Xcel Will Replace Texas Utility Poles to Slow Down Wildfire Suit

Xcel Energy will replace decaying electric distribution poles in high-risk wildfire areas in Texas, but continues to deny allegations from the state that its negligence contributed to a massive wildfire in February 2024.

The Minneapolis-based utility committed to inspecting at least 35,000 poles each year and replacing the weakest ones within a day, according to an agreed temporary injunction that the state announced Monday.

The injunction will remain in place through May 1, 2027; a trial is set for April 19, 2027 in Hemphill County, a county in the Panhandle affected by the Smokehouse Creek Fire.

“This win is the ...