Xcel Energy seeking proposals for 500 megawatts of wind energy Eds: NewsNow. Will be led.

Bismarck, N.D. (AP) Xcel Energy is advertising its willingness to buy up to 500 megawatts of wind energy.

The company is asking wind power developers to submit their proposals by Feb. 29. Xcel wants developers to build wind-power projects, then transfer ownership to the Minneapolis utility.

Xcel wants the wind projects done by 2011.

The utility already has announced its intention to build or buy 200 megawatts of electric power from North Dakota wind farms by 2011.

The utility says it will consider arrangements in which a wind power developer builds the wind farm and agrees to sell the power to Xcel through a long-term contract.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 12-18-07 1527CST | save this article / add to your favorites list