ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Electric Utility Operations (Cont'd)
The 300 megawatt natural gas-fired combustion turbine peaking facility, located near Watertown, Wisconsin is expected to run approximately 5% of the time helping meet electric peak demand requirements.
During 1994, Wisconsin Electric continued construction of the Paris Generating Station, a four unit, approximately 300 megawatt, gas-fired combustion turbine power plant, to be placed in service during the summer of 1995. The cost of this facility, located near Union Grove, Wisconsin, is currently estimated at $104 million.
The supply of natural gas to operate the Concord and Paris units is to be provided by Wisconsin Natural, an affiliated company, but may be purchased from other suppliers with Wisconsin Natural providing gas transportation services.
Wisconsin Electric and the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center ("MRMC"), received preliminary approval from Milwaukee County on September 22, 1994, for the purchase of the Milwaukee County Power Plant. The 11 megawatt power plant in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin provides steam, chilled water and electricity for the MRMC facilities. Under the terms of the agreement, Wisconsin Electric is expected to pay $7 million to $8 million for the electric generation and distribution facilities. The MRMC will purchase the plant's steam and water- chilling facilities. Wisconsin Electric will manage and operate the facility, and collect a management fee from the MRMC. Electric revenues of about $3 million annually will be generated from the investment. It is anticipated that this transaction will be finalized in 1995.
Approvals from various regulatory agencies including the PSCW, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources ("DNR") are required prior to constructing new generation capacity. All proposed generating facilities will meet or exceed the applicable federal and state environmental requirements.
For further information regarding future capacity additions, see Item 1. BUSINESS - "REGULATION".
For information regarding estimated costs of Wisconsin Electric's construction program and projected investments in conservation programs for the five years ending December 31, 1999, see Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - "LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES". All estimates of construction expenditures exclude Allowance For Funds Used During Construction. For additional information regarding matters related to Allowance for Funds Used During Construction, see Note D to the Financial Statements in Item 8.
In accordance with a PSCW order issued in November 1993, after completing a capacity-related competitive bidding process, Wisconsin Electric signed a long-term agreement to purchase the electricity that would be generated from a 215 megawatt cogeneration facility planned to be constructed by an unaffiliated independent power producer ("IPP"), LSP-Whitewater Limited Partnership. The agreement is contingent upon the facility being completed and going into operation, which at this time is planned for mid-1996. On March 9, 1995, the PSCW approved the IPP's application to construct a cogeneration plant in Whitewater, Wisconsin. For additional information and related matters, see Item 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS - "OTHER LITIGATION - PSCW Two- Stage CPCN Order" and Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - "Capital Requirements 1995- 1999". - 6 -
ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Electric Utility Operations (Cont'd)
In response to increasing competitive pressures in the markets for electricity and natural gas, Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural are implementing a revitalization process to increase efficiencies and improve customer service by reengineering and restructuring their organizations. The new structures consolidate many business functions and simplify work processes. Due to productivity improvements, staffing levels at Wisconsin Electric have been reduced; 347 employees elected to retire under an early retirement option and 573 employees have enrolled in severance packages. For additional information, see Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - "Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural Revitalization".
SOURCES OF GENERATION
The table below indicates sources of energy generation by Wisconsin Electric:
Year Ended December 31 ---------------------- 1994 1995* ---- ----- Coal 69.0% 69.8% Nuclear 29.0 27.9 Hydro-electric 1.4 1.6 Gas 0.5 0.6 Oil 0.1 0.1 ------ ------ TOTAL 100.0% 100.0% ------------------
*Estimated assuming that there are no unforeseen contingencies such as unscheduled maintenance or repairs.
COAL: Wisconsin Electric diversifies its coal sources by purchasing from Northern Appalachia, the Southern Powder River Basin (Wyoming) and the Raton Basin (New Mexico) mining districts for the power plants in Wisconsin, and from central Appalachia and western mines for the Presque Isle Power Plant in Michigan.
Approximately 75 percent of Wisconsin Electric's 1995 coal requirements are expected to be delivered by Wisconsin Electric-owned unit trains. The unit trains will transport coal for the Oak Creek and Pleasant Prairie Power Plants from New Mexico and Wyoming mines. Coal from Pennsylvania mines is transported via rail to Lake Erie transfer docks and delivered to the Valley and Port Washington Power Plants by lake vessels. Montana coal for Presque Isle is transported via rail to Superior, Wisconsin, placed in dock storage and reloaded into lake vessels for plant delivery. The Presque Isle central Appalachian origin and Colorado origin coal is shipped via rail to Lake Erie and Lake Michigan (Chicago) coal transfer docks, respectively, for lake vessel delivery to the plant. Wisconsin Electric's 1995 coal requirements, projected to be 10.0 million tons, are 98 percent under contract. Wisconsin Electric does not anticipate any problem in procuring its remaining 1995 requirements through short-term or spot purchases and inventory adjustments.
Pleasant Prairie Power Plant: All of the estimated 1995 coal requirements at this plant are presently covered by three long-term contracts.
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ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Sources of Generation (Cont'd)
Oak Creek Power Plant: All of the estimated 1995 coal requirements for this plant are covered by long-term contract. Contract provisions permit Wisconsin Electric to increase/decrease the annual volume to match burn requirements.
Presque Isle Power Plant: This plant has six generating units designed to burn bituminous coal and three other units designed to burn sub-bituminous coal. The units burning sub-bituminous coal are supplied by three long-term contracts the annual volumes of which are anticipated to be adequate to cover coal requirements through 1996. Bituminous coal is generally purchased through one-year contracts from central Appalachia and under a 5 year contract for the Colorado origin coal.
Edgewater 5 Generating Unit: Coal for this unit, in which Wisconsin Electric has a 25 percent interest, is purchased by Wisconsin Power and Light Company, a non-affiliated utility, which is the majority owner of the facility.
Valley and Port Washington Power Plants: These plants are both supplied through a long-term contract that, in combination with coal supplied to Wisconsin Electric's other Wisconsin plants, allows the plants to meet the requirements of the Wisconsin acid rain law. In the event of further air quality emission requirements affecting these plants, the contract can be terminated without liability.
The periods and annual tonnage amounts for Wisconsin Electric's principal coal contracts are as follows:
Contract Period Annual Tonnage --------------- -------------- Jan. 1977 to Dec. 1996 240,000 Nov. 1987 to Dec. 1997 500,000(A) Jan. 1980 to Dec. 2006 2,000,000 Jul. 1983 to Dec. 2002 1,000,000 Apr. 1990 to Nov. 1996 375,000(B) Jan. 1992 to Dec. 2005 1,200,000(C)(1995) Oct. 1992 to Sep. 2007 2,000,000 Sep. 1994 to Aug. 1999 500,000
--------------------------- (A) The contract can be extended if the total volume has not been purchased by the respective termination dates.
(B) Annual volume can be increased to meet requirements for the Port Washington and Valley Power Plants above the 375,000 ton volume indicated herein.
(C) Subsequent years may be of greater tonnage as allowed under certain provisions of the contract.
For information regarding emission restrictions, see Item 1. BUSINESS - ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE - "Air Quality - Acid Rain Legislation".
NUCLEAR: Wisconsin Electric purchases uranium concentrates ("yellowcake") and contracts for its conversion, enrichment and fabrication. Wisconsin Electric maintains title to the nuclear fuel until the fabricated fuel assemblies are delivered to the Point Beach Nuclear Plant ("Point Beach"), whereupon it is sold to and leased back from the Wisconsin Electric Fuel Trust ("Trust"). See Note F to the Financial Statements in Item 8.
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ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Sources of Generation (Cont'd)
Uranium Requirements: Wisconsin Electric requires approximately 450,000 pounds of yellowcake annually for its two-units at Point Beach. Uranium requirements through 1997 will be provided from a combination of existing contracts with Malapai Resources Company (of Arizona); Energy Resources of Australia, Ltd.; and Nukem Inc. (U.S.). Wisconsin Electric may exercise flexibilities in these contracts and purchase certain quantities of uranium on the spot-market, should market conditions prove favorable. Wisconsin Electric believes that adequate supplies of uranium concentrates will be available to satisfy current and future operating requirements.
Under a contract with Nuexco Trading Corporation, Wisconsin Electric was to receive 200,000 pounds of uranium concentrates on specified delivery dates in 1995 at conversion facilities in the United States or Canada in exchange for the transfer to Nuexco of an identical quantity of concentrates held by Wisconsin Electric at the conversion facilities of Comurhex in France. However, Nuexco is in default under the contract and has filed for bankruptcy law protection. Wisconsin Electric is reviewing various options that might be available for use of its concentrates located at Comurhex.
Conversion: Wisconsin Electric has a contract with Sequoyah Fuels Corporation, a subsidiary of General Atomics, to provide conversion services for the Point Beach reactors through 1995. Due to operating difficulties encountered in 1992, Sequoyah Fuels has decided to place its Gore, Oklahoma conversion plant on indefinite stand-by. In November 1992, Sequoyah Fuels signed an agreement with Allied Signal Corporation which formed a partnership called Converdyn Corporation.
Converdyn administers all existing Allied and Sequoyah contracts, with all conversion services being performed at the existing Allied Signal conversion facility in Metropolis, Illinois.
Wisconsin Electric also has a conversion contract with the Cameco Corporation, to provide for an alternate supply of up to approximately 30 percent of conversion requirements through 1995 and up to 100 percent of conversion requirements from 1996 through 1999. Cameco is a Canadian based corporation located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and is a major producer of uranium concentrates.
Enrichment: Wisconsin Electric currently has a Utility Services Contract with the U.S. Department of Energy ("DOE") for 70 percent of the enrichment services required for the operation of both of the Point Beach units. The contract can provide enrichment services for the entire operating life of each unit. For a discussion of litigation involving the Utility Services Contract, see Item 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS - OTHER LITIGATION - "Uranium Enrichment Charges". Wisconsin Electric entered into a supplemental agreement with the DOE to supply the remaining 30 percent of enrichment service requirements for the period through 1995 at prices below those offered under the Utility Services Contract. Responsibility for administering these contracts and agreements for enrichment services was transferred from DOE to the U.S. Enrichment Corporation ("USEC") under the Energy Policy Act of 1992. In March 1992, Wisconsin Electric entered into an agreement with Global Nuclear Services and Supply Limited, an international supplier of enrichment services, for the remaining 30 percent of enrichment service requirements after 1995.
Fabrication: Fabrication of fuel assemblies from enriched uranium for Point Beach is covered under a contract with Westinghouse Electric Corporation for the balance of the plant's current operating license.
