UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Fiscal Year EndedDecember 31, 20022003

 

 

                                                                       

 
   

Commission

Registrant; State of Incorporation

IRS Employer

File Number

Address; and Telephone Number

Identification No.

   
   

001-01245

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

39-0476280

 

(A Wisconsin Corporation)

 
 

231 West Michigan Street

 
 

P.O. Box 2949

 
 

Milwaukee, WI 53201

 
 

(414) 221-2345

 
 

                                                                       

 

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:    None

  

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

     Serial Preferred Stock, 3.60% Series, $100 Par Value

     Six Per Cent. Preferred Stock, $100 Par Value

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrantregistrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrantregistrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

    Yes [X]    No [  ]

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the Registrant'sregistrant's knowledge, in the definitive Information Statementproxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    [X]

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrantregistrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).

    Yes [  ]    No [X]

The aggregate market value of the common equity of Wisconsin Electric Power Company held by non-affiliates as of June 28, 200230, 2003 was zero. All of the common stock of Wisconsin Electric Power Company is held by Wisconsin Energy Corporation.





.

 

 

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the Registrant'sregistrant's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date (January 31, 2003)2004):

Common Stock, $10 Par Value, 33,289,327 shares outstanding.

 

 

 

                                                                 

 

 

 

 

 

Documents Incorporated by Reference

Portions of Wisconsin Electric Power Company's definitive Information Statementinformation statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be held on April 25, 2003,30, 2004, are incorporated by reference into Part III hereof.





 

 

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

 

FORM 10-K REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 20022003

                                                                 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Item

Page

PART I

1. Business ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

4  

2.  Properties ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

1718 

  

3.  Legal Proceedings ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

1819 

  

4.  Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders ........................................................................................................................................

1920 

  

    Executive Officers of the Registrant .............................................................................................................................................................................................

1920 

  

PART II

5.  Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters ................................................................

2022 

  

6.  Selected Financial Data ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

2123 

  

7.  Management's Discussion &and Analysis of Financial Condition &and Results of Operations ...........................

2325 

  

7A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk .............................................................................................................

4755 

  

8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data ............................................................................................................................................................

4856 

  

9.  Changes in &and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure ......................

7484 

9A. Controls and Procedures ...................................................................................................................

84 

PART III

10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant ...............................................................................................................................................

7484 

  

11. Executive Compensation .................................................................................................................

7485 

  

12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

7485 

  

13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions .........................................................................................................................................................

7585 

  

14. ControlsPrincipal Accountant Fees and Procedures ................................................................................................................Services .....................................................................................................

7585 

PART IV

15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K .........................................................................................

7586 

  

    Signatures .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

77 

     Certifications .................................................................................................................................

7887 

  

    Exhibit Index .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

E-1 



3


PART I

ITEM 1.

BUSINESS

INTRODUCTION

Wisconsin Electric Power Company ("Wisconsin Electric" or the "Company")(Wisconsin Electric), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wisconsin Energy Corporation ("Wisconsin Energy")(Wisconsin Energy), was incorporated in the state of Wisconsin in 1896. Unless qualified by their context when used in this document, the terms the Company, Our, Us or We refer to Wisconsin Electric isPower Company and its subsidiaries. We are an electric, gas and steam utility which serves over 1,056,000approximately 1,068,000 electric customers in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, approximately 420,500428,700 gas customers in Wisconsin and about 470460 steam customers in metro Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It maintains itsWe maintain our principal executive offices in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

We conduct our operations primarily in three operating segments: an electric utility segment, a natural gas utility segment and a steam utility segment. For further financial information about Wisconsin Electric'sour business segments, see "Results of Operations" in Item 7 and "Note M -- Segment Reporting" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.

Acquisition of WICOR, Inc.:   On April 26, 2000, Wisconsin Energy acquired WICOR, Inc. ("WICOR"),is also the parent company of Wisconsin Gas Company ("Wisconsin Gas"), the largest(Wisconsin Gas) a natural gas distribution public utility, which serves customers throughout Wisconsin, and Edison Sault Electric Company (Edison Sault) an electric utility which serves customers in Wisconsin. Wisconsin Energy has integrated the gas operations and corporate support areasUpper Peninsula of Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas. In April 2002,Michigan. Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas began doing businesshave combined common functions and operate under the trade name of "We Energies". For additional information on the acquisition, see "Corporate Developments" in Item 7 and "Note A--Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.

Power the Future Strategy:   In late February 2001, Wisconsin Energy announced enhancements tofiled a petition with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) starting the regulatory review process for a 10-year $7 billion strategy, originally proposed in September 2000, to improve the supply and reliability of electricity in Wisconsin. As part of itsWisconsin Energy'sPower the Future growth strategy, Wisconsin Energy plans to:is: (1) investinvesting in new natural gas-based and coal-based electric generating facilities, and major upgrades on Wisconsin Electric's existing generation facilities, (2) upgrade theupgrading our existing electric generating facilities at Wisconsin Electric, and (3) investinvesting in upgrades of theour existing energy distribution system. Implementation of thePower the Future strategy is subject to a number of state and federal regulatory approvals. Additional information concerning thePower the Future strategy may be found below under "Environmental Compliance" as well as in Item 7.

Other:   Bostco LLC ("Bostco")(Bostco) is aour non-utility subsidiary of Wisconsin Electric whichthat develops and invests in real estate.

Cautionary Factors:Certain statements contained herein are "Forward Looking"Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward LookingForward-Looking Statements may be identified by reference to a future period or periods or by the use of forward looking terminology such as "may," "intends," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "expects," "forecasts," "objectives," "plans," "possible," "potential," "project" or similar terms or variations of these terms. Actual results may differ materially from those set forth in Forward LookingForward-Looking Statements as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, changes in political and economic conditions, equity and bond market fluctuations, varying weather conditions, governmental regulation and supervision, as well as other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC")(SEC), including factors described throughout thisthi s document and in "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7.

 

 

UTILITY OPERATIONS

ELECTRIC UTILITY OPERATIONS

Wisconsin Electric, which isWe are the largest electric utility in the state of Wisconsin, generates, distributesWisconsin. We generate, distribute and sellssell electric energy in a territory in southeastern (including the metropolitan Milwaukee area), east central and northern Wisconsin and in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Electric Sales

See "Consolidated Selected Utility"Selected Operating Data" in Item 6 for certain electric utility operating information by customer class during the period 19981999 through 2002.2003.



4


Wisconsin Electric isWe are authorized to provide retail 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, and in certain territories in the state of Michigan pursuant to franchises granted by municipalities. Wisconsin ElectricWe also sellssell wholesale electric power.

ElectricOur electric energy sales by Wisconsin Electric to all classes of customers totaled approximately 30.430.7 million megawatt hours ("mwh")(mwh) during 2002,2003, a 0.5% decrease1.1% increase from 2001.2002. Approximately 0.4 million of megawatt-hour sales during 20022003 were to Edison Sault Electric Company ("Edison Sault"), an affiliated electric utility serving retail and wholesale customers in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Wisconsin ElectricSault. We had approximately 1,056,0001,068,000 electric customers at December 31, 2002,2003, an increase of 1.2%1.1% since December 31, 2001.2002.

Electric Sales Growth:   Assuming moderate growth in the economy of itsour electric utility service territories and normal weather, the Companywe presently anticipatesanticipate total retail and municipal electrickilowatt-hour sales of the electric utility to grow at a compound annual rate of 2.0% over the five-year period ending December 31, 2007. Wisconsin Electric's electric sales growth is primarily dependent upon the economy in its service territory.2008.

Sales To Large Electric Retail Customers:Wisconsin Electric provides   We provide electric utility service to a diversified base of customers in such industries as mining, paper, foundry, food products and machinery production, as well as to large retail chains.

The Company'sOur largest retail electric customers are two iron ore mines located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Wisconsin ElectricWe currently hashave special negotiated power-sales contracts with these mines that expire in 2007. The combined electric energy sales to the two mines accounted for 6.5%, 6.6%7.1% and 7.8%6.5% of the Company'sour total electric utility energy sales during 2003 and 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively.

Sales to Wholesale Customers:During 2002, Wisconsin Electric2003, we sold wholesale electric energy to three municipally owned systems, two rural cooperatives and two municipal joint action agencies located in the states of Wisconsin, Michigan and Illinois. WholesaleWe also made wholesale electric energy sales by Wisconsin Electric were also made to 34 other public utilities and power marketers throughout the region under rates approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ("FERC")(FERC). Wholesale sales accounted for approximately 9.5% of our total electric energy sales and 5.0% of total electric operating revenues during 2003 compared with 8.7% of the Company's total electric energy sales and 4.6% of total electric operating revenues during 2002 compared with 11.2% of total electric energy sales and 6.4% of total electric operating revenues during 2001.2002.

Electric System Reliability Matters:   Electric energy sales are impacted by seasonal factors and varying weather conditions from year-to-year. Wisconsin ElectricAs a summer peaking utility, we reached itsour all-time electric peak demand obligation of 6,2986,376 megawatts on August 7, 2001 due primarily to its residential cooling load.21, 2003. The summer period is the most relevant period for capacity planning purposes at the Company. Wisconsin Electric isfor us due to cooling load. We are a member of the MAIN reliability council. MAIN guidelines direct members to have a minimum 15%14.12% planning reserve margin in place prior to the upcoming peak season. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin ("PSCW")PSCW guidelines tofor electric utilities in Wisconsin advise a minimum 18% planning reserve margin. The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) has not provided guidelines in this area. During the years 2003 through 2007, Wisconsin Electric currently estimates that electric peak demand obligation will grow at an annualized rate of 1.7% to approximately 6,700  megawatts.

The CompanyWe had adequate capacity to meet all of itsour firm electric load obligations during 20022003 and expectsexpect to have adequate capacity to meet all of itsour firm obligations during 2003.2004. For additional information, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7. For additional information regarding the Company'sour generation facilities, see Item 2.

 

Competition

ThePrior to 2003, the nation's electric utility industry had previously been following a trend towards restructuring and increased competition. However, given electric reliability problems experienced in the eastern United States during the summer of 2003 and in the state of California in 2001 and 2002, which had previously restructured its electric industry framework, and given the current status of restructuring initiatives in regulatory jurisdictions where the Companywe primarily doesdo business, Wisconsin Electric doeswe do not expect significant electric deregulation in Wisconsin in the next threefive years. For additional information, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7.



5


 

Electric Supply

The table below indicates the Company'sour sources of electric energy supply, including net generation by fuel type, for the following years ended December 31:

Estimate

 

Actual

Estimate

                         Actual                            

  2003 (a)

  2002  

  2001  

  2000  

  2004 (a)

 

  2003  

 

  2002  

 

  2001  

 

Coal

58.9%     

59.2%    

62.2%    

64.2%    

58.6%     

 

59.4%     

 

59.2%    

 

62.2%    

Nuclear

24.9%     

25.0%    

23.3%    

24.3%     

 

25.0%     

 

25.0%    

 

25.0%    

Hydroelectric

1.2%     

1.4%    

1.1%    

1.2%     

 

1.1%     

 

1.4%    

 

1.1%    

Natural gas

0.4%     

0.8%    

0.7%    

1.0%    

0.6%     

 

0.6%     

 

0.8%    

 

0.7%    

Oil and Other (b)

    0.1%     

    0.1%    

    0.2%    

0.1%     

 

0.1%     

 

0.1%    

 

0.1%    

Net Generation

85.5%     

86.5%    

89.1%    

89.8%    

84.8%     

 

86.2%     

 

86.5%    

 

89.1%    

Purchased Power (c)

  14.5%     

  13.5%    

  10.9%    

  10.2%    

15.2%     

 

13.8%     

 

13.5%    

 

10.9%    

Total

100.0%     

100.0%    

100.0%     

 

100.0%     

 

100.0%    

 

100.0%    

=====    

=====   

(a)

Estimated assuming that there are no unforeseen contingencies such as unscheduled maintenance or repairs of Wisconsin Electric'sour generating facilities or of regional electric transmission facilities. See "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Cautionary Factors" in Item 7.

  

(b)

Includes generation by alternative renewable sources.

  

(c)

Excludes total intercompany sales between Edison Sault and Wisconsin Electric of 393.3 thousand mwh during 2003, 364.6 thousand mwh during 2002 and 305.5 thousand mwh during 2001 and 175.6 thousand mwh during 2000.2001.

