PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission approved the economic assistance program offered each year by Xcel Energy. The energy company sets aside one hundred thousand dollars for development projects in the towns they serve.

Xcel spokesman Eric Pauli says he talks officials in their service area every year.

Pauli says they try to reach out to small towns.

PUC Chairman Chris Nelson says he appreciates the efforts Xcel has made in small towns.

Some of the towns that got grants last year included Lennox, Tea, Canton, and Marion.