xel_072804

Xcel Energy reported improved second quarter 2004 earnings compared to the second quarter of 2003. Net income for the quarter was $86 million, or $0.21 per share, compared to a net loss of $283 million, or $0.71 per share in 2003. Regulated utility earnings from continuing operations improved to $89 million in 2004 from $77 million in 2003. Results from discontinued operations were earnings of $5 million in 2004 compared to losses of $337 million in 2003. The company maintained its annual earnings guidance of $1.15 to $1.25 per share.