 

Wisconsin Electric'sOur net generation totaled 27.8 million megawatt hours during 2003 compared with 27.6 million megawatt hours during 2002 compared withand 28.7 million megawatt hours during 2001 and 29.6 million megawatt hours during 2000.2001. The decline in 2002 generation was primarily due to an increase in scheduled outages at Wisconsin Electric'sour generating facilities. The Company made up for the decrease in generation through additional power purchases during 2002. When compared with the past three years, net generation as a percent of the Company'sour total electric energy supply is expected to decrease during 20032004 in large part due to the Port Washington unit retirements and planned outagesin anticipation of the construction of two natural gas-based generation facilities at various generating facilities.the same site, one of which is expected to become operational in 2005. Purchased power is expected to be the primary source of additional electric energy supply required to meet load growth in the next two years.year.

Wisconsin Electric'sOur average fuel and purchased power costs per megawatt hour by fuel type for the years ended December 31 are shown below.

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

2002

2001

  2000  

 

Coal

$12.09  

$12.44  

$12.07  

 

$12.93  

 

$12.09  

 

$12.44  

Nuclear

$5.04  

$5.78  

$5.44  

 

$4.79  

 

$5.04  

 

$5.78  

Natural Gas

$60.56  

$72.31  

$75.49  

 

$93.42  

 

$60.56  

 

$72.31  

Purchased Power

$34.50  

$39.66  

$39.11  

 

$39.89  

 

$34.50  

 

$39.66  

The fuel costs for coal and nuclear generation are relatively stable as themost of these fuel costs are under long-term contracts. However, some of our coal contracts expire in the near future and we may incur increases in coal prices, subject to market conditions. The costs for natural gas and purchased power, which is primarily natural gas-based, are more volatile.

Our installed capacity by fuel type for the years ended December 31, is shown below.



6


2003

2002

2001

Dependable capability in megawatts(a)

Coal

 

3,560  

 

3,636  

 

3,639  

Nuclear

 

1,036  

 

1,022  

 

1,022  

Natural Gas/Oil (b)

 

1,157  

 

1,183  

 

1,171  

Hydro

 

57  

 

57  

 

57  

Total

 

5,810  

 

5,898  

 

5,889  

(a)

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. The values were established by test and may change slightly from year to year.

(b)

The dual fuel facilities burn oil only if natural gas is not available due to constraints on the natural gas pipeline and/or at the local gas distribution system that delivers gas to the plants.

 

Coal-Based Generation

Coal Supply:   Wisconsin Electric diversifies   We diversify the coal supply for itsour power plants by purchasing coal from mines in northern and central Appalachia as well as from various western mines. During 2003,2004, 99% of Wisconsin Electric'sour projected coal requirements of 12.0 million tons will be under contracts, which are not tied to 20032004 market pricing

6


fluctuations. Wisconsin Electric doesWe do not anticipate any problem in procuring itsour remaining 20032004 coal requirements through short-term or spot purchases and inventory adjustments.

Our coal-based generation consists of seven operating plants with a dependable capability of approximately 3,560 megawatts.

Following is a summary of the annual tonnage amounts for Wisconsin Electric'sour principal long-term coal contracts by the month and year in which the contracts expire.

ContractContracts
Expiration Date


Annual Tonnage

  

        Dec. 20032004

500,000            

        Dec. 2003

150,000            

        Dec. 2004

500,000-2,000,000      

        Dec. 2005

3,200,000            

        Dec. 2005

1,600,0004,800,000            

        Dec. 2006

2,000,0005,200,000            

        Dec. 2008

1,200,000            

 

As of the beginning of 2003, Wisconsin Electric2004, we had approximately a 109-day118-day supply of coal in inventory at itsour coal-based facilities.

Coal Deliveries:   Approximately 75% of Wisconsin Electric's 2003our 2004 coal requirements are expected to be delivered by Wisconsin Electric-ownedour owned or leased unit trains. The unit trains will transport coal for the Oak Creek and Pleasant Prairie Power Plants from Wyoming mines. Coal from Pennsylvania and Colorado mines is also transported via rail to Lake Erie or Lake Michigan transfer docks and delivered to the Valley and Port Washington Power Plants by lake vessels. Coal from central Appalachia is shipped via rail to Lake Erie transfer docks and transported by lake vessel to Milwaukee where it is delivered to the Milwaukee County Power Plant by truck once it arrives by lake vessel in Milwaukee.truck. Montana and Wyoming coal for Presque Isle Power Plant is transported via rail to Superior, Wisconsin, placed in dock storage and reloaded into lake vessels for plant delivery. Central AppalachianAppalachia and Colorado coal bound for Presque Isle Power Plant is shipped via rail to Lake Erie and Lake Michigan (Chicago) coal transfer docks, respectivel y,respectively, for lake vessel deliverydel ivery to the plant.

Environmental Matters:   For information regarding emission restrictions, especially as they relate to coal-based generating facilities, see "Environmental Compliance".



7


 

Nuclear Generation

Point Beach Nuclear Plant:   Wisconsin Electric ownsWe own two 510-megawatt518-megawatt electric generating units at Point Beach Nuclear Plant in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. The United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) operating licenses for Point Beach expire in October 2010 for Unit 1 and in March 2013 for Unit 2. The Nuclear Management Company, LLC (NMC), which operates Point Beach for us, filed an application with the NRC in February 2004 to renew the operating licenses for both of our nuclear reactors for an additional 20 years. For additional information concerning Point Beach, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7 and "Note FE -- Nuclear Operations" in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.

Nuclear Management Company:   Nuclear Management Company, LLC ("NMC"),NMC, owned by the Companyone of our affiliates and the affiliates of four other unaffiliated investor-owned utilities in the region, operates Point Beach. NMC provides services to nineeight nuclear generating units at sevensix sites in the states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Iowa, and NebraskaIowa with a total combined generating capacity of about 5,3004,500 megawatts as of December 31, 2002. Wisconsin Electric continues2003. We continue to own Point Beach and retainsretain exclusive rights to the energy generated by the plant as well as financial responsibility for the safe operation, maintenance and decommissioning of Point Beach. For further information, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7.

Nuclear Fuel Supply:   Wisconsin Electric purchasesWe purchase uranium concentrates ("Yellowcake")(Yellowcake) and contracts for its conversion, enrichment and fabrication. Wisconsin Electric maintainsWe maintain title to the nuclear fuel until fabricated fuel assemblies are delivered to Point Beach, whereuponBeach; it is then sold to and leased back from the Wisconsin Electric Fuel Trust. For further information concerning this nuclear fuel lease, see "Note G -- Long-Term Debt" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.

Uranium Requirements:   Wisconsin Electric requiresWe require approximately 400,000 pounds of Yellowcake to refuel a generating unit at Point Beach. Wisconsin ElectricPoint Beach has staggered, extended fuel cycles that are expected to average approximately 18 months in duration. The supply of Yellowcake for these refuelings is currently provided through

7


one long-term contract, amended in 2000, which supplies 100% of the annual requirements through 2007 under these staggered, extended fuel cycles.2007.

Conversion:   Wisconsin Electric hasWe have a long-term contract with a provider of uranium conversion services to supply 75% of the conversion requirements for the Point Beach reactors through 2004. Wisconsin Electric hasWe have an additional long-term conversion contract with a second conversion supplier to supply the remaining 25% of Wisconsin Electric'sour annual conversion requirements through 2004. We also have the option to utilize two NMC fleet contracts for conversion services to meet approximately 45% of our conversion requirements through 2007. We are currently pursuing additional contracts for conversion services for Point Beach beyond our 2004 requirements.

Enrichment:   Wisconsin ElectricWe effectively hashave one long-term contract that provides for 100% of the required enrichment services for the Point Beach reactors through the year 2006.

Fabrication:   Fabrication of fuel assemblies from enriched uranium for Point Beach is covered under a contract with Westinghouse Electric Company, LLC for the balance of the plant's current operating licenses. During its fall 2000 refueling outage, the first reload region of a new fuel design from Westinghouse was loaded into Point Beach Unit 2. The first reload region of the new fuel design in Unit 1 was loaded during its spring of 2001 refueling outage. The new fuel design is expected to provide additional safety margin and cost savings and to reduce the number of discharged spent fuel assemblies over the remaining operating license.

Used Fuel Storage & Disposal:   For information concerning used fuel storage and disposal issues, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7.

Nuclear Decommissioning:   Wisconsin Electric providesWe provide 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 results, brought the balance in the trust fund at December 31, 20022003 to approximately $550$674.4 million. For additional information regarding decommissioning, see "Note FE -- Nuclear Operations" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.

Nuclear Plant Insurance:   The Price-Anderson Act, as amended and extended to August 1, 2002, currently limits the total public liability for damages arising from a nuclear incident at a nuclear power plant. A provision extending the Price-Anderson Act through the end of 2003 was adopted by Congress in February 2003. For more information regarding nuclear plant insurance, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7 and "Note FE - Nuclear Operations" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.



8


 

Hydroelectric Generation

Wisconsin Electric'sOur hydroelectric generating system consists of fourteen operating plants with a total installed capacity of approximately 89 megawatts and a dependable capability of approximately 57 megawatts. OfThirteen of these fourteen plants thirteen are licensed by the FERC. The fourteenth plant, with an installed generating capacity of approximately 2 megawatts, does not require a license. Of the thirteen licensed plants, twelve plants, representing a total of 85 megawatts of installed capacity, have long-term licenses from the FERC, and one plant, the Sturgeon project, will not be relicensed and is intended to be removed. Removal of the Sturgeon project has commenced and will continue over the next several years.

 

Natural Gas-Based Generation

Our natural gas-based generation consists of four operating plants with a dependable capability of approximately 1,157 megawatts. The Concord and Paris Combustion Turbine Power Plants, Germantown Unit 5 and the Oak Creek combustion turbine use natural gas as their primary fuel, with fuel oil as backup. Natural gas is also used for boiler ignition and flame stabilization purposes at the Pleasant Prairie and Oak Creek Power Plants. Gas for these plants is purchased on the spot market from gas marketers and/or producers and delivered on theour gas operations local distribution system of Wisconsin Electric's gas operations.system. An interruptible balancing and storage agreement with ANR Pipeline Company is intended to facilitate the variable gas usage pattern of the combustion turbine plants.

Natural gas for the gas-based boiler at the Milwaukee County Power Plant and for boiler ignition and flame stabilization at the Valley Power Plant is purchased under an agency agreement with a gas marketing company. The agent purchases natural gas and arranges for interstate pipeline transportation to Wisconsin Gas, the local gas distribution utility. Wisconsin Gas the nthen transports Wisconsin Electric'sour gas to each plant under interruptible tariffs.

Wisconsin ElectricWe also hashave power purchase agreements with Alliant Energy Neenah, LLC ("Alliant")(Alliant), a subsidiary of Alliant Energy Corporation and LSP Whitewater,LSP-Whitewater, LP, a subsidiary of Cogentrix, Inc., both of which utilize natural gas as primary fuel and fuel oil as back-up fuel. LSP-Whitewater, LP is responsible for its own natural gas and fuel oil procurement. Wisconsin Electric procuresprocurement for its Whitewater Cogeneration Facility. We procure and delivers natural gasdeliver fuel to Alliant's Neenah Energy Facility and receivesreceive the electric power produced, as discussed in "Purchase Power

8


Commitments" below. Wisconsin Electric hasWe have another power purchase agreement with Calpine Corporation for peaking capacity from a Zion, Illinois facility, which began commercial operation during the summer of 2002. Wisconsin Electric procuresWe procure and delivers fueldeliver natural gas to the plant and receivesreceive the electric power produced, similar to the Alliant agreement.

Wisconsin Electric isDuring 2003, the PSCW approved a program for a two-year period allowing us to hedge up to 75% of our estimated monthly gas purchases for electric generation. We include the costs of this risk management program in our fuel and purchased power costs.

We are the gas distribution utility for Concord, Paris, Pleasant Prairie, Whitewater Cogeneration Facility and Oak Creek Power Plants. Wisconsin Gas is the gas distribution utility for the Valley and Milwaukee County Power Plants. Both the Germantown Power Plant and Alliant's Neenah Energy Facility are directly connected to ANR Pipeline, with no gas distribution utility involvement.

 

Oil-Based Generation

Fuel oil is used for the combustion turbines at the Point Beach and Germantown Power Plants.Plants units 1-4. It is also used for boiler ignition and flame stabilization at the Presque Isle Power Plant, as backup for ignition at the Pleasant Prairie Power Plant and as a backup fuel for the natural gas-based gas turbines discussed above. Fuel oil requirements are purchased under partnering agreements with suppliers that assist Wisconsin Electric with inventory tracking and oil market price trends.

Due to regulatory issues, Wisconsin Electric has put the conversion of the four original generating units at the Germantown Power Plant to dual fuel (naturalThe natural gas and oil) on hold. A fifth dual fuel combustion turbine began commercial operation at Germantown Power Plant in 2000. The dual fuel facilities burn oil only if natural gas is not available due to constraints on the natural gas pipeline and/or atin the local gas distribution companysystem that delivers gas to the plants. Fuel oil requirements are purchased under partnering agreements with suppliers that assist us with inventory tracking and oil market price trends.



