Standard&Poor's Ratings Services has assigned its 'A+' long-term rating to Austin, Texas' electric utility system revenue refunding bonds series 2010A and 2010B. At the same time, Standard&Poor's affirmed its 'A+' underlying rating (SPUR) on the city's separate lien electric utility system revenue bonds, and its 'AA' SPUR on the city's first-lien combined utility revenue bonds. The outlook is positive. The ratings reflect our view of the general creditworthiness of the system (known as Austin Energy), which includes its: Diversified generation resource mix that consists of coal, gas, and efficient nuclear for base load; Competitive rates, with a separate cost-recovery component that allows Austin Energy to true-up for fuel costs or purchased-power costs; Strong liquidity, including designated
