Xcel Energy will conduct a “large-scale” inspection of utility poles in the Texas Panhandle as part of a legal agreement with the state of Texas in the wake of a devastating 2024 wildfire.
The agreement comes as utilities across the nation face increasing liability over aging or dilapidated infrastructure that has started multiple major fires.
While the agreement addresses mitigating potential future fires, the lawsuit will continue as Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton seeks economic damages from Xcel from the loss of property, wildlife and habitat, as well as civil penalties under Texas law.
Background: On Feb. 26, 2024, a fire broke out because of a broken utility pole that downed electric lines in the Panhandle. Ultimately, three people were killed, 1,600 square miles across Texas and Oklahoma burned, and economic damages reached $1 billion.
