United States
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
☒ Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the quarterly period ended:
September 30, 2021
☐ Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from _______________ to _______________
Commission
File No.
Name of Registrant, State of Incorporation, Address
of Principal Executive Offices, and Telephone No.
IRS Employer
Identification No.
000-49965
MGE Energy, Inc.
(a Wisconsin Corporation)
133 South Blair Street
Madison, Wisconsin 53788
(608) 252-7000 | mgeenergy.com
39-2040501
000-1125
Madison Gas and Electric Company
(608) 252-7000 | mge.com
39-0444025
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants (1) have filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days:
MGE Energy, Inc. Yes ☒ No ☐
Madison Gas and Electric Company Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants have submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrants were required to submit such files):
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large Accelerated Filer
Accelerated
Filer
Non-accelerated Filer
Smaller Reporting Company
Emerging Growth Company
☒
☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrants have elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
MGE Energy, Inc. ☐
Madison Gas and Electric Company ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants are shell companies (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act):
MGE Energy, Inc. Yes ☐ No ☒
Madison Gas and Electric Company Yes ☐ No ☒
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Trading symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $1 Par Value Per Share
MGEE
The NASDAQ Stock Market
Number of Shares Outstanding of Each Class of Common Stock as of October 31, 2021
Common stock, $1.00 par value, 36,163,370 shares outstanding.
Common stock, $1.00 par value, 17,347,894 shares outstanding (all of which are owned beneficially and of record by MGE Energy, Inc.).
1
Table of Contents
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
3
Filing Format
Forward-Looking Statements
Where to Find More Information
Definitions, Abbreviations, and Acronyms Used in the Text and Notes of this Report
4
Item 1. Financial Statements.
6
Consolidated Statements of Income (unaudited)
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)
7
Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)
8
Consolidated Statements of Common Equity (unaudited)
9
10
11
12
Consolidated Statements of Equity (unaudited)
13
MGE Energy, Inc., and Madison Gas and Electric Company - Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
14
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.
2. New Accounting Standards.
15
3. Investment in ATC and ATC Holdco.
4. Taxes.
16
5. Pension and Other Postretirement Plans.
6. Equity and Financing Arrangements.
17
7. Share-Based Compensation.
18
8. Commitments and Contingencies.
9. Rate Matters.
21
10. Derivative and Hedging Instruments.
22
11. Fair Value of Financial Instruments.
25
12. Joint Plant Construction Project Ownership.
29
13. Asset Retirement Obligations.
14. Revenue.
15. Segment Information.
31
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
33
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
51
Item 4. Controls and Procedures.
53
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION.
54
Item 1. Legal Proceedings.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
Item 5. Other Information.
Item 6. Exhibits.
55
Signatures - MGE Energy, Inc.
56
Signatures - Madison Gas and Electric Company
57
2
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION.
This combined Form 10-Q is being filed separately by MGE Energy, Inc. (MGE Energy) and Madison Gas and Electric Company (MGE). MGE is a wholly owned subsidiary of MGE Energy and represents a majority of its assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, and operations. Thus, all information contained in this report relates to, and is filed by, MGE Energy. Information that is specifically identified in this report as relating solely to MGE Energy, such as its financial statements and information relating to its nonregulated business, does not relate to, and is not filed by, MGE. MGE makes no representation as to that information. The terms "we" and "our," as used in this report, refer to MGE Energy and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise indicated.
This report, and other documents filed by MGE Energy and MGE with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from time to time, contain forward-looking statements that reflect management's current assumptions and estimates regarding future performance and economic conditions—especially as they relate to economic conditions, future load growth, revenues, expenses, capital expenditures, financial resources, regulatory matters, and the scope and expense associated with future environmental regulation. These forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "could," "should," "intend," "will," and other similar words generally identify forward-looking statements. Both MGE Energy and MGE caution investors that these forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, expressed, or implied.
The factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements made by a registrant include: (a) those factors discussed in the registrants' 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K: Item 1A. Risk Factors, Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, as updated by Part I, Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in this report, and Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Note 16, as updated by Part I, Item 1. Financial Statements – Note 8 in this report, and (b) other factors discussed herein and in other filings made by that registrant with the SEC.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this report. MGE Energy and MGE assume no obligation to release publicly any revision to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this report, except as required by law.
The public may read and copy any reports or other information that MGE Energy and MGE file with the SEC at the SEC's public reference room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. These documents also are available to the public from commercial document retrieval services, the website maintained by the SEC at sec.gov, MGE Energy's website at mgeenergy.com, and MGE's website at mge.com. Copies may be obtained from our websites free of charge. Information contained on MGE Energy's and MGE's websites shall not be deemed incorporated into, or to be a part of, this report.
Abbreviations, acronyms, and definitions used in the text and notes of this report are defined below.
MGE Energy and Subsidiaries:
CWDC
Central Wisconsin Development Corporation
MAGAEL
MAGAEL, LLC
MGE
MGE Energy
MGE Power
MGE Power, LLC
MGE Power Elm Road
MGE Power Elm Road, LLC
MGE Power West Campus
MGE Power West Campus, LLC
MGE Services
MGE Services, LLC
MGE State Energy Services
MGE State Energy Services, LLC
MGE Transco
MGE Transco Investment, LLC
MGEE Transco
MGEE Transco, LLC
North Mendota
North Mendota Energy & Technology Park, LLC
Other Defined Terms:
2017 Tax Act
Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017
2021 Plan
MGE Energy's 2021 Long-Term Incentive Plan
ACE Rule
Affordable Clean Energy Rule
AFUDC
Allowance for Funds Used During Construction
ARO
Asset retirement obligation
ATC
American Transmission Company LLC
ATC Holdco
ATC Holdco, LLC
Badger Hollow I
Badger Hollow I Solar Farm
Badger Hollow II
Badger Hollow II Solar Farm
Blount
Blount Station
BTA
Best technology available
CA
Certificate of Authority
CCR
Coal Combustion Residual
Columbia
Columbia Energy Center
cooling degree days
Measure of the extent to which the average daily temperature is above 65 degrees Fahrenheit, which is considered an indicator of possible increased demand for energy to provide cooling
COVID-19
Coronavirus Disease 2019
CPP Rule
Clean Power Plan Rule
CSAPR
Cross-State Air Pollution Rule
Dth
Dekatherms, a quantity measure for natural gas
ELG
Effluent Limitations Guidelines
electric margin
Electric revenues less fuel for electric generation and purchase power costs, a non-GAAP measure
Elm Road Units
Elm Road Generating Station
EPA
United States Environmental Protection Agency
FERC
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
FTR
Financial Transmission Rights
GAAP
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
gas margin
Gas revenues less cost of gas sold, a non-GAAP measure
GHG
Greenhouse gas
heating degree days (HDD)
Measure of the extent to which the average daily temperature is below 65 degrees Fahrenheit, which is considered an indicator of possible increased demand for energy to provide heating
IRS
Internal Revenue Service
kWh
Kilowatt-hour, a measure of electric energy produced
MISO
Midcontinent Independent System Operator (a regional transmission organization)
MW
Megawatt, a measure of electric energy generating capacity
MWh
Megawatt-hour, a measure of electric energy produced
NAAQS
National Ambient Air Quality Standards
NOx
Nitrogen oxide
O'Brien
O'Brien Solar Fields
PGA
Purchased Gas Adjustment clause, a regulatory mechanism used to reconcile natural gas costs recovered in rates to actual costs
PPA
Purchased Power Agreement
PSCW
Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
Riverside
Riverside Energy Center
ROE
Return on equity
Saratoga
Saratoga Wind Farm
SCR
Selective Catalytic Reduction
SEC
Securities and Exchange Commission
SIP
State Implementation Plan
SO2
Sulfur dioxide
Stock Plan
Direct Stock Purchase and Dividend Reinvestment Plan of MGE Energy
Two Creeks
Two Creeks Solar Farm
WCCF
West Campus Cogeneration Facility
WDNR
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
working capital
Current assets less current liabilities
WPL
Wisconsin Power and Light Company, a subsidiary of Alliant Energy Corporation
XBRL
eXtensible Business Reporting Language
5
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2021
2020
Operating Revenues:
Electric revenues
$
121,853
116,568
324,574
303,556
Gas revenues
24,020
18,643
119,944
98,568
Total Operating Revenues
145,873
135,211
444,518
402,124
Operating Expenses:
Fuel for electric generation
18,486
12,945
42,570
31,343
Purchased power
8,646
10,708
28,914
32,050
Cost of gas sold
8,780
3,812
57,728
40,950
Other operations and maintenance
48,494
45,819
144,563
136,412
Depreciation and amortization
18,991
18,592
55,968
55,193
Other general taxes
4,878
5,010
14,730
14,892
Total Operating Expenses
108,275
96,886
344,473
310,840
Operating Income
37,598
38,325
100,045
91,284
Other income, net
6,164
6,534
14,353
19,131
Interest expense, net
(6,079
)
(5,765
(17,591
(17,740
Income before income taxes
37,683
39,094
96,807
92,675
Income tax provision
(2,766
(7,300
(4,106
(16,053
Net Income
34,917
31,794
92,701
76,622
Earnings Per Share of Common Stock
Basic
0.97
0.88
2.56
2.16
Diluted
Dividends per share of common stock
0.388
0.370
1.128
1.075
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding
36,163
35,427
36,170
36,176
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the above unaudited consolidated financial statements.
(In thousands)
Operating Activities:
Net income
Items not affecting cash:
Deferred income taxes
1,955
8,464
Provision for doubtful receivables
1,163
1,078
Employee benefit plan cost (credit)
(935
(2,813
Equity earnings in investments
(7,440
(7,780
Other items
(618
382
Changes in working capital items:
(Increase) decrease in current assets
(11,240
5,494
Increase (decrease) in current liabilities
4,429
(8,808
Dividends from investments
5,842
6,929
Cash contributions to pension and other postretirement plans
(4,823
(4,576
Other noncurrent items, net
4,295
5,826
Cash Provided by Operating Activities
141,297
136,011
Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures
(114,142
(139,055
Capital contributions to investments
(4,227
(4,007
Other
(1,298
Cash Used for Investing Activities
(118,347
(144,360
Financing Activities:
Issuance of common stock, net
—
79,635
Cash dividends paid on common stock
(40,774
(38,349
Repayments of long-term debt
(3,567
(22,784
Issuance of long-term debt
100,000
19,300
Net repayments of short-term debt
(52,500
(1,503
(1,175
Cash Provided by Financing Activities
1,656
36,627
Change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
24,606
28,278
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period
47,039
25,814
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period
71,645
54,092
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Significant noncash investing activities:
Accrued capital expenditures
8,213
23,594
December 31,
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
70,454
44,738
Accounts receivable, less reserves of $4,937 and $5,787, respectively
43,162
41,384
Other accounts receivable, less reserves of $1,257 and $1,290, respectively
12,950
7,300
Unbilled revenues
22,973
27,511
Materials and supplies, at average cost
31,179
32,513
Fuel for electric generation, at average cost
3,724
6,356
Stored natural gas, at average cost
15,624
8,396
Prepaid taxes
12,983
15,179
Regulatory assets - current
8,060
14,748
Other current assets
12,976
11,394
Total Current Assets
234,085
209,519
Other long-term receivables
982
1,435
Regulatory assets
135,603
142,504
Pension benefit asset
25,594
13,873
Other deferred assets and other
27,868
22,259
Property, Plant, and Equipment:
Property, plant, and equipment, net
1,743,447
1,630,286
Construction work in progress
103,919
139,099
Total Property, Plant, and Equipment
1,847,366
1,769,385
Investments
99,236
94,676
Total Assets
2,370,734
2,253,651
LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION
Current Liabilities:
Long-term debt due within one year
4,859
4,771
Short-term debt
52,500
Accounts payable
57,431
54,642
Accrued interest and taxes
7,769
8,539
Accrued payroll related items
12,109
12,635
Regulatory liabilities - current
31,293
41,664
Derivative liabilities
160
10,160
Other current liabilities
9,922
6,015
Total Current Liabilities
123,543
190,926
Other Credits:
241,731
231,471
Investment tax credit - deferred
31,011
21,821
Regulatory liabilities
149,028
142,239
Accrued pension and other postretirement benefits
77,406
78,168
3,980
Finance lease liabilities
17,828
17,532
Other deferred liabilities and other
86,591
72,211
Total Other Credits
603,595
567,422
Capitalization:
Common shareholders' equity
1,028,285
976,000
Long-term debt
615,311
519,303
Total Capitalization
1,643,596
1,495,303
Commitments and contingencies (see Footnote 8)
Total Liabilities and Capitalization
Accumulated
Additional
Common Stock
Paid-in
Retained
Comprehensive
Shares
Value
Capital
Earnings
Income/(Loss)
Total
Three Months Ended September 30, 2020
Beginning Balance
394,408
524,600
955,171
Common stock dividends declared ($0.370 per share)
(13,381
Ending Balance - September 30, 2020
543,013
973,584
Three Months Ended September 30, 2021
394,686
576,452
1,007,301
Common stock dividends declared ($0.388 per share)
(14,013
Equity-based compensation plans and other
80
Ending Balance - September 30, 2021
394,766
597,356
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020
34,668
316,268
504,740
855,676
Common stock dividends declared ($1.075 per share)
Common stock issued, net
1,495
78,140
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2021
545,429
Common stock dividends declared ($1.128 per share)
358
48,315
45,591
143,978
135,634
108,096
96,658
343,888
310,062
37,777
38,553
100,630
92,062
3,306
4,093
6,375
11,005
(6,089
(5,802
(17,623
(17,848
34,994
36,844
89,382
85,219
(1,993
(6,611
(1,853
(14,028
33,001
30,233
87,529
71,191
Less: Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling
Interest, net of tax
(5,627
(5,493
(16,755
(16,754
Net Income Attributable to MGE
27,374
24,740
70,774
54,437
1,375
7,334
864
1,234
(11,777
3,352
2,528
(5,212
3,559
5,090
135,451
131,871
(1,449
(1,512
(115,591
(140,567
Distributions to parent from noncontrolling interest
(10,500
(16,000
Capital contribution from parent
30,000
(1,144
31,930
9,372
51,790
676
6,404
5,529
58,194
6,205
57,003
4,103
Affiliate receivables
532
12,947
7,295
13,210
14,848
12,884
11,326
221,298
169,012
Affiliate receivable long-term
1,721
2,118
27,839
22,448
1,743,475
1,630,314
1,847,394
1,769,413
244
603
2,259,693
2,119,971
57,404
54,576
7,723
10,405
6,042
123,470
192,753
210,071
200,390
86,927
72,173
572,271
536,303
Common shareholder's equity
801,190
730,416
Noncontrolling interest
147,451
141,196
Total Equity
948,641
871,612
1,563,952
1,390,915
Non-
Controlling
Interest
Beginning balance
17,348
252,917
426,718
143,064
840,047
5,493
(7,500
451,458
141,057
862,780
503,551
144,824
918,640
5,627
(3,000
530,925
222,917
397,021
140,303
777,589
16,754
Capital contributions from parent
460,151
16,755
MGE Energy, Inc., and Madison Gas and Electric Company
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies – MGE Energy and MGE.
