Living in the 'And'
Jack Ihle is the VP of Data Centers and Large Loads. In this role, Ihle leads a team responsible for Xcel Energy’s data center and large load service across eight states, encompassing strategy, policy, partnerships, commercial contracting, and energization of large end users. He previously was Regional VP of Regulatory Policy and led Environmental Policy, Environmental Services, Pricing, and Emerging Technology teams at Xcel Energy.
Walking into Xcel Energy’s new T3 headquarters in the RiNo district of Denver feels different from a typical utility office. T3 stands for Timber, Transit, and Technology. The building is constructed from reclaimed timber and is flooded with natural light. This is (actually) a far cry from the sequestered executive suites of the past. This move is more than just a change of address. It is the physical manifestation of a cultural evolution. Xcel Energy – Colorado President Robert Kenney explains that the space is designed to drive an ethos of openness and collaboration.
We spent a day with the Xcel Energy – Colorado leadership team discussing how this culture translates into daily operations. Colorado is a leader in energy policy, and the company is managing a massive transition while staying focused on the needs of its customers. The challenge is what the team calls living in the “and.” It is the work of providing safe, reliable, and clean energy while also maintaining the lowest share of wallet for customers in the country.
In the pages that follow, you will hear from Robert Kenney, Lon Huber, Sandra Johnson, and Jack Ihle. They discuss the specific technologies and strategies moving Xcel Energy forward. This includes using artificial intelligence for wildfire mitigation and advanced conductors to maximize the existing grid.