Colorado’s utility regulator has launched an investigation into the unprecedented power shutdown that left over 168,000 residents without electricity earlier this month. The move comes after widespread frustration from residents who faced spoiled food, traffic chaos, and medical scares when Xcel Energy preemptively cut power to prevent wildfires.
The drastic measure, a first for Colorado, was taken as gusts of up to 100mph swept across the state. Though Xcel reported extensive damage to its infrastructure, with over 110 power poles and 68,000 feet of wire damaged, the decision fueled anger and questions about its impact.
Governor Jared Polis echoed public sentiment, calling the shutdown a “serious and challenging decision” and directed the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to investigate and seek reforms to protect customers during future power cuts.
The PUC is now inviting the public to voice their concerns. On April 17th, an online hearing was held, allowing residents to share their experiences and the challenges they faced during the blackout.
“We want to make sure that the Commission sets those expectations and holds our utilities accountable,” said PUC Chair Eric Blank, underscoring the investigation’s commitment to ensuring better planning and support for customers in the future.
How to Share Your Feedback:
Register to Speak: Visit the PUC website to register for future hearings.
Livestream: Watch hearings live on the PUC YouTube channel.
Phone Voicemail: Leave a message at the PUC’s consumer affairs office at 303-894-2070 or 800-456-0858.
Online Platform: Submit comments directly on the Commission’s online platform.