This report is a combined report of MGE Energy and MGE. References in this report to "MGE Energy" are to MGE Energy, Inc. and its subsidiaries. References in this report to "MGE" are to Madison Gas and Electric Company.
MGE Power Elm Road and MGE Power West Campus own electric generating assets and lease those assets to MGE. Both entities are variable interest entities under applicable authoritative accounting guidance. MGE is considered the primary beneficiary of these entities as a result of contractual agreements. As a result, MGE has consolidated MGE Power Elm Road and MGE Power West Campus. See Footnote 3 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, of MGE Energy's and MGE's 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K (the 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K).
The accompanying consolidated financial statements as of September 30, 2021, and during the three and nine months ended, are unaudited but include all adjustments that MGE Energy and MGE management consider necessary for a fair statement of their respective financial statements. All adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature except as otherwise disclosed. The year-end consolidated balance sheet information was derived from the audited balance sheet appearing in the 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These notes should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes on pages 62 through 115 of the 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The following table presents the components of total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash on the consolidated balance sheets.
Restricted cash
641
644
Receivable - margin account
550
1,657
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
Cash Equivalents
All highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Restricted Cash
MGE has certain cash accounts that are restricted to uses other than current operations and designated for a specific purpose. MGE's restricted cash accounts include cash held by trustees for certain employee benefits and cash deposits held by third parties. These are included in "Other current assets" on the consolidated balance sheets.
Receivable – Margin Account
Cash amounts held by counterparties as margin collateral for certain financial transactions are recorded as Receivable – margin account in "Other current assets" on the consolidated balance sheets. The costs being hedged are fuel for electric generation, purchased power, and cost of gas sold.
Columbia.
An asset that will be retired in the near future and substantially in advance of its previously expected retirement date is subject to abandonment accounting. In the second quarter of 2021, the operator of Columbia received approval from MISO to retire Columbia Units 1 and 2. The co-owners intend to retire Unit 1 by the end of 2023 and Unit 2 by the end of 2024. Final timing and retirement dates for Units 1 and 2 are subject to PSCW and regional reviews, including identification and approval of energy and capacity resources to replace Columbia. As of September 30, 2021, early retirement of Columbia was probable. The net book value of our ownership share of this generating unit was $161.6 million as of September 30, 2021. This amount was classified as plant to be retired within "Property, plant, and equipment, net" on the consolidated balance sheets. Assets for Columbia Unit 1 and Unit 2 are currently included in rate base, and MGE continues to depreciate them on a straight-line basis using the composite depreciation rates approved by the PSCW that included retirement dates of 2029 for Unit 1 and 2038 for Unit 2. If it becomes probable that regulators will disallow full recovery or a return on the remaining net book value of a generating unit that is either abandoned or probable of being abandoned, an impairment loss would be required. An impairment loss would be recorded for the difference of the remaining net book value of the generating unit that is greater than the present value of the amount expected to be recovered from ratepayers. No impairment was recorded as of September 30, 2021.
2. New Accounting Standards - MGE Energy and MGE.
MGE Energy and MGE reviewed FASB authoritative guidance recently issued, none of which are expected to have a material impact on the consolidated results of operations, financial condition, or cash flows.
3. Investment in ATC and ATC Holdco - MGE Energy and MGE.
ATC owns and operates electric transmission facilities primarily in Wisconsin. MGE received an interest in ATC when it, like other Wisconsin electric utilities, contributed its electric transmission facilities to ATC as required by Wisconsin law. That interest is presently held by MGE Transco, a subsidiary of MGE Energy. ATC Holdco was formed by several members of ATC, including MGE Energy, to pursue electric transmission development and investments outside of Wisconsin. The ownership interest in ATC Holdco is held by MGEE Transco, a subsidiary of MGE Energy.
MGE Transco and MGEE Transco have accounted for their investments in ATC and ATC Holdco, respectively, under the equity method of accounting. Equity earnings from investments are recorded as "Other income" on the consolidated statements of income of MGE Energy. MGE Transco recorded the following amounts related to its investment in ATC:
Equity earnings from investment in ATC
2,500
2,319
7,333
7,724
1,942
2,349
6,620
Capital contributions to ATC
359
892
ATC Holdco was formed in December 2016. ATC Holdco's transmission development activities have been suspended for the near term.
ATC's summarized financial data is as follows:
Operating revenues
186,785
187,833
561,379
577,705
Operating expenses
(91,340
(92,975
(278,828
(285,697
123
643
1,164
1,924
(28,674
(28,801
(86,337
(83,947
Earnings before members' income taxes
66,894
66,700
197,378
209,985
MGE receives transmission and other related services from ATC. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, MGE recorded $8.0 million and $24.0 million, respectively, for transmission services received compared to $7.7 million and $23.0 million for the comparable periods in 2020. MGE also provides a variety of operational, maintenance, and project management work for ATC, which is reimbursed by ATC. As of September 30, 2021, and December 31, 2020, MGE had a receivable due from ATC of $4.7 million and $2.6 million, respectively. The receivable is primarily related to Badger Hollow I and II. MGE is reimbursed for these costs after the new generation assets are placed into service.
4. Taxes - MGE Energy and MGE.
Effective Tax Rate.
The consolidated income tax provision differs from the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate to income before income taxes, as follows:
Three Months Ended September 30,
Statutory federal income tax rate
21.0
%
State income taxes, net of federal benefit
6.2
6.3
Amortized investment tax credits
(1.2)
(0.1)
(1.3)
Credit for electricity from wind energy
(4.8)
(5.0)
(5.2)
(5.4)
AFUDC equity, net
(1.1)
Amortization of utility excess deferred tax - tax reform(a)
(12.4)
(2.0)
(13.5)
(2.2)
Other, net, individually insignificant
(0.4)
(0.3)
Effective income tax rate
7.3
18.7
5.7
17.9
Nine Months Ended September 30,
(1.4)
(1.5)
(6.0)
(6.1)
(6.6)
(1.0)
(14.5)
(2.4)
(15.9)
(2.6)
-
4.2
17.3
2.1
16.5
5. Pension and Other Postretirement Plans - MGE Energy and MGE.
MGE maintains qualified and nonqualified pension plans, health care, and life insurance benefits and defined contribution 401(k) benefit plans for its employees and retirees.
The components of net periodic benefit cost, other than the service cost component, are recorded in "Other income, net" on the consolidated statements of income. The service cost component is recorded in "Other operations and maintenance" on the consolidated statements of income. MGE has regulatory treatment and recognizes regulatory assets or liabilities for timing differences between when net periodic benefit costs are recovered and when costs are recognized.
The following table presents the components of net periodic benefit costs recognized.
Pension Benefits
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost
1,432
1,324
4,296
3,972
Interest cost
2,280
3,052
6,840
9,157
Expected return on assets
(7,372
(6,807
(22,115
(20,422
Amortization of:
Prior service credit
(31
(93
Actuarial loss
1,662
1,339
4,985
4,018
Net periodic benefit (credit) cost
(2,029
(1,123
(6,087
(3,368
Postretirement Benefits
362
316
1,086
948
387
570
1,161
1,709
(819
(789
(2,457
(2,366
Transition obligation
(379
(667
(1,138
(2,001
370
165
(325
(514
(976
(1,543
As approved by the PSCW, MGE is allowed to defer differences between actual employee benefit plan costs and costs reflected in current rates. The deferred costs may be recovered or refunded in MGE's next rate filing. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, MGE recovered $0.3 million and $3.9 million of pension and other postretirement costs, respectively, compared to $0.2 million and $0.7 million for the comparable periods in 2020. The recovery of these costs reduced the amount previously deferred and has not been reflected in the table above.
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, MGE deferred $2.8 million and $5.4 million, respectively, of savings from 2021 employee benefit plan costs and recorded as a regulatory liability. The deferred savings has not been reflected in the table above.
MGE Energy sells shares of its common stock through its Direct Stock Purchase and Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the Stock Plan). Those shares may be newly issued shares or shares that are purchased in the open market by an independent agent for participants in the Stock Plan. All sales under the Stock Plan are covered by a shelf registration statement that MGE Energy filed with the SEC. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, MGE Energy issued no new shares of common stock under the Stock Plan.
In May 2020, MGE Energy issued 1.5 million shares of its common stock in an underwritten offering. MGE Energy received proceeds, net of underwriter fees and issuance costs, of $79.6 million from the issuance and sale of those shares. The net proceeds are being used for general corporate purposes, including funding capital expenditures being made by MGE.
As of September 30, 2021, 13,021 shares were included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share related to nonvested equity awards. See Footnote 7 for additional information on shared-based compensation awards.
In May 2021, MGE entered into a private placement Note Purchase Agreement in which it committed to issue $60 million of new long-term debt (Series A), carrying an interest rate of 2.48% per annum over its 10-year life, and $40 million of new long-term debt (Series B), carrying an interest rate of 2.63% per annum over its 12-year life. Funding occurred on June 15, 2021, for Series B and August 27, 2021, for Series A. The proceeds of the debt financing will be used to assist with capital expenditures and other corporate obligations. The covenants of this debt are substantially consistent with MGE's existing unsecured long-term debt.
7. Share-Based Compensation - MGE Energy and MGE.
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, MGE recorded $0.3 million and $1.6 million, respectively, in compensation expense related to share-based compensation awards under the 2006 Performance Unit Plan, the 2020 Performance Unit Plan, the 2013 Director Incentive Plan, and the 2021 Long-Term Incentive Plan (2021 Plan) compared to $0.2 million and $0.3 million for the comparable periods in 2020.
