Xcel Energy Is Ready For The Heat

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The heat is putting stress on the power grid, but Xcel Energy says it's ready.

Mary Sandok says Xcel Energy prepares for heat waves like this.

"We don't foresee any supply issues at this time for this week," Sandok said.

But even power companies feel stress from the heat. And high-consumer demand from all those air conditioners running, along with the effect of the heat on the electrical system itself, will cause small outages.

"So we will see scattered outages -- power outages -- during high heat and humidity times," she said.

She says the utility does not anticipate a brown-out, even with an excessive heat warning continuing in the immediate Twin Cities until late Thursday night.