(ABC 6 News) — The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has approved a rate increase for Xcel Energy. Last year, Xcel proposed a rate increase of $353 million, or 9.6%, for 2025 and an additional $137.5 million, or 3.6%, for 2026. Xcel released a statement on the rate, which reads:“Xcel Energy is committed to providing safe, reliable service while leading the clean energy transition and keeping bills as low as possible. “The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission’s decision enables Xcel Energy to invest in renewable energy, transmission and other infrastructure needed to meet growing electricity demand, strengthen reliability, spur economic development and deliver long-term customer value. Editor’s Note: This story has been amended from a previous version that incorrectly said Xcel was approved for a nearly $491 million rate increase over two years.