In January 2021, cash payments of $1.9 million were distributed related to awards that were granted in 2018, for the 2013 Director Incentive Plan, and in 2016, for the 2006 Performance Unit Plan.
In February 2021, MGE issued 10,187 performance units and 16,267 restricted stock units under the 2021 Plan to eligible employees and non-employee directors.
MGE recognizes stock-based compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Awards classified as equity awards are measured based on their grant-date fair value. Awards classified as liability awards are recorded at fair value each reporting period. The performance units can be paid out in either cash, shares of common stock or a combination of cash and stock and are classified as a liability award. The restricted stock units will be paid out in shares of common stock, and therefore are classified as equity awards.
In February 2021, MGE and the other co-owners of Columbia announced plans to retire that facility. The co-owners intend to retire Unit 1 by the end of 2023 and Unit 2 by the end of 2024. Final timing and retirement dates for Units 1 and 2 are subject to PSCW and regional regulatory reviews, including identification and approval of energy and capacity resources to replace Columbia. Effects of environmental compliance requirements discussed below will depend upon the final retirement dates approved and compliance requirement dates.
MGE Energy and MGE are subject to frequently changing local, state, and federal regulations concerning air quality, water quality, land use, threatened and endangered species, hazardous materials handling, and solid waste disposal. These regulations affect the manner in which operations are conducted, the costs of operations, as well as capital and operating expenditures. Several of these environmental rules are subject to legal challenges, reconsideration and/or other uncertainties. Regulatory initiatives, proposed rules, and court challenges to adopted rules could have a material effect on capital expenditures and operating costs. Management believes compliance costs will be recovered in future rates based on previous treatment of environmental compliance projects.
These initiatives, proposed rules, and court challenges include:
In July 2021, the PSCW approved a Certificate of Authority (CA) application filed by MGE and the other owners of Columbia. The CA application commits to close Columbia's wet pond system to comply with the Coal Combustions Residuals (CCR) Rule as described in further detail in the CCR section below. By committing to close the wet pond system, Columbia will be in compliance with ELG requirements.
The Elm Road Units must satisfy the rule's requirements no later than December 31, 2023, as determined by the permitting authority. The operator of the Elm Road Units has been evaluating the rule impacts and has conducted an analysis of compliance obligations, pollution prevention technologies, and their associated costs. In February 2021, MGE and the other co-owners of the Elm Road Units filed a CA application with the PSCW. If approved, MGE's share of the estimated costs to comply with the rule is estimated to be approximately $4 million. Subject to approval from the PSCW, construction is expected to begin in 2022.
Blount's Wisconsin Pollution Discharge Elimination System permit assumes that the plant meets BTA for the duration of the permit, which expires in 2023. However, MGE must conduct studies of its Blount plant by the end of 2021 to help regulators determine BTA.
Columbia's river intakes are subject to this rule. BTA improvements may not be required given that Columbia could be fully retired before the issuance of the next permit, which is expected to be issued in 2023 or later. MGE will continue to work with Columbia's operator to evaluate all regulatory requirements applicable to the planned retirements. MGE does not expect this rule to have a material effect on its existing plants.
In January 2021, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit (D.C. Circuit) vacated and remanded to the EPA the Affordable Clean Energy Rule (ACE Rule) and the repeal of the predecessor Clean Power Plan Rule (CPP Rule), both of which regulated greenhouse gas emissions from existing electric generation units pursuant to Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act. As a result of these legal proceedings, neither the CPP nor ACE rules are currently in effect. MGE will continue to evaluate the rule development and monitor ongoing and potential legal proceedings.
In May 2021, the EPA published a final rule that expands several nonattainment areas in Wisconsin to include all of Milwaukee County where MGE's Elm Road Units are located. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) will need to develop a State
19
Implementation Plan (SIP) for the area, which will likely result in more stringent requirements for both new development and existing plants in the area. MGE will monitor the WDNR's SIP development and the extent to which the requirements will impact the Elm Road Units. At this time, MGE does not expect that the 2015 Ozone NAAQS will have a material effect on its existing plants based on final designations.
The EPA's CSAPR and its progeny are a suite of interstate air pollution transport rules designed to reduce ozone and fine particulate (PM2.5) air levels in areas that the EPA has determined as being significantly impacted by pollution from upwind states. In September 2019, the D.C. Circuit remanded the rule to the EPA holding that the rule improperly provided only a partial remedy for addressing interstate transport of pollutants from upwind to downwind states. In March 2021, the EPA addressed the remand by finalizing its revised CSAPR Update Rule. The revised rule does not require further emission reductions from Wisconsin stationary sources beyond those under the original CSAPR. MGE has met its current CSAPR obligations through a combination of reduced emissions through pollution control (e.g., SCR installation at Columbia), and owned, received, and purchased allowances. MGE expects to meet ongoing CSAPR obligations for the foreseeable future. MGE will continue to monitor legal developments and any future updates to this rule.
Review of the Elm Road Units has indicated that the costs to comply with this rule are not expected to be significant. Columbia's operator has completed a review of its system and has developed a compliance plan. In July 2021, the PSCW approved a CA application filed by MGE and the other owners of Columbia to install technology required to cease bottom ash transport water discharges rather than extend the longevity of the ash ponds. MGE's share of the estimated costs of the project will be approximately $4 million. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2022.
MGE is involved in various legal matters that are being defended and handled in the normal course of business. MGE accrues for costs that are probable of being incurred and subject to reasonable estimation. The accrued amount for these matters is not material to the financial statements. MGE does not expect the resolution of these matters to have a material adverse effect on its consolidated results of operations, financial condition, or cash flows.
In January 2021, certain environmental groups filed a petition against the PSCW regarding MGE's 2021 rate settlement. MGE has intervened in the petition in cooperation with the PSCW. See Footnote 9.a. for more information regarding this matter.
20
MGE Energy and MGE have entered into various commodity supply, transportation, and storage contracts to meet their obligations to deliver electricity and natural gas to customers. Management expects to recover these costs in future customer rates. The following table shows future commitments related to purchase contracts as of September 30, 2021:
2022
2023
2024
2025
Thereafter
Coal(a)
5,050
12,400
6,447
1,617
894
Natural gas
Transportation and storage(b)
6,665
23,305
23,919
25,210
Supply(c)
21,432
20,033
3,897
3,192
1,676
890
104
37,044
58,930
32,042
26,426
24,917
26,102
9. Rate Matters - MGE Energy and MGE.
In September 2021, MGE filed with the PSCW a proposed settlement agreement for its pending 2022 rate case. The settlement agreement proposes a 5.16% increase to electric rates and a 2.15% increase to gas rates for 2022. The proposed electric and gas rate increases are driven by an increase in rate base including our investments in Badger Hollow I and a new customer information system. Also driving the requested electric increase is the completion in 2021 of the one-time return of the electric excess deferred tax credit related to the 2017 Tax Act not restricted by IRS normalization rules. Included in the proposed electric residential rate is a reduction in the customer charge. As part of the settlement agreement for 2023, MGE is proposing a 0.96% increase in gas rates and to address a potential electric rate change through a limited rate case re-opener. The proposed return on common stock equity for 2022 is 9.8% based on a proposed capital structure consisting of 55.6% common equity in 2022. PSCW approval of the settlement agreement is pending. A final order is expected before the end of the year.
In December 2020, the PSCW approved a settlement agreement for MGE's 2021 rate case. The settlement agreement provides for a zero percent increase for electric rates and an approximately 4% increase for gas rates in 2021. The electric rate settlement includes an increase in rate base but the associated rate increase is primarily offset by lower fuel and purchase power costs and a one-time $18.2 million return to customers of the portion of excess deferred taxes related to the 2017 Tax Act not restricted by IRS normalization rules. As part of the settlement, the fuel rules bandwidth is set at plus or minus 1% for 2021. When compared to the 2020 rate case, the settlement included lower forecasted electric sales for 2021 to reflect changes to customer usage during the COVID-19 pandemic. The gas rate increase covers infrastructure costs and technology improvements. The settlement agreement also includes escrow accounting treatment for pension and other postretirement benefit costs, bad debt expense, and customer credit card fees. Escrow accounting treatment allows MGE to defer any difference between estimated costs in rates and actual costs incurred until its next rate filing. Any difference would be recorded as a regulatory asset or regulatory liability. The return on common stock equity for 2021 is 9.8% based on a capital structure of 55.8% common equity in 2021.
On January 27, 2021, Sierra Club and Vote Solar filed a petition with the Dane County Circuit Court seeking review of the PSCW decision approving the rate settlement in MGE's 2021 rate case. The PSCW is named as the responding party; MGE is not named as a party. The petition challenges the process the PSCW used to approve the portion of the settlement relating to electric rates and the electric customer fixed charge that does not vary with usage. The requested relief is unclear. The revenue requirement
approved by the PSCW in the settlement has not been challenged. The PSCW is expected to vigorously defend its approval of the rate case settlement. MGE has intervened in the proceedings to further defend the PSCW's decision. This litigation is currently stayed pending MGE's 2022 rate case proceedings.
In December 2018, the PSCW approved a settlement agreement between MGE and intervening parties in the then pending rate case. The settlement decreased electric rates by 2.24%, or $9.2 million, in 2019. The decrease in electric rates reflected the ongoing impacts of the 2017 Tax Act. Lower fuel costs and an increase in rate base from renewable generation assets further impacted the rate change. In 2020, electric rates decreased a further 0.84%, or $3.4 million, as approved by the PSCW in December 2019 in MGE's 2020 Fuel Cost Plan, which reflected lower fuel costs. The settlement agreement increased gas rates by 1.06%, or $1.7 million, in 2019 and 1.46%, or $2.4 million, in 2020. The gas increase covered infrastructure costs. It also reflected the impacts of the 2017 Tax Act. The return on common stock equity for 2019 and 2020 was 9.8% based on a capital structure consisting of 56.6% common equity in 2019 and 56.1% common equity in 2020.
Fuel rules require Wisconsin utilities to defer electric fuel-related costs that fall outside a symmetrical cost tolerance band around the amount approved for a utility in its annual fuel proceedings. Any over- or under-recovery of the actual costs is determined in the following year and is then reflected in future billings to electric retail customers. The fuel rules bandwidth is set at plus or minus 1% in 2021. Under fuel rules, MGE defers costs, less any excess revenues, if its actual electric fuel costs exceed 101% of the electric fuel costs allowed in its latest rate order. Excess revenues are defined as revenues in the year in question that provide MGE with a greater return on common equity than authorized by the PSCW in MGE's latest rate order. Conversely, MGE is required to defer the benefit of lower costs if actual electric fuel costs were less than 99% of the electric fuel costs allowed in that order. In 2020 the fuel rules bandwidth was set at plus or minus 2%. These costs are subject to the PSCW's annual review of fuel costs completed in the year following the deferral.
The PSCW issued a final decision in the 2019 fuel rules proceedings regarding $1.5 million of deferred savings giving MGE the option either to use the $1.5 million as part of the settlement to MGE's 2021 rate case or to refund the balance to customers in October 2020. MGE elected to include the savings as part of the 2021 rate change settlement as described above, reducing electric retail rates as opposed to a one-time credit back to retail customers. There was no change to the refund in the fuel rules proceedings from the amount MGE deferred in the previous year.
In September 2021, the PSCW issued a final decision in the 2020 fuel rules proceedings for MGE to refund $3.2 million of additional fuel savings realized during 2020 plus accrued interest to its retail electric customers over a one-month period in October 2021. There was no change to the refund in the fuel rules proceedings from the amount MGE deferred in the previous year.
As of September 30, 2021, MGE had no deferred 2021 fuel savings or costs.
10. Derivative and Hedging Instruments - MGE Energy and MGE.
As part of its regular operations, MGE enters into contracts, including options, swaps, futures, forwards, and other contractual commitments, to manage its exposure to commodity prices. To the extent that these contracts are derivatives, MGE assesses whether or not the normal purchases or normal sales exclusion applies. For contracts to which this exclusion cannot be applied, the derivatives are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets at fair value. MGE's financial commodity derivative activities are conducted in accordance with its electric and gas risk management program, which is approved by the PSCW and limits the volume MGE can hedge with specific risk management strategies. The maximum length of time over which cash flows related to energy commodities can be hedged is four years. If the derivative qualifies for regulatory deferral, the derivatives are marked to fair value and are offset with a corresponding regulatory asset or liability depending on whether the derivative is in a net loss or net gain position, respectively. The deferred gain or loss is recognized in earnings in the
delivery month applicable to the instrument. Gains and losses related to hedges qualifying for regulatory treatment are recoverable in gas rates through the PGA or in electric rates as a component of the fuel rules mechanism.
