Xcel looks at new nuclear options as it moves to carbon-free power goals

Xcel Energy is looking at whether its Prairie Island nuclear plant in Welch, Minn., can cost effectively produce hydrogen. Glen Stubbe

As Xcel Energy and other U.S. electricity producers strive to reach 100% carbon-free power goals by midcentury, nuclear power is critical to their plans.

Wind and solar power will continue expanding, but by nature their output is variable. Nuclear power, though freighted with its own longstanding problems, is one of the only constant sources of carbon-free electricity.