72903--2/27/2009--XCEL_ENERGY

related topics

{operation, natural, condition}

{cost, contract, operation}

{regulation, change, law}

{condition, economic, financial}

{capital, credit, financial}

{cost, regulation, environmental}

{debt, indebtedness, cash}

{gas, price, oil}

{system, service, information}

Risks Associated with Our Business Our profitability depends in part on the ability of our utility subsidiaries to recover their costs from their customers and there may be changes in circumstances or in the regulatory environment that impair the ability of our utility subsidiaries to recover costs from their customers. Any reductions in our credit ratings could increase our financing costs and the cost of maintaining certain contractual relationships. We are subject to interest rate risk. We are subject to capital market risk. We are subject to credit risks. We are subject to commodity risks and other risks associated with energy markets. We are subject to environmental laws and regulations, with which compliance could be difficult and costly. We are subject to physical and financial risks associated with climate change. We may be subject to legislative and regulatory responses to climate change, with which compliance could be difficult and costly. Our subsidiary, NSP-Minnesota, is subject to the risks of nuclear generation. Economic conditions could negatively impact our business. Our utility operations are subject to long term planning risks. Our operations could be impacted by war, acts of terrorism, threats of terrorism or disruptions in normal operating conditions due to localized or regional events. We are subject to business continuity risks associated with our ability to respond to unforeseen events. We are subject to information security risks. Rising energy prices could negatively impact our business. Our operating results may fluctuate on a seasonal and quarterly basis and can be adversely affected by milder weather. Our natural gas distribution activities involve numerous risks that may result in accidents and other operating risks and costs. Increased risks of regulatory penalties could negatively impact our business. Increasing costs associated with our defined benefit retirement plans and other employee-related benefits may adversely affect our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. Increasing costs associated with health care plans may adversely affect our results of operations, financial position or liquidity. We must rely on cash from our subsidiaries to make dividend payments.

Full 10-K form ▸

72903--2/27/2009--XCEL_ENERGY_INC