The gross notional volume of open derivatives is as follows:
December 31, 2020
Commodity derivative contracts
290,520
259,080
9,050,000
6,030,000
FTRs
3,280
2,869
400
850
MGE purchases and sells exchange-traded and over-the-counter options, swaps, and future contracts. These arrangements are primarily entered into to help stabilize the price risk associated with gas or power purchases. These transactions are employed by both MGE's gas and electric segments. Additionally, as a result of the firm transmission agreements that MGE holds on electricity transmission paths in the MISO market, MGE holds financial transmission rights (FTRs). An FTR is a financial instrument that entitles the holder to a stream of revenues or charges based on the differences in hourly day-ahead energy prices between two points on the transmission grid. The fair values of these instruments are offset with a corresponding regulatory asset/liability depending on whether they are in a net loss/gain position. Depending on the nature of the instrument, the gain or loss associated with these transactions will be reflected as cost of gas sold, fuel for electric generation, or purchased power expense in the delivery month applicable to the instrument. As of September 30, 2021, and December 31, 2020, the fair value of exchange traded derivatives and FTRs exceeded their cost basis by $13.8 million and $0.2 million, respectively.
MGE is a party to a purchased power agreement that provides MGE with firm capacity and energy during a base term from June 1, 2012, through May 31, 2022. The agreement is accounted for as a derivative contract and is recognized at its fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. However, the derivative qualifies for regulatory deferral and is recognized with a corresponding regulatory asset or liability depending on whether the fair value is in a loss or gain position. The fair value of the contract as of September 30, 2021, and December 31, 2020, reflected a loss position of $0.2 million and $14.1 million, respectively. The actual cost will be recognized in purchased power expense in the month of purchase.
The following table summarizes the fair value of the derivative instruments on the consolidated balance sheets. All derivative instruments in this table are presented on a gross basis and are calculated prior to the netting of instruments with the same counterparty under a master netting agreement as well as the netting of collateral. For financial statement purposes, instruments are netted with the same counterparty under a master netting agreement as well as the netting of collateral.
Derivative
Assets
Liabilities
Balance Sheet Location
Commodity derivative contracts(a)
13,426
375
559
Other deferred charges
225
N/A
Derivative liability (current)
Derivative liability (long-term)
Commodity derivative contracts(b)
617
593
189
39
23
The following tables show the effect of netting arrangements for recognized derivative assets and liabilities that are subject to a master netting arrangement or similar arrangement on the consolidated balance sheets.
Offsetting of Derivative Assets
Gross Amounts
Gross Amounts Offset in Balance Sheets
Collateral Posted Against Derivative Positions
Net Amount Presented in Balance Sheets
13,985
(375
(9,235
4,375
806
(632
174
Offsetting of Derivative Liabilities
632
14,140
The following tables summarize the unrealized and realized gains/losses related to the derivative instruments on the consolidated balance sheets and the consolidated statements of income.
Current and Long-Term Regulatory Asset (Liability)
Other Current Assets
Three Months Ended September 30:
Balance as of July 1,
2,581
520
20,400
940
Unrealized gain
(18,677
(4,695
Realized gain (loss) reclassified to a deferred account
65
(65
(207
207
Realized gain (loss) reclassified to income statement
2,356
311
(1,481
(164
Balance as of September 30,
(13,675
766
14,017
983
Nine Months Ended September 30:
Balance as of January 1,
13,989
1,162
26,875
1,100
(30,314
(8,032
Realized (loss) gain reclassified to a deferred account
(351
351
(1,999
1,999
3,001
(747
(2,827
(2,116
24
Realized Losses (Gains)
Fuel for Electric Generation/ Purchased Power
Cost of Gas Sold
(1,586
680
28
(132
184
(949
753
(2,107
1,055
2,303
1,682
(443
78
(759
880
MGE's commodity derivative contracts, FTRs, and PPA are subject to regulatory deferral. These derivatives are marked to fair value and are offset with a corresponding regulatory asset or liability. Realized gains and losses are deferred on the consolidated balance sheets and are recognized in earnings in the delivery month applicable to the instrument. As a result of the treatment described above, there are no unrealized gains or losses that flow through earnings.
The PPA has a provision that may require MGE to post collateral if MGE's debt rating falls below investment grade (i.e., below BBB-). The amount of collateral that it may be required to post varies from $20.0 million to $40.0 million, depending on MGE's nominated capacity amount. As of September 30, 2021, no collateral was required to be, or had been, posted. Certain counterparties extend MGE a credit limit. If MGE exceeds these limits, the counterparties may require collateral to be posted. As of September 30, 2021, and December 31, 2020, no counterparties were in a net liability position.
Nonperformance of counterparties to the non-exchange traded derivatives could expose MGE to credit loss. However, MGE enters into transactions only with companies that meet or exceed strict credit guidelines, and it monitors these counterparties on an ongoing basis to mitigate nonperformance risk in its portfolio. As of September 30, 2021, no counterparties had defaulted.
11. Fair Value of Financial Instruments - MGE Energy and MGE.
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or would be paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The accounting standard clarifies that fair value should be based on the assumptions market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability including assumptions about risk. The standard also establishes a three-level fair value hierarchy based upon the observability of the assumptions used and requires the use of observable market data when available. The levels are:
Level 1 - Pricing inputs are quoted prices within active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 - Pricing inputs are quoted prices within active markets for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations that are correlated with or otherwise verifiable by observable market data.
Level 3 - Pricing inputs are unobservable and reflect management's best estimate of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.
The carrying amount of cash, cash equivalents, and outstanding commercial paper approximates fair market value due to the short maturity of those investments and obligations. The estimated fair market value of long-term debt is based on quoted market prices for similar financial instruments. Since long-term debt is not traded in an active market, it is classified as Level 2. The estimated fair market value of financial instruments are as follows:
Carrying Amount
Fair Value
Assets:
Liabilities:
Short-term debt - commercial paper
Long-term debt(a)
624,653
692,987
528,220
639,271
The following table presents the balances of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis.
Fair Value as of September 30, 2021
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Derivatives, net(b)
14,210
10,451
3,759
Exchange-traded investments
1,124
15,334
11,575
Derivatives, net
535
365
170
Deferred compensation
3,496
Total Liabilities
4,031
14,454
10,695
26
Fair Value as of December 31, 2020
436
1,750
2,556
2,186
14,795
14,425
3,509
18,304
1,409
1,039
Investments include exchange-traded investment securities valued using quoted prices on active exchanges and are therefore classified as Level 1.
The deferred compensation plan allows participants to defer certain cash compensation into a notional investment account. These amounts are included within other deferred liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. The notional investments earn interest based upon the semiannual rate of U.S. Treasury Bills having a 26-week maturity increased by 1% compounded monthly with a minimum annual rate of 7%, compounded monthly. The notional investments are based upon observable market data, however, since the deferred compensation obligations themselves are not exchanged in an active market, they are classified as Level 2.
Derivatives include exchange-traded derivative contracts, over-the-counter transactions, a purchased power agreement, and FTRs. Most exchange-traded derivative contracts are valued based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are therefore classified as Level 1. A small number of exchange-traded derivative contracts are valued using quoted market pricing in markets with insufficient volumes and are therefore considered unobservable and classified as Level 3. Transactions done with an over-the-counter party are on inactive markets and are therefore classified as Level 3. These transactions are valued based on quoted prices from markets with similar exchange-traded transactions. FTRs are priced based upon monthly auction results for identical or similar instruments in a closed market with limited data available and are therefore classified as Level 3.
The purchased power agreement (see Footnote 10) was valued using an internal pricing model and therefore is classified as Level 3. The model projects future market energy prices and compares those prices to the projected power costs to be incurred under the contract. Inputs to the model require significant management judgment and estimation. Future energy prices are based on a forward power pricing curve using exchange-traded contracts in the electric futures market. A basis adjustment is applied to the market energy price to reflect the price differential between the market price delivery point and the counterparty delivery point. The historical relationship between the delivery points is reviewed and a discount (below 100%) or premium (above 100%) is derived. This comparison is done for both peak times when demand is high and off-peak times when demand is low. If the basis adjustment is lowered, the fair value measurement will decrease, and if the basis adjustment is increased, the fair value measurement will increase.
27
The projected power costs anticipated to be incurred under the purchased power agreement are determined using many factors, including historical generating costs, future prices, and expected fuel mix of the counterparty. An increase in the projected fuel costs would result in a decrease in the fair value measurement of the purchased power agreement. A significant input that MGE estimates is the counterparty's fuel mix in determining the projected power cost. MGE also considers the assumptions that market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability. This consideration includes assumptions about market risk such as liquidity, volatility, and contract duration. The fair value model uses a discount rate that incorporates discounting, credit, and model risks.
The following table presents the significant unobservable inputs used in the pricing model.
Model Input
Significant Unobservable Inputs
Basis adjustment:
On peak
95.5%
94.2%
Off peak
96.4%
94.5%
Counterparty fuel mix:
Internal generation - range
41%-66%
46%-65%
Internal generation - weighted average
54.2%
56.5%
Purchased power - range
59%-34%
54%-35%
Purchased power - weighted average
45.8%
43.5%
The following table summarizes the changes in Level 3 commodity derivative assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis.
(4,533
(21,023
(14,055
(26,456
Realized and unrealized gains (losses):
Included in regulatory assets
5,296
10,729
Included in regulatory liability
8,122
17,644
Included in other comprehensive income
Included in earnings
2,476
(1,524
2,686
(4,687
Included in current assets
(37
175
(101
Purchases
6,638
5,505
18,899
15,837
Sales
Issuances
Settlements
(9,114
(3,944
(21,760
(11,049
3,589
(15,727
Total gains (losses) included in earnings attributed to the change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets and liabilities held as of September 30,(c)
The following table presents total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income for Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis(c).
Purchased power expense
(1,496
3,113
(4,343
Cost of gas sold expense
(28
(427
(344
12. Joint Plant Construction Project Ownership - MGE Energy and MGE
MGE currently has ongoing jointly-owned solar generation construction projects, as shown in the following table. Incurred costs are reflected in "Construction work in progress" on the consolidated balance sheets.
Ownership
Share of
Costs incurredas of September 30,
Date ofCommercial
Project
Generation
Estimated Costs
2021(a)
Operation
Badger Hollow I(b)
50
million
57.8
Q4 2021(c)
Badger Hollow II(b)
11.5
December 2022(c)
MGE received specific approval to recover 100% AFUDC on each of these projects. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, MGE recognized $1.3 million and $3.6 million, respectively, after tax, in AFUDC for Badger Hollow I and II compared to $0.9 million and $1.8 million for the comparable periods in 2020.
13. Asset Retirement Obligations - MGE Energy and MGE
A liability is recorded for the fair value of an asset retirement obligation (ARO) to be recognized in the period in which it is incurred if it can be reasonably estimated. The offsetting associated asset retirement costs are capitalized as a long-lived asset and depreciated over the asset's useful life. As of September 30, 2021, MGE recorded an obligation of $3.9 million for the fair value of its legal liability for AROs associated with completed renewable projects and $3.5 million for the revision of its ARO legal liability with Columbia ash pond. MGE has regulatory treatment and recognizes regulatory assets or liabilities for the timing differences between when we recover legal AROs in rates and when those costs would actually be recognized.
14. Revenue - MGE Energy and MGE.
Revenues disaggregated by revenue source were as follows:
Residential
44,398
45,009
117,229
113,311
Commercial
60,996
57,822
161,270
152,844
Industrial
3,380
3,234
9,469
8,797
Other-retail/municipal
9,478
8,620
26,340
24,874
Total retail
118,252
114,685
314,308
299,826
Sales to the market
3,071
1,554
8,854
2,604
Other revenues
115
660
Total electric revenues
121,639
116,354
324,110
303,090
14,643
12,436
72,286
61,328
Commercial/Industrial
8,069
5,052
42,972
32,961
22,712
17,488
115,258
94,289
Gas transportation
1,256
1,152
4,589
4,179
52
97
100
Total gas revenues
Non-regulated energy revenues
214
464
466
Total Operating Revenue
Performance Obligations
A performance obligation is a promise in a contract to transfer a distinct good or service to the customer and is the unit of account. A contract's transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation and recognized as revenue when, or as, the performance obligation is satisfied. The majority of contracts have a single performance obligation.