9


 

Purchase Power Commitments

To meet a portion of itsour anticipated increase in future electric energy supply needs, Wisconsin Electric haswe have entered into separate long-term power purchase contracts with subsidiary of Cogentrix, Inc.,LSP-Whitewater, LP, Alliant, EnergyCalpine Corporation and Calpine Corporation.Ameren Energy Marketing Company.

The contract with LSP-Whitewater, LP, a subsidiary of Cogentrix, Inc., for 236 megawatts of firm capacity from athe gas-based cogeneration facilityWhitewater Cogeneration Facility located in Whitewater, Wisconsin, does not include any minimum energy requirements.

Alliant's Neenah Energy Facility began commercial operations in May 2000 and is a 300-megawatt gas turbine peaking facility in the town of Neenah, Wisconsin.Wisconsin, which began commercial operations in May 2000. The purchase power agreement with Alliant is similar in structure to arrangements commonly referred to in the electric industry as a "tolling arrangement.arrangements." That is, Wisconsin Electric deliversWe deliver fuel to the facility and receivesreceive electric power. Wisconsin Electric paysWe pay Alliant a "toll" to convert Wisconsin Electric'sour fuel into the electric energy. The output of the facility is available for Wisconsin Electricus to dispatch during the term of the agreement, which ends in May 2008.

Wisconsin Electric's agreement with the Calpine Corporation calls for new generating capacity to be constructed in northernCorporation's Zion, Illinois by a Calpine subsidiary to supply power to Wisconsin Electric. Under the agreement,facility consists of three 150-megawatt natural gas-based150 MW gas turbine peaking units. Two units are to be constructed, twobecame commercial in 2002 and onethe third unit became commercial in 2003. Although twoAll three units were constructed in 2002, Wisconsin Electric received power from only one of the two available units. The power from the second unit was under contract to a third party for 2002 only. Wisconsin Electricus during 2003. We will also have the full 450 megawatts available for itsour use in 2003.2004. This power purchase agreement is also is a tolling agreement.

Ameren Energy Marketing's Elgin Energy Center, located in Elgin, Illinois, began commercial operation in fall 2002. It consists of four, 116 megawatt combustion turbine units, one of which will be under contract to Wisconsin Electric cancelledstarting June 1, 2004. This agreement is also a long-term contract for 225 megawattstolling agreement and has a term of output duefive years.

We currently expect to certain contractual obligations not being met.

Wisconsin Electric currently expects to utilize a combination of new generating capacity identified in itsWisconsin Energy'sPower the Future proposal, andas well as purchase power commitments with independent power producers to meet itsour electric demand load growth.



9


In the normal course of business, Wisconsin Electric utilizeswe utilize contracts of various duration for the forward purchase of electricity to meet load requirements in an economic manner and when the anticipated market price for electric energy is below Wisconsin Electric'sour expected incremental cost of generation. Contracts of this nature are one of the power supply resources Wisconsin Electric useswe use to meet itsour reliability requirements.

 

Electric Transmission

American Transmission Company:   Effective January 1, 2001, the Companywe transferred all of itsour electric utility transmission assets to American Transmission Company LLC ("ATC")(ATC) in exchange for an equityownership interest in this new company. Joining ATC is consistent with the FERC's Order No. 2000, designed to foster competition, efficiency and reliability in the electric industry.

ATC is owned and governed by the utilities that contributed facilities or capital in accordance with 1999 Wisconsin Act 9. At December 31, 2002, the Company2003, we owned approximately 37%34.6% of ATC.

ATC's sole business is to provide reliable, economic electric transmission service to all customers in a fair and equitable manner. Specifically, ATC plans, constructs, operates, maintains and expands transmission facilities it owns to provide for adequate and reliable transmission of electric power. ItATC is expected to provide comparable service to all customers, including Wisconsin Electric,us, and to support effective competition in energy markets without favoring any market participant. ATC is regulated by the FERC for all rate terms and conditions of service and is a transmission-owning member of the Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator, Inc. ("Midwest ISO")(Midwest ISO). As of February 1, 2002, operational control of ATC's transmission system was transferred to the Midwest ISO, and Wisconsin Electric becameISO. We are a non-transmission owning member and customer of the Midwest ISO.

Wisconsin Electric hasWe have contracted to provide, at cost, services required by ATC and which ATC is not able to provide itself at this time. Services include transmission line and substation operation and maintenance, engineering, project, real estate, environmental, supply chain, control center, accounting and miscellaneous services. The We provided services with an

10


annual cost of the services provided by Wisconsin Electric was approximately $50.9$31 million, $52 million, and $51.6$53 million during 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively, and is expectedexpect them to continue to decline in future years as ATC provides more of these services directly.itself.

Midwest ISO:   In connection with its role as a FERC-approved Regional Transmission Organization (RTO), the Midwest ISO is in the process of developing a bid-based energy market which is currently proposed to be implemented on December 1, 2004.

In the Midwest ISO, base transmission costs are currently being paid by load serving entities (LSEs) located in the service territories of each Midwest ISO transmission owner in proportion to the load served by the LSE versus the total load of the service territory. This "license plate" rate design is scheduled to be replaced after a six-year phase-in of rates in Midwest ISO.

Lost Revenue Charges:   The FERC permits transmission owning utilities that have not joined an RTO to propose a charge to recover revenues that would be lost as a result of RTO membership. These lost revenues result from FERC's requirement that, within an RTO and for transmission between the systems operated by the Midwest ISO and PJM Interconnection, LLC, entities that currently pay a transmission charge to move energy through or out of a neighboring transmission system will no longer pay this charge to the neighboring transmission system owner or operator upon the neighboring transmission system owner or operator joining an RTO.

For further information, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7.

 

Renewable Electric Energy

The Company'sWisconsin Energy'sPower the Future proposalplan includes a commitment to significantly increase the amount of renewable energy generation utilized by the Companywe utilize beyond that required by Wisconsin law. Our target is to provide 5% of retail electric sales in Wisconsin from renewable energy resources by the year 2011. In addition, Wisconsin Electric haswe have an "energy for tomorrowEnergy For Tomorrow®®" renewable energy program.program to promote additional usage by our customers of energy produced from renewable resources.

Wisconsin's public benefits legislation requires that retail energy providers supply a minimum of 0.5% of their Wisconsin retail electric sales from renewable energy increasing to 2.2% by the year 2011. We met this requirement for 2003. For more information about Public Benefitspublic benefits see "Regulation" below.

 

GAS UTILITY OPERATIONS

Wisconsin Electric's gas utility operation isWe are authorized to provide retail gas distribution 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. The CompanyWe also transportstransport customer-owned gas. Wisconsin Electric'sOur gas utility operates in three distinct service areas: west and south of the City of Milwaukee, the Appleton area, and areas within Iron and Vilas Counties, Wisconsin.

 

Gas Deliveries

The Company'sOur gas utility business is highly seasonal due to the heating requirements of residential and commercial customers. Annual gas sales are also impacted by the variability of winter temperatures.



10


See "Selected Operating Data" in Item 6 for selected gas utility operating information by customer class during the period 19981999 through 2002. See "Results2003.

We delivered approximately 888.3 million therms of Operations" in Item 7 for selected gas utility operating information by customer class.

Total gas therms delivered by Wisconsin Electric,during 2003, including customer-owned transported gas, were approximately 890.0 million therms during 2002, a 4.4% increase0.2% decrease compared with 2001.2002. At December 31, 2002, Wisconsin Electric was2003, we were transporting gas for approximately 365370 customers who purchasedpurchase gas directly from other suppliers. Transported gas accounted for approximately 38%35% of our total thermsvolumes delivered by Wisconsin Electricduring 2003, 38% during 2002 and 39% during 2001 and 41% during 2000. Wisconsin Electric2001. We had approximately 420,500428,700 gas customers at December 31, 2002,2003, an increase of approximately 1.9%2.0% since December 31, 2001.2002.

Wisconsin Electric'sOur maximum daily send-out during 20022003 was 628,272718,046 dekatherms on March 4, 2002.January 22, 2003.



11


Sales to Large Gas Customers:   The Company providesWe provide gas utility service to a diversified base of industrial customers who are largely within itsour electric service territory. Major industries served include the paper, food products and fabricated metal products industries. Fuel used for Wisconsin Electric'sour electric energy supply represents the Company'sour largest transportation customer.

Gas Deliveries Growth:   The Company   We currently forecastsforecast total therm deliveries of natural gas to grow at an annual rate of approximately 1.6% for the gas operations0.8% over the five-year period ending December 31, 2007 which2008. This forecast reflects a current year normalized sales level. This forecastlevel and assumes moderate growth in the economy of the Company'sour gas utility service territoryterritories and normal weather. Abnormal weather or a contraction in the economy could cause the sales growth rate to deviate from this normalized growth pattern.

 

Competition

Competition in varying degrees exists between natural gas and other forms of energy available to consumers. Many of the Company'sour large commercial and industrial customers are dual-fuel customers that are equipped to switch between natural gas and alternate fuels. The Company offersWe offer lower-priced interruptible rates and transportation services for these customers to enable them to reduce their energy costs and use gas rather than other fuels. Under gas transportation agreements, customers purchase gas directly from gas marketers and arrange with interstate pipelines and the Companyus to have the gas transported to the facilities where it is used. The Company earnsWe earn substantially the same margin (difference between revenue and cost of gas) whether it sellswe sell and transportstransport gas to customers or only transportstransport their gas.

The Company'sOur future ability to maintain itsour present share of the industrial dual-fuel market (the market that is equipped to use gas or other fuels) depends onupon our success and the success of the Company and third-party gas marketers in obtaining long-term and short-term supplies of natural gas at marketablecompetitive prices compared to other sources and their success in arranging or facilitating competitively-priced transportation service for those customers that desire to buy their own gas supplies.

Federal and state regulators continue to implement policies to bring more competition to the gas industry. For information concerning proceedings by the PSCW to consider how its regulation of gas distribution utilities should change to reflect the changing competitive environment in the gas industry, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7. While the gas utility distribution function is expected to remain a heavilyhighly regulated, monopoly function, the sales of the natural gas commodity and related services are expected to become increasingly subject to competition from third parties. However, it remains uncertain if and when the current economic disincentives for small customers to choose an alternative gas commodity supplier may be removed such that the Company beginswe begin to face competition for the sale of gas to itsour smaller firm customers.

 

Gas Supply, Pipeline Capacity and Storage

The gas operations of Wisconsin Electric hasWe have been able to meet itsour contractual obligations with both itsour suppliers and itsour customers despite periods of severe cold and unseasonably warm weather.

Pipeline Capacity and Storage:   InterstateIn addition to the Guardian pipeline that receives gas supply in the Joliet, Illinois market hub, the interstate pipelines serving Wisconsin originate in three major gas producing areas of North America: the Oklahoma and Texas basins, the Gulf of Mexico and western Canada. The Company has

11


We have contracted for long-term firm capacity from each of these areas. This strategy reflects management's belief that overall supply security is enhanced by geographic diversification of the supply portfolios and that Canada represents an important long-term source of reliable, competitively-priced gas.

Because of the daily and seasonal variations in gas usage in Wisconsin, the Company haswe have also contracted for substantial underground storage capacity, primarily in Michigan. Storage capacity enables the Companyus to manage significant changes in daily demand and to optimize itsour overall gas supply and capacity costs. InWe generally inject gas into storage during the spring and summer gasmonths and withdraw it in excess of market demand is transported into the storage fields, and in winter gas is withdrawn from storage and combined with gas purchased in or near the production areas ("flowing gas") to meet the increased winter market demand.months. As a result, the Companywe can contract for less long-line pipeline capacity than would otherwise be necessary and can purchase gas on a more uniform daily basis from suppliers year-round. Each of these capabilities enables the Companyus to reduce itsour overall costs.

The CompanyWe also maintainsmaintain high deliverability storage in the mid-continent and Southeast production areas, as well as in itsour market area. This storage capacity is designed to deliver gas when other supplies cannot be delivered during extremely cold weather in the producing areas, which can reduce long-line supply.



12


The Company holdsWe hold firm daily transportation and storage capacity entitlements from pipelines and other service providers under long-term contracts.

Term Gas Supply:   Wisconsin Electric hasWe currently have contracts for firm supplies with terms in excess of 30 days with more than 20eight gas suppliers for gas producedacquired in each ofthe Chicago area hub and in the three producing areas discussed above. The pricing of the term contracts pricedis based upon first of the month indices, have varying durations so that only a portion of the Company's' respective firm gas supply expires in any year.indices. Management believes that the volume of gas under contract is sufficient to meet itsour forecasted firm peak day demand.