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ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Sources of Generation (Cont'd)
Spent Fuel Storage and Disposal: Wisconsin Electric currently has the capability to store certain amounts of spent nuclear fuel at Point Beach. Previous modifications to the storage facilities at Point Beach have made it possible to accommodate all spent fuel expected to be discharged from the reactors through 1995 while maintaining the capability for one full core off- load. In accordance with the provisions of the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982, which require the DOE to provide for the disposal of spent fuel from all U.S. nuclear plants, Wisconsin Electric entered into a disposal contract providing for deliveries of spent fuel to the DOE for ultimate disposal commencing in January 1998. It is anticipated that the DOE will be unable to accept spent fuel by the 1998 timeframe as contracted. In November of 1991, Wisconsin Electric filed an application with the PSCW to construct and operate an Independent Spent Fuel Storage Installation ("ISFSI"). The ISFSI can provide additional interim dry cask storage until the DOE begins to remove spent fuel from Point Beach in accordance with the terms of the contract it has with Wisconsin Electric. Public hearings on the proposed project were held during October 1994. On February 13, 1995, Wisconsin Electric received a Certificate of Authority from the PSCW to construct and operate the ISFSI. Loading of the first storage unit of the ISFSI could take place in the summer of 1995. In March 1995 separate petitions were filed by intervenors in Dane County Circuit Court and Fond du Lac County Circuit Court. The Dane County petition seeks reversal of the order and a remand to the PSCW directing it to deny Wisconsin Electric's request for authorization to construct the dry cask facility, or in the alternative, to correct the alleged errors in the PSCW's order. No specific relief is identified in the Fond du Lac County petition; however, numerous grounds of error are alleged. Wisconsin Electric intends to fully participate in both judicial review proceedings and to vigorously oppose the petitions. For additional information, see Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - "Capital Requirements 1995-1999".
Point Beach Nuclear Plant: Point Beach provided 29 percent of Wisconsin Electric's net generation in 1994. The plant has two generating units which had a combined dependable capability during December 1994 of 980 megawatts and which together constituted 18.3 percent of Wisconsin Electric's dependable generating capability in 1994. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission ("NRC") licenses for Point Beach Units 1 and 2 expire October 5, 2010 and March 8, 2013, respectively.
The NRC has, at various times, directed that certain inspections, modifications and changes in operating practices be made at all nuclear plants. At Point Beach, such inspections have been made and necessary changes to equipment and in operating practices have either been completed or are expected to be completed within the time schedules permitted by the NRC or within approved extensions thereof.
Wisconsin Electric has initiated certain plant betterment projects at Point Beach that are judged to be appropriate and beneficial. Construction is progressing on the addition of two safety-related emergency diesel powered electrical generators with installation to be completed in 1996.
On October 1, 1992, Wisconsin Electric filed an application with the PSCW for the replacement of the Unit 2 steam generators, which would allow for the unit's operation until the expiration of its operating license in 2013. This project is estimated to cost $119 million. (In 1984 Wisconsin Electric replaced the Unit 1 steam generators.) The PSCW deferred the decision on the steam generator replacements until after the next refueling outage in
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ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Sources of Generation (Cont'd)
September 1995. In the Interim Order dated February 13, 1995, the PSCW directed Wisconsin Electric to make suitable arrangements with the fabricator of the new steam generators to allow the fabrication, delivery and replacement to proceed promptly if authorized by the PSCW as result of further investigation. The reasonable costs of such arrangements to maintain a place in line with the fabricator will be afforded rate recovery. It is anticipated that the final order in this matter will be issued in early 1996. Without the replacement of the steam generators, it is believed the unit would not be able to operate to the end of its current license.
Decommissioning Fund: Pursuant to a 1985 PSCW order amended in 1994, Wisconsin Electric provides for costs associated with the eventual decommissioning of Point Beach through the use of an external trust fund. Payments to this fund, together with investment earnings, brought the balance in the trust fund on December 31, 1994 to approximately $227 million. For additional information regarding decommissioning see Note F to the Financial Statements in Item 8.
Nuclear Plant Insurance: For information regarding matters pertaining to nuclear plant insurance, see Note F to the Financial Statements in Item 8.
NATURAL GAS (FOR ELECTRIC GENERATION): Natural gas for boiler ignition and flame stabilization purposes for the Pleasant Prairie, Oak Creek and Valley Power Plants, is purchased under an agency agreement. The agent purchases natural gas and arranges for interstate pipeline transportation to the local gas distribution utility. Gas for the Pleasant Prairie and Oak Creek Power Plants is delivered by Wisconsin Natural. Gas for the Valley Power Plant is delivered by Wisconsin Gas Company, a non-affiliated company.
The Concord Generation Station and the Oak Creek combustion turbine use natural gas as their primary fuel, with Number 2 fuel oil as backup, as will the Paris Generating Station, expected to go into commercial service in the summer of 1995. Gas for these plants may be purchased directly from Wisconsin Natural on an interruptible basis.
OIL: Oil is used for combustion turbines at the Germantown and Port Washington Power Plants and at Point Beach. Small amounts of oil are also used for boiler ignition and flame stabilization at some coal-fired plants. Number 2 fuel oil requirements for 1995 at the Presque Isle Power Plant and the Point Beach combustion turbine are provided under one-year contracts with equitable price adjustment formulas. All other oil requirements are purchased as needed from local suppliers. The Concord and Paris Generating Stations and the Oak Creek combustion turbine use oil as a secondary fuel source.
HYDRO: Wisconsin Electric has various licenses from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ("FERC") for its hydroelectric generating facilities that expire during the period 1998 to 2004. Wisconsin Electric has begun the licensing process for its largest hydro facility, Big Quinnesec Falls, which has a license expiring in 1998. Wisconsin Electric continues to support FERC's efforts to complete the licensing process and issue licenses for four hydro projects with 1993 expiration dates. These projects are currently being operated by Wisconsin Electric under annual licenses issued by FERC. The three hydro facilities, with a total of 2.5 megawatts installed capacity, that Wisconsin Electric decided not to relicense in 1993 are still being operated by Wisconsin Electric under annual licenses until FERC determines their disposition. Wisconsin Electric continues to consult with the U.S. Fish and
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ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Sources of Generation (Cont'd)
Wildlife Service, DNR, Michigan Department of Natural Resources ("MDNR") and the National Park Service in conjunction with the licensing process. Hydroelectric facilities provided 1.4% of Wisconsin Electric's total energy generation in 1994.
INTERCONNECTIONS WITH OTHER UTILITIES: Wisconsin Electric's system is interconnected at various locations with the systems of Madison Gas and Electric Company, Wisconsin Power and Light Company, Wisconsin Public Service Corporation, Commonwealth Edison Company, Northern States Power Company and Upper Peninsula Power Company. These interconnections provide for interchange of power to assure system reliability as well as facilitating access to generating capacity and the transfer of energy for economic purposes.
Wisconsin Electric is a member of Wisconsin-Upper Michigan Systems ("WUMS"), a coordinating group which includes four other electric companies in Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. WUMS, in turn, is a member of Mid-America Interconnected Network, which is one of nine regional members of the North American Electric Reliability Council. Membership in these groups permits better utilization of reserve generating capacity and coordination of long-range system planning and day-to-day operations.
In March 1994, Wisconsin Electric executed a transmission service agreement with Commonwealth Edison that will allow Wisconsin Electric to purchase energy from southern Illinois and Indiana suppliers, using the Commonwealth Edison transmission system to import such energy into Wisconsin.
A transmission service agreement has been executed to allow Wisconsin Electric to reserve capacity and import energy from members of the Mid-Continent Area Power Pool ("MAPP"), a group consisting of electric utilities generally located west of Wisconsin. Considerable non-firm energy is expected to be purchased from MAPP members over the next several years.
SALES TO WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS: Wisconsin Electric currently provides wholesale electric energy to five municipally owned systems, three rural cooperatives, two municipal joint action agencies and one isolated system of an investor- owned utility in Wisconsin, Illinois, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan under rates approved by the FERC. Sales to these wholesale customers accounted for 5.3 percent of total kilowatt-hour sales in 1994. Under two agreements, service is being provided subject to a seven-year notice of cancellation from the Wisconsin Public Power Inc. SYSTEM ("WPPI"). Wisconsin Electric also has an eight-year power supply agreement with the Badger Power Marketing Authority. Sales to the Badger Power Marketing Authority and WPPI combined are expected to account for approximately one half of the wholesale sales for 1995.
Service to UPPCO, under a 65 megawatt agreement which expires on December 31, 1997, is expected to account for 30 percent of 1995 wholesale sales. In October 1993, UPPCO announced that it had reached an agreement in principle with NSP to purchase 90 megawatts of base-load electric energy beginning in 1998. Wisconsin Electric expects to apply the 65 megawatts of capacity toward the electric energy needs of new customers and toward the overall increase in system supply needs anticipated by 1998.
Service to the remaining wholesale customers is provided under agreements which require a three-year notice of cancellation from the customers.
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ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Sources of Generation (Cont'd)
During 1994, sales to wholesale customers declined 10.4 percent from 1993, largely the result of reductions in sales to WPPI. WPPI has been reducing its purchases from Wisconsin Electric subsequent to acquiring generation capacity in 1990. Sales to WPPI during 1994, 1993 and 1992 were approximately 725,000 megawatt-hours ("MWh"), 944,000 MWh and 1,166,000 MWh, respectively. Further reductions are expected as WPPI installs additional capacity. These sales reductions are not expected to have a significant effect on future earnings. Under the provisions of a long-term agreement, Wisconsin Electric will continue to provide transmission services to WPPI.
Wisconsin Electric's existing FERC tariffs also provide for transmission service to its wholesale customers. During 1994, Wisconsin Electric had three customers taking transmission service. For further information see Item 1. BUSINESS - "REGULATION".
In October 1992, the Energy Policy Act was signed into law. Passage of this law is expected to remove perceived encumbrances and facilitate the entry of power producers into the already competitive bulk power market. Notable among its provisions are the creation of a new class of energy producer called Exempt Wholesale Generators ("EWGs"), who are exempt from the requirements of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, and the rights that the Energy Policy Act provides them and utilities to request a FERC order directing the provision of transmission service if denied transmission access from utilities. The transmission aspects of this law are expected to have little impact on Wisconsin Electric since it has had open access transmission tariffs on file with the FERC since 1980.
In September 1994 Wisconsin Electric, responding to WPPI's request and a PSCW order in a transmission construction proceeding, filed an unexecuted Network Transmission Service Agreement for service to WPPI at the FERC. In November 1994 Wisconsin Electric made a second filing at the FERC to extend network transmission service to non-WPPI wholesale customers. The proposed Network Transmission Service is firm service for the loads of wholesale customers located in Wisconsin Electric's retail service area. It is designed to be comparable to service provided for the Company's native load.
The electric utility industry continues to become increasingly competitive. Some municipal utilities are approaching competing utilities in a search for lower energy prices. Additionally, some large industrial customers are seeking regulatory changes that could permit retail wheeling to allow them to seek proposals for energy from alternate suppliers. IPPs are also exploring cogeneration projects which would provide process steam to customers in Wisconsin Electric's service territory and sell electricity to Wisconsin Electric. Consequently, electric wholesale and large retail customers of Wisconsin Electric or other non-affiliated utilities may determine, from time to time, to switch energy suppliers, purchase interests in existing power plants or build new generating capacity, either directly or through joint ventures with third parties. The advent of EWGs can be expected to accelerate this practice. For additional information, see Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - "LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES".