Retail Revenue (Residential, Commercial, Industrial, and Other Retail/Municipal)
Providing electric and gas utility service to retail customers represents MGE's core business activity. Tariffs are approved by the PSCW through a rate order and provide MGE's customers with the standard terms and conditions, including pricing terms. The performance obligation to deliver electricity or gas is satisfied over time as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the commodities provided by MGE. MGE recognizes revenues as the commodity is delivered to customers. Meters are read on a systematic basis throughout the month based on established meter-reading schedules and customers are subsequently billed for services received. At the end of the month, MGE accrues an estimate for unbilled commodities delivered to customers. The unbilled revenue estimate is based on daily system demand volumes, weather factors, estimated line losses, estimated customer usage by class, and applicable customer rates.
Utility Cost Recovery Mechanisms
MGE's tariff rates include a provision for fuel cost recovery. The PSCW allows Wisconsin utilities to defer electric fuel-related costs, less excess revenues, that fall outside a symmetrical cost tolerance band. Any over- or under-recovery of the actual costs in a given year is determined in the following year and is then reflected in future billings to electric retail customers. Over-collection of fuel-related costs that are outside the approved range will be recognized as a reduction of revenue. Under-collection of these costs will be recognized in "Purchased power" expense in the consolidated statements of income. The cumulative effects of these deferred amounts will be recorded in "Regulatory assets" or "Regulatory liabilities" on the consolidated balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. See Footnote 9.b. for further information.
MGE also has other cost recovery mechanisms. For example, any over-collection of the difference between actual costs incurred and the amount of costs collected from customers is recorded as a reduction of revenue in the period incurred.
Sales to the Market
Sales to the market include energy charges, capacity or demand charges, and ancillary charges represented by wholesale sales of electricity made to third parties who are not ultimate users of the electricity. Most of these sales are spot market transactions on the markets operated by MISO. Each transaction is considered a performance obligation and revenue is recognized in the period in which energy charges, capacity or demand charges, and ancillary services are sold into MISO. MGE reports, on a net basis, transactions on the MISO markets in which it buys and sells power within the same hour to meet electric energy delivery requirements.
Transportation of Gas
MGE has contracts under which it provides gas transportation services to customers who have elected to purchase gas from a third party. MGE delivers this gas via pipelines within its service territory. Revenue is recognized as service is rendered or gas is delivered to customers. Tariffs are approved by the PSCW through a rate order and provide gas transportation customers with standard terms and conditions, including pricing terms.
30
15. Segment Information - MGE Energy and MGE.
MGE Energy operates in the following business segments: electric utility, gas utility, nonregulated energy, transmission investment, and all other. See the 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional discussion of each of these segments.
Nonregulated
Transmission
All
Consolidation/
Consolidated
Electric
Gas
Energy
Investment
Others
Elimination
Operating revenues from external customers
$121,639
$24,020
$214
$—
$145,873
Interdepartmental revenues
89
6,689
10,224
(17,002)
Total operating revenues
121,728
30,709
10,438
Equity in earnings of investments
2,532
Net income (loss)
27,833
(218)
5,386
1,842
74
$116,354
$18,643
$135,211
209
3,494
10,102
(13,805)
116,563
22,137
10,316
2,353
24,761
221
5,251
1,710
(149)
$324,110
$119,944
$464
$444,518
14,377
30,595
(45,288)
324,426
134,321
31,059
7,440
59,979
11,615
15,935
5,413
(241)
$303,090
$98,568
$466
$402,124
584
9,300
30,248
(40,132)
303,674
107,868
30,714
7,780
46,439
9,216
15,536
5,659
(228)
Net income (loss) attributable to MGE
(5,627)
Net income attributable to MGE
(5,493)
(16,755)
(16,754)
32
General
MGE Energy is an investor-owned public utility holding company operating through subsidiaries in five business segments:
Our principal subsidiary is MGE, which generates and distributes electric energy, distributes natural gas, and represents a majority portion of our assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses. MGE generates, purchases, and distributes electricity to approximately 157,000 customers in Dane County, Wisconsin, including the city of Madison, and purchases and distributes natural gas to approximately 166,000 customers in the Wisconsin counties of Columbia, Crawford, Dane, Iowa, Juneau, Monroe, and Vernon.
Our nonregulated energy operations own interests in electric generating capacity that is leased to MGE. The ownership/leasing structure was adopted under applicable state regulatory guidelines for MGE's participation in these generation facilities, consisting principally of a stable return on the equity investment in the new generation facilities over the term of the related leases. The nonregulated energy operations include an ownership interest in two coal-fired generating units in Oak Creek, Wisconsin and a partial ownership of a cogeneration project on the UW-Madison campus. A third party operates the units in Oak Creek, and MGE operates the cogeneration project. Due to the nature of MGE's participation in these facilities, the results of MGE Energy's nonregulated operations are also consolidated into MGE's consolidated financial position and results of operations under applicable accounting standards.
Executive Overview
Our primary focus today and for the foreseeable future is our core utility customers at MGE as well as creating long-term value for our shareholders. MGE continues to face the challenge of providing its customers with reliable power at competitive prices. MGE works on meeting this challenge by investing in more efficient generation projects, including renewable energy sources. MGE continues to examine and pursue opportunities to reduce the proportion that coal generation represents in its generation mix, as evidenced by its most recent announcement of the retirement of Columbia (a coal generation plant) and its growing ownership of renewable wind and solar generation sources. MGE will continue to focus on growing earnings while controlling operating and fuel costs. MGE's goal is to provide safe and efficient operations in addition to providing customer value. We believe it is critical to maintain a strong credit standing consistent with financial strength in MGE as well as the parent company in order to accomplish these goals.
We earn revenue and generate cash from operations by providing electric and natural gas utility services, including electric power generation and electric power and gas distribution. The earnings and cash flows from the utility business are sensitive to various external factors, including:
During the three months ended September 30, 2021, MGE Energy's earnings were $34.9 million or $0.97 per share compared to $31.8 million or $0.88 per share during the same period in the prior year. MGE's earnings during the three months ended September 30, 2021, were $27.4 million compared to $24.7 million during the same period in the prior year.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, MGE Energy's earnings were $92.7 million or $2.56 per share compared to $76.6 million or $2.16 per share during the same period in the prior year. MGE's earnings during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, were $70.8 million compared to $54.4 million during the same period in the prior year.
MGE Energy's net income was derived from our business segments as follows:
(In millions)
Business Segment:
Electric Utility
27.8
24.7
60.0
46.4
Gas Utility
(0.2
0.2
11.6
9.2
Nonregulated Energy
5.4
5.2
15.9
15.5
Transmission Investments
1.8
All Other
0.1
(0.1
34.9
31.8
92.7
76.6
Our net income during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, compared to the same periods in the prior year primarily reflects the effects of the following factors:
An increase in electric investments included in rate base contributed to increased earnings for 2021. Timing of 2021 depreciation and other operations and maintenance costs also contributed to higher earnings in 2021. Depreciation and operations and maintenance costs are expected to increase during the remainder of 2021 after significant capital projects are completed. The new customer information system went live in September 2021 and Badger Hollow I is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2021. MGE received approval to recover 100% AFUDC during construction of these projects.
Higher electric retail sales resulting from warmer weather in the second quarter of 2021 contributed to higher earnings for the nine months ended September 30, 2021. Cooling degree days (a measure for determining the impact of weather during the cooling season) increased from 213 days in the second quarter of 2020 to 309 days in the second quarter of 2021.
Electric commercial retail sales increased approximately 5% and 3%, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, compared to the same period in the prior year. The general economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic during 2021 contributed to higher electric commercial retail sales.
An increase in gas investments included in rate base contributed to increased earnings for 2021. Higher gas retail sales resulting from colder weather in the first quarter of 2021 contributed to higher earnings for the nine months ended September 30, 2021. Heating degree days (a measure for determining the impact of weather during the heating season) increased by approximately 11% in the first quarter 2021 compared to the same period in the prior year.
The following developments affected the first nine months of 2021:
2021 Rate Settlement Agreement: In December 2020, the PSCW approved a settlement agreement for MGE's 2021 rate case. The settlement agreement provides for a zero percent increase for electric rates and an approximately 4% increase for gas rates in 2021. The electric rate settlement includes an increase in rate base but the associated rate increase is primarily offset by lower fuel and purchase power costs and a one-time $18.2 million return to customers of the portion of excess deferred taxes related to the 2017 Tax Act not restricted by IRS normalization rules. As part of the settlement, the fuel rules bandwidth was set at plus or minus 1% for 2021. When compared to
34
the 2020 rate case, the settlement includes lower forecasted electric sales for 2021 to reflect changes to customer usage during the COVID-19 pandemic. The gas rate increase covers infrastructure costs and technology improvements. The settlement agreement also includes escrow accounting treatment for pension and other postretirement benefit costs, bad debt expense, and customer credit card fees. Escrow accounting treatment allows MGE to defer any difference between estimated costs in rates and actual costs incurred until its next rate case filing. Any difference would be recorded as a regulatory asset or regulatory liability.
Utility Solar: Large solar generation projects were recently completed or are under construction, as shown in the following table. Incurred costs are reflected in "Property, plant, and equipment" for projects placed in service or "Construction work in progress" for projects under construction on the consolidated balance sheets. MGE has received specific approval to recover 100% AFUDC on Badger Hollow I and II. After tax, MGE recognized $4.6 million and $0.5 million of AFUDC equity through September 30, 2021, on Badger Hollow I and II, respectively, during construction.
Ownership Interest
Share of Generation
Share ofEstimated Costs
Costs Incurred as ofSeptember 30, 2021(a)
Date of CommercialOperation
33%
50 MW
$65 million
$57.8 million
Q4 2021(b)
$11.5 million
December 2022(b)
100%
20 MW
$32 million
$28.8 million
May 2021
Tax Reform: Pursuant to the 2017 Tax Act, deferred income tax balances as of December 31, 2017, were remeasured to reflect the decrease in the corporate tax rate. The approved rate settlement agreement for 2021 includes approximately $5.3 million of the benefit in base rates that is being returned to customers using a normalization method of accounting. IRS normalization rules limit the rate at which MGE can return the benefits to customers. The settlement agreement also includes $18.2 million of the benefit not subject to normalization restrictions in electric base rates. The collection of the remaining portion not subject to normalization restrictions related to gas will be addressed by the PSCW in a future rate case.
In the near term, several items may affect us, including:
2022/2023 Rate Case Filing: In September 2021, MGE filed with the PSCW a proposed settlement agreement for its pending 2022 rate case. The settlement agreement proposes a 5.16% increase to electric rates and a 2.15% increase to gas rates for 2022. As part of the settlement agreement for 2023, MGE is proposing a 0.96% increase in gas rates and to address a potential electric rate change through a limited rate case re-opener. See "Other Matters" below for additional information on the 2022/2023 rate case application.
2020 Annual Fuel Proceeding: In September 2021, the PSCW issued a final decision in the 2020 fuel rules proceedings for MGE to refund $3.2 million of additional fuel savings realized during 2020 plus accrued interest to its retail electric customers over a one-month period in October 2021. There was no change to the refund in the fuel rules proceedings from the amount MGE deferred in the previous year.
ATC Return on Equity: As discussed in "Other Matters" below, ATC's authorized ROE, which is used in calculating its rates and revenues, is the subject of a challenge before FERC. A decrease in ATC's ROE could result in lower equity earnings and distributions from ATC in the future. We derived approximately 5.7% and 7.3% of our net income during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively, from our investment in ATC.
Environmental Initiatives: There are proposed legislative rules and initiatives involving matters related to air emissions, water effluent, hazardous materials, and greenhouse gases, all of which affect generation plant capital expenditures and operating costs as well as future operational planning. At present, it is unclear how the changes in the presidential, congressional, and EPA administrations may affect existing, pending or new legislative or rulemaking proposals or regulatory initiatives, although it is likely that such proposals and initiatives will be more stringent on fossil-fuel based generation. Such legislation and rulemaking could significantly affect the costs of owning and operating fossil-fueled generating plants. We would expect to seek and receive recovery of any such costs in rates. However, it is difficult to estimate the amount of such costs due to the uncertainty as to the timing
35
and form of any legislation or rules, and the scope and time of the recovery of costs in rates, which may occur after those costs have been incurred.