Secondary Market Transactions:   Capacity release is a mechanism by which pipeline long-line and storage capacity and gas supplies under contract can be resold in the secondary market. Local distribution companies, such as Wisconsin Electric,like our gas operations, must contract for capacity and supply sufficient to meet the firm peak day demand of itstheir customers. Peak or near peak demand days generally occur only a few times each year. Capacity release facilitates higher utilization of contracted capacity and supply during those times when the full contracted capacity and supply are not needed by the utility, helping to mitigate the fixed costs associated with maintaining peak levels of capacity and gas supply. Through pre-arranged agreements and day-to-day electronic bulletin board postings, interested parties can purchase this excess capacity and supply. The proceeds from these transactions are passed through to ratepayers, subject to the Wisconsin Electricour gas cost incentive mechanism s pursuant to which the Company haswe have an opportunity to share in the cost savings. See "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Rates and Regulatory Matters" in Item 7 for information on the gas cost recovery mechanism and gas cost incentive mechanism. During 2002, the Company2003, we continued itsour active participation in the capacity release market.

Spot Market Gas Supply:   Wisconsin Electric expectsWe expect to continue to make gas purchases in the 30-day spot market as price and other circumstances dictate. The Company hasWe have supply relationships with a number of sellers from whom itwe purchases spot gas.

Hedging Gas Supply Prices:   We have PSCW approval to hedge up to 50% of planned flowing gas and storage inventory supply using NYMEX based natural gas options. That approval allows us to pass 100% of the hedging costs (premiums and brokerage fees) and proceeds through our purchase gas adjustment mechanism. Hedge targets (volumes) are provided annually to the PSCW as part of our five-year gas supply plan filing.

To the extent that opportunities develop and our physical supply operating plans will support them, we also have PSCW approval to utilize NYMEX based natural gas derivatives to capture favorable forward market price differentials. That approval provides for 100% of the related proceeds to accrue to our gas cost recovery (incentive) mechanism.

Guardian Pipeline:   In March 1999, WICOR, Inc. (WICOR), which was acquired by Wisconsin Energy in April 2000, announced the formation of a joint venture, Guardian Pipeline, L.L.C. (Guardian), to construct the Guardian interstate natural gas pipeline from the Joliet, Illinois market hub to southeastern Wisconsin ("Guardian Pipeline").Wisconsin. The Guardian Pipelinepipeline is designed to serve the growing demand for natural gas in Wisconsin and northern Illinois. WICOR, WPS Investments, LLC, an affiliate of WPS Resources Corporation, and an affiliate of Northern Illinois. CMS Energy Corporation, a Dearborn, Michigan-based international energy company, and a subsidiary of Xcel Energy, Inc., a Minneapolis-based diversified energy company, are cosponsors of the project with WICOR. The three partnersBorder Partners, LLP have equal ownershipco-ownership interests in the project.Guardian. On March 14, 2001, the FERC issued a certificate of public convenience and necessity authorizing construction and operation of the Guardian Pipeline. Construction commenced on thepipeline. The Guardian Pipeline in the spring of 2002. Guardian Pipelinepipeline began operation in December 2003. On January 17, 2003 Xcel Energy announced2002 and we have been transporting natural gas on the completion of the sale of its ownership interest in Guardian Pipeline to an affiliate of Northern Border Partners, LLP.pipeline since that time.

 

STEAM UTILITY OPERATIONS

Wisconsin Electric'sOur steam utility generates, distributes and sells steam supplied by itsour Valley and Milwaukee County Power Plants. Wisconsin Electric operatesWe operate a district steam system in downtown Milwaukee and the near

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south side of Milwaukee. Steam is supplied to this system from Wisconsin Electric'sour Valley Power Plant, a coal-based cogeneration facility. Wisconsin ElectricWe also operatesoperate the steam production and distribution facilities of the Milwaukee County Power Plant located on the Milwaukee County Grounds in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

Annual sales of steam fluctuate from year to year based upon system growth and variations in weather conditions. During 2002,2003, the steam utility had $22.5 million of operating revenues from the sale of 3,073 million pounds of steam compared with $21.5 million of operating revenues from the sale of 3,001 million pounds of steam compared with $21.8 million of operating revenues from the sale of 2,929 million pounds of steam during 2001.2002. As of December 31, 20022003 and 2001,2002, steam was used by 467approximately 460 and 449470 customers, respectively, for processing, space heating, domestic hot water and humidification.



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UTILITY RATE MATTERS

See "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Rates and Regulatory Matters" in Item 7.

 

REGULATION

Wisconsin Electric isWe are an exempt holding company under Section 3(a)(1) of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as amended, and Rule 2 thereunder and, accordingly, isare exempt from that law's provisions other than with respect to certain acquisitions of securities of a public utility.

Wisconsin Electric isWe are subject to the regulation of the PSCW as to retail electric, gas and steam rates in the state of Wisconsin, standards of service, issuance of securities, construction of certain new facilities, transactions with affiliates, billing practices and various other matters. Wisconsin Electric isWe are subject to regulation of the PSCW as to certain levels of short-term debt obligations. Wisconsin Electric isWe are subject to the regulation of the Michigan Public Service CommissionMPSC as to the various matters associated with retail electric service in the state of Michigan as noted above except as to issuance of securities, construction of certain new facilities, levels of short-term debt obligations and advance approval of transactions with affiliates. Wisconsin Electric'sOur hydroelectric facilities are regulated by the FERC. Wisconsin Electric isWe are subject to regulation of the FERC with respect to wholesale power service and accounting. For information on how our rates are set, see "Rates and Regulatory Matters" in Item 7.

The following table compares the source of the Company'sour operating revenues by regulatory jurisdiction for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2002.2003.

 

            2002            

            2001            

            2000            

 

Amount

Percent

Amount

Percent

Amount

Percent

 

(Millions of Dollars)

Wisconsin

      

     Electric Utility -- Retail

$1,687.5

73.5%  

$1,611.8

69.5%  

$1,517.7

69.5%  

     Gas Utility -- Retail

389.8

17.0%  

457.1

19.7%  

399.7

18.3%  

     Other Utility -- Retail

       21.5

    0.9%  

       21.8

    1.0%  

       21.9

    1.0%  

          Total

2,098.8

91.4%  

2,090.7

90.2%  

1,939.3

88.8%  

Michigan

      

     Electric Utility -- Retail

110.7

4.8%  

110.8

4.8%  

118.0

5.4%  

FERC

      

     Electric Utility -- Wholesale

     86.4

    3.8%  

     117.2

    5.0%  

     127.7

    5.8%  

Total Utility Operating Revenues

$2,295.9

100.0%  

$2,318.7

100.0%  

$2,185.0

100.0%  

 

=====

====  

=====

====  

=====

====  

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

Amount

 

Percent

 

Amount

 

Percent

 

Amount

 

Percent

 

(Millions of Dollars)

Wisconsin

           

     Electric Utility -- Retail

$1,762.8

 

69.9%  

 

$1,687.5

 

73.5%  

 

$1,611.8

 

69.5%  

     Gas Utility -- Retail

513.0

 

20.3%  

 

389.8

 

17.0%  

 

457.1

 

19.7%  

     Other Utility -- Retail

22.4

 

0.9%  

 

21.5

 

0.9%  

 

21.8

 

1.0%  

          Total

2,298.2

 

91.1%  

 

2,098.8

 

91.4%  

 

2,090.7

 

90.2%  

Michigan

           

     Electric Utility -- Retail

123.9

 

4.9%  

 

110.7

 

4.8%  

 

110.8

 

4.8%  

FERC

           

     Electric Utility -- Wholesale

99.8

 

4.0%  

 

86.4

 

3.8%  

 

117.2

 

5.0%  

Total Utility Operating Revenues

$2,521.9

 

100.0%  

 

$2,295.9

 

100.0%  

 

$2,318.7

 

100.0%  

 

For information concerning the implementation of full electric retail competition in the state of Michigan effective January 1, 2002, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7.

Operation and construction relating to the Company'sour Point Beach Nuclear Plant are subject to regulation by the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission. TheNRC. Our operations of Wisconsin Electric are also subject to regulations, where applicable, of the United States Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA")(EPA), the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR), the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.



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Electric Reliability Legislation:   In 1998, the Wisconsin State Legislature passed and the Governor of Wisconsin signed into law 1997 Wisconsin Act 204, intended to address concerns with electric reliability in the state of Wisconsin. 1997 Wisconsin Act 204 included new requirements concerning market power, which utilities and their affiliates must meet in order to construct generating facilities. The requirements apply to electric utility facilities in excess of 100 megawatts.

Public Benefits:   Public benefits legislation was included in 1999 Wisconsin Act 9. The law created new funding which is adjusted annually to be collected by all electric utilities and remitted to the Wisconsin Department of Administration. The law also required utilities to continue to collect the funds at existing levels for low-income

14


customers, conservation and environmental research and development programs and to begin transferringtransfer the funds for these programs to the Department of Administration. The CompanyWe implemented this change in October 2000. The utilities' traditional role of providing these programs has shifted to the Department of Administration, which administers the funds for a statewide public benefits program.

This law also requires that retail energy providers supply 0.5% of their Wisconsin retail electric sales from renewable energy, which the Companywe did in 2002,2003, with the required minimum percentage increasing to 2.2% by the year 2011.

Affiliated Interest Policies Docket:   From late 1998 through early 2000, the PSCW reviewed the policies on standards of conduct governing diversification of activities that can be performed within a utility and utility affiliates. During these proceedings, Wisconsin Electric took the position that state policy should protect competition, not individual competitors, and that customers should have the choice to use either Wisconsin Electric or another vendor for these products and services. In April 2000, the PSCW issued an order that allows utilities to continue to provide and sell products and services other than core utility products as long as the related costs are fully allocated and not subsidized by ratepayers.

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE

Environmental Expenditures

Expenditures for environmental compliance and remediation issues are included in anticipated capital expenditures described in "Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7. For discussion of additional environmental issues, see "Environmental Matters" in Item 3. For further information concerning air quality standards and rulemaking initiated by the EPA, including estimated costs of compliance, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7.

ComplianceOur compliance with federal, state and local environmental protection requirements resulted in capital expenditures by Wisconsin Electric of approximately $15 million in 2003 compared with $77 million in 2002 compared with $49 million in 2001.2002. Expenditures incurred during 20022003 primarily included costs associated with the installation of pollution abatement facilities at Wisconsin Electric'sour power plants. SuchThese expenditures at Wisconsin Electric are expected to approximate $27$105 million during 2003,2004, reflecting nitrogen oxide ("NO(NOx") and other pollution control equipment needed to comply with ozone non-attainmentvarious rules promulgated by the EPA.

Operation,We estimate our operation, maintenance and depreciation expenses for Wisconsin Electric's fly ash removal equipment and other environmental protection systems are estimated to have been approximately $51 million during 2003 and $46 million during 2002 and $45 million during 2001.2002.

 

Solid Waste Landfills

The Company providesWe provide 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. Currently there are no active cases.

Giddings and Lewis, Inc./City of West Allis Lawsuit:   For information about this matter, see "Note O -- Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.



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Coal-Ash Landfills

Some early designed and constructed coal-ash landfills may allow the release of low levels of constituents resulting in the need for various levels of remediation. Where Wisconsin Electric haswe have become aware of these conditions, efforts have been expended to define the nature and extent of any release, and work has been performed to address these conditions. For additional information, see "Note O -- Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8. Sites currently undergoing remediation and/or monitoring include:

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 Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Wisconsin Electric initiated a five-year expanded monitoring program. In July 1995, Wisconsin Electric prepared an environmental contamination assessment of the landfill and submitted the report to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Wisconsin Electric has petitioned the City of Waukesha to extend city water service to residents of the Town of Waukesha affected by contamination from the site. The City Council has agreed to extend service at Wisconsin Electric's cost. In addition to providing City water to affected residents, Wisconsin Electric has completed excavation of saturated ash and placement of a cap on the landfill, and completed final landscaping of the site in 2001. City water supply piping to residents is currently being installed. The cost for complete remediation of this site is estimated to be $3.5 million.

Kansas Ave. Landfill:   The Kansas Ave. site, located in the City of St. Francis, Wisconsin, was a small landfill area used to support the operations of the Company's former Lakeside Power Plant. Wisconsin Electric is working with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to obtain closure for this site. Expenses associated with the site closure are estimated to be $0.9 million. No groundwater treatment is planned at this time.