SALES TO LARGE CUSTOMERS
Wisconsin Electric provides utility service to a diversified base of industrial customers. Major industries served include the iron ore mining industry, the paper industry, the machinery production industry, the foundry
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ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Sales to Large Customers (Cont'd)
industry and the food products industry. The Empire and Tilden iron ore mines, the two largest customers of Wisconsin Electric, accounted for 4.6 percent and 4.0 percent, respectively, of total electric kilowatt-hour sales in 1994. Sales to the mines were 15.0 percent higher in 1994 compared to 1993, attributable to a five week strike in 1993. For additional information, see Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - "Electric Sales and Revenues".
STEAM UTILITY OPERATIONS
Wisconsin Electric operates a district steam system for space heating and processing in downtown and near southside Milwaukee. Sales of the steam utility fluctuate with the heating cycle of the year and are impacted by varying weather conditions from year-to-year. The system consists of approximately 28 miles of high and low pressure mains and related regulating equipment. Steam for the system is supplied by Wisconsin Electric's Valley Power Plant. At December 31, 1994, there were 471 customers on the system. Steam sales in 1994 were 2,395 million pounds, an increase of 0.8 percent from the 2,376 million pounds sold in 1993.
REGULATION
Wisconsin Electric is subject to the regulation of the PSCW as to retail electric and steam rates in Wisconsin, standards of service, issuance of securities, construction of new facilities, transactions with affiliates, levels of short-term debt obligations, billing practices and various other matters. Wisconsin Electric is also subject to the regulation of the MPSC as to the various matters associated with retail electric service in Michigan as noted above except as to construction of certain new facilities, levels of short-term debt obligations and advance approval of transactions with affiliates. Wisconsin Electric, with respect to hydro-electric facilities, wholesale rates and accounting, is subject to FERC regulation. Operation and construction relating to Wisconsin Electric's Point Beach facilities are subject to regulation by the NRC. Wisconsin Electric's operations are also subject to regulations of the EPA, the DNR and the MDNR.
The PSCW is authorized to direct expenditures for promoting conservation if it determines that the programs are in the public interest. Recent rate orders have included provisions for substantial conservation programs initiated by Wisconsin Electric. For additional information, see Note A to the Financial Statements in Item 8.
Wisconsin Electric is subject to a power plant siting law in Wisconsin which requires that electric utilities file updated long-term forecasts (called "Advance Plans") for the location, size and type of future large generating plants and high voltage transmission lines about every two years for PSCW approval after public hearings. Generally, the law provides that the PSCW may not authorize the construction of any large generating plants or high voltage transmission lines unless they are in substantial compliance with the most recently approved plan. The law also prohibits Wisconsin Electric from acquiring any interest in land for such plants or transmission lines by condemnation until construction authorization has been received. Advance Plan orders are based on a review of the utilities' long-term planning options. However, separate project-specific PSCW approval is required for the construction of generating facilities and transmission lines.
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ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Regulation (Cont'd)
Wisconsin Electric employs a least-cost integrated planning process, which examines a full range of supply and demand side options to meet its customers' electric needs, such as the renovation of existing power plants, promotion of cost-effective conservation and load management options, development of renewable energy sources, purchased power and construction of new company- owned generation facilities.
For additional information regarding Advance Plans, see Item 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS - "OTHER LITIGATION" and Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - "LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES".
In 1992, the PSCW ordered that utilities should include a cost of $15 per ton of carbon dioxide ("CO2") when comparing resource planning options (both supply and demand-side) to account for the economic risk of future greenhouse gas regulation. Appeals through 1993 and 1994 did not substantially change the order. Recent supply and DSM plans included the greenhouse gas adder. There are only minor differences in supply and DSM plans prepared with and without the greenhouse gas adder.
In 1994, the PSCW ordered the state's utilities to competitively bid all new generation needs in excess of 12 megawatts to be built in Wisconsin. The two stage process established by the PSCW consists of: (1) an all-parties (including utilities) bidding procedure for fossil-fueled and renewable generation projects and (2) the conventional Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity ("CPCN") procedure for the winner or winners. For additional information regarding the CPCN process, see Item 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS - OTHER LITIGATION and Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - "Capital Requirements 1995-1999."
The PSCW is conducting an investigation into the state of the electric utility industry in Wisconsin, particularly its institutional structure and regulatory regime, in order to evaluate what changes would be beneficial for Wisconsin. The PSCW stated that this investigation may result in profound and fundamental changes to the nature and regulation of the electric utility industry in Wisconsin. About 50 interested parties, including Wisconsin Electric, submitted comments as to appropriate objectives for regulation of the electric utility industry and the utility structures and regulatory approaches likely to provide the best balance of such objectives. Initial question and answer sessions were held in November, 1994. The PSCW also scheduled meetings for early 1995 for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the investigation and has indicated it anticipates submitting a final report to the Wisconsin Legislature in late 1995. Copies of Wisconsin Electric's proposal are available upon request.
Wisconsin Electric's view of industry restructuring separates various electric utility functions into two major categories - natural monopolies and competitive entities. The natural monopolies are functions where a single entity can provide the lowest cost. The competitive entities are functions where competition can provide the lowest cost. The natural monopolies would be re-regulated so the appropriate incentives exist to provide electricity at reasonable prices. The competitive entities would eventually see an elimination of traditional regulation.
In Wisconsin Electric's plan, the re-regulated natural monopolies are the transmission and distribution functions. Re-regulation of these entities should involve some form of price cap and performance-standard operation rules. In the new structure, the FERC would regulate the transmission - 15 -
ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Regulation (Cont'd)
systems through a regional transmission group to ensure open access, comparable pricing, comparable service and adequate cost recovery. The PSCW would regulate the distribution function for reasonable price, reliability, public safety and customer satisfaction.
The competitive entities in the Wisconsin Electric model are the generation, customer service and energy merchant functions. In the restructured electric utility industry, utilities would unbundle costs into the individual components of generation, transmission, distribution and service.
RATE MATTERS
See Item 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS - "RATE MATTERS" - for a discussion of rate matters, including recent rate changes and a discussion of the tariffs and procedures with respect to recovery of changes in the costs of fuel and purchased power.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
The management of Wisconsin Electric believes that a strong and continuing emphasis must be placed on energy management and efficient energy use. Wisconsin Electric is continuing to develop programs to inform and assist its customers with respect to conservation options. This policy is regarded by Wisconsin Electric as in the best interests of its customers and security holders.
Efficient use of energy is not limited to reduced consumption. Time-of-use rates for certain electric customers promote the shifting of electricity usage to those times when electric generating facilities are not fully utilized. Interruptible and curtailable rates, along with an energy cooperative managed load curtailment program, are offered to certain industrial customers to control peak demand. Direct load control of some residential central air conditioners continues as part of a pilot program which began in 1992.
To promote its energy management and conservation policies, Wisconsin Electric offers various programs and services to its customers. For industrial and commercial customers, Wisconsin Electric offers energy evaluations identifying cost-effective customer conservation opportunities as well as financial assistance, including direct grants and interest-free financing to purchase and maintain energy-efficient equipment. Additional financial incentives are also offered to residential electric customers to encourage the purchase of energy-efficient appliances and the removal of older inefficient appliances from the system.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE
Compliance with federal, state and local environmental protection requirements resulted in capital expenditures by Wisconsin Electric of approximately $57 million in 1994, a decrease of $8 million from 1993. Expenditures incurred during 1994 included costs associated with the replacement of the precipitators at Valley Power Plant the installation of pollution abatement facilities at Wisconsin Electric's power plants, the installation of underground distribution lines and environmental studies associated with power plants. Such expenditures are budgeted at approximately $35 million for 1995.
Operation, maintenance and depreciation expenses of Wisconsin Electric's fly ash removal equipment and other environmental protection systems are estimated to have been $47 million in 1994. Other environmental costs, primarily for environmental studies, amounted to $1 million in 1994. - 16 -
ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Environmental Compliance (Cont'd)
Solid Waste Landfills
Wisconsin Electric provides for the disposal of non-ash related solid wastes and hazardous wastes through licensed independent contractors, but federal statutory provisions impose joint and several liability on the generators of waste for certain cleanup costs. Remediation-related activity pertaining to specific sites is discussed below.
Muskego Sanitary Landfill: In 1992, Wisconsin Electric was informed by the EPA that it was included in a group of approximately 50 potentially responsible parties ("PRPs") against which the EPA will issue orders requiring that the PRPs clean up the Muskego Sanitary Landfill (located in Southeastern Waukesha County, Wisconsin). On January 14, 1993, Wisconsin Electric notified EPA that it was proceeding, with other PRPs, to comply with the order. The first step toward remediation has been identified with the Wisconsin Electric portion of the $16.8 million dollar effort identified as $115,414 (paid in 1994). Remedial actions for the second step (Groundwater Operable Unit Remedy) are being evaluated, with EPA recommending a limited pump and treat option, estimated to cost $7.4 million. Costs would be allocated among the PRPs based on their waste contribution to the site. Wisconsin Electric has been identified as one of the small waste contributors to the site.
Maxey Flats Nuclear Disposal Site: In 1986, Wisconsin Electric was advised by EPA that it is one of a number of PRPs for cleanup at this low-level radioactive waste site located in Morehead, Kentucky. The amount of waste contributed by Wisconsin Electric is significantly less than one percent of the total. Under the terms of a consent decree agreed to by all parties, Wisconsin Electric will pay the amount of $163,830 (minus a small credit for an amount previously paid) as its share of the settlement fund for site clean up costs.
Manistique River/Harbor Area: Wisconsin Electric received a request for information or PRP letter from EPA on March 12, 1993. The letter states that the river/harbor has PCB contamination. EPA has requested information regarding company PCB and oil filled equipment management in the Manistique River drainage basin. Wisconsin Electric responded to this request on April 22, 1993. Additional information requests from EPA have also been responded to by Wisconsin Electric. Wisconsin Electric has no reason to believe that the company is responsible in total or in part for the PCB contamination in the Manistique River/harbor area. Wisconsin Electric has learned through newspaper articles that the EPA announced a preliminary plan to dredge most of the PCB-contaminated sediments, with only limited capping along the breakwater. The two identified PRPs, Manistique Papers and Edison Sault Electric Company, have advocated installation of a permanent cap.
Kenosha Iron and Metal: Wisconsin Electric received a request for information or PRP letter from EPA on December 9, 1994. The letter requested information regarding any involvement Wisconsin Electric's Pleasant Prairie Power Plant may have had with this operation. A response to EPA was sent December 29, 1994 indicating that Wisconsin Electric had no reason to believe that the power plant or Wisconsin Electric did any business with Kenosha Iron and Metal. No cleanup schedule has been set or remediation costs identified.
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ITEM 1. BUSINESS - Environmental Compliance (Cont'd)
Marina Cliffs Barrel Dump Site: Wisconsin Electric received a special notice letter and information request on March 25, 1994 from the DNR. The letter describes a release of hazardous substances at a former barrel reclamation facility and landfill site, and requests information on any business dealings Wisconsin Electric may have had with this former operation. Wisconsin Electric has no reason to believe that it is responsible for the contamination problems at this site. No known cleanup schedule has been set or remediation costs identified.
