Moving toward its goal of 100% carbon-free electricity to customers by 2050, Minneapolis-based Xcel Energy Inc. said it still plans to incorporate more natural gas into its U.S. energy mix.

Xcel released its sustainability report ahead of 2Q2020 results, which were issued on Thursday. CEO Ben Fowke said the utility is stepping up its capital spending in eight states.

During the conference call to discuss results, Fowke said Xcel is proposing to spend up to $3 billion in Minnesota alone on wind repowering, utility scale solar, transmission, distribution and natural gas investments. About 800-1,000 megawatts (MW) could be added in repowering.

“Across our service territory, we are working with key stakeholders and communities to find ways to help support economic recovery...