Basic EPS was computed by dividing the earnings available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS was computed by dividing the earnings available to common shareholders by the diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding.

Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other agreements to issue common stock (i.e., common stock equivalents) were settled. The weighted average number of potentially dilutive shares outstanding used to calculate diluted EPS is calculated using the treasury stock method.

Common Stock Equivalents — Xcel Energy Inc. has common stock equivalents related to forward equity agreements and time-based equity compensation awards.

Stock equivalent units granted to Xcel Energy Inc.’s Board of Directors are included in common shares outstanding upon grant date as there is no further service, performance or market condition associated with these awards. Restricted stock issued to employees is included in common shares outstanding when granted.

Share-based compensation arrangements for which there is currently no dilutive impact to EPS include the following:

•Equity awards subject to a performance condition; included in common shares outstanding when all necessary conditions for settlement have been satisfied by the end of the reporting period; and

•Liability awards subject to a performance condition; any portions settled in shares are included in common shares outstanding upon settlement.

Diluted common shares outstanding included common stock equivalents of 1.6 million and 1.0 million for the three and nine months ended Sept. 30, 2020, respectively, and 1.8 million and 1.6 million for the three and nine months ended Sept. 30, 2019, respectively.