ETSM Property: Iron cyanide bearing wastes were found both on property owned by Wisconsin Electric (ETSM facility) and adjacent landowners. The wastes were removed and properly disposed, with Wisconsin Electric's share of the cleanup at about $100,000. Adjacent landowners believe Wisconsin Electric to be the source of the material, however, records do not support that allegation.
Ash Landfills
Wisconsin Electric aggressively seeks environmentally acceptable, beneficial uses of its combustion byproducts. However, ash materials have been, and to some degree, continue to be disposed in company-owned, licensed landfills. Some early designed and constructed landfills may allow the release of low levels of constituents, resulting in the need for various levels of remediation. These costs are included in the environmental operating and maintenance costs for Wisconsin Electric. Sites currently undergoing remediation include:
Presque Isle Landfill: Wisconsin Electric entered into a settlement agreement with the MDNR for conditions existing at an ash landfill site acquired by Wisconsin Electric when it purchased the Presque Isle Power Plant in 1988. Wisconsin Electric's groundwater monitoring program at the site detected elevated levels of certain substances at the oldest portion of the landfill. Wisconsin Electric has reconstructed and capped that portion of the landfill to prevent further leachate from entering the groundwater at an approximate cost of $2.6 million. The cost to implement a remediation plan for the cleanup of the current groundwater conditions, when approved by the MDNR, is estimated to not exceed $1 million.
Highway 59 Landfill: In 1989, a sulfate plume was detected in the groundwater beneath a Wisconsin Electric-owned former ash landfill located in the town of Waukesha, Wisconsin. After notifying the DNR, Wisconsin Electric initiated a five-year expanded monitoring program. In response to a request from the DNR, Wisconsin Electric is preparing an environmental contamination assessment of the landfill, and will submit the report to the DNR in May, 1995. Wisconsin Electric believes that any remediation plan developed, approved and implemented for this site would not have a material adverse effect on its financial condition.
Air Quality - Acid Rain Legislation
In 1986, the Wisconsin Legislature passed legislation establishing new sulfur dioxide ("SO2") limitations applicable to Wisconsin's five major electric utilities, including Wisconsin Electric. The law requires each of the five
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ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
major electric utilities to meet a 1.20 lb SO2 per million BTU corporate average annual emission rate limit beginning in 1993. Prior to 1993, Wisconsin law limited the total annual SO2 emissions from the five major electric utilities to 500,000 tons per year. During 1994, approximately 181,000 tons of SO2 were emitted by such utilities, equivalent to an annual average emission rate of 0.97 lbs SO2 per million BTU.
Wisconsin Electric's compliance plan to meet the SO2 limitations under Wisconsin's acid rain law includes the increased use of low-sulfur coal at certain power plant units. Some changes to existing power plant equipment were made to accommodate the use of low-sulfur coals.
The 1990 amendments to the Federal Clean Air Act mandate significant nation- wide reductions in air emissions. Most significant to the country's electric utility companies are the "acid rain" provisions of the amendments which are scheduled to limit SO2 and nitrogen oxide ("NOX") emissions in phases which take effect in 1995 and 2000. Wisconsin Electric evaluated the potential impact resulting from this legislation and concluded that minimal impact will result from Phase I requirements because of actions taken to meet the above mentioned Wisconsin acid rain law. Phase II requirements, together with separate ozone nonattainment provisions of the Clean Air Act which may call for additional NOX reductions, however, will necessitate the implementation of a compliance strategy which is not expected to impact rates. Since a portion of the regulations that have been issued by the EPA are not complete or are not yet final, the rate impact is subject to change and will be reevaluated as needed.
For additional information regarding the impact of the Clean Air Act Amendments, including estimates of the cost of compliance, see Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - "Environmental Issues".
OTHER
Wisconsin Electric is authorized to provide electric service in designated territories in the state of Wisconsin, as established by indeterminate permits, certificates of public convenience and necessity, or boundary agreements with other utilities. Wisconsin Electric provides electric service in certain territories in the state of Michigan pursuant to franchises granted by municipalities.
Research and development expenditures of Wisconsin Electric amounted to $7,996,000 in 1994, $8,485,000 in 1993, and $7,835,000 in 1992. Such expenditures were primarily for improvement of service and abatement of air and water pollution. The capitalized portion of research and development costs amounted to $15,000 in 1993 and $55,000 in 1992; there were no such capitalized costs in 1994. Research and development activities include work done by employees, consultants and contractors, plus sponsorship of research by industry associations.
At December 31, 1994, Wisconsin Electric employed 4,132 persons, of which 105 were part-time.
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ITEM 2.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Wisconsin Electric owns the following generating stations with 1994 capabilities as indicated: Dependable Capability In Megawatts (1) ----------------------- No. of Generating August December Name Fuel Units 1994 1994 ---- ---- ---------- ------- -------- Steam Plants: Point Beach Nuclear 2 974 980 Oak Creek Coal 4 1,135 1,141 Presque Isle (2) Coal 9 612 612 Pleasant Prairie Coal 2 1,200 1,210 Port Washington Coal 4 322 324 Valley Coal 2 267 227 Edgewater (3) Coal 1 98 98 -- ----- ----- TOTAL STEAM 24 4,608 4,592
Hydro Plants (16 in number) 38 75 75 Germantown Combustion Turbines Oil 4 212 252 Other Combustion Turbines & Diesel(4) Gas/Oil 6 393 450 -- ----- ----- TOTAL SYSTEM 72 5,288 5,369 == ===== =====
------------------- (1) Dependable capability is the net power output under average operating conditions with equipment in an average state of repair as of a given month in a given year. Changing seasonal conditions are responsible for the different capabilities reported for the winter and summer periods in the above table. The values were established by test and may change slightly from year to year.
(2) UPPCO, a non-affiliated utility, staffs and operates the Presque Isle Power Plant under an operating agreement with Wisconsin Electric which extends through December 31, 1997.
(3) Wisconsin Electric has a 25 percent interest in Edgewater 5 Generating Unit, which is operated by Wisconsin Power and Light Company, a non- affiliated utility.
(4) During the second quarter of 1994, two units, or approximately 150 megawatts of additional peaking combustion turbine generation capacity, were placed in service at Wisconsin Electric's Concord Generating Station.
At December 31, 1994, the Wisconsin Electric system had 2,759 miles of transmission circuits, of which 639 miles were operating at 345 kilovolts, 123 miles at 230 kilovolts, 1,603 miles at 138 kilovolts, and 394 miles at voltage levels less than 138 kilovolts. At December 31, 1994, Wisconsin Electric was operating 22,327 pole miles of overhead distribution lines and 13,481 miles of underground distribution cable, as well as 360 distribution substations and 216,973 line transformers.
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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES - (Cont'd)
Wisconsin Electric owns various office buildings and service centers throughout its service area. The principal properties of Wisconsin Electric are owned in fee except that the major portion of electric transmission and distribution lines and steam distribution mains are located, for the most part, on or in streets and highways and on land owned by others. Substantially all utility property is subject to a first mortgage lien.
ITEM 3.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS
Wisconsin Electric is subject to federal, state and certain local laws and regulations governing the environmental aspects of its operations. Wisconsin Electric believes that, with immaterial exceptions, its existing facilities are in compliance with applicable environmental requirements.
Stephenson Building: Crown Life Insurance Company has sued Wisconsin Electric in federal court, seeking contribution and damages from Wisconsin Electric for the cost of removing asbestos from boilers and piping in a building owned by Crown Life. Wisconsin Electric sold that equipment and piping to a former building owner in 1970. Wisconsin Electric is defending this lawsuit.
See Item 1. BUSINESS - ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE for a discussion of matters related to certain solid waste and ash landfills sites.
RATE MATTERS
Wisconsin Retail Electric Jurisdiction
Fuel Cost Adjustment Procedure: Wisconsin Electric's retail rates in Wisconsin do not contain an automatic fuel adjustment clause, but can be adjusted by the PSCW if actual cumulative fuel and purchased power costs, when compared to the costs projected in the retail electric rate proceeding, deviate from a prescribed range and are expected to continue to be above or below the authorized annual range of 3 percent.
1994 Fuel Cost Adjustment: Effective August 4, 1994 the PSCW authorized Wisconsin Electric to reduce Wisconsin retail electric rates through the use of a fuel adjustment credit to reflect lower fuel and purchased power expenses. The adjustment reduced Wisconsin retail electric revenue by approximately $6.8 million through December 31, 1994. The level of fuel expenses currently included in rates will continue until either the actual cumulative fuel and purchased power costs exceed the range in the fuel cost adjustment procedure, at which time Wisconsin Electric can apply for a change to the fuel adjustment factor currently in place, or rates are revised by the PSCW in a rate case.
1994 Test Year: In April 1993, Wisconsin Electric filed with the PSCW required data relating to the 1994 test year. In support of its goal to become the lowest-cost energy provider in the region, Wisconsin Electric did not seek an increase in retail electric rates for 1994 over those which were authorized on February 17, 1993.
1995 Test Year: In 1993 the PSCW discontinued the practice of conducting annual rate case proceedings, replacing it with a new schedule which calls for future rate cases to be conducted once every two years. As a result, no filing was made with respect to the 1995 test year.
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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS - Rate Matters (Cont'd)
1996 Test Year: Under the PSCW's biennial rate case schedule, Wisconsin Electric would be scheduled to file in mid-1995 for rates to reflect a 1996 test year. Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural may make a single combined filing covering electric, steam and gas operations in May 1995 for the test year beginning January 1, 1996. On March 27, 1995, Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural sent a letter to the PSCW proposing a one year deferral of their upcoming rate case filing. The matter is pending.
Wholesale Electric Jurisdiction
Fuel and Purchased Power Adjustment Tariffs: Wisconsin Electric's wholesale rates contain an automatic fuel adjustment provision to reflect varying fuel and purchased power costs. Wholesale sales, to municipals and cooperatives, represented approximately 5% of total electric sales in 1994.
Michigan Retail Electric Jurisdiction
1993 Test Year: Effective July 9, 1993, the MPSC authorized an annualized rate increase of $1.4 million, or 4.3%, for Wisconsin Electric's non-mine retail electric customers. Excluding sales to the two mine customers, which are separately regulated by the MPSC, retail electric sales in Michigan account for approximately 2% of Wisconsin Electric's total kilowatt-hour sales.
Power Supply Cost Recovery Clause: Rates are adjusted to reflect varying fuel and purchased power costs through a power supply cost recovery ("PSCR") clause in Wisconsin Electric's tariffs. Such PSCR clause provides for, among other things, an annual filing of a PSCR plan and, after notice and an opportunity for hearing, the development of PSCR factors to be applied to customers' bills during the period covered by the PSCR plan to allow Wisconsin Electric to recover its costs of fuel and purchased power transactions, as estimated in its annual filing. The amounts so collected are subject to a reconciliation proceeding conducted by the MPSC at the end of the period covered by the plan for recovery of any undercollections of actual costs or for refund or credit of any amounts in excess of its actual costs in such period. On November 30, 1994, the MPSC approved the proposed PSCR credit factor of $.00535 per kilowatt-hour for the year 1995.
