A coalition of agricultural organizations has called for an investigation into Xcel Energy following the Smokehouse Creek Wildfire Complex.
The wildfire, which devastated parts of the Texas panhandle and western Oklahoma, was the largest in Texas history.
According to the coalition, ranchers, farmers, and landowners are still awaiting compensation from Xcel, which has accepted responsibility for the fire.
The coalition has criticized Xcel’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policies, linking them to increased risks of wildfires.
They also cited the 2021 Marshall Fire in Colorado, which was similarly attributed to Xcel, as another example of alleged negligence.
Concerns were raised over ESG priorities being placed above safety and effective production models.
As reported by the coalition, many affected landowners face financial ruin as claims remain unresolved 10 months after the fire.
Taylor Haynes, President of the Organization for Competitive Markets, called for state and federal investigations into Xcel’s handling of wildfire claims.
Bram Browder of the Center to Protect Ranchers highlighted the emotional and financial toll on ranchers and farmers.
The coalition has urged state and federal authorities to investigate Xcel’s actions and ensure swift resolutions.
They stressed the need for transparency and reforms to prevent future disasters and protect the food supply chain.
Marty Irby of Competitive Markets Action emphasized the importance of holding large utility companies accountable.
A coalition of conservative agricultural groups has called for an investigation into Xcel Energy after the Smokehouse Creek Wildfire Complex destroyed parts of Texas and Oklahoma.
The coalition criticized Xcel’s ESG policies, linking them to wildfire risks and alleging negligence in addressing safety concerns.
With many landowners still awaiting compensation nearly a year after the fire, the coalition is pushing for accountability, reforms, and resolution of claims.
