Xcel Energy is preparing for a possible Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) on December 17 in Colorado due to forecasts of high winds and dry conditions that increase wildfire risk. The company expects about 50,000 customers in Boulder, Clear Creek, Jefferson, Larimer, and Weld counties could be affected by the shutoff starting at approximately 10 a.m., which is earlier than initially planned.
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for the region. Xcel Energy stated that recent updates to grid infrastructure and use of advanced modeling tools have allowed them to reduce the number of customers likely to be impacted. The company emphasized its goal is “to limit the impact of a PSPS event as much as possible while effectively managing high wildfire risk.”
According to Xcel Energy, weather conditions may begin improving around 6 p.m. Wednesday but strong winds—and elevated fire danger—are expected through Friday. Outages could occur outside the designated PSPS areas because of the anticipated wind speeds, potentially extending restoration times.
After a PSPS or other weather-related outages, restoration will only begin once dangerous conditions have subsided. Xcel Energy explained it may take several hours or even days to restore power since crews must inspect lines before re-energizing them.
Xcel Energy will provide ongoing updates during the event through its website and direct communication with affected customers. Customers can check if their address is subject to a PSPS via an online tool and are encouraged to keep contact information current in their My Account profile.
The company recommends residents prepare for potential outages by assembling emergency kits with items such as battery-powered radios, flashlights, bottled water, non-perishable food, backup chargers, and manual can openers. Customers dependent on electric medical equipment are urged to take extra precautions; Xcel Energy will reach out directly to qualifying medical customers.
To report outages or receive status updates, customers can use the Xcel Energy mobile app available from major app stores, visit xcelenergy.com/out online, text OUT or STAT to 98936, or call 1-800-895-1999 using the automated system.
Xcel Energy says it continues investing in infrastructure upgrades aimed at reducing wildfire risks and minimizing future service disruptions across its eight-state service area.
