energy promotes a wide range of conservation programs to help consumers use less energy and reduce their energy costs.

Xcel Energy's contribution of $100,000 comes from shareholders and is not included in customer rates. The funds from the Keep Wisconsin Warm Fund are distributed to local energy assistance and community action agencies.

Xcel Energy customers who need help with their energy bills can call 1-800-895-4999 to find out about payment arrangements and available state and federal financial energy assistance programs.

________________________________

Xcel Energy is a major U.S. electricity and natural gas company that provides a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity customers and 1.9 million natural gas customers through its regulated operating companies in eight Western and Midwestern states. The company serves 244,000 electricity and 104,000 natural gas customers in Wisconsin. More information is available at www.xcelenergy.com.

distributed by