What failed?

New automated meter-reading modules installed in gas meters late last year. Xcel Energy Inc. uses such modules to remotely read energy usage on 1.6 million of its 2.2 million gas and electric meters.

Where were the problems?

St. Cloud and Fargo, N.D., although Xcel said there also are some in the Twin Cities area.

What went wrong?

It appears that about 10 percent of the modules reported zero gas consumption from January through March, depending on the location.

What now?

Xcel tried to rebill customers for the faulty months, but regulators in Minnesota and North Dakota have numerous questions about its methodology, so that plan has been suspended for 60 days.