Wisconsin Retail Steam Jurisdiction
Fuel Adjustment: Wisconsin Electric steam rates contain a provision to adjust rates to reflect varying fuel costs for all customers except for a large volume contract representing approximately 14 percent of steam sales in 1994.
1994 Test Year: Consistent with the actions taken with respect to Wisconsin Electric's Wisconsin Retail Electric Jurisdiction, Wisconsin Electric did not seek an increase in retail steam rates for 1994 above those authorized in February 1993.
1995 Test Year: In 1993 the PSCW discontinued the practice of conducting annual rate case proceedings, replacing it with a new schedule which calls for future rate cases to be conducted once every two years. As a result, no filing was made with respect to the 1995 test year.
1996 Test Year: Under the PSCW's biennial rate case schedule, Wisconsin Electric would be scheduled to file in mid-1995 for rates to reflect a 1996 test year period. Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural may make a single
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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS - Rate Matters (Cont'd)
combined filing covering electric, steam, and gas operations in May, 1995, for the test year beginning January 1, 1996. On March 27, 1995, Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural sent a letter to the PSCW proposing a one year deferral of their upcoming rate case filing. The matter is pending.
For additional information see Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - "Rates and Regulatory Matters".
OTHER LITIGATION
Advance Plan 6: In 1992, Wisconsin Electric joined with other state utilities in a petition filed in Brown County Circuit Court requesting judicial review of one aspect of the PSCW's Advance Plan 6 order. The action involved the Commission's authority to require the utilities to consider, in their planning, monetized effects of so-called "greenhouse gases".
Also, in 1992, Wisconsin's Environmental Decade ("WED") filed a petition in Dane County Circuit Court requesting judicial review of another aspect of the PSCW's Advance Plan 6 order. That proceeding involved the question of whether the PSCW should have required the utilities to reflect, in their planning, claimed beneficial employment impacts associated with demand-side management activities and whether the PSCW's environmental assessment was sufficient. A group of utilities, including Wisconsin Electric, appeared in that proceeding in opposition to WED.
The two petitions were consolidated for judicial review in Dane County Circuit Court. On September 2, 1994, the Court issued a decision that the PSCW (1) has authority to require the utilities to monetize the economic risk of potential future regulation of greenhouse gases for advance planning purposes, and (2) was not required to direct utilities to include the economic impact of employment benefits in their advance plans. In addition, the Court held the PSCW's environmental assessment was deficient. The Court remanded the Advance Plan order to the PSCW for the purpose of providing a factual basis for the monetized values of greenhouse gases and correcting the environmental assessment deficiencies. On December 21, 1994, the PSCW issued a supplemental order purporting to explain the factual basis for the monetized values.
PSCW Two-Stage CPCN Order: In January 1994, Wisconsin Electric filed an action in Milwaukee County Circuit Court seeking judicial determination concerning the PSCW's authority to adopt a new "two-stage" CPCN process and to order utilities to enter into contracts to buy power from other entities. This action was in response to the PSCW's December 1993 order which detailed the requirements of the new process to be implemented by the PSCW in making the final selection from among competing alternatives to construct proposed future capacity additions, including projects that would be owned and operated by unaffiliated IPPs. On June 27, 1994, this action was dismissed by stipulation of the parties. Wisconsin Electric is also an intervenor in a similar action brought by an unaffiliated IPP in Dane County Circuit Court. The matter is pending. For additional information see Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - "Capital Requirements 1995-1999".
Spent Fuel Storage and Disposal: See Item 1. BUSINESS - SOURCES OF GENERATION - NUCLEAR - "Spent Fuel Storage and Disposal" for information concerning the PSCW's approval of Wisconsin Electric's application to utilize dry cask
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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS - Other Litigation (Cont'd)
storage for spent nuclear fuel generated at Point Beach, and pending petitions for judicial review of the PSCW's decision.
Pittsburg & Midway Case: In a matter brought before the FERC, in July 1993, Wisconsin Electric filed an initial brief supporting its right to retain coal reclamation costs collected through the wholesale fuel adjustment clause in 1986 that it believes were prudently incurred in a settlement with the Pittsburg & Midway Coal Mining Company. Of the total costs involved, the portion recovered through the wholesale fuel clause amounts to approximately $750,000. This filing was made in response to a FERC audit staff determination that Wisconsin Electric should have applied for a waiver of the FERC's fuel clause regulations in order to attempt to pass through the wholesale portion of the settlement costs. In order for a final decision to be made, the FERC must first await the initial decision expected from an Administrative Law Judge. The matter is pending.
In November 1993, the FERC rejected Wisconsin Electric's request to be allowed to recover, in wholesale rates in the future, the amount which may have to be refunded to customers in the event of an unfavorable ruling in the pending fuel adjustment clause proceeding concerning the Pittsburg & Midway reclamation charges. In January 1994, Wisconsin Electric filed an appeal with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit regarding this rejection. The matter is pending.
Electromagnetic Fields: Claims are being made or threatened with increasing frequency against electric utilities across the country for bodily injury, disease or other damages allegedly caused or aggravated by exposure to electromagnetic fields ("EMFs") associated with electric transmission and distribution lines. Results of scientific studies conducted to date do not establish the existence of a causal connection between EMFs and any adverse health effects. Wisconsin Electric believes that its facilities are constructed and operated in accordance with all applicable legal requirements and standards. Wisconsin Electric does not believe that any claims thus far made or threatened against it in connection with EMFs will result in any substantial liability on the part of Wisconsin Electric.
Uranium Enrichment Charges: On February 9, 1995, Wisconsin Electric and ten other utilities filed an action against USEC in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims challenging the final decision of the USEC contracting officer in November 1994 which denied claims of the utilities for damages by reason of overcharges for uranium enrichment services provided under Utility Services Contracts between July 1, 1993 and September 30, 1994. The damages sought by Wisconsin Electric total $3.3 million.
ITEM 4.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
At a special meeting of Wisconsin Electric stockholders held on December 15, 1994, the common and preferred stockholders approved several items. A brief description of each item voted upon, the number of votes cast for, against or withheld, as well as the number of abstentions and broker non-votes as to each matter are listed below:
Item 1: Proposal to approve the Plan and Agreement of Merger, dated June 30, 1994, by and between Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural, providing for the merger of Wisconsin Natural with and into Wisconsin Electric. (Vote
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ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS - (Cont'd)
required on this proposal: The majority of outstanding shares of preferred stock, as well as the majority of outstanding shares of preferred and common stock.)
No. of No. of Shares Voted Shares Voted No. of FOR AGAINST Shares BROKER the Proposal the Proposal ABSTAINING NON-VOTES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Common Stock 33,289,327 0 0 0 Six Per Cent. Preferred Stock 34,176 731 1,144 4,142 3.60% Preferred Stock 202,047 3,066 4,604 18,948
Item 2: Proposal to amend Wisconsin Electric's Restated Articles of Incorporation (the "Restated Articles") to remove the specific reference to electric and steam operations in the description of Wisconsin Electric's purpose. (Vote required on this proposal: The majority of outstanding shares of preferred and common stock.)
No. of No. of Shares Voted Shares Voted No. of FOR AGAINST Shares BROKER the Proposal the Proposal ABSTAINING NON-VOTES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Common Stock 33,289,327 0 0 0 Six Per Cent. Preferred Stock 37,789 926 1,478 0 3.60% Preferred Stock 217,108 5,086 6,471 0
Item 3: Proposal to amend the Restated Articles to remove the special voting rights of the preferred stockholders in connection with the issuance of certain unsecured indebtedness or consummation of certain mergers or consolidations. (Vote required on this proposal: Two thirds of the outstanding shares of each series of preferred stock, as well as the majority of the outstanding shares of preferred and common stock.)
No. of No. of Shares Voted Shares Voted No. of FOR AGAINST Shares BROKER the Proposal the Proposal ABSTAINING NON-VOTES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Common Stock 33,289,327 0 0 0 Six Per Cent. Preferred Stock 30,389 3,315 2,347 4,142 3.60% Preferred Stock 184,471 16,684 8,562 18,948
Item 4: Proposal to amend the Restated Articles to remove designations of certain series of preferred stock which are no longer outstanding. (Vote required on this proposal: The majority of outstanding shares of preferred and common stock.)
No. of No. of Shares Voted Shares Voted No. of FOR AGAINST Shares BROKER the Proposal the Proposal ABSTAINING NON-VOTES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Common Stock 33,289,327 0 0 0 Six Per Cent. Preferred Stock 36,079 1,540 1,704 870 3.60% Preferred Stock 210,095 5,723 9,890 2,957
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ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS - (Cont'd)
Item 5:
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The amount of cash dividends declared on Wisconsin Electric's Common Stock during the two most recent fiscal years are set forth below. Dividends were paid to Wisconsin Electric's sole common stockholder, Wisconsin Energy.
Quarter Total Dividend ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1993 1 $16,250,000 2 $16,250,000 3 $16,250,000 4 $16,250,000 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1994 1 $33,700,000 2 $35,583,667 3 $35,583,667 4 $35,583,667
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Earnings
Net income for Wisconsin Electric decreased to $165,594,000 in 1994 compared to $173,548,000 in 1993, reflecting a non-recurring charge of approximately $63.5 million ($39 million net of tax), associated with Wisconsin Electric's organizational restructuring program.
The charge primarily reflects the costs of severance and early retirement packages which are elements of a "revitalization" program designed to better position Wisconsin Electric in a changing energy marketplace. The company anticipates that the non-recurring restructuring charge, which was taken in the first quarter of 1994, will be offset by the end of 1995 through savings in operation and maintenance costs.
Excluding the non-recurring charge, net income was $204,594,000 for the 12 months ended December 31, 1994, compared with $173,548,000 in 1993, an increase of $31 million, or 18 percent. Earnings reflect a 4.8 percent increase in electric kilowatt-hour sales and a 5.7 percent reduction in non- fuel operation and maintenance expenses. Electric sales increased primarily due to warmer weather during the summer of 1994 and additional economic activity in the company's service area. The reduction in non-fuel operation and maintenance expenses reflects, among other things, payroll-related savings as a result of workforce reductions, and lower expenditures made in connection with power plant renovation work as maintenance programs were completed.
Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural Revitalization
In response to increasing competitive pressures in the markets for electricity and natural gas, Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural have developed and are implementing a revitalization process to increase efficiencies and improve customer service.
Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural are "reengineering" and restructuring their organizations. The new structures consolidate many business functions and simplify work processes. Due to productivity improvements, staffing levels at Wisconsin Electric have been reduced; 347 employees elected to retire under an early retirement option and 573 employees have enrolled in severance packages. See Note H to the Financial Statements - Benefits Other Than Pensions, for additional information.
