DENVER, Colorado (October 4, 2018) – This week marks the start of National Energy Awareness Month, an effort to increase awareness of energy issues, show the positive impacts of energy efficiency, and demonstrate the importance of strong energy management for the nation. Xcel Energy is promoting this month-long awareness to encourage customers to find out more about their energy consumption.

In September 1991, then-President George H.W. Bush declared October to be National Energy Awareness, and it was designed to encourage governments and organizations to raise awareness of the importance of sustainably managing the nation’s energy resources.

The month-long effort encourages consumers to examine the aspects of energy consumption in their daily lives, from the use of electricity and natural gas in their homes and businesses; gasoline or other hydrocarbon fuels used for transportation; and other energy sources that contribute to the quality of our daily lives.

“Xcel Energy has always encouraged the safe and efficient use of electricity and natural gas, and has through the years offered customers various options and programs to manage their energy usage. These programs benefit our customers through lower monthly energy bills, and they help the company to better balance supply and demand issues on our electricity and natural gas systems,” said Alice Jackson, president, Xcel Energy—Colorado.

In practical terms, examining use for Xcel Energy’s customers comes down to the basics, such as energy consumption for lighting, various electricity or natural gas appliances or other electronics, and heating and cooling. One of the best first steps to consider this month are energy audits, which can help explain individual energy consumption, identify possible losses of energy, and evaluate possible improvements.

For an example of one business that benefitted from Xcel Energy’s energy-efficiency programs, please check out this short video about The Noshery, a Denver bakery and café that completed energy improvement efforts as part of a recent efficiency contest sponsored by the company: http://xcelenergyconnect.com/led-lighting-upgrade-big-advantage-for-small-business/

For information on specific programs and rebate offers, customers can also access information at: https://www.xcelenergy.com/programs_and_rebates (external link)

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About Xcel Energy

Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) provides the energy that powers millions of homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company is an industry leader in responsibly reducing carbon emissions and producing and delivering clean energy solutions from a variety of renewable sources at competitive prices. For more information, visit xcelenergy.com or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.