Lakeside Landfill:   Property:   During 2001, Wisconsin Electricwe completed an investigation of property that was used primarily for coal storage, fuel oil transport and coal ash disposal in support of the former Lakeside Power Plant in St. Francis, Wisconsin. The Company has initiated excavationExcavation and utilization of residual coal at the site, and has implemented slope stabilization and cover construction. The costconstruction have been completed. Currently, discussion is taking place with neighbors and other interested parties to determine ultimate use of the remediated property and some other adjacent land also owned by us. Future costs for remediation of this site isare estimated to be approximately $3.2$2.8 million.

Oak Creek North Landfill:   Groundwater impairments at this landfill, located in the City of Oak Creek, Wisconsin, prompted Wisconsin Electricus to investigate, during 1998, the condition of the existing cover and other conditions at the site. Surface water drainage improvements were implemented at this site during 1999 and 2000, which are expected to eliminate

15


ash contact with water and remove unwanted ponding of water near monitoring systems. Future costs for remediation involvingare estimated to be approximately $3.5 million and involve reconfiguration of the site and construction of a new cap, are estimatedwhich will be accomplished as a part of site upgrades needed to be approximately $3.5 million.facilitate construction of the new power plants under Wisconsin Energy'sPower the Future plan.

 

Manufactured Gas Plant Sites

The Company isWe are reviewing and addressing environmental conditions at a number of former manufactured gas plant sites. See "Note O -- Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.

 

Air Quality

The 1990 amendments to the Federal Clean Air Act mandate significant nationwide reductions in air emissions. The most significant sections of this law applicable to the country's electric utilities are the acid rain and nonattainment provisions. The acid rain provisions limit SO2 and NOx emissions in phases. Phase I became effective in 1995 and Phase II became effective during the year 2000. The Company hasWe have met the requirements of Phase I. The Phase II requirements of the 1990 amendments to the Federal Clean Air Act are expected to havehaving a minimal future impacts on the Company's utilitiesimpact because of existing cost effective compliance strategies and previous actions taken.

Ozone nonattainment rules implemented by the state of Wisconsin and ozone transport rules implemented by the state of Michigan, both under authority of the Federal Clean Air Act, will limit NOx emissions in phases over the next seven years.ending in 2007.



15


See "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7 for information concerning National Ambient Air Quality Standards established during 1997 by the EPA and ozone non-attainment rulemaking promulgated by the EPA during 1998.

Wisconsin Energy'sPower the Futurestrategyprovides a plan to meet the Company's growing demand for electricity while using environmentally friendly equipment. The plan proposesUnderPower the Future,Wisconsin Energy plans to build fivefour new generating units, a total of 2,8002,320 megawatts of capacity, at a total cost of about $3.0 billion. Threeapproximately $2.8 billion (in year of occurrence dollars). We will lease the plants from our affiliate. When the plants are completed, Wisconsin Energy expects to own approximately 1,090-megawatts of new natural gas-based generation and 1,030-megawatts of new coal-based generation. Wisconsin Energy plans to build the two coal units would be built at the site of the Company'sour existing Oak Creek Power Plant. TwoWisconsin Energy anticipates that two unaffiliated entities together will own approximately 17% or 204-megawatts of these two units. The Oak Creek units wouldwill use a supercritical pulverized coal design and the other would use coal gasification technology. All of these units will use state-of-the-art emission controls. The other two natural gas-based units would be locatedare being construct ed at the Company'sour existing Port Washington Power Plant site, where older, less efficient coal-based units installed before 1950 would be retired and new natural gas-based units would be built. These latest technologies are expected to provide a significant reduction in air emissions compared with existing, older power plants.being retired. Implementation of theWisconsin Energy'sPower the Futureplan also provides for upgrades to our existing power plants and modernization to increase efficiency and reduce emissions. As a result of the use of the latest emission reduction technologies on the new units, and the installation of equipment to reduce emissions on certain of our existing coal-based units, the plan results in a significant reduction in SO2, NOx, and mercury emissions. In addition to the positive environmental attributes of the generation technology,technologies, the plan involves an increased commitment to conservation and renewable fuels, as well as a commitment to address greenhouse gas issues. For further information about Wisconsin Energy'sPower the Future strategy, see "Corporate Developments" in Item 7.

 

OTHER

Research and Development:   Wisconsin ElectricWe had immaterial research and development expenditures in the last three years, primarily for improvement of service and abatement of air and water pollution by the electric utility operations. Research and development activities include work done by employees, consultants and contractors, plus sponsorship of research by industry associations.

Employees:At December 31, 2002, Wisconsin Electric2003, we had 5,1725,146 total employees of which 3,5603,542 were represented under labor agreements.



16


The employees represented under labor agreements were with the following bargaining units as of December 31, 2002.2003.

 

Number ofEmployees

Expiration Date of CurrentLabor Agreement

  Local 2150 of International     Brotherhood of Electrical Workers

2,651
2,650      


August 15, 2004

  Local 317 of International Union of     Operating Engineers

486
472      


September 30, 2003*2006  

  Local 12005 of United Steel Workers     of America

196
189      


November 6, 2004

  Local 7-0111 of Paper, Allied-    Industrial Chemical & Energy     Workers International Union

66

67      



November 3, 2004

  Local 510 of International Brotherhood     of Electrical Workers

   161 
164      


April 30, 20042004* 

Total Wisconsin Electric

3,560      

Total

====3,542      

*Currently under negotiations.negotiation.



1617


ITEM 2.

PROPERTIES

TheWe own our principal properties of Wisconsin Electric are owned in feeoutright except that the major portion of electric utility distribution lines, steam utility distribution mains and gas utility distribution mains and services are located, for the most part, on or in streets and highways and on land owned by others. Substantially all of Wisconsin Electric's utility plant isour fixed properties and franchises are subject to a first mortgage lien.

Effective January 1, 2001, Wisconsin Electricwe exited the electric transmission business by contributing all of itsour transmission assets to ATC in exchange for an equity interest in this new company. For further information, see "Electric Utility Operations" in Item 1."

Wisconsin Electric ownsWe own the following generating stations with dependable capabilities as indicated.

  

Dependable Capability

 

No. of

     In Megawatts (a)     

 

Generating

August

December 




Name




Fuel


No. of
Generating
Units

Dependable Capability
In Megawatts (a)

Name

  Fuel

Units

2002

2002

July
2003

December
2003

    

Steam Plants

Steam Plants

             

Point Beach

Nuclear

2

1,012

1,022

 

Nuclear

 

2    

 

1,026    

 

1,036    

 

Oak Creek

Coal

4

1,135

1,139

 

Coal

 

4    

 

1,135    

 

1,139    

 

Presque Isle

Coal

9

617

618

 

Coal

 

9    

 

618    

 

618    

 

Pleasant Prairie

Coal

2

1,224

1,234

 

Coal

 

2    

 

1,224    

 

1,234    

 

Port Washington (b)

Coal

4

305

305

 

Coal

 

3    

 

225    

 

225    

 

Valley

Coal

2

267

227

 

Coal

 

2    

 

267    

 

227    

 

Edgewater 5 (c)

Coal

1

102

102

 

Coal

 

1    

 

106    

 

106    

 

Milwaukee County

Coal

  3

     11

     11

Coal

3    

10    

11    

Total Steam Plants

 

27

4,673

4,658

   

26    

 

4,611    

 

4,596    

 

Hydro Plants (14 in number)

 

37

54

57

   

37    

 

55    

 

57    

 

Germantown Combustion Turbines (d)

Gas/Oil

5

345

345

 

Gas/Oil

 

5    

 

345    

 

345    

 

Concord Combustion Turbines (d)

Gas/Oil

4

376

376

 

Gas/Oil

 

4    

 

376    

 

376    

 

Paris Combustion Turbines (d)

Gas/Oil

4

400

400

 

Gas/Oil

 

4    

 

400    

 

394    

 

Other Combustion Turbines & Diesel (b) (d)

Gas/Oil

  6

     55

     62

 

Gas/Oil

 

4    

 

38    

 

42    

 

Total System

 

83

5,903

5,898

   

80    

 

5,825    

 

5,810    

 
 

==

====

====

(a)

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.

  

(b)

The CompanyWe retired Units 4 &and 6 effective January 1, 2003, which resulted in a decrease of 97 megawatts. We intend to retire the remaining coal units in the fall of 2004.

  

(c)

Wisconsin Electric hasWe have a 25% interest in Edgewater 5 Generating Unit, which is operated by Wisconsin Power and Light Company,Alliant Energy, an unaffiliated utility.

  

(d)

The dual fuel facilities burn oil only if natural gas is not available due to constraints on the natural gas pipeline and/or at the local gas distribution company that delivers gas to the plants.

 

As of December 31, 2002, Wisconsin Electric2003, we operated approximately 21,900 pole-miles of overhead distribution lines and 19,30019,800 miles of underground distribution cable as well as approximately 347345 distribution substations and 253,000260,200 line transformers.

As of December 31, 2002, Wisconsin Electric's2003, our gas distribution system included approximately 8,4008,800 miles of mains connected at 2122 gate stations to the pipeline transmission systems of ANR Pipeline Company, Guardian, Pipeline, Natural Gas Pipeline Company of America, Northern Natural Pipeline Company and Great Lakes Transmission Company. Wisconsin Electric hasWe have a liquefied natural gas storage plant which converts and stores in liquefied form natural gas received during periods of low consumption. The liquefied natural gas storage plant has a send-out

17


capability of 70,000 dekatherms



18


per day. Wisconsin ElectricWe also hashave propane air systems for peaking purposes. These propane air systems will provide approximately 6,0002,400 dekatherms per day of supply to the system.

As of December 31, 2002,2003, the combined steam systems supplied by the Valley and Milwaukee County Power Plants consisted of approximately 43 miles of both high pressure and low pressure steam piping, 8.89.0 miles of walkable tunnels and other pressure regulating equipment.

Wisconsin Electric ownsWe own various office buildings and service centers throughout itsour service area.

 

 

ITEM 3.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In addition to those legal proceedings discussed in our reports to the SEC, we are currently, and from time to time, subject to claims and suits arising in the ordinary course of business. Although the results of these legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, management believes, after consultation with legal counsel, that the ultimate resolution of these proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on our financial statements.

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

Wisconsin Electric isWe are subject to federal, state and certain local laws and regulations governing the environmental aspects of itsour operations. The CompanyManagement believes that, perhaps with immaterial exceptions, itsour existing facilities are in compliance with applicable environmental requirements.

See "Environmental Compliance" in Item 1, which is incorporated by reference herein, for a discussion of matters related to certain solid waste and coal-ash landfills, manufactured gas plant sites and air quality.

Giddings & Lewis, Inc./City of West Allis Lawsuit:   See "Note O -- Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 for matters related to the settlement of a lawsuit alleging that Wisconsin Electric had placed contaminated wastes at two sites in the City of West Allis, Wisconsin.

 

UTILITY RATE MATTERS

See "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7 for information concerning rate matters in the jurisdictions where Wisconsin Electric doeswe do business.

 

OTHER MATTERS

Used Nuclear Fuel Storage &and Removal:See "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" in Item 7 for information concerning the United States Department of Energy's breach of a contract with Wisconsin Electricus that required the United States Department of Energy to begin permanently removing used nuclear fuel from Point Beach Nuclear Plant by January 31, 1998.

Stray Voltage:   In recent years, several actions by dairy farmers have been commenced or claims made against us for loss of milk production and other damages to livestock allegedly caused by stray voltage resulting from the operation of our electrical system. One such action is currently pending. The claims made against us in this case are not expected to have a material adverse effect on our financial statements.

On July 11, 1996, the PSCW issued its final order regarding the stray voltage policies of Wisconsin's investor-owned utilities. The order clarified the definition of stray voltage, affirmed the level at which utility action is required, and appropriately placed some of the responsibility for this issue in the hands of the customer. Additionally, the order established a uniform stray voltage tariff which delineates utility responsibility and provides for the recovery of costs associated with unnecessary customer demanded services. While this action has been

19


beneficial in Wisconsin Electric'sour efforts to manage this controversial issue, it has not had a significant impact on Wisconsin Electric'sour financial position or results of operations.

In recent years, several actions by dairy farmers have been commenced or claims madeOn June 25, 2003, the Wisconsin Supreme Court upheld a Court of Appeals decision that affirmed a jury's verdict against Wisconsin Electric for loss of milk production and other damagesus awarding $1.2 million to livestock allegedly caused bythe plaintiffs in a stray voltage resulting fromlawsuit. The Wisconsin Supreme Court rejected the operationargument that if a utility company's measurement of its electrical system. Atstray voltage is below the present time, threePSCW "level of concern," such actions are pending and one case is on appeal. One ofcompany cannot be found negligent in stray voltage cases. The Supreme Court decision held that PSCW regulations regarding stray voltage were only minimum standards to be considered by a jury in stray voltage litigation. However, the three cases was filed in CircuitSupreme Court Kenosha County, Wisconsin and alleges that Wisconsin Electric was negligent with respectremanded back to the design, construction, maintenance and operation of thetrial court its requirement imposed on us to replace a cable with an ungrounded distribution line serving the plaintiffs' farm, and the 138 kV transmission line which crosses plaintiffs' property, thereby giving riseline.

