FARGO, N.D. (November 28, 2023) – Xcel Energy leaders today joined officials from across the Fargo community to open the company’s new Innovation Hub inside downtown’s historic Black Building, helping to usher in a new generation of innovators and entrepreneurs.

While seeking a location for the new idea, Xcel Energy leaders made it a priority to be in downtown Fargo, joining a growing technology hub in the neighborhood. The company is sharing its space with teams from the Downtown Community Partnership and the Downtown Fargo Business Improvement District.

“As we lead the clean energy transition, our new Innovation Hub is another example of the commitment we have to the communities we serve,” said Chris Clark, president of Xcel Energy—Minnesota, South Dakota and North Dakota. “We’re excited to bring together leaders from business, government and the community to help achieve our vision of serving customers with 100% carbon-free electricity and net-zero natural gas by 2050.”

Xcel Energy is the largest energy provider in North Dakota, delivering reliable electric and gas service to 94,000 customers in the state. In addition to the new downtown Innovation Hub, the company maintains its operations on Great Northern Drive in Fargo.

Once the tallest building in the state, the Black Building has captured the imaginations of North Dakotans from the moment several hundred people gathered to watch city leaders place the cornerstone in November 1930. Today, the iconic landmark turned modern office tower bears witness to new ideas born within its walls as more companies choose it as the home for their innovative pursuits.

“Innovation and strong community partnerships have helped Xcel Energy coworkers serve the Fargo area for more than 100 years,” said Tony Grindberg, principal manager, Xcel Energy in North Dakota. “We live and work in the community, and we’re proud to be part of downtown Fargo’s future.”

"Xcel Energy's Innovation Hub at the Black Building is a significant step towards the future of downtown Fargo. The Downtown Community Partnership is honored to be part of this endeavor and, in collaboration with Xcel Energy, making downtown Fargo a vibrant and dynamic destination," said Rocky Schneider, executive director of the Downtown Community Partnership and the Business Improvement District. "Together, we are working towards a shared vision of downtown as a cultural and economic powerhouse, welcoming all to be a part of our exciting journey."

The ribbon cutting coincides with the Midwest Energy Summit taking place Nov. 29 in Fargo. The event, which features speakers from business and government, will showcase Xcel Energy’s clean energy vision in action. Topics will include sustainable aviation fuel, carbon capture and storage, and the Heartland Hydrogen Hub. The hub, including multiple Xcel Energy projects in the Upper Midwest, was selected this fall by the U.S. Department of Energy for award negotiations of up to $925 million.

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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 X, formerly known as Twitter, and Facebook.