EPA's Affordable Clean Energy (ACE) Rule: In January 2021, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit (D.C. Circuit) vacated and remanded to the EPA the ACE Rule and the repeal of the predecessor Clean Power Plan Rule, both of which regulated greenhouse gas emissions from existing electric generation units pursuant to Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act. As a result of these legal proceedings, neither the CPP nor ACE rules are currently in effect. MGE will continue to evaluate the rule development and monitor ongoing and potential legal proceedings.
Columbia: In February 2021, MGE, along with the other plant co-owners, announced plans to retire the two-unit coal-fired Columbia generating plant near Portage, Wisconsin. MGE currently owns 19% of the facility. The co-owners intend to retire Unit 1 by the end of 2023 and Unit 2 by the end of 2024. Final timing and retirement dates for Units 1 and 2 are subject to PSCW and regional regulatory reviews, including identification and approval of energy and capacity resources to replace Columbia. MGE continues to evaluate additional investments to replace the generation from Columbia while maintaining electric service reliability. These investments include cost-effective, clean energy projects to help achieve MGE's carbon reduction goals.
Future Generation – Renewable Energy: MGE is seeking approval from the PSCW to acquire a joint interest in the following renewable generation projects as shown in the following table. There is no certainty that these projects will be approved by the PSCW.
Source
Share ofGeneration/Battery Storage
Share ofEstimatedCosts(a)
Estimated Date ofCommercial Operation
Darien
Solar/Battery
10%
25MW/7.5MW
$45 million(b)
December 31, 2023
Paris
20MW/11MW
$43 million(b)
May 31, 2023
Red Barn
Wind
9.16MW
$17 million
December 31, 2022
Koshkonong
30MW/16.5MW
$65 million(b)
2024(c)
Future Generation – Riverside: In 2016, MGE entered into an agreement with WPL under which MGE may acquire up to 50 MW of capacity in a gas-fired generating plant constructed by WPL at its Riverside Energy Center in Beloit, Wisconsin, during the five-year period following the in-service date of the plant. The plant was placed in service in May 2020. MGE has not yet determined whether it will exercise its option in the Riverside plant. A determination will be made based on a variety of factors during the option period. If MGE acquires 50 MW of capacity, the estimated cost would be approximately $50 million.
Future Generation – Elm Road Units: On November 3, 2021, MGE announced plans to end the use of coal as a primary fuel at the Elm Road Units and transition the plant to natural gas. MGE is a minority owner of Elm Road, owning 8.33%. The approximately 1,230 MW coal-fired plant is owned by WEC Energy Group, whose subsidiary serves as operator, and by WPPI Energy, Inc. This transition is expected to reduce the use of coal at Elm Road substantially by 2030 and to eliminate coal as an energy source at Elm Road by 2035. Transition plans and costs will be subject to PSCW approval.
COVID-19 Update
MGE Energy continues to provide safe and reliable service to our customers despite the challenges presented by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We have operated continuously throughout the pandemic and suffered no material disruptions in service or employment.
We discuss various COVID-19-related events and their effects below:
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See "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity and Capital Resources – Credit Facilities" in the 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information about our credit facilities.
We cannot reasonably estimate with any degree of certainty the actual impact of COVID-19 and associated governmental regulations may have on future results of operations, financial position, and liquidity. See Item 1A. "Risk Factors" "Pandemic virus or diseases, including COVID-19, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and liquidity" in our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a description of risk.
The following discussion is based on the business segments as discussed in Footnote 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report.
Results of Operations
Results of operations include financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP and electric and gas margins, both which are non-GAAP measures. Electric margin (electric revenues less fuel for electric generation and purchase power costs) and gas margin (gas revenues less cost of gas sold) are non-GAAP measures because they exclude items used in the calculation of the most comparable GAAP measure, operating income. These exclusions consist of nonregulated operating revenues, other operations and maintenance expense, depreciation and amortization expense, and other general taxes expense. Thus, electric and gas margin are not measures determined in accordance with GAAP.
Management believes that electric and gas margins provide a meaningful basis for evaluating and managing utility operations since fuel for electric generation, purchase power costs, and cost of gas sold are passed through without mark-up to customers in current rates. As a result, management uses electric and gas margins internally when assessing the operating performance of our segments. The presentation of utility electric and gas margins herein is intended to provide supplemental information for investors regarding operating performance. These electric and gas margins may not be comparable to how other entities calculate utility electric and gas margin or similar measures. Furthermore, these measures are not intended to replace operating income as determined in accordance with GAAP as an indicator of operating performance.
37
Three Months Ended September 30, 2021 and 2020
The following table provides a calculation of electric and gas margins (both non-GAAP measures), along with a reconciliation to the most comparable GAAP measure, operating income:
$ Change
121.7
116.4
5.3
(18.5
(13.0
(5.5
(8.6
(10.7
Total Electric Margins
94.6
1.9
24.0
18.6
(8.8
(3.8
(5.0
Total Gas Margins
15.2
14.8
0.4
Other operating revenues
(48.5
(45.8
(2.7
(19.0
(18.6
(0.4
(4.9
37.6
38.3
(0.7
Operating income during the three months ended September 30, 2021, compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily reflects the effects of the following factors:
Electric sales and revenues
The following table compares MGE's electric revenues and electric kWh sales by customer class for each of the periods indicated:
Revenues
Sales (kWh)
(In thousands, except cooling degree days)
% Change
(1.4
)%
263,833
274,676
(3.9
5.5
500,434
478,816
4.5
42,400
43,257
(2.0
10.0
106,919
97,493
9.7
3.1
913,586
894,242
2.2
97.6
67,536
49,039
37.7
n.m.%
981,122
943,281
4.0
Cooling degree days (normal 494)
511
519
(1.5
n.m. not meaningful
38
Electric margin, a non-GAAP measure, increased $1.9 million during the three months ended September 30, 2021, compared to the same period in 2020, due to the following:
Revenue subject to refund, net
2.3
Increase in commercial, industrial and other-retail/municipal volume
1.5
Rate changes
1.1
Increased fuel costs
Decrease in residential volume
(1.3
Customer fixed and demand charges
Gas deliveries and revenues
The following table compares MGE's gas revenues and gas therms delivered by customer class for each of the periods indicated:
Therms Delivered
(In thousands, except HDD and average rate
per therm of retail customer)
17.7
5,987
6,537
(8.4
59.7
8,889
9,368
(5.1
29.9
14,876
15,905
(6.5
9.0
15,212
16,092
28.8
30,088
31,997
(6.0
Heating degree days (normal 148)
(71.4
Average rate per therm of
retail customer
1.527
1.100
38.8
Gas margin, a non-GAAP measure, increased $0.4 million during the three months ended September 30, 2021, compared to the same period in 2020, due to the following:
MGE recovers the cost of natural gas in its gas segment through the purchased gas adjustment clause (PGA). Under the PGA, MGE is able to pass through to its gas customers the cost of gas. Changes in PGA recoveries affect revenues but do not change net income. Payments for natural gas increased due to the significant increase in natural gas costs seen throughout the central part of the country in February 2021 related to extreme weather conditions driving higher rates during the three months ended September 30, 2021. MGE expects the increase in natural gas costs from February 2021 to be recovered by the end of 2021 through the PGA.
Consolidated operations and maintenance expenses
During the three months ended September 30, 2021, operations and maintenance expenses increased $2.7 million, compared to the same period in the prior year. The following contributed to the net change:
Increased electric production expenses
Increased customer accounts costs
0.9
Increased administrative and general costs
0.5
Increased transmission costs
Increased customer services
0.3
Decreased electric distribution expenses
(0.6
Decreased gas distribution expenses
(0.3
2.7
Nonregulated Energy Operations - MGE Energy and MGE
The nonregulated energy operations are conducted through MGE Energy's subsidiaries: MGE Power Elm Road (the Elm Road Units) and MGE Power West Campus (WCCF), which have been formed to own and lease electric generating capacity to assist MGE. During the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, net income at the nonregulated energy operations segment was $5.4 million and $5.3 million, respectively.
Transmission Investment Operations - MGE Energy
The transmission investment segment holds our interest in ATC and ATC Holdco, and its income reflects our equity in the earnings of those investments. ATC Holdco was formed in December 2016 to pursue transmission development opportunities which typically have long development and investment lead times before becoming operational. ATC Holdco's transmission development activities have been suspended for the near term. During the
40
three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, other income at the transmission investment segment was $2.5 million and $2.4 million, respectively. In May 2020, the FERC issued an opinion further refining the methodology for setting the ROE that electric utilities are authorized to earn, which adjusted ATC's ROE to 10.02%. See Footnote 3 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report and "Other Matters" below for additional information concerning ATC and summarized financial information regarding ATC.
Consolidated Income Taxes - MGE Energy and MGE
In 2021, the effective electric tax rate decreased as a result of the return of electric excess deferred taxes related to the 2017 Tax Act not governed by IRS normalization rules in 2021. These costs were recorded as a regulatory liability in the year of remeasurement. See Footnote 4 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report for the effective tax rate reconciliation.
Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax - MGE
Noncontrolling interest, net of tax, reflects the accounting required for MGE Energy's interest in MGE Power Elm Road (the Elm Road Units) and MGE Power West Campus (WCCF). MGE Energy owns 100% of MGE Power Elm Road and MGE Power West Campus. They are not owned by MGE. Due to the contractual agreements for these projects with MGE, the entities are considered VIEs with respect to MGE and their results are consolidated with those of MGE, the primary beneficiary of the VIEs. The following table shows MGE Energy's noncontrolling interest, net of tax, reflected on MGE's consolidated statement of income:
3.8
3.7
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2021 and 2020
The following table provides a calculation of electric and gas margins (non-GAAP), along with a reconciliation to the most comparable GAAP measure, operating income:
324.1
303.1
(42.6
(31.3
(11.3
(28.9
(32.0
252.6
239.8
12.8
119.9
98.6
21.3
(57.7
(41.0
(16.7
62.2
57.6
4.6
(144.6
(136.5
(8.1
(56.0
(55.2
(0.8
(14.7
(14.9
100.0
91.3
8.7
Operating income during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, compared to the same period in the prior year primarily reflects the effects of the following factors:
41
$117,229
$113,311
3.5
693,739
684,585
1.3
1,352,091
1,308,511
3.3
7.6
122,493
122,106
5.9
276,950
263,029
4.8
2,445,273
2,378,231
2.8
n.m.
201,902
92,539
43.6
6.9
2,647,175
2,470,770
7.1
Cooling degree days (normal 678)
820
732
12.0
Electric margin, a non-GAAP measure, increased $12.8 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, compared to the same period in 2020, due to the following:
3.2
3.0
Increase in residential volume
1.0
(0.5)
42
(In thousands, except HDD and average rate per
therm of retail customer)
68,791
68,394
0.6
30.4
64,179
62,582
2.6
22.2
132,970
130,976
9.8
55,150
55,002
(3.0
21.7
188,120
185,978
1.2
Heating degree days (normal 4,497)
4,404
4,315
Average rate per therm of retail customer
0.867
0.720
20.4
Gas margin, a non-GAAP measure, increased $4.6 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, compared to the same period in 2020, due to the following:
0.7
Increase in volume
MGE recovers the cost of natural gas in its gas segment through the purchased gas adjustment clause (PGA). Under the PGA, MGE is able to pass through to its gas customers the cost of gas. Changes in PGA recoveries affect revenues but do not change net income. Payments for natural gas increased due to the significant increase in natural gas costs seen throughout the central part of the country in February 2021 related to extreme weather conditions driving higher rates during the nine months ended September 30, 2021. MGE expects the increase in natural gas costs from February 2021 to be recovered by the end of 2021 through the PGA.
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During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, operations and maintenance expenses increased $8.1 million, compared to the same period in the prior year. The following contributed to the net change:
Decreased administrative and general costs
(1.0
Decreased other expenses
8.1
Electric and gas other income
Electric and gas other income decreased $1.6 million and $3.0 million, respectively, during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily related to the collection of the deferred pension and other postretirement other than service costs from 2019.
The nonregulated energy operations are conducted through MGE Energy's subsidiaries: MGE Power Elm Road (the Elm Road Units) and MGE Power West Campus (WCCF), which have been formed to own and lease electric generating capacity to assist MGE. During the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, net income at the nonregulated energy operations segment was $15.9 million and $15.5 million, respectively.