On February 26, 2004, a Wisconsin jury awarded $850,000 to stray currents which impacteda dairy cows andfarmer who alleged that our distribution system caused physical injury. The claimed damage period commenced in early 1993 and continues to the present. No final damages claim has been providedhis livestock. We intend to date. The Company believes that the case has little merit and intends to vigorously defend the claim. Trial has been scheduled to commence i n

18


June 2003. Of the remaining two cases, the claims made against Wisconsin Electric are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial statements.appeal this decision.

Electromagnetic Fields:Claims have been made or threatened against electric utilities across the country for bodily injury, disease or other damages allegedly caused or aggravated by exposure to electromagnetic fields associated with electric transmission and distribution lines. Results of scientific studies conducted to date have not established the existence of a causal connection between electromagnetic fields and any adverse health affects. Wisconsin Electric believesWe believe that itsour facilities are constructed and operated in accordance with all applicable legal requirements and standards. Currently, there are no cases pending or threatened against Wisconsin Electricus with respect to damage caused by electromagnetic fields.

 

 

ITEM 4.

SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

No matters were submitted to a vote of Wisconsin Electric'sour security holders during the fourth quarter of 2002.2003.

 

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

The names, ages at December 31, 20022003 and positions of theour executive officers of Wisconsin Electric are listed below along with their business experience during the past five years. All officers are appointed until they resign, die or are removed pursuant to the Bylaws. There are no family relationships among these officers, nor is there any agreement or understanding between any officer and any other person pursuant to which the officer was selected.

Richard A. Abdoo, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Wisconsin Energy and Chairman of the Board of Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas, has indicated his intention to retire from all officer and director positions with Wisconsin Energy and its subsidiaries, and to retire as an employee, effective as of April 30, 2004. Gale E. Klappa, currently President of Wisconsin Energy and President and Chief Executive Officer of Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas, has been appointed to the officer positions held by Mr. Abdoo. Accordingly, effective as of May 1, 2004, Mr. Klappa will hold the titles of Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wisconsin Energy, Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas.

Richard A. Abdoo (58):

Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wisconsin Energy Corporation since 1991. Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Wisconsin Electric Power Company since 1990. Chairman of the Board and Director of Wisconsin Gas Company since April 2000. Director of Wisconsin Energy Corporation since 1988. Director of Wisconsin Electric Power Company since 1989.

Charles R. Cole (56):

Senior Vice President of Wisconsin Electric Power Company since January 1, 2001. Vice President -- Distribution Operations of Wisconsin Electric Power Company from August 1999 to December 2000. Vice President -- Customer Services of Kansas City Power & Light from 1995 to 1999.

Stephen P. Dickson (42):

Controller of Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Wisconsin Electric Power Company since April 2000. Controller of Wisconsin Gas Company since June 1998. Director Business Risk Consulting Services of Arthur Andersen from 1997 to 1998.

Paul Donovan (55):

Executive Vice President of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, Wisconsin Electric Power Company and Wisconsin Gas Company since May 2002. Chief Financial Officer of Wisconsin Energy Corporation since August 1999 and of Wisconsin Electric Power Company and Wisconsin Gas Company since July 2000. Senior Vice President of Wisconsin Energy Corporation from August 1999 to May 2002. Senior Vice President of Wisconsin Electric Power Company and Wisconsin Gas Company from July 2000 to May 2002. Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Sundstrand Corporation from 1990 and 1998, respectively, to 1999.

Richard A. Abdoo.  Age 59.

Charles R. Cole.  Age 57.



1920


Stephen P. Dickson.  Age 43.

Gale E. Klappa.  Age 53.

Frederick D. Kuester.  Age 53.

Allen L. Leverett.  Age 37.

Larry Salustro.

Richard R. Grigg (54):

Executive Vice President of Wisconsin Energy Corporation since May 2002 and President and Chief Operating Officer of Wisconsin Electric Power Company since 1995 and of Wisconsin Gas Company since July 2001. Senior Vice President of Wisconsin Energy Corporation from July 2000 to May 2002. Vice President of Wisconsin Energy Corporation from 1995 to June 2000. Chief Nuclear Officer of Wisconsin Electric Power Company from December 1996 to March 1998. Director of Wisconsin Energy Corporation since 1995. Director of Wisconsin Electric Power Company since 1994 and Director of Wisconsin Gas Company since April 2000.

Larry Salustro (55):

Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, Wisconsin Electric Power Company and Wisconsin Gas Company since July 2000. Vice President of Wisconsin Electric Power Company from 1997 through June 2000. Regional Vice President -- Law and Governmental Affairs with AT&T from 1995 to 1997.

Age 56.

Certain executive officers also hold offices in Wisconsin Energy's non-utility subsidiaries.



21


PART II

ITEM 5.

MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER
MATTERS

DIVIDENDS AND COMMON STOCK PRICES

Dividends declared on Wisconsin Electric'sour common stock during the two most recent fiscal years are set forth below. Dividends were paid entirely in cash. Dividends were paid to Wisconsin Electric'sour sole common stockholder, Wisconsin Energy Corporation. There is no established public trading market for the Company'sour common stock.

Quarter

2002     

2001     

 

2003

 

2002

(Millions of Dollars)

 

(Millions of Dollars)

      

First

$44.9     

$32.5     

 

$44.9   

 

$44.9   

Second

44.9     

32.5     

 

44.9   

 

44.9   

Third

44.9     

32.5     

 

44.9   

 

44.9   

Fourth

   44.9     

   32.5     

 

44.9   

 

44.9   

Total

$179.6     

$130.0     

 

$179.6   

 

$179.6   

====   

====   

 

Subject to any regulatory restriction or other limitations on the payment of dividends, future dividends will be at the discretion of the board of directors and will depend upon, among other factors, earnings, financial condition and other requirements.

Various financing arrangements and regulatory requirements impose certain restrictions on theour ability of Wisconsin Electric to transfer funds to Wisconsin Energy in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances. Under Wisconsin law, Wisconsin Electric iswe are prohibited from loaning funds, either directly or indirectly, to Wisconsin Energy.



2022


 

 

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED SELECTED FINANCIAL AND STATISTICAL DATA

Financial

2002

2001

2000

1999

1998

Year Ended December 31

Earnings available for

common stockholder (Millions)

$258.0

(a)

$245.3

$163.5

(b)

$211.9

(c)

$183.0

Operating revenues (Millions)

Electric

$1,884.6

$1,839.8

$1,763.4

$1,688.3

$1,641.4

Gas

389.8

457.1

399.7

306.8

295.9

Steam

      21.5

      21.8

      21.9

      21.3

      20.5

Total operating revenues

$2,295.9

$2,318.7

$2,185.0

$2,016.4

$1,957.8

=====

=====

=====

=====

=====

At December 31 (Millions)

Total assets

$5,332.3

$5,067.5

$5,025.1

$4,901.9

$4,608.9

Long-term debt

$1,432.4

$1,420.5

$1,679.6

$1,677.6

$1,512.5

Utility Energy Statistics

Electric

Megawatt-hours sold (Thousands)

30,378.2

30,539.7

31,398.8

30,619.9

29,475.2

Customers (End of year)

1,056,370

1,044,129

1,026,691

1,006,013

988,929

Gas

Therms delivered (Millions)

890.0

852.4

944.9

944.1

922.8

Customers (End of year)

420,494

412,674

407,761

398,508

388,478

Steam

Pounds sold (Millions)

3,001.1

2,929.2

3,085.2

2,913.9

2,773.1

Customers (End of year)

467

449

451

450

454

CONSOLIDATED SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (Unaudited)

                   (Millions of Dollars) (d)                    

         March         

            June            

Three Months Ended

2002

2001

2002

2001

Total operating revenues

$586.7

$706.6

$533.6

$517.5

Operating income

$129.5

$123.3

$91.3

$79.0

Earnings available for

common stockholder

$66.1

$62.4

$47.0

$34.7

       September       

         December        

Three Months Ended

2002

2001

2002

2001

Total operating revenues

$566.7

$552.2

$608.9

$542.4

Operating income

$127.1

$135.0

$137.4

$138.7

Earnings available for

common stockholder

$69.0

$72.9

$75.9

$75.3

(a)

During 2002, the Company recorded litigation settlements of $10.6 million, after tax.

(b)

During the fourth quarter of 2000, the Company recorded severance benefits and other items of $43.9 million, after tax.

(c)

In the fourth quarter of 1999, the Company recorded a litigation settlement of $10.8 million, after tax.

(d)

Quarterly results of operations are not directly comparable because of seasonal and other factors. See Management's

Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED SELECTED FINANCIAL AND STATISTICAL DATA

Financial

2003

2002

2001

2000

1999

Year Ended December 31

Earnings available for

common stockholder (Millions)

$255.5

$258.0

$245.3

$163.5

$211.9

Operating revenues (Millions)

Electric

$1,986.4

$1,884.6

$1,839.8

$1,763.4

$1,688.3

Gas

513.0

389.8

457.1

399.7

306.8

Steam

22.5

21.5

21.8

21.9

21.3

Total operating revenues

$2,521.9

$2,295.9

$2,318.7

$2,185.0

$2,016.4

At December 31 (Millions)

Total assets

$6,644.6

$6,285.1

$6,040.6

$6,038.7

$5,907.9

Long-term debt (includes long-term debt, current

   maturities of long-term debt, and short-term debt)

$1,915.4

$1,814.2

$1,875.6

$1,964.7

$1,973.1

Utility Energy Statistics

Electric

Megawatt-hours sold (Thousands)

30,713.8

30,378.2

30,539.7

31,398.8

30,619.9

Customers (End of year)

1,068,034

1,056,370

1,044,129

1,026,691

1,006,013

Gas

Therms delivered (Millions)

888.3

890.0

852.4

944.9

944.1

Customers (End of year)

428,719

420,494

412,674

407,761

398,508

Steam

Pounds sold (Millions)

3,072.8

3,001.1

2,929.2

3,085.2

2,913.9

Customers (End of year)

459

467

449

451

450

CONSOLIDATED SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (Unaudited)

(Millions of Dollars) (a)

March

June

Three Months Ended

2003

2002

2003

2002

Total operating revenues

$718.8

$586.7

$564.9

$533.6

Operating income

$132.5

$129.5

$93.2

$91.3

Earnings available for

common stockholder

$75.1

$66.1

$49.5

$47.0

September

December

Three Months Ended

2003

2002

2003

2002

Total operating revenues

$599.6

$566.7

$638.6

$608.9

Operating income

$124.5

$127.1

$121.1

$137.4

Earnings available for

common stockholder

$67.7

$69.0

$63.2

$75.9

(a)

Quarterly results of operations are not directly comparable because of seasonal and other factors. See Management's

Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.