As part of the revitalization effort, Wisconsin Energy intends to merge Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural to form a single combined utility subsidiary. The proposed merger will improve customer service and reduce operating costs. The merger, which is anticipated to be effective by year-end 1995, is subject to a number of conditions, including requisite regulatory and other approvals. Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Natural filed a joint application on October 11, 1994, to obtain the PSCW's approval of the merger. Wisconsin Electric also filed an application to obtain the MPSC consent to assume Wisconsin Natural's liabilities in connection with the merger. Both approvals are expected by year-end 1995.
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
Electric Sales and Revenues
Total electric sales of Wisconsin Electric, detailed below by customer class, increased 4.8 percent in 1994 compared to 1993.
Electric Sales - Megawatt Hours 1994 1993 % Change ------------------------------- ---------- ---------- -------- Residential 6,670,081 6,551,061 1.8 Small Commercial and Industrial 6,699,073 6,357,510 5.4 Large Commercial and Industrial 10,471,869 9,771,383 7.2 Other 1,603,741 1,776,061 (9.7) ---------- ---------- Total Retail and Municipal 25,444,764 24,456,015 4.0 Resale-Utilities 1,466,599 1,229,421 19.3 ---------- ---------- Total Sales 26,911,363 25,685,436 4.8 --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Electric energy sales were positively impacted by warmer summer weather in 1994, which resulted in increased use of electricity for air conditioning and other cooling purposes, and increased economic activity. The increase in electric sales also reflects colder winter weather during the first quarter of 1994 and increased sales to the Empire and Tilden iron ore mines.
Electric energy sales to the Empire and Tilden iron ore mines, Wisconsin Electric's two largest customers, were 15.0 percent higher in 1994 compared to 1993. The increase is attributable to a five-week long mine strike during the third quarter of 1993 which reduced sales during 1993. Wisconsin Electric's contracts with the mines require the payment of a demand charge regardless of power usage which partially offset the impact of lost sales on 1993 revenues. Excluding the mines, sales to large commercial and industrial customers increased 5.1 percent in 1994. Sales to the mines represented 8.6 percent, 7.8 percent and 9.0 percent of total electric sales during 1994, 1993 and 1992, respectively.
The 19.3 percent increase in the resale of energy to other utilities is attributable to the increased availability of Wisconsin Electric's power plants. This allowed Wisconsin Electric additional energy for external sales. The percentage change is not indicative of future sales growth in this customer class.
The 9.7 percent reduction in sales to the Other customer class, referred to in the table above, is largely the result of reductions in sales to WPPI, Wisconsin Electric's largest municipal customer consortium. WPPI has been reducing its purchases from Wisconsin Electric subsequent to acquiring generation capacity in 1990. Since that time, WPPI has expanded the use of its existing generation facilities and has installed additional capacity, further reducing its reliance on energy purchases from Wisconsin Electric. These sales reductions did not have a significant effect on earnings.
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
Total electric kilowatt-hour sales increased at a compound annual rate of 4.3 percent between the years 1992 and 1994, while electric revenues increased at a compound annual rate of 4.0 percent during this period. These increases reflect among other things, more favorable weather conditions in 1994 compared to 1992. The warmer than normal summer in 1994 contrasted sharply with the summer of 1992, the coolest since Wisconsin Electric began keeping records in 1948.
Electric Operation and Maintenance Expenses
Total electric operating expenses, excluding income taxes, depreciation and the non-recurring revitalization charge, decreased $17 million in 1994 compared to 1993. The decrease largely reflects the payroll-related savings as a result of workforce reductions referred to above and lower expenditures made in connection with power plant renovation work as maintenance programs were completed. These decreases were partially offset by expenses associated with the implementation of the revitalization program and growth in conservation-related expenses associated with improving the efficiency of customers' electric energy usage. Operating expenses, excluding income taxes, depreciation and the non-recurring charge, have remained relatively flat over the three-year period ended December 31, 1994.
Other Items
Deferred Income Taxes decreased $33 million during 1994 compared to 1993, due in part to tax matters related to the timing of payments made in connection with the severance and early retirement packages associated with the company's organizational restructuring program. Deferred Income Taxes also reflect a prior period reclassification between current and deferred income taxes.
Other Interest increased $3.6 million during 1994 compared to 1993 reflecting increased short-term debt balances at Wisconsin Electric. Interest charges on long-term debt increased $11 million during 1993 compared to 1992 largely due to the additional debt issued to finance Wisconsin Electric's construction programs and the amortization of premiums associated with the debt securities refinanced during 1992 and 1993.
With expectations of low-to-moderate inflation and future operating cost reductions discussed above, Wisconsin Electric does not believe the impact of inflation will have a material effect on its future results of operations.
Electric Sales Outlook
Assuming moderate growth in the service territory economy and normal weather, Wisconsin Electric presently anticipates electric kilowatt-hour sales to grow at a compound annual rate of approximately 1.0 percent over the five-year period ending December 31, 1999. This forecast is subject to a number of variables, including the economy and weather, which may affect the actual growth in sales.
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
Rates and Regulatory Matters
The table below summarizes the projected annual revenue impact of recent rate changes authorized by regulatory commissions based on the sales projections utilized by those commissions in setting rates. The PSCW regulates Wisconsin retail electric and steam rates, while the FERC regulates wholesale electric rates. The MPSC regulates retail electric rates in Michigan. The PSCW has discontinued the practice of conducting annual rate case proceedings, replacing it with a new schedule which calls for future rate cases to be conducted once every two years.
In support of its goal to become the lowest-cost energy provider in the region and in light of the operating cost reductions expected from the reengineering process discussed above, Wisconsin Electric did not seek an increase in rates for 1994 or 1995.
Revenue Percent Increase Change in Effective Company/Service (Decrease) Rates Date ------------------------- ------------ --------- --------- Wisconsin Electric Retail electric, WI $ 26,655,000 2.3 02/17/93 Steam heating 505,000 3.5 02/17/93 Wholesale electric 6,000,000 10.6 06/09/93 Retail electric, MI 1,366,000 4.3 07/09/93 Fuel electric, WI (8,596,000)* (0.9) 11/05/93 Fuel electric, WI (16,179,000) (1.3) 08/04/94 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ * The 1993 fuel credit was eliminated 1/1/94 by PSCW Order.
Under the Wisconsin retail electric fuel adjustment procedure, retail electric rates may be adjusted, on a prospective basis, if cumulative fuel and purchased power costs, when compared to the costs projected in the retail electric rate proceeding, deviate from a prescribed range and are expected to continue to be above or below that range.
On September 8, 1994, the PSCW issued a notice that it will conduct an investigation into the state of the electric utility industry in Wisconsin, particularly its institutional structure and regulatory regime, in order to evaluate what changes would be beneficial for Wisconsin. The notice states that this investigation may result in profound and fundamental changes to the nature and regulation of the electric utility industry in Wisconsin. It is the PSCW's stated intention that this proceeding will establish criteria and direction for utilities to incorporate into any proposals involving structural or regulatory changes they may put forward. The PSCW also intends that the proceeding reflect input from all those having a stake in Wisconsin's electric utility industry, including large and small retail customers; wholesale customers; utility management; utility securities holders; independent power producers; purveyors of demand-side options and renewable resources; representatives of the environmental, financial, academic, labor, small business and governmental communities; and elected representatives. The PSCW invited interested persons to submit comments as to appropriate objectives for regulation of the electric utility industry and the utility structures and regulatory approaches likely to provide the best balance of such objectives.
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
On November 1, 1994, Wisconsin Electric submitted its comments to the PSCW in a paper describing a framework for a restructured industry. Wisconsin Electric's view of industry restructuring would seek to achieve the benefits of competition while maintaining reliability of electric service, controlling costs during the transition to the envisioned end-state, and protecting the environment with increasing vigor. Today's various electric utility functions would be split into two major categories--natural monopolies and competitive entities. The natural monopolies are functions where a single entity can provide the lowest cost. The competitive entities would perform functions where competition can provide the lowest cost. The natural monopolies would be re-regulated so the appropriate incentives exist to provide electricity at reasonable prices. The competitive entities would eventually see an elimination of traditional regulation.
In Wisconsin Electric's plan, the re-regulated natural monopolies are the transmission and distribution functions. Re-regulation of these entities should involve some form of price cap and performance-standard operation rules. In the new structure, the FERC would regulate the transmission systems through a regional transmission group to ensure open access, comparable pricing, comparable service and adequate cost recovery. The PSCW would regulate the distribution function for reasonable price, reliability, public safety and customer satisfaction. The competitive entities in the Wisconsin Electric model are the generation, customer service and energy merchant functions.
Initial question and answer sessions were held November 28-29, 1994. At a meeting on January 24, 1995, the PSCW approved the establishment of an advisory committee that will examine all aspects of electrical service and the electric utility industry and suggest which functions should be performed by a competitive market. The PSCW established a timetable which would have a final committee report available to the Wisconsin Legislature by the end of 1995.
Wisconsin Electric operates under utility rates which are subject to the approval of the PSCW, MPSC and FERC. Such rates are designed to recover the cost of service and provide a reasonable return to investors. Developing competitive pressures in the utility industry may result in future utility rates which are based upon factors other than the traditional original cost of investment. In such a situation, continued deferral of certain regulatory asset and liability amounts on Wisconsin Electric's books may no longer be appropriate as allowed under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 71, Accounting for the Effects of Certain Types of Regulation. At this time, Wisconsin Electric is unable to predict whether any adjustments to regulatory assets and liabilities will occur in the future. See Note A to the Financial Statements - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Deferred Regulatory Assets and Liabilities, for further information.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Investing Activities
Wisconsin Electric invested $1,060 million in its businesses during the three years ended December 31, 1994. The investments made during this three-year period include construction expenditures for new or improved facilities totaling $850 million, net capitalized conservation expenditures of $87 million, purchases of nuclear fuel at $64 million and payments to an external trust for the eventual decommissioning of Wisconsin Electric's Point Beach Nuclear Plant totaling $42 million. - 36 -
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
During the second quarter of 1994, Wisconsin Electric placed in service the last two units, or approximately 150 megawatts of capacity, at its Concord Generating Station, a four unit 300 megawatt natural gas-fired combustion turbine facility designed to meet peak demand requirements. The first two units were completed in 1993. Capital expenditures of $6 million, $35 million and $47 million were made during 1994, 1993 and 1992, respectively, for construction of this facility. Total capital costs of the Concord facility were approximately $107 million.
Additionally, during 1994, Wisconsin Electric continued construction of the new Paris Generating Station, a four unit, approximately 300 megawatt natural gas-fired combustion turbine facility intended to meet growing peak demand requirements. This generating station, which is expected to have all four units in service during the summer of 1995, is currently estimated to cost $104 million. Capital expenditures of $54 million and $28 million were made during 1994 and 1993, respectively, for construction of this facility.
Wisconsin Electric completed the $107 million renovation project at its Port Washington Power Plant in 1994. Unit 4, the last of four units to be renovated, returned to service in July. The renovation work, which began in September 1991, restored approximately 320 megawatts of capacity and included the installation of additional emission control equipment. Expenditures totaling $12 million, $36 million and $43 million were made during 1994, 1993 and 1992, respectively.
