Paul Johnson Named Assistant Treasurer of Xcel Energy

The Board of Directors named Paul Johnson, managing director, Investor Relations, to the position of managing director, Investor Relations and assistant treasurer for Xcel Energy Inc. (NYSE:XEL) and its subsidiaries. In his expanded role, Johnson will continue to manage the Investor Relations Department in addition to assuming new responsibilities for Corporate Finance and Treasury Forecasting. He will report to Ben Fowke, vice president and chief financial officer, regarding Investor Relations responsibilities, and to George Tyson, vice president and treasurer with respect to his new Treasury responsibilities. Johnson was promoted to managing director, Investor Relations, in January 2007, after having served as director, Investor Relations since November 2001. During his 24 years at Xcel Energy and Northern States Power Company, he has served in various financial positions, including director, External Reporting. Paul earned a Bachelor of Science in Business from Winona State University and an MBA from the University of St. Thomas. In addition, he is a CFA charter holder and has passed the CPA and CMA exams. Xcel Energy is a major U.S. electricity and natural gas company, with operations in 8 Western and Midwestern states. Xcel Energy provides a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.3 million electricity customers and 1.8 million natural gas customers through its regulated operating companies. In terms of customers, it is the fifth-largest combination natural gas and electricity company in the nation. Company headquarters are located in Minneapolis. More information is available at www.xcelenergy.com.