2123


 

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

SELECTED OPERATING DATA

Year Ended December 31

2002

2001

2000

1999

1998

Electric Utility

Operating Revenues (Millions)

Residential

$693.4

$644.8

$597.2

$574.8

$571.4

Small Commercial/Industrial

591.0

577.3

534.7

510.1

487.6

Large Commercial/Industrial

475.6

472.0

464.9

451.2

450.1

Other - Retail/Municipal

71.0

63.2

58.3

51.2

51.2

Resale - Utilities

31.3

69.6

84.0

79.1

60.9

Other Operating Revenues

      22.3

      12.9

      24.3

      21.9

      20.2

Total Operating Revenues

$1,884.6

$1,839.8

$1,763.4

$1,688.3

$1,641.4

=====

=====

=====

=====

=====

Megawatt-hour Sales (Thousands)

Residential

8,147.8

7,615.7

7,477.6

7,346.8

7,327.0

Small Commercial/Industrial

8,473.2

8,354.2

8,287.5

8,028.2

7,612.4

Large Commercial/Industrial

10,933.0

10,983.0

11,626.2

11,333.6

11,392.0

Other - Retail/Municipal

1,810.4

1,599.4

1,527.3

1,314.0

1,287.2

Resale - Utilities

  1,013.8

  1,987.4

  2,480.2

  2,597.3

  1,856.6

Total Sales

30,378.2

30,539.7

31,398.8

30,619.9

29,475.2

=====

=====

=====

=====

=====

Number of Customers (Average)

Residential

945,298

931,714

916,028

897,333

886,635

Small Commercial/Industrial

102,058

100,456

98,277

95,964

94,675

Large Commercial/Industrial

705

706

712

716

720

Other

       2,345

       2,319

       2,283

    1,938

    1,855

Total Customers

1,050,406

1,035,195

1,017,300

995,951

983,885

======

======

======

=====

=====

Gas Utility

Operating Revenues (Millions)

Residential

$250.9

$275.8

$244.3

$193.8

$176.5

Commercial/Industrial

125.8

150.0

132.0

95.1

87.9

Interruptible

    3.2

    5.1

    5.3

    5.3

    7.1

Total Retail Gas Sales

379.9

430.9

381.6

294.2

271.5

Transported Customer-Owned Gas

14.9

14.2

17.4

14.6

12.0

Transported - Interdepartmental

1.1

1.2

1.5

1.8

2.5

Other Operating Revenues

   (6.1)

    10.8

   (0.8)

    (3.8)

      9.9

Total Operating Revenues

$389.8

$457.1

$399.7

$306.8

$295.9

====

====

====

====

====

Therms Delivered (Millions)

Residential

345.4

318.4

335.7

329.0

289.5

Commercial/Industrial

199.2

194.5

206.2

195.3

182.0

Interruptible

    7.4

    8.9

   12.0

   16.3

   23.3

Total Retail Gas Sales

552.0

521.8

553.9

540.6

494.8

Transported Customer-Owned Gas

312.2

305.6

349.9

347.9

349.4

Transported - Interdepartmental

  25.8

  25.0

  41.1

  55.6

  78.6

Total Therms Delivered

890.0

852.4

944.9

944.1

922.8

====

====

====

====

====

Number of Customers (Average)

Residential

381,846

376,510

369,210

360,084

347,747

Commercial/Industrial

34,180

33,839

33,275

32,594

31,586

Interruptible

24

30

33

89

146

Transported Customer-Owned Gas

360

422

383

328

271

Transported - Interdepartmental

           6

           5

           6

           6

           6

Total Customers

416,416

410,806

402,907

393,101

379,756

=====

=====

=====

=====

=====

Degree Days (a)

Heating (6,769 Normal)

6,551

6,338

6,716

6,318

5,848

Cooling (703 Normal)

897

711

566

753

800

(a)

As measured at Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Normal degree days are based upon a twenty-year moving average.

 

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

SELECTED OPERATING DATA

Year Ended December 31

2003

2002

2001

2000

1999

Electric Utility

Operating Revenues (Millions)

Residential

$705.0

$693.4

$644.8

$597.2

$574.8

Small Commercial/Industrial

626.0

591.0

577.3

534.7

510.1

Large Commercial/Industrial

511.4

475.6

472.0

464.9

451.2

Other - Retail/Municipal

77.1

71.0

63.2

58.3

51.2

Resale - Utilities

39.1

31.3

69.6

84.0

79.1

Other Operating Revenues

27.8

22.3

12.9

24.3

21.9

Total Operating Revenues

$1,986.4

$1,884.6

$1,839.8

$1,763.4

$1,688.3

Megawatt-hour Sales (Thousands)

Residential

7,928.8

8,147.8

7,615.7

7,477.6

7,346.8

Small Commercial/Industrial

8,493.1

8,473.2

8,354.2

8,287.5

8,028.2

Large Commercial/Industrial

11,201.8

10,933.0

10,983.0

11,626.2

11,333.6

Other - Retail/Municipal

1,980.4

1,810.4

1,599.4

1,527.3

1,314.0

Resale - Utilities

1,109.7

1,013.8

1,987.4

2,480.2

2,597.3

Total Sales

30,713.8

30,378.2

30,539.7

31,398.8

30,619.9

Number of Customers (Average)

Residential

954,757

945,298

931,714

916,028

897,333

Small Commercial/Industrial

102,928

102,058

100,456

98,277

95,964

Large Commercial/Industrial

703

705

706

712

716

Other

2,348

2,345

2,319

2,283

1,938

Total Customers

1,060,736

1,050,406

1,035,195

1,017,300

995,951

Gas Utility

Operating Revenues (Millions)

Residential

$317.5

$250.9

$275.8

$244.3

$193.8

Commercial/Industrial

166.9

125.8

150.0

132.0

95.1

Interruptible

3.8

3.2

5.1

5.3

5.3

Total Retail Gas Sales

488.2

379.9

430.9

381.6

294.2

Transported Gas

16.2

16.0

15.4

18.9

16.4

Other Operating Revenues

8.6

(6.1)

10.8

(0.8)

(3.8)

Total Operating Revenues

$513.0

$389.8

$457.1

$399.7

$306.8

Therms Delivered (Millions)

Residential

361.0

345.4

318.4

335.7

329.0

Commercial/Industrial

210.8

199.2

194.5

206.2

195.3

Interruptible

6.8

7.4

8.9

12.0

16.3

Total Retail Gas Sales

578.6

552.0

521.8

553.9

540.6

Transported Gas

309.7

338.0

330.6

391.0

403.5

Total Therms Delivered

888.3

890.0

852.4

944.9

944.1

Number of Customers (Average)

Residential

388,896

381,846

376,510

369,210

360,084

Commercial/Industrial

34,646

34,180

33,839

33,275

32,594

Interruptible

23

24

30

33

89

Transported Gas

362

366

427

389

334

Total Customers

423,927

416,416

410,806

402,907

393,101

Degree Days (a)

Heating (6,721 Normal)

7,063

6,551

6,338

6,716

6,318

Cooling (728 Normal)

606

897

711

566

753

(a)

As measured at Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Normal degree days are based upon a twenty-year moving average.



2224


 

ITEM 7.

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

CORPORATE DEVELOPMENTS

INTRODUCTION

Wisconsin Electric Power Company ("Wisconsin Electric" or the "Company")(Wisconsin Electric), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wisconsin Energy Corporation ("Wisconsin Energy")(Wisconsin Energy), is engaged principally in the business of generating electricity and distributing electricity and natural gas with operations in Wisconsin and Michigan. Unless qualified by their context, when used in this document the terms the Company, Our, Us or We refer to Wisconsin Electric and its subsidiaries.

Acquisition of WICOR, Inc.:   On April 26, 2000, Wisconsin Energy acquired WICOR, Inc. ("WICOR"). WICOR is also the parent company of Wisconsin Gas Company ("(Wisconsin Gas) a natural gas distribution utility, which serves customers throughout Wisconsin, Gas"). Wisconsin Energy has integratedand Edison Sault Electric Company (Edison Sault) an electric utility, which serves customers in the gas operationsUpper Peninsula of Michigan. Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas as well as many corporate support areas. On November 1, 2000, Wisconsin Electrichave combined common functions and Wisconsin Gas filed an application with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin ("PSCW") for authority to transfer Wisconsin Electric's gas utility assets together with certain identified liabilities associated with such assets. On December 4, 2001, Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas entered into a stipulation with the PSCW in which a Consent Order was issued by the PSCW providing for the withdrawal of the joint application. Wisconsin Energy continues to operate the gas business of Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas as one operation under the trade name of "We Energies" to achieve operating efficiencies and improv ed reliability. For additional information, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" below..

Cautionary Factors:   Certain statements contained herein are "Forward Looking"Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward LookingForward-Looking Statements may be identified by reference to a future period or periods or by the use of forward looking terminology such as "may," "intends," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "expects," "forecasts," "objectives," "plans," "possible," "potential," "project" or similar terms or variations of these terms. Actual results may differ materially from those set forth in Forward LookingForward-Looking Statements as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, changes in political and economic conditions, equity and bond market fluctuations, varying weather conditions, governmental regulation and supervision, as well as other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC")(SEC), including factors described throughou t thisthroughout thi s document and below in "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources".

 

CORPORATE STRATEGY

Business Opportunities

Wisconsin Energy's key corporate strategy isPower the Future, which was announced in September 2000. This strategy is designed to increase the electric generating capacity in the state of Wisconsin while maintaining a fuel diverse, reasonably priced electric supply. It also is designed to improve the delivery of energy within the Company'sour distribution systems to meet increasing customer demands, and it is committed to improved environmental performance. ThePower the Future strategy, which is discussed further below, is expected to have a significant impact on the Company.us.

Power the Future Strategy:   In February 2001, Wisconsin Energy announced enhancements tofiled a petition with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) starting the regulatory review process for a proposed 10-year $7 billion strategy originally proposed in September 2000, to improve the supply and reliability of electricity in Wisconsin. ThisPower the Future strategy is intended to meet the growing demand for electricity and ensure a diverse fuel mix while keeping electricity prices reasonable. According to a report issued in June 2001, by the Wisconsin Governor's Office, demand for electricity in the state of Wisconsin is currently expected to outstrip supply by 7,220 megawatts by the year 2016.Power the Future wouldwill add new coalcoal-based and natural gasgas-based capacity to the state's power portfolio and wouldwill allow Wisconsin Electricus to roughly maintain its currentapproximately the same fuel mix.



23


mix as exists today. The new generation will be built by an affiliated company, W.E. Power LLC (We Power), and leased to us through long-term leases. As part of itsWisconsin Energy'sPower the Future strategy, Wisconsin Energy plans to make the following investments over the next decade:to: (1) invest in 2,120 megawatts of new natural gas-based and coal-based generating capacity; (2) upgrade our existing electric genera ting facilities and (3) upgrade our existing energy distribution system.

As of December 31, 2003, Wisconsin Energy has:

  •  

Approximately $3 billion in 2,800 megawattsReceived a Certificate of newPublic Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the PSCW to build two 545-megawatt natural gas-based intermediate load units in Port Washington, Wisconsin, with the first unit expected to be in service July 2005 and coal-based generating capacity at existing sites;the second unit in 2008, subject to resolution of legal challenges;



25


  •  

Approximately $1.3 billionBegun construction on the first 545-megawatt generating unit in upgrades to existing electric generating assets;Port Washington (approximately 14% complete as of January 31, 2004), which is currently on schedule and within budget; and

  
  •  

Approximately $2.7 billionReceived a CPCN from the PSCW to build two 615-megawatt coal-based base load units at Elm Road in newOak Creek, Wisconsin, with the first unit expected to be in service in 2009 and existing energy distribution system assets.the second unit in 2010 subject to resolution of legal challenges and receipt of environmental permits.

In November 2001, Wisconsin Energy created a new non-utility energy subsidiary, W.E.We Power, LLC, that willto design, construct, own, finance and lease the new generating capacity. Under the enhancedPower the Future,strategy, Wisconsin Electric, subject to approval by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin ("PSCW"), would we will lease each new facility and wouldfrom We Power as well as operate and maintain the new plants under 25 to 30-year lease agreements.agreements approved by the PSCW. At the end of the leases, Wisconsin Electric couldwe will have the right to acquire the plants outright at market value or renew the lease, depending on tax considerations at that time.lease. Smaller investor-owned or municipal utilities, cooperatives and power marketing associations would have the opportunity to participate inown a portion of the project,coal units, including expanding or extending wholesale power purchases from Wisconsin Electricus as a result of the additional electric generating capacity included in the proposal. Wisconsin Electric expectsWe expect that all lease payments and operating costs of the plants will be recoverable in rates.

Implementation of Wisconsin Energy'sPower the Future strategy is subject to a number of regulatory approvals. In February 2001, Wisconsin Energy made preliminary filings for its enhancedPower the Future proposal with the PSCW. Subsequently, the state legislature amended several laws, making changes whichthat are critical to the implementation ofPower the Future. On October 16, 2001, the PSCW issued a declaratory ruling finding, among other things, that it was prudent to proceed withPower the Future and for the Companyus to incur the associated pre-certification expenses. However, individual expenses are subject to review by the PSCW in order to be recovered.

The Midwest Independent Power Suppliers Coordination Group ("MWIPS") filed a Petition for Judicial Review with the Dane County Circuit Court asking the Circuit Court to reverse and remand the PSCW's declaratory ruling.

Wisconsin Electric filed a NoticeSeveral phases of Appearance and Statement of Position asking that the declaratory ruling be upheld and the Petition for Judicial Review be dismissed. Upon motion of the PSCW and with the consent of MWIPS the judicial review proceeding was dismissed on its merits on January 2, 2003.

