The Minnesota Court of Appeals has affirmed the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission’s (Commission) approval of Xcel Energy’s Electric Vehicle (EV) pilot programs and cost recovery mechanisms.
The Commission maintained the pilot programs enable more EV charging and further legislative goals meant to increase transportation electrification.
“The Court opinion affirmed an important decision by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission,” Commission Chair Katie Sieben said. “The Commission recognizes that more electric vehicles on Minnesota roads will improve air quality, reduce emissions, and can help lower electricity costs for all Xcel ratepayers.”
Last year the Commission approved three pilot programs from Xcel Energy. The endeavors consist of three electric vehicle programs targeting different sections of transportation users – fleet operations and private individuals.
“These pilot programs are modest but important steps forward that will allow stakeholders to assess potential benefits of electric vehicles in Minnesota,” Commissioner Matt Schuerger said. “This will also better inform the Commission as it considers future filings from utilities regarding transportation electrification.“
The initial program is a fleet pilot where Xcel Energy would install, own, and maintain make-ready EV infrastructure for fleet operators; the second program is a public charging pilot aimed at increasing DC Fast Charging along high-traffic corridors in Xcel Energy’s service territory; and the third program is slated to be a residential pilot program where Xcel Energy will install and maintain charging equipment in customer’s home that a customer can prepay or repay over time in installments.