Cash Provided by Operating and Financing Activities
During the three years ended December 31, 1994, cash provided by operating activities totaled $1,109 million. During this period, internal sources of funds, after the payment of dividends to Wisconsin Energy, Wisconsin Electric's sole common shareholder, provided 79 percent of the company's capital requirements.
Financing activities during the three-year period ended December 31, 1994, included the issuance of $952 million of long-term debt, principally to refinance higher coupon debt and the retirement of $73 million of preferred stock. No preferred stock was issued during this period. Additionally, during the three-year period ended December 31, 1994, Wisconsin Electric retired a total of $846 million of long-term debt and increased short-term debt by $148 million. Dividends on the company's common stock were $140 million, $65 million, and $65 million, during 1994, 1993 and 1992, respectively.
During 1993, Wisconsin Electric issued five new series of First Mortgage Bonds aggregating $350 million in principal amount, the proceeds of which were used to redeem $284.3 million principal amount of four outstanding series of First Mortgage Bonds and 626,500 shares of Wisconsin Electric's 6.75% Series Preferred Stock.
During 1992, Wisconsin Electric issued five new series of First Mortgage Bonds the proceeds of which provided $431 million principal amount to redeem 12 outstanding series of higher coupon First Mortgage Bonds and $130 million of new capital.
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
These refunding transactions are expected to result in approximately $191 million in savings over the lives of the new debt issues. Depending on market conditions and other factors, additional debt refundings may occur.
Capital Structure
The company's capitalization at December 31 is shown as follows:
1994 1993 ------ ------
Common Equity 50.5% 50.7% Preferred Stock 1.0 1.3 Long-Term Debt (including current maturities) 42.0 43.7 Short-Term Debt 6.5 4.3 ------ ------ 100.0% 100.0%
Compared to the electric utility industry generally, Wisconsin Electric has maintained a relatively high ratio of common equity to total capitalization and low debt and preferred stock ratios. This conservative capital structure, along with strong bond ratings (Wisconsin Electric currently has ratings of AA+ by Standard & Poor's Corporation, Aa2 by Moody's Investors Service and AA+ by Duff & Phelps Inc.) and internal cash generation has provided, and should continue to provide, the company with access to the capital markets when necessary to finance the anticipated growth in the company's business. At year-end 1994, the company had $102 million of unused lines of bank credit, $5 million of cash and cash equivalents, $207 million of short-term debt (including long-term debt due currently) and $21 million of construction funds held by trustees.
Capital Requirements 1995-1999
The estimated capital requirements for Wisconsin Electric for the years 1995- 1999 are outlined in the table below. The construction expenditures have decreased significantly from the estimates reported previously in the 1993 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The primary reason for the decrease is the revitalization initiative which will reduce the cost to design, build and maintain company facilities.
1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- (Millions of Dollars)
Construction $215 $198 $159 $151 $153 Conservation 14 13 13 14 14 Bond Maturities and Refinancings 0 30 130 60 91 Changes in Fuel Inventories 6 8 3 4 (2) Decommissioning Trust Payments 20 30 32 35 37 ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- Total $255 $279 $337 $264 $293 ==============================================================================
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
In January 1994, a coordinated state-wide plan for meeting future electricity needs of Wisconsin customers was filed with the PSCW in the Advance Plan 7 Docket. In the Advance Plan process, Wisconsin Electric, in conjunction with the other regulated electric utilities located in Wisconsin, is required to file long-term forecasts of resource requirements, such as the need for generation and transmission facilities, along with plans to meet those requirements, including the use of energy management and conservation.
In order to reliably meet its forecasted growth in demand, Wisconsin Electric employs a least-cost integrated planning process which includes renovation of existing power plants, promotion of cost-effective conservation and load management options, development of renewable energy sources, purchases of power and construction of new company-owned generation facilities.
Investments in demand-side management programs have reduced and delayed the need to add new generating capacity but have not eliminated the need entirely. Purchases of power from other utilities and transmission system upgrades will also combine to help delay the need to install some new generating capacity in the future. However, in order to serve the near-term growth in peak demand requirements, Wisconsin Electric has received PSCW approval and is currently in various stages of adding new capacity as previously described under "Investing Activities".
Finally, Wisconsin Electric's Advance Plan 7 filing indicates a need for additional peaking capacity after the turn of the century, along with an anticipated need for additional intermediate-load capacity during the 2000 to 2010 time period. Wisconsin Electric's next base load power plant is not expected to be placed in service until after 2010.
The addition of new generating units requires approval from various regulatory agencies including the PSCW, the EPA and the DNR. All generating facilities proposed by Wisconsin Electric will meet or exceed the applicable federal and state environmental requirements.
In 1993, the PSCW, after conducting a competitive bidding process, issued an order selecting a proposal submitted by an unaffiliated IPP to construct a generation facility to meet a portion of Wisconsin Electric's anticipated increase in system supply needs. In accordance with the PSCW Order, Wisconsin Electric subsequently signed a long-term agreement to purchase electricity from the proposed facility. The agreement is contingent upon the facility being completed and going into operation, which at this time is planned for mid-1996. A number of parties have filed petitions for judicial review of this PSCW Order, taking the position that the Order should be set aside on various legal grounds. In a decision dated March 17, 1995, the Dane County Circuit Court affirmed the PSCW's selection of the LS Power project and the PSCW's approval of the power purchase agreement entered into by the Company and LSP-Whitewater L.P., the project's developer. The Court remanded to the PSCW for further proceedings the PSCW's selection of Wisconsin Electric's Kimberly project as the conditional second place project to proceed if the LS Power project does not.
Prior to the PSCW selection of the IPP's generation facility, Wisconsin Electric had proposed to construct its own 220 megawatt cogeneration facility in Kimberly, Wisconsin, which was intended to provide process steam to Repap Wisconsin, Inc. ("Repap") starting in mid-1995. Wisconsin Electric had made expenditures toward the Kimberly facility amounting to approximately $70 million. These expenditures were primarily associated with the procurement of - 39 -
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
combustion turbines, the steam turbine and the heat recovery boiler in order to achieve the in-service dates as agreed to in a steam service contract with Repap. Wisconsin Electric is currently evaluating its options regarding its Kimberly Cogeneration Facility investment. The equipment procured to date is a technology of natural gas-fired combined cycle generation equipment that is marketed worldwide. Wisconsin Electric believes that a market for the equipment exists and is investigating opportunities to sell the equipment or to use it in another power project. At this time, Wisconsin Electric does not believe that the PSCW's selection of an IPP proposal will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition.
The PSCW has approved Wisconsin Electric's application to utilize dry storage for spent nuclear fuel generated at Point Beach. The decision completed a multi-year state review of the Wisconsin Electric proposal. The storage system to be used at Point Beach also has been certified by the NRC after a four-year technical review. Dry cask storage at Point Beach will use a two- container system made of steel and reinforced concrete. Capital costs associated with this facility are estimated at $6.5 million and are included in the above forecast. In March 1995 separate petitions were filed by intervenors in Dane County Circuit Court and Fond du Lac County Circuit Court. The Dane County petition seeks reversal of the order and a remand to the PSCW directing it to deny Wisconsin Electric's request for authorization to construct the dry cask facility, or in the alternative, to correct the alleged errors in the PSCW's order. No specific relief is identified in the Fond du Lac petition; however, numerous grounds of error are alleged. Wisconsin Electric intends to fully participate in both judicial review proceedings and to vigorously oppose the petitions.
The temporary dry storage facility is necessary because the spent fuel pool inside the plant is becoming full. The plant would be forced to shut down by 1998 without additional on-site storage capacity. The dry storage facility will be used until the DOE takes ownership of the spent fuel. While the DOE and the operators of nuclear power facilities have a contract mandated by federal law that calls for the DOE to begin accepting fuel in 1998, the government is not in a position to meet its commitment. If this commitment is not met, Wisconsin Electric will need to construct additional casks and will seek PSCW approval to do so.
In a related matter, Wisconsin Electric filed with the PSCW for a Certificate of Authority to proceed with the planned 1996 replacement of the Unit 2 steam generators at Point Beach. In 1984, Wisconsin Electric replaced the Unit 1 steam generators. Estimated at a cost of $119 million, which is also included in the above forecast, the Unit 2 project would allow for its operation until the expiration of its operating license in 2013. Without the replacement of the steam generators, it is believed the unit would not be able to operate to the end of its current license. The PSCW deferred a decision on Wisconsin Electric's request to replace Unit 2 steam generators until early 1996, but directed Wisconsin Electric to make arrangements with the fabricator of the new steam generators to allow replacement to proceed promptly if authorized by the PSCW.
Capital Resources
During the five-year forecast period ending December 31, 1999, Wisconsin Electric expects internal sources of funds from operations, after dividends to
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
Wisconsin Energy, to provide about 80 percent of the utility capital requirements. The remaining utility cash requirements are expected to be met through the reduction of existing cash investments and construction funds on deposit with trustees, short-term borrowings, the issuance of long-term debt and capital contributions from Wisconsin Energy.
Exclusive of debt refundings, utility debt issues of $100 million are anticipated in 1995 and 1997.
Environmental Issues
The 1990 Amendments to the Clean Air Act mandate significant nation-wide reductions in SO2 and NOx emissions to address acid rain and ground level ozone control requirements.
In 1994, Wisconsin Electric completed the installation of continuous emission monitors at all of its facilities and installed low NOx burners on one boiler at its Oak Creek Power Plant and two boilers at its Valley Power Plant. These actions, along with the burning of low sulfur coal and the installation of low NOx burners on other boilers at Oak Creek and Valley Power Plants in early 1995, meet the requirements that became effective January 1, 1995. To date, approximately $31 million has been spent on Clean Air Act compliance.
Wisconsin Electric elected to voluntarily bring the Valley and Port Washington Power Plants under jurisdiction of the NOx and SO2 requirements of the Clean Air Act, five years earlier than mandated. This was possible because these units meet the more stringent phase II emissions standards today.
Wisconsin Electric projects a surplus of SO2 emission allowances and is seeking additional allowances available as a result of energy conservation programs. As an integral component of its least-cost plan, Wisconsin Electric is active in SO2 allowance trading. Revenue from the sale of allowances is being used to offset future potential rate increases.
Additional fuel switching and the installation of NOx controls at various power plants will be required to meet the second phase of reduction requirements that become effective January 1, 2000. These costs, along with additional operating expenses, are not expected to exceed $54 million based on today's cost.
Wisconsin Electric aggressively seeks environmentally acceptable, beneficial uses of its combustion byproducts. However, ash byproducts have been, and to some degree, continue to be disposed in company-owned, licensed landfills. Some early designed and constructed landfills may allow the release of low levels of constituents, resulting in the need for various levels of remediation. These costs are included in the environmental operating and maintenance costs for Wisconsin Electric.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The "Quarterly Financial Data" in Item 6
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
PART III
ITEM 10.
