Xcel Energy is disconnecting Minnesota households at record levels, aided by remote shutoff tech that’s made the process cheaper and faster. (Star-Tribune)
The utility cut power to 52K+ homes last year—triple pre-pandemic levels—and is on pace to match that record in 2025. Remote shutoffs, approved by regulators in 2023, mean Xcel now disconnects ~30% of eligible accounts, up from <10%.
The PUC has allowed remote shutoffs to continue but added consumer protections, including 1) bans on disconnecting customers with balances under $300 and 2) rules for reconnections during extreme weather.
