The agreement that allows Xcel Energy to operate smoothly in the city of Denver will expire at the end of 2026, and the clock is ticking.

Mayor Mike Johnston’s administration has been negotiating for months on a renewal of the utility’s “franchise agreement.” The agreement must be renewed every 20 years — and each extension has to be approved by Denver’s voters.

City leaders hoped to put the renewal on this November’s election ballot. But the Denver City Council blocked the way earlier this month, with seven of the 13 members saying they wanted to get more community benefits out of the contract and a companion agreement.

The nonprofit Together Colorado was a key player in advocating for the delay. Volunteer leader Jeff Ackermann said the rejection was a surprising victory that left city

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