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
In accordance with General Instruction G(3) of Form 10-K, the information under "Election of Directors" in Wisconsin Electric's definitive Information Statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held May 16, 1995 (the "1995 Annual Meeting Information Statement") is incorporated herein by reference. Also see "Executive Officers of the Registrant" in Part I of this report.
ITEM 11.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
In accordance with General Instruction G(3) of Form 10-K, the information under "Compensation" and "Retirement Plans" in the 1995 Annual Meeting Information Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 12.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
All of Wisconsin Electric's Common Stock (100% of such class) is owned by the parent company, Wisconsin Energy Corporation, 231 West Michigan Street, P.O. Box 2949, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201. The directors, director nominees and executive officers of Wisconsin Electric do not own any of the voting securities of Wisconsin Electric. In accordance with General Instruction G(3) of Form 10-K, the information concerning their beneficial ownership of Wisconsin Energy stock set forth under "Stock Ownership of Directors, Nominees and Executive Officers" in the 1995 Annual Meeting Information Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 13.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
None.
PART IV
ITEM 14.
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) 1. Financial Statements and Report of Independent Accountants
Included in Part II of this report:
Income Statement for the three years ended December 31,
Statement of Cash Flows for the three years ended December 31, 1994
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ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K (Cont'd)
Balance Sheet at December 31, 1994 and 1993
Capitalization Statement at December 31, 1994 and 1993
Common Stock Equity Statement for the three years ended December 31, 1994
Notes to Financial Statements
Report of Independent Accountants
2. Financial Statement Schedules
Schedules are omitted because of the absence of conditions under which they are required or because the required information is given in the financial statements or notes thereto.
3. Exhibits
The following Exhibits are filed with this report:
Exhibit No.
(3)-1 Restated Articles of Incorporation of Wisconsin Electric Power Company, as amended and restated effective January 10, 1995.
2 Bylaws of Wisconsin Electric Power Company, as amended to November 1, 1994, to increase the size of the Board of Directors from 12 to 13. (Section 1 of Bylaw II.)
(23) Consent of Independent Accountants, dated March 30, 1995 appearing on page 67 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1994.
(27) Wisconsin Electric Power Company Financial Data Schedule for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1994.
In addition to the Exhibits shown above, which are filed herewith, Wisconsin Electric hereby incorporates the following Exhibits pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 12b-32 and Regulation Section 201.24 by reference to the filings set forth below:
(2) Plan and Agreement of Merger, dated June 30, 1994, by and between Wisconsin Electric Power Company and Wisconsin Natural Gas Company. (Appendix A to Wisconsin Electric's Proxy Statement dated October 31, 1994 in File No. 1-1245.)
(4)-1 Reference is made to Article III of the Restated Articles of Incorporation of Wisconsin Electric. (Exhibit (3)-1 herein.)
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ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K (Cont'd)
Mortgage or Supplemental Indenture Company Date Exhibit # Under File No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (4)- 2 Mortgage and Wisconsin 10/28/38 B-1 2-4340 Deed of Trust Electric ("WE") 3 Second WE 6/1/46 7-C 2-6422 4 Third WE 3/1/49 7-C 2-8456 5 Fourth WE 6/1/50 7-D 2-8456 6 Fifth WE 5/1/52 4-G 2-9588 7 Sixth WE 5/1/54 4-H 2-10846 8 Seventh WE 4/15/56 4-I 2-12400 9 Eighth WE 4/1/58 2-I 2-13937 10 Ninth WE 11/15/60 2-J 2-17087 11 Tenth WE 11/1/66 2-K 2-25593 12 Eleventh WE 11/15/67 2-L 2-27504 13 Twelfth WE 5/15/68 2-M 2-28799 14 Thirteenth WE 5/15/69 2-N 2-32629 15 Fourteenth WE 11/1/69 2-0 2-34942 16 Fifteenth WE 7/15/76 2-P 2-54211 17 Sixteenth WE 1/1/78 2-Q 2-61220 18 Seventeenth WE 5/1/78 2-R 2-61220 19 Eighteenth WE 5/15/78 2-S 2-61220 20 Nineteenth WE 8/1/79 (a)2(a) 1-1245 (9/30/79 Form 10-Q) 21 Twentieth WE 11/15/79 (a)2(a) 1-1245 (12/31/79 Form 10-K) 22 Twenty-First WE 4/15/80 (4)-21 2-69488 23 Twenty-Second WE 12/1/80 (4)-1 1-1245 (12/31/80 Form 10-K) 24 Twenty-Third WE 9/15/85 (4)-1 1-1245 (9/30/85 Form 10-Q) 25 Twenty-Four WE 9/15/85 (4)-2 1-1245 (9/30/85 Form 10-Q) 26 Twenty-Fifth WE 12/15/86 (4)-25 1-1245 (12/31/86 Form 10-K) 27 Twenty-Sixth WE 1/15/88 4 1-1245 (1/26/88 Form 8-K) 28 Twenty-Seventh WE 4/15/88 4 1-1245 (3/31/88 Form 10-Q) 29 Twenty-Eighth WE 9/1/89 4 1-1245 (9/30/89 Form 10-Q) 30 Twenty-Ninth WE 10/1/91 (4)-1 1-1245 (12/31/91 Form 10-K) 31 Thirtieth WE 12/1/91 (4)-2 1-1245 (12/31/91 Form 10-K) 32 Thirty-First WE 8/1/92 (4)-1 1-1245 (6/30/92 Form 10-Q) 33 Thirty-Second WE 8/1/92 (4)-2 1-1245 (6/30/92 Form 10-Q) 34 Thirty-Third WE 10/1/92 (4)-1 1-1245 (9/30/92 Form 10-Q) 35 Thirty-Fourth WE 11/1/92 (4)-2 1-1245 (9/30/92 Form 10-Q)
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ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K (Cont'd)
Mortgage or Supplemental Indenture Company Date Exhibit # Under File No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 36 Thirty-Fifth WE 12/15/92 (4)-1 1-1245 (12/31/92 Form 10-K) 37 Thirty-Sixth WE 1/15/93 (4)-2 1-1245 (12/31/92 Form 10-K) 38 Thirty-Seventh WE 3/15/93 (4)-3 1-1245 (12/31/92 Form 10-K) 39 Thirty-Eighth WE 8/01/93 (4)-1 1-1245 (6/30/93 Form 10-Q) 40 Thirty-Ninth WE 9/15/93 (4)-1 1-1245 (9/30/93 Form 10-Q)
All agreements and instruments with respect to long-term debt not exceeding 10 percent of the total assets of the Registrant have been omitted as permitted by related instructions. The Registrant agrees pursuant to Item 601(b)(4) of Regulation S-K to furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission, upon request, a copy of all such agreements and instruments.
(10)-1 Purchase and Sale Agreement by and among The Cleveland-Cliffs Iron Company, Cliffs Electric Service Company, Upper Peninsula Generating Company, Upper Peninsula Power Company and Wisconsin Electric Power Company, dated as of December 8, 1987. (Exhibit 10 to Wisconsin Electric's Form 8-K dated December 18, 1987 in File No. 1-1245.)
2 Supplemental Benefits Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and employee Richard A. Abdoo dated November 21, 1994. (Exhibit (10)-2 to Wisconsin Energy's 1994 Form 10-K in File No. 1-9057.) *
3 Supplemental Benefits Agreement between Wisconsin Electric and employee John W. Boston dated November 21, 1994. (Exhibit (10)-3 to Wisconsin Energy's 1994 Form 10-K in File No. 1-9057.) *
4 Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan of Wisconsin Electric Power Company, as restated as of January 1, 1994. (Exhibit (10)-6 to Wisconsin Energy's 1994 Form 10-K in File No. 1-9057.) *
5 Executive Non-Qualified Trust by and between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Firstar Trust Company, dated May 12, 1994, established to provide a source of funds to assist in the meeting of the liabilities under various nonqualified deferred compensation plans made between Wisconsin Energy and its subsidiaries and various plan participants. (Exhibit 10-1 to Wisconsin Energy's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1994, File No. 1-9057.) *
6 Service Agreement dated January 1, 1987 between Wisconsin Electric Power Company, Wisconsin Energy Corporation and other non-utility affiliated companies. (Exhibit (10)-(a) to Wisconsin Electric's Form 8-K dated January 2, 1987 in File No. 1-1245.)
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ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K (Cont'd)
* Management contracts and executive compensation plans or arrangements required to be filed as exhibits pursuant to Item 14(c) of Form 10-K. Certain compensatory plans in which directors or executive officers of the Registrant are eligible to participate are not filed in reliance on the exclusion in Item 601(b)(10)(iii)(B)(6) of Regulation S-K.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the fourth quarter of the year ended December 31, 1994.
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CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements and Prospectuses constituting part of the Registration Statements on Form S-3 (Nos. 33-49199 and 33-51749) of Wisconsin Electric Power Company of our report dated January 25, 1995 appearing on page 61 of this Form 10-K.
/s/ Price Waterhouse LLP ------------------------ PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP
Milwaukee, Wisconsin March 30, 1995
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
/s/R. A. Abdoo By ------------------------------------- Date March 30, 1995 (R. A. Abdoo, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer)
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature and Title Date
/s/R. A. Abdoo --------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (R. A. Abdoo, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer and Director - Principal Executive Officer)
/s/R. R. Grigg --------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (R. R. Grigg, Jr., President and Chief Operating Officer and Director)
/s/J. G. Remmel --------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (J. G. Remmel, Chief Financial Officer and Director)
/s/A. K. Klisurich --------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (A. K. Klisurich, Controller - Principal Accounting Officer)
/s/D. K. Porter --------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (D. K. Porter, Senior Vice President and Director)
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Signature and Title Date
/s/J. F. Ahearne --------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (J. F. Ahearne, Director)
/s/J. F. Bergstrom --------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (J. F. Bergstrom, Director)
/s/J. W. Boston ---------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (J. W. Boston, Director)
/s/R. A. Cornog ---------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (R. A. Cornog, Director)
/s/G. B. Johnson ---------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (G. B. Johnson, Director)
/s/J. L. Murray ---------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (J. L. Murray, Director)
/s/M. W. Reid ---------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (M. W. Reid, Director)
/s/F. P. Stratton, Jr. ---------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (F. P. Stratton, Jr., Director)
/s/J. G. Udell ---------------------------------------------------- March 30, 1995 (J. G. Udell, Director)
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Wisconsin Electric Power Company
EXHIBIT INDEX -------------
1994 Annual Report on Form 10-K For the Year Ended December 31, 1994
Exhibit Number -------
(3)-1 Restated Articles of Incorporation of Wisconsin Electric Power Company, as amended and restated effective January 10, 1995.
2 Bylaws of Wisconsin Electric Power Company, as amended to November 1, 1994, to increase the size of the Board of Directors from 12 to 13. (Section 1 of Bylaw II.)
(23) Consent of Independent Accountants, dated March 30, 1995 appearing on page 67 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1994.
(27) Wisconsin Electric Power Company Financial Data Schedule for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1994.
The foregoing Exhibits are filed with this report. The additional Exhibits which are incorporated by reference are listed in Item 14(a)(3) of this report.
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