The transmission investment segment holds our interest in ATC and ATC Holdco, and its income reflects our equity in the earnings of those investments. ATC Holdco was formed in December 2016 to pursue transmission development opportunities which typically have long development and investment lead times before becoming operational. ATC Holdco's transmission development activities have been suspended for the near term. During the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, other income at the transmission investment segment was $7.4 million and $7.8 million, respectively. In May 2020, the FERC issued an opinion further refining the methodology for setting the ROE that electric utilities are authorized to earn, which adjusted ATC's ROE to 10.02%. See Footnote 3 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report and "Other Matters" below for additional information concerning ATC and summarized financial information regarding ATC.
44
The noncontrolling interest, net of tax, reflects the accounting required for MGE Energy's interest in MGE Power Elm Road (the Elm Road Units) and MGE Power West Campus (WCCF). MGE Energy owns 100% of MGE Power Elm Road and MGE Power West Campus; however, due to the contractual agreements for these projects with MGE, the entities are considered VIEs with respect to MGE and their results are consolidated with those of MGE, the primary beneficiary of the VIEs. The following table shows MGE Energy's noncontrolling interest, net of tax, reflected on MGE's consolidated statement of income:
11.4
Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments - MGE Energy and MGE
There were no material changes, other than from the normal course of business, to MGE Energy's and MGE's contractual obligations (representing cash obligations that are considered to be firm commitments) and commercial commitments (representing commitments triggered by future events) during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, except as noted below. Further discussion of the contractual obligations and commercial commitments is included in Footnote 16 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and "Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments for MGE Energy and MGE" under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in the 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Purchase Contracts – MGE Energy and MGE
See item c. within Footnote 8 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report for a description of commitments as of September 30, 2021, that MGE Energy and MGE have entered with respect to various commodity supply and transportation contracts to meet their obligations to deliver electricity and natural gas to customers.
Long-term Debt - MGE Energy and MGE
In May 2021, MGE entered into a private placement Note Purchase Agreement in which it committed to issue $60 million of new long-term debt (Series A), carrying an interest rate of 2.48% per annum over its 10-year life, and $40 million of new long-term debt (Series B), carrying an interest rate of 2.63% per annum over its 12-year life. Funding occurred on June 15, 2021, for Series B and August 27, 2021, for Series A. See Footnote 6 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report for further discussion of these debt issuances.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Subject to the duration and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, MGE Energy and MGE expect to have adequate liquidity to support future operations and capital expenditures over the next twelve months. Available resources include cash and cash equivalents, operating cash flows, liquid assets, borrowing capacity under revolving credit facilities, and access to equity and debt capital markets. MGE Energy expects to generate funds from both long-term debt financing, short-term debt financing, and if needed, could issue new shares through our Direct Stock Purchase and Dividend Reinvestment Plan. See "Credit Facilities" under Part II, Item 7, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity and Capital Resources in the 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K and "Liquidity" under "COVID-19 Update" above for information regarding MGE Energy's and MGE's credit facilities.
45
Cash Flows
The following summarizes cash flows for MGE Energy and MGE during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020:
Cash provided by (used for):
Operating activities
Investing activities
Financing activities
MGE Energy's consolidated net cash provided by operating activities is derived mainly from the electric and gas operations of its principal subsidiary, MGE.
Cash provided by operating activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, was $141.3 million, an increase of $5.3 million when compared to the same period in the prior year.
MGE Energy's net income increased $16.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, when compared to the same period in the prior year.
MGE Energy's federal and state taxes paid decreased $2.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 when compared to the same period in the prior year.
Working capital accounts (excluding prepaid and accrued taxes) resulted in $9.1 million in cash used for operating activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2021. Actual purchase gas costs were $6.3 million higher than the amount collected in rates primarily due to the extreme cold weather experienced in the U.S. in February 2021. These costs were deferred as a regulatory asset and will be recovered in a future period. In addition, working capital accounts were impacted by increased accounts receivable and increased inventories, partially offset by increased other current liabilities, decreased unbilled revenues, and increased accounts payable.
Working capital accounts (excluding prepaid and accrued taxes) resulted in $8.3 million in cash used for operating activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, primarily due to decreased other current liabilities, increased inventories, and increased accounts receivable, partially offset by decreased unbilled revenues and increased accounts payable.
Hosted software asset expenditures during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, were $3.0 million. This amount represents an increase of $1.5 million of cash used when compared to the prior year.
Cash provided by operating activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, was $135.5 million, an increase of $3.6 million when compared to the same period in the prior year.
Net income increased $16.3 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, when compared to the same period in the prior year.
MGE's federal and state taxes paid decreased $1.2 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 when compared to the same period in the prior year.
Working capital accounts (excluding prepaid and accrued taxes) resulted in $9.1 million in cash used for operating activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2021. Actual purchase gas costs were $6.3 million higher than the amount collected in rates primarily due to the extreme cold weather experienced in the U.S. in February
46
2021. These costs were deferred as a regulatory asset and will be recovered in a future period. In addition, working capital accounts were impacted by increased accounts receivable and increased inventories, partially offset by increased other current liabilities, decreased unbilled revenues, and increased accounts payable.
Working capital accounts (excluding prepaid and accrued taxes) resulted in $6.1 million in cash used for operating activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, primarily due to decreased other current liabilities, increased inventories, and increased accounts receivable, partially offset by decreased unbilled revenues and increased accounts payable.
Capital Requirements and Investing Activities
MGE Energy's cash used for investing activities decreased $26.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, when compared to the same period in the prior year.
Capital expenditures during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, were $114.1 million. This amount represents a decrease of $24.9 million from the expenditures made in the same period in the prior year. This decrease primarily reflects the reduction of expenditures on the construction of Badger Hollow I due to timing of expenditures.
Proceeds from the sale of investments increased $1.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, when compared to the same period in the prior year.
MGE's cash used for investing activities decreased $25.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, when compared to the same period in the prior year.
The following table shows MGE Energy's actual capital expenditures for both 2020 and 2019, and forecasted capital expenditures for 2021 through 2024:
Actual
Forecasted
2019
125,086
162,210
133,700
164,400
174,100
162,400
36,193
36,906
33,700
33,600
28,300
29,900
Utility plant total
161,279
199,116
167,400
198,000
202,400
192,300
2,757
4,023
4,100
5,300
8,100
6,800
MGE Energy total
164,036
203,139
171,500
203,300
210,500
199,100
MGE's Energy 2030 framework details our plan for growth in generation for renewables. This growth is expected to continue as legacy fossil fuel-fired facilities are retired and replaced with renewables, such as wind and solar assets, and battery storage solutions are developed and implemented. Beyond 2030, MGE is targeting net-zero carbon electricity by 2050. These solar, wind, and battery storage projects are a major step toward deep decarbonization and greater use of clean energy sources in pursuit of our goal. MGE is seeking to address new generation needs through additional investments in renewable generation. MGE continues to evaluate solar, wind, and battery storage projects that align with its goals.
47
Forecasted capital expenditures are based upon management's assumptions with respect to future events, including the timing and amount of expenditures associated with environmental compliance initiatives, legislative and regulatory action, customer demand and support for electrification and renewable energy resources, energy conservation programs, load growth, the timing of any required regulatory approvals, and the adequacy of rate recovery. Actual events may differ materially from these assumptions and result in material changes to those forecasted amounts.
Internal use software incurred in a hosting arrangement and preliminary construction costs related to renewable generation assets pending regulatory approvals are accounted for as an operating cash flow in accordance with applicable accounting policies. These costs are therefore excluded from the table above. For ratemaking purposes, they are included in forecasted utility capital expenditures. These costs are forecasted to be $5 million, $3 million, and $1 million for 2021, 2022, and 2023, respectively.
Generation Projects for Replacement of Columbia: In February 2021, MGE, along with its co-owners, announced plans to retire Columbia Unit 1 by the end of 2023 and Unit 2 by the end of 2024. MGE continues to evaluate additional investments to replace the generation from Columbia while maintaining electric service reliability. These investments include cost-effective, clean energy projects to help achieve MGE's carbon reduction goals. Approximately $200 million has been included in forecasted capital expenditures for the years 2021 through 2024 for projects to replace Columbia's generation, Additional capital expenditures are expected to continue beyond 2024.
Cash provided by MGE Energy's financing activities was $1.7 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, compared to $36.6 million for the same period in the prior year.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, dividends paid were $40.8 million compared to $38.3 million in the prior year. The increase reflected a higher dividend rate per share ($1.128 vs. $1.075) and a greater number of outstanding shares since the completion of the public offering of shares in May 2020.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, MGE Energy issued common stock for net proceeds of $79.6 million, which are being used for general corporate purposes including funding capital expenditures at MGE, such as Two Creeks, Badger Hollow I and II, Renewable Energy Rider solar projects, and other capital projects.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, MGE borrowed $100.0 million of senior unsecured notes which was used to assist with financing additional capital expenditures and other corporate obligations. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, MGE borrowed $19.3 million through the issuance of Industrial Development Revenue Refunding Bonds which was used to refinance $19.3 million of existing Industrial Development Revenue Refunding Bonds at a lower interest rate.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, net short-term debt repayments were $52.5 million. There were no net short-term debt borrowings during the nine months ended September 30, 2020.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, cash provided by MGE's financing activities was $31.9 million, compared to $9.4 million for the same period in the prior year.
Capital contributions made by MGE Energy to MGE were $30.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020. There were no capital contributions made by MGE Energy to MGE during the nine months ended September 30, 2021.
Distributions to parent from noncontrolling interest, which represent distributions from MGE Power Elm Road and MGE Power West Campus to MGE Energy, were $10.5 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, compared to $16.0 million in the prior year.
48
Capitalization Ratios
MGE Energy's capitalization ratios were as follows:
62.4%
62.9%
37.6%
33.7%
0.0%
3.4%
Credit Ratings
MGE Energy's and MGE's access to the capital markets, including, in the case of MGE, the commercial paper market, and their respective financing costs in those markets, may depend on the credit ratings of the entity that is accessing the capital markets.
None of MGE Energy's or MGE's borrowings are subject to default or prepayment as a result of a downgrading of credit ratings, although a downgrading of MGE's credit ratings could increase fees and interest charges under both MGE Energy's and MGE's credit agreements.
Environmental Matters
The following discussion is limited to updates or developments in environmental matters that occurred during the nine months ended September 30, 2021. Further discussion of environmental matters is included in the 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K and Footnote 8.a. of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report.
Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS)
In May 2021, the EPA published a final rule that expands several nonattainment areas in Wisconsin to include all of Milwaukee County where MGE's Elm Road Units are located. The WDNR will need to develop a State Implementation Plan (SIP) for the area, which will likely result in more stringent requirements for both new development and existing plants in the area. MGE will monitor the WDNR's SIP development and the extent to which the requirements will impact the Elm Road Units. At this time, MGE does not expect that the 2015 Ozone NAAQS will have a material effect on its existing plants based on final designations.
Other Matters
Rate Matters
In September 2021, MGE filed with the PSCW a proposed settlement agreement for its pending 2022 rate case. The settlement agreement proposes a 5.16% increase to electric rates and a 2.15% increase to gas rates for 2022. The proposed electric and gas rate increases are driven by an increase in rate base including our investments in Badger Hollow I and a new customer information system. Also driving the requested electric increase is the completion in 2021 of the one-time return of the electric excess deferred tax credit related to the 2017 Tax Act not restricted by IRS normalization rules. Included in the proposed electric residential rate is a reduction in the customer charge. As part of the settlement agreement for 2023, MGE is proposing a 0.96% increase in gas rates
49
and to address a potential electric rate change through a limited rate case re-opener. PSCW approval of the settlement agreement is pending. A final order is expected before the end of the year.
Details related to MGE's 2022/2023 proposed settlement agreement:
(Dollars in thousands)
ProposedAverage RateBase(a)
ProposedAverageCWIP(b)
Proposed Returnon CommonEquity(c)
Proposed CommonEquity Component ofRegulatory CapitalStructure
Electric (2022 Test Period)
1,044,362
19,976
55.63
Gas (2022 Test Period)
299,319
11,410
Proposed electric (2023 Test Period) average rate base will be subject to a limited reopener expected to be filed in 2022 and proposed gas (2023 Test Period) average rate base is $312.3 million. MGE has proposed to maintain 2022 levels for return on common stock equity and capital structure for electric and gas rates in 2023.
