The ratings of Xcel Energy (A-/CW-Neg/A-2) and its subsidiaries were placed on CreditWatch with negative implications on Feb.11, 2002. At the same time, the ratings of NRG Energy Inc. (BBB-/CW-Pos/--) were placed on CreditWatch with positive implications. Xcel's management has stated its intent to repurchase the shares of its 74%-owned subsidiary, NRG Energy. Previously, Standard & Poor's did not include the much weaker financial profile of NRG in the determination of Xcel's corporate credit rating, since it was believed that the company would be sold. However, the business risk and credit profile of NRG must now be incorporated in a determination of the overall corporate credit rating. Xcel Energy's other subsidiaries include Public Service Co. of Colorado, Southwestern Public Service