Xcel Energy(US:XEL) 中国能源报·2025-09-25 09:55Core Viewpoint - Xcel Energy has agreed to pay approximately $640 million to settle lawsuits related to the Marshall Fire in Colorado, which was partly caused by a spark from one of its power lines [3]. Group 1: Incident Overview - The Marshall Fire, which occurred at the end of 2021, burned over 6,000 acres and resulted in the destruction of nearly 1,000 buildings, making it one of the most destructive wildfires in Colorado's history [3]. - The fire led to the deaths of two individuals and caused an estimated $2 billion in damages [3]. Group 2: Company Implications - The settlement of $640 million reflects the increasing legal and financial risks that utility companies face due to wildfires linked to their equipment, especially in the context of rising wildfire risks attributed to climate change [3]. - Several utility companies in the western United States have faced significant lawsuits and compensation claims due to similar incidents in recent years [3].