2013 FERC Complaint - In 2013, several parties filed a complaint with the FERC seeking to reduce the base return on equity (ROE) used by MISO transmission owners, including ATC. The complaint provided for a statutory refund period of November 2013 through February 2015. The complaint asserted that the MISO ROE should not exceed 9.15%, that the equity components of hypothetical capital structures should be restricted to 50%, and that the relevant incentive ROE adders should be discontinued. At the time, MISO's base ROE was 12.38% and ATC's base ROE was 12.2%. On September 28, 2016, FERC issued an order, for the period November 2013 through February 2015, reducing ATC's base ROE to 10.32%. In November 2019, FERC issued an order to further reduce ATC's base ROE to 9.88%. In May 2020, the FERC issued an order further refining the methodology for setting the ROE that electric utilities are authorized to earn. This increased the ROE from 9.88% to 10.02%. This base ROE is effective for the 2013 FERC complaint period and for all periods following September 2016.
2015 FERC Complaint - In February 2015, several parties filed a complaint with the FERC seeking to reduce the base ROE used by MISO transmission owners, including ATC, to 8.67%. The complaint provided for a statutory refund period of February 2015 through May 2016 with a refund effective date retroactive to the complaint filing date. In June 2016, an administrative law judge issued an initial decision for the complaint that would reduce the transmission owner's base ROE to 9.7%. In November 2019, FERC issued an order dismissing the complaint with the determination that the ROE was reasonable. As a result of this order and the methodology FERC used to determine the applicable ROE in the 2013 FERC complaint, several parties have requested a rehearing by FERC. If FERC denies these requests, the complainants are likely to file an appeal with the appellate court. Any downward change to ATC's ROE could result in lower equity earnings and distributions from ATC in the future.
As of December 31, 2018, our share of the estimated refund recorded was $2.5 million, including interest. Following the November 2019 FERC order, our share of ATC's earnings reflects a pre-tax adjustment of $2.0 million, including interest, related to the 2013 complaint refund period and from September 28, 2016 through December 31, 2019. As a result of the May 2020 FERC order, our share of ATC's earnings reflects a $0.6 million reduction of our reserve. Additionally, our share of ATC's earnings reflects the derecognition of a possible refund related to the 2015 complaint as ATC considers such a refund to be no longer considered probable due to FERC's November 2019 dismissal of that complaint. However, due to pending requests for rehearing, a loss related to the 2015 complaint remains possible. Our share of the estimated refund for the 2015 complaint is approximately $2.3
million. As of December 31, 2020, our share of the estimated refund amount reflected a net increase in ATC's earnings with a pre-tax adjustment of $0.6 million, inclusive of interest.
We derived approximately 5.7% and 7.3% of our net income during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively, from our investment in ATC.
Adoption of Accounting Principles and Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
See Footnote 2 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report for discussion of new accounting pronouncements.
MGE Energy and MGE are potentially exposed to market risk associated with interest rates, commodity prices, and equity returns. MGE currently has no exposure to foreign currency risk. MGE manages some risk exposure through risk management policies and the use of derivative instruments. MGE's risk management policy prohibits speculative trading transactions.
Commodity Price Risk
MGE has commodity price risk exposure with respect to the price of natural gas, electricity, coal, emission credits, and oil. MGE's electric operations burn natural gas in several of its peaking power plants and, in many cases, the cost of purchased power is tied to the cost of natural gas. MGE employs established policies and procedures to reduce the market risks associated with changing commodity prices. MGE's commodity risks are substantially mitigated by the current ratemaking process in place for recovering electric fuel cost, purchased energy costs, and the cost of natural gas.
The recovery of MGE's electric fuel costs is subject to fuel rules established by the PSCW. Fuel rules require Wisconsin utilities to defer electric fuel-related costs that fall outside a symmetrical cost tolerance band. Any over or under recovery of the actual costs is determined in the following year and is then reflected in future billings to electric retail customers. Under the electric fuel rules, MGE would defer the benefit of lower costs if the actual electric fuel costs fall outside the lower end of the range and is required to defer costs, less any excess revenues, if the actual electric fuel costs exceed the upper end of the range. Excess revenues are defined as revenues in the year in question that provide MGE with a greater return on common equity than authorized by the PSCW in MGE's latest rate order. The range is defined by the PSCW and has been modified throughout the years based on market conditions and other relevant factors. Beginning in 2021, MGE is subject to a plus or minus 1% range. Prior to 2021, the range was set at 2%. MGE assumes the risks and benefits of variances that are within the cost tolerance band. For 2021, $64.1 million in fuel and purchased power costs will be recovered in rates and are subject to this rule and included in MGE's fuel monitoring level rates. See Footnote 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report for additional information.
MGE recovers the cost of natural gas in its gas utility segment through the purchased gas adjustment clause (PGA). Under the PGA, MGE is able to pass through to its gas customers the cost of gas. If the commodity costs of gas exceed a monthly benchmark amount, the excess amount is subject to a prudence review and approval by the PSCW before it can be passed through to customers.
MGE also reduces price risk caused by market fluctuations via physical contracts and financial derivative contracts, including futures, swaps, options, forwards, and other contractual commitments. The maximum length of time over which cash flows related to energy commodities can be hedged under applicable PSCW approvals is four years.
MGE has financial gas and electric commodity contracts to hedge commodity price risk in the gas and electric utility segments. These contracts are primarily comprised of exchange-traded option and future contracts. MGE also holds financial transmission rights (FTRs), which are used to hedge the risk of increased transmission congestion charges. As of September 30, 2021, the fair value of exchange traded derivatives and FTRs exceeded their cost basis by $13.8 million. Under the PGA clause and electric fuel rules, MGE may include the costs and benefits of the aforementioned fuel price risk management tools in the costs of fuel (natural gas or power).
Because these costs or benefits are recoverable, the related unrealized loss or gain has been deferred on the consolidated balance sheets as a regulatory asset or liability, respectively.
MGE has also entered into a purchased power agreement that provides MGE with firm capacity and energy that began on June 1, 2012, and ends on May 31, 2022 (the "base term"). The agreement also allows MGE an option to extend the contract after the base term. The agreement is considered a derivative contract and is recognized at its fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. However, the derivative qualifies for regulatory deferral and is recognized with a corresponding regulatory asset or liability depending on whether the fair value is in a loss or gain position. The fair value of the contract as of September 30, 2021, reflected a loss position of $0.2 million.
Interest Rate Risk
Both MGE Energy and MGE may have short term borrowings at varying interest rates. MGE issues commercial paper for its short-term borrowings, while MGE Energy draws from its current credit facility to meet our short-term borrowing needs. Borrowing levels vary from period to period depending upon capital investments and other factors. Future short-term interest expense and payments will reflect both future short-term interest rates and borrowing levels. MGE Energy and MGE manage interest rate risk by limiting their variable rate exposure and continually monitoring the effects of market changes on interest rates. MGE is not exposed to changes in interest rates on a substantial portion of its long-term debt until that debt matures and is refinanced at market rates.
Equity Price Risk - Pension-Related Assets
MGE currently funds its liabilities related to employee benefits through trust funds. These funds, which include investments in debt and equity securities, are managed by various third-party investment managers. Changes in the market value of these investments can have an impact on the future expenses related to these liabilities. The value of employee benefit plan assets has increased by approximately 9.5% during the nine months ended September 30, 2021.
Credit Risk - Counterparty
Credit risk is the loss that may result from counterparty nonperformance. MGE is exposed to credit risk primarily through its merchant energy business. MGE uses credit policies to manage credit risk, which include an established credit approval process, counterparty limits, credit mitigation measures such as collateral or prepayment arrangements, and using netting agreements.
Due to the possibility of extreme volatility in the prices of energy commodities and derivatives, the market value of contractual positions with individual counterparties could exceed established credit limits or collateral provided by those counterparties. If such a counterparty were then to fail to perform its obligations under its contract (for example, fail to deliver the electricity MGE originally contracted for), MGE could sustain a loss that could have a material impact on its financial results.
Additionally, if a counterparty were to default and MGE were to liquidate all contracts with that entity, MGE's credit loss could include: the loss in value of mark-to-market contracts, the amount owed for settled transactions, and additional payments to settle unrealized losses. As of September 30, 2021, no counterparties had defaulted.
MGE is obligated to provide service to all electric and gas customers within its franchised territories. MGE's franchised electric territory includes a 264 square-mile area in Dane County, Wisconsin, and MGE's franchised gas territory includes a service area covering 1,684 square miles in Wisconsin. Based on results for the year ended December 31, 2020, no one customer constituted more than 10% of total operating revenues for MGE Energy and MGE. Credit risk for electric and gas is managed by MGE's credit and collection policies, which are consistent with state regulatory requirements.
Cash, cash equivalents, and customer accounts receivable are the financial instruments that potentially subject MGE Energy and MGE to concentrations of credit risk. MGE Energy and MGE place their cash and cash equivalents with high credit-quality financial institutions. MGE has limited concentrations of credit risk from customer accounts receivable because of the large number of customers and relatively strong economy in its service territory.
During the third quarter of 2021, each registrant's management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, evaluated its disclosure controls and procedures related to the recording, processing, summarization, and reporting of information in its periodic reports that it files with the SEC. These disclosure controls and procedures have been designed to ensure that material information relating to that registrant, including its subsidiaries, is accumulated and made known to that registrant's management, including these officers, by other employees of that registrant and its subsidiaries as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure, and that this information is recorded, processed, summarized, evaluated, and reported, as applicable, within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms. The evaluations take into account changes in the internal and external operating environments that may impact those controls and procedures. Due to the inherent limitations of control systems, not all misstatements may be detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision making can be faulty and breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the control. Also, MGE Energy does not control or manage certain of its unconsolidated entities and thus, its access and ability to apply its procedures to those entities is more limited than is the case for its consolidated subsidiaries.
As of September 30, 2021, each registrant's principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that its disclosure controls and procedures were effective. Each registrant intends to strive continually to improve its disclosure controls and procedures to enhance the quality of its financial reporting.
In September of 2021, the registrants implemented a new customer information and billing system that materially affected the registrants' internal control over financial reporting. The implementation involved replacing multiple legacy systems which house all customer records and process metering, billing and payment transactions. We have made changes to our internal controls over financial reporting during the implementation of the new system and will continue to evaluate the operating effectiveness of related controls during subsequent periods.
MGE Energy and MGE
MGE Energy and its subsidiaries, including MGE, from time to time are involved in various legal proceedings that are handled and defended in the ordinary course of business. See Footnote 8.a. and 8.b. of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report for more information.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Period
Total Numberof SharesPurchased
Average PricePaid per Share
Total Number ofShares Purchased asPart of PubliclyAnnounced Plans orPrograms(a)
Maximum number (orApproximate DollarValue) of Shares ThatMay Yet Be PurchasedUnder the Plans orPrograms(a)
July 1-31, 2021
9,437
75.74
August 1-31, 2021
6,945
80.47
September 1-30, 2021
38,526
78.40
54,908
78.20
None.
Not applicable to MGE Energy and MGE.
Ex. No.
Exhibit Description
31.1
*
Certifications Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 filed by Jeffrey M. Keebler for MGE Energy, Inc.
31.2
Certifications Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 filed by Jared J. Bushek for MGE Energy, Inc.
31.3
Certifications Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 filed by Jeffrey M. Keebler for Madison Gas and Electric Company
31.4
Certifications Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 filed by Jared J. Bushek for Madison Gas and Electric Company
32.1
**
Certifications Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 United States Code (Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) filed by Jeffrey M. Keebler for MGE Energy, Inc.
32.2
Certifications Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 United States Code (Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) filed by Jared J. Bushek for MGE Energy, Inc.
32.3
Certifications Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 United States Code (Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) filed by Jeffrey M. Keebler for Madison Gas and Electric Company
32.4
Certifications Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 United States Code (Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) filed by Jared J. Bushek for Madison Gas and Electric Company
101.INS
XBRL Instance
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation
104.1
Included in the cover page, formatted in Inline XBRL
Filed herewith.
Furnished herewith.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
MGE ENERGY, INC.
Date: November 4, 2021
/s/ Jeffrey M. Keebler
Jeffrey M. Keebler
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
(Duly Authorized Officer)
/s/ Jared J. Bushek
Jared J. Bushek
Vice President - Finance, Chief Information Officer and Treasurer
(Chief Financial Officer)
/s/ Tamara J. Johnson
Tamara J. Johnson
Vice President - Accounting and Controller
(Chief Accounting Officer)
Signatures – Madison Gas and Electric Company
MADISON GAS AND ELECTRIC