Roswell is Ready for Growth With Xcel Energy as a Valued Utility Provider

A community’s growth potential is often determined by its utilities, and this is where Roswell, New Mexico, shines. Xcel Energy is a valued member of the Roswell-Chaves County Economic Development Corporation (RCCEDC) and works closely with several community groups to prepare for future energy needs.

“Xcel Energy only grows when our communities grow, and we’re only strong when our communities are strong,” says Mike McLeod, senior manager of Community Relations for New Mexico. “It’s important that we support economic development to help New Mexico grow.”

Xcel Energy and its operating company, Southwestern Public Service Company (SPS), has served Roswell residents since 1904. What began as a local utility provider has expanded to serve eight states. It currently supports 3.7 million electric and 2.1 million natural gas customers. Learn more about this company's connection to the Roswell community. 

Xcel Energy is Preparing to Grow its Generation Capabilities 

Xcel Energy thrives as a utility provider because it refuses to rest on its laurels. It constantly works toward the future and anticipates increases in demand. In recent years, Xcel Energy has invested heavily in wind and solar energy production, which will provide additional energy generation starting in 2027. It is also exploring battery storage and high-efficiency technologies that can help the company meet its generation goals.

“Roswell and all of southeastern New Mexico are extremely fast-growing areas because of the oil and gas, agriculture, and manufacturing,” says McLeod. “We’re working very hard to meet load growth right now. It’s a challenge, but we’re working to meet the needs of residents and businesses while preparing for the future.”

Not only does a diverse energy mix make Xcel Energy more resilient, but it also helps companies meet their carbon emissions goals.

Xcel Energy is Known for Retaining its Employees 

Xcel Energy is a valued partner by the RCCEDC because it provides valuable utility services. However, it is also an important member because of its employment. Xcel Energy has a staff of 70 in Roswell, many of whom have stayed with the company for several years.

McLeod is a great example of this. He has been with the company for 42 years and has lived in Roswell his entire career with SPS and Xcel Energy. He says Xcel Energy is a fantastic company to work for because it impacts the entire community. Not only does Xcel Energy supply electricity but also supports the community through various sponsorships, volunteerism, and donations to non-profit organizations.

Wes Reeves, a community engagement manager and former media relations representative, has worked at Xcel Energy for 28 years and jokes that he is still considered a “youngster” at the utility. He says there are three things that make Xcel Energy a great place to work:

• Culture: Xcel Energy prioritizes safety and creates a healthy work environment. 
• Employee Growth: the company creates opportunities for team members to learn new skills and advance within the organization. 
• Stability: the local energy provider isn’t going anywhere and the company itself creates an environment of stability so workers feel empowered to help better their communities.

Xcel Energy is also deeply involved in the Roswell community. It is a member of the RCCEDC, part of the Roswell Chamber of Commerce, and donates to various organizations and charities through the Xcel Energy Foundation. 

Xcel Energy Works Closely With RCCEDC

Xcel Energy is a strong partner of the EDC and has helped develop certified sites that are more appealing to potential developers, businesses, and site selectors. The RCCEDC is preparing sites that are ready to go to market, lowering the barriers of entry for development.

“The EDC does a fantastic job,” says McLeod. “Any time I have had a need, Mike Espiritu and his team are ready to support us.”

Espiritu also appreciates the efforts of Xcel Energy and the long-term partnership between the utility partner and RCCEDC.

“Every project has energy needs and forecasts,” says Mike Espiritu, President and CEO of RCCEDC. Our strong partnership with Mike McLeod ensures we receive timely and accurate data for potential project opportunities. Timeline, pricing, and amazing customer service are critical components that Mike and Xcel Energy consistently provide. We just couldn't be as successful without his guidance, assistance, and positive attitude.”

Additional development means more opportunities for Roswell residents and greater opportunities for partnerships and growth for businesses.

“The city is on the right track improving the quality of life in Roswell,” says McLeod. “There are good jobs here and many young people go off to college and choose to come back to start their careers.”

McLeod adds that Roswell is a great place to live and raise a family. He didn’t anticipate staying here for 42 years when he first took the job at SPS but has enjoyed the sense of community and welcoming culture that Roswell provides. 

Learn More About the Infrastructure of Roswell, New Mexico

RCCEDC members like Xcel Energy allow Roswell to establish plans for growth in the coming decades. Learn more about our business environment and the infrastructure we have in place. Chaves County is the largest producer of solar energy in New Mexico and has enough water capacity to support four million people. With 64,000 residents currently, there’s plenty of room for growth.

Keep up with the RCCEDC and learn how you can get involved and shape the future of Roswell-Chaves County.