Xcel Energy is taking steps to address the risk of wildfires as severe weather approaches Colorado’s Front Range. The company has activated Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS) for its service areas in Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Jefferson, Larimer, and East Denver counties. High winds are expected on Monday, and customers are advised to prepare for possible outages.
Despite the weather forecast, Xcel Energy does not plan to conduct any Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) at this time. The decision follows updated weather models that show lower wind speeds than initially predicted. However, the company warns that outages could still happen and may last longer if they occur.
“When EPSS is activated, power lines can stop the flow of energy if an issue is detected, like a tree branch or other object touching the line,” Xcel Energy stated. “EPSS does not mean the company has proactively turned off a customer’s power. If there is an outage while these settings are activated, it is the result of an issue on the power line. Power will remain off until crews can visually inspect power lines to make sure it is safe to turn them back on. This may mean that if an outage occurs, it could last longer.”
The company said it will also be in escalated wildfire operations on Monday. Field crews will follow specific protocols for vegetation management and other core operations to limit wildfire risk. Extra crews will be staged as needed for rapid outage response, and drones along with other monitoring tools will be used to inspect lines and assist in restoring power.
“Xcel Energy thanks customers for their patience and understanding as the company continue to take steps to reduce wildfire risk and keep its communities safe.”
Customers are encouraged to stay informed by updating their contact information through the Xcel Energy website, which also features an outage map showing real-time updates about restoration times. Updates are available via social media channels including X and Facebook.
To prepare for possible outages, customers should charge devices and assemble emergency kits with items such as battery-powered radios, flashlights, bottled water, non-perishable food, backup chargers, and first aid supplies. Those who rely on electrically powered medical equipment should have backup power sources ready. Xcel Energy will contact known medical customers directly about potential impacts from severe weather.
Outages can be reported through several methods: using the Xcel Energy mobile app available on both Apple App Store and Google Play; online at xcelenergy.com/outage; by texting OUT or STAT to 98936; or by calling 1-800-895-1999.
Xcel Energy operates across eight Western and Midwestern states and focuses on reducing carbon emissions and providing clean energy solutions at competitive prices. More information is available at xcelenergy.com or by following their social media accounts.
