xcel energy 03/15/02/Annual/narrative

This document is Xcel Energy's 2001 annual report. It summarizes the company's financial performance for 2001 and highlights some of its key accomplishments that year. Specifically: - Xcel Energy met its earnings target for 2001 despite challenges in the energy industry like price swings, regulatory changes, and a softening economy. Its non-regulated subsidiary, NRG Energy, contributed significantly. - The company delivered $1.50 in dividends per share, expanded its customer base, successfully traded electricity in deregulated markets, and improved reliability. - Xcel Energy also completed repowering its Fort St. Vrain nuclear plant with natural gas, expanded its wind generation portfolio, and received recognition for its Wind