The application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity ("CPCN") for thePower the Futureproject was filed with strategy remain subject to a number of regulatory approvals and legal challenges by third parties. Additional information regarding the PSCW in February of 2002. In April of 2002 the PSCW authorized the CPCN approvalregulatory process, tospecific regulatory approvals and associated legal challenges may be bifurcated by fuel source, which would expedite the issuance of a CPCN certificate for the Port Washington combined cycle gas project. Correspondingly, on April 25, 2002 the CPCN application for the Port Washington Generating Station was deemed complete by the PSCW. Hearings for the Port Washington Generating Station were held in September 2002,found below under "Rates and a written order approving the issuance of a CPCN for the project was received in December 2002. The CPCN filing for the generating station at the Company's existing Oak Creek Power Plant site was deemed complete by the PSCW on November 15, 2002. In January 2003, certain intervenors filed with the PSCW a Petition for Review of the completeness determination seeking its reversal. The Company is opp osing the petition and believes that the PSCW will reject the petition and reaffirm its completeness determination. Under the current schedule, Wisconsin Energy anticipates receiving a decision from the PSCW on the Oak Creek site' in late 2003. Wisconsin Energy continues to work with the PSCW and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources ("WDNR") to obtain all required permits and project approvals.Regulatory Matters".

For further information concerning thePower the Future strategy, see "Liquidity and Capital Resources" as well as "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" below.

 

Divestiture of Assets

During 2000, Wisconsin Electricwe agreed to join American Transmission Company ("ATC")LLC (ATC) by transferring itsour electric utility transmission system assets to ATC in exchange for an equityownership interest in this new company. Transfer of these electric transmission assets, with a net book value of approximately $224.1 million, becomebecame effective on January 1, 2001. During 2001, ATC issued debt and distributed $105.2 million of cash back to Wisconsin Electric

24


us as a partial return of the original equity contribution. As of December 31, 2002, the Company2003, we had an equityownership interest of approximately 37%34.6% in ATC. Joining ATC is consistent with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's Order No. 2000, designedintended to foster competition, efficiency and reliability in the electric industry.

The Company anticipates that the transfer of its electric transmission assets to ATC will be earnings neutral with the PSCW surcharge authorized in October 2002. However, the asset transfer has changed where transmission-related activities are reflected on the income statement. Prior to the asset transfer, transmission-related costs were reflected in Other Operation and Maintenance expense, Depreciation expense and Financing Costs (for interest expense). Following transfer of the transmission assets, the Company reports fees paid to ATC for electric transmission service in Other Operation and Maintenance expense and recognizes the equity interest in ATC's reported earnings in Other Income and (Deductions), Equity in Earnings of Unconsolidated Affiliates. See "Rates and Regulatory Matters" below for information related to recovery of the Company's transmission costs.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

EARNINGS

2003 vs 2002:   Earnings during 2003 decreased by $2.5 million to $255.5 million compared to 2002 earnings. This decline is primarily due to cooler summer weather, higher fuel and purchased power costs, and increases in pension, medical and other benefit costs, nuclear costs and costs associated with Wisconsin Energy'sPower the Future growth strategy. The decline was somewhat mitigated by a March 2003 rate increase associated with fuel and purchased power expenses, as well as by higher gas margins, growth in our base electric business, litigation settlements in 2002 compared with the receipt of insurance recoveries in 2003 primarily related to the Giddings & Lewis/City of West Allis litigation, higher other income and deductions and lower interest expense.



26


2002 vs 2001:   Earnings during 2002 increased by $12.7 million to $258.0 million compared to 2001 earnings. The increase is primarily attributable to improved electric and gas margins, a strong focus on managing financial resources and reduced financing costs. Offsetting these items were $17.3 million for litigation settlements related to the Giddings & Lewis/City of West Allis litigation, $10.5 million in reduced interest income, $5.3 million in costs in 2002 for the early repayment of $103.4 million of long-term debt and additional expenses related to nuclear operations.

Earnings during 2001 increased by $81.8 million to $245.3 million compared to 2000 earnings. The primary causes for this increase were the successful operations of Company owned generation assets, price increases to recover fuel costs and reliability expenditures and interest income related to a litigation matter. In addition, in 2000, the Company recorded $43.9 million, after tax, of non-recurring charges. These charges include $34.3 million related to severance benefits and other items and a contribution of $9.6 million, after tax, to the Wisconsin Energy Foundation.

The following table summarizes the Company'sour consolidated earnings during 2003, 2002, 2001 and 2000.2001.

  

2003

2002

2001

Wisconsin Electric Power Company

     2002      

     2001      

     2000   

(Millions of Dollars)

 

(Millions of Dollars)

Gross Margin

        

Electric (See below)

$1,397.5     

$1,336.3     

$1,271.9     

 

$1,430.7   

 

$1,397.5   

 

$1,336.3    

Gas (See below)

149.0     

138.1     

141.0     

 

157.6    

 

149.0    

 

138.1    

Steam

     14.7     

      15.6     

     15.7     

 

15.8    

 

14.7    

 

15.6    

Total Gross Margin

1,561.2     

1,490.0     

1,428.6     

 

1,604.1    

 

1,561.2    

 

1,490.0    

Other Operating Expenses

        

Other Operation and Maintenance

736.3     

681.9     

696.1     

 

784.0    

 

736.3    

 

681.9    

Depreciation, Decommissioning

        

and Amortization

267.9     

264.3     

272.7     

 

276.2    

 

267.9    

 

264.3    

Property and Revenue Taxes

     71.7     

      67.8     

     65.9     

 

72.6    

 

71.7    

 

67.8    

Operating Income

485.3     

476.0     

393.9     

 

471.3    

 

485.3    

 

476.0    

Other Income (Deductions)

24.3     

36.0     

(9.8)    

 

31.5    

 

24.3    

 

36.0    

Financing Costs

    92.7     

   108.9     

   116.2     

 

91.2    

 

92.7    

 

108.9    

Income Before Income Taxes

416.9     

403.1     

267.9     

 

411.6    

 

416.9    

 

403.1    

Income Taxes

    157.7     

    156.6     

    103.2     

 

154.9    

 

157.7    

 

156.6    

Preferred Stock Dividend Requirement

      1.2     

      1.2     

 

1.2    

 

1.2    

 

1.2    

Net Earnings

 $258.0     

 $245.3     

 $163.5     

=====   

=====   

Earnings Available for Common Stockholder

 

$255.5    

 

$258.0    

 

$245.3    

 



25


Electric Utility Revenues, Gross Margins and Sales

The following table compares Wisconsin Electric's totalour electric utility operating revenues and its gross margin during 2003, 2002 with similar information for 2001 and 2000.2001.



27


 

Electric Revenues and Gross Margin

 

Megawatt-Hour Sales

Electric Revenues and Gross Margin

         Megawatt-Hour Sales         

Electric Utility Operations

   2002   

   2001   

   2000   

   2002   

   2001   

   2000   

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

(Millions of Dollars)

(Thousands)

 

(Millions of Dollars)

 

(Thousands)

Operating Revenues

              

Residential

$693.4 

$644.8 

$597.2 

8,147.8 

7,615.7 

7,477.6 

 

$705.0 

 

$693.4 

 

$644.8 

 

7,928.8 

 

8,147.8 

 

7,615.7 

Small Commercial/Industrial

591.0 

577.3 

534.7 

8,473.2 

8,354.2 

8,287.5 

 

626.0 

 

591.0 

 

577.3 

 

8,493.1 

 

8,473.2 

 

8,354.2 

Large Commercial/Industrial

475.6 

472.0 

464.9 

10,933.0 

10,983.0 

11,626.2 

 

511.4 

 

475.6 

 

472.0 

 

11,201.8 

 

10,933.0 

 

10,983.0 

Other-Retail/Municipal

71.0 

63.2 

58.3 

1,810.4 

1,599.4 

1,527.3 

 

77.1 

 

71.0 

 

63.2 

 

1,980.4 

 

1,810.4 

 

1,599.4 

Resale-Utilities

31.3 

69.6 

84.0 

1,013.8 

1,987.4 

2,480.2 

 

39.1 

 

31.3 

 

69.6 

 

1,109.7 

 

1,013.8 

 

1,987.4 

Other Operating Revenues

       22.3 

       12.9 

       24.3 

        -      

27.8 

22.3 

12.9 

-      

-      

-      

Total Operating Revenues

1,884.6 

1,839.8 

1,763.4 

30,378.2 

30,539.7 

31,398.8 

 

1,986.4 

 

1,884.6 

 

1,839.8 

 

30,713.8 

 

30,378.2 

 

30,539.7 

 

======

Fuel and Purchased Power

  

Fuel

278.9 

308.8 

325.3 

 

298.3 

278.9 

308.8 

Purchased Power

     208.2 

     194.7 

     166.2 

 

257.4 

208.2 

194.7 

Total Fuel and Purchased Power

     487.1 

     503.5 

     491.5 

  

555.7 

 

487.1 

 

503.5 

      

Gross Margin

$1,397.5 

$1,336.3 

$1,271.9 

  

$1,430.7 

 

$1,397.5 

 

$1,336.3 

      

======

 

Weather -- Degree Days (a)

              

Heating (6,769 Normal)

 

6,551 

6,338 

6,716 

Cooling (703 Normal)

 

897 

711 

566 

Heating (6,721 Normal)

       

7,063 

 

6,551 

 

6,338 

Cooling (728 Normal)

       

606 

 

897 

 

711 

(a)

As measured at Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Normal degree days are based upon a twenty-year moving average.

20022003 vs 2001:2002:   During 2002,2003, total electric energy sales decreasedutility operating revenues increased by 0.5%$101.8 million or 5.4% when compared with 2001,2002 primarily reflectingdue to the impact of rate increases related to fuel and purchased power costs and to a declinesurcharge related to transmission costs. The total rate impact was approximately $83.3 million in sales for resale2003. In March 2003, we received an interim increase in rates of $55.1 million annually to other utilities,recover increases in fuel and purchased power costs. In October 2003, we received the Resale-Utilities customer class. This decline wasfinal rate order which authorized an additional $6.1 million of annual revenues (see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" below). In spite of the interim fuel order, we under recovered fuel costs by approximately $7.6 million during 2003, which is approximately $5.3 million worse than our under recovery during 2002. Much of our under recovery of fuel costs during 2003 can be attributed to the need to purchase replacement power due to a flood at Presque Isle Power Plant in May and June of 2003 and to high natural gas prices. The impact of unfavorable summer weather in 2003 reduced demand for wholesale power. Mostelectric operating revenues by approximately $19.0 million between the comparative periods.

Total electric megawatt-hour sales increased by 1.1% during 2003. Residential sales fell 2.7% due to the impact of unfavorable weather conditions on cooling load during the remainingsecond and third quarters of 2003. Residential customers contribute higher margins than other customer classes had increased salesand are particularly sensitive to fluctuations in 2002 reflecting favorable weather and the growth in the average number of customers.weather. Sales to Wisconsin Electric'sour largest commercial/industrial customers, two iron ore mines, declinedincreased by 2.8%238.4 thousand megawatt-hours or 12.1% between the comparative periods due to the shutdowndespite temporary curtailments of a mineelectric sales in the second and fourth quarters of 2003 resulting from a flood-related outage at our Presque Isle Power Plant and a transmission outage, respectively. During the first quarterand third quarters of 2002.2002, the mines had extended outages. Excluding these two mines, our total electric energy sales decreasedincreased by 0.4%0.3% and sales volumes to the remaining large commercial/industrial customers increasedimproved by 0.1%0.3% between the comparative periods. Sales to municipal utilities, the other retail/muni cipal customer class, increased 9.4% between the periods due to a higher off-peak demand from municipal wholesale power customers.

Total fuel and purchased power expenses increased due in large part to increases in fuel prices, especially for natural gas, the primary fuel source for our purchased power, resulting in a 13% increase in the cost per megawatt hour of purchased power. Average commodity gas market prices were $5.39 for 2003 compared to $3.22 for 2002 on a per dekatherm basis. Fuel and purchased power costs also increased due to higher purchased capacity costs and a higher need for purchased energy in 2003 compared with the same period in 2002. Approximately $9 million of this increase was caused by the flood that temporarily shut down our Presque Isle Power Plant during the second quarter of 2003.



28


Electric gross margin increased 2.4% to $1,430.7 million between the comparative periods. The increase is primarily related to implementing a PSCW approved surcharge in October 2002 for recovery of increased annual transmission costs associated with ATC, which increased year-to-date 2003 gross margin by approximately $39.4 million. Non-fuel operation and maintenance costs increased by a similar amount, so there was little impact to Operating Income as a result of the transmission surcharge. Excluding the surcharge, electric gross margin fell by $6.2 million primarily due to the impact of cooler summer weather and higher fuel and purchased power costs compared to the prior year.

2002 vs 2001:   During 2002, Wisconsin Electric'sour total electric utility operating revenues increased by $44.8 million or 2.4% compared with 2001 due to favorable weather, the full year impact of price increases related to fuel and purchased power and a surcharge related to transmission costs. As measured by cooling degree days, 2002 was 26.2% warmer than 2001 and 27.6% warmer than normal. In February and May 2001, Wisconsin Electricwe received increases in rates to cover increased fuel and purchased power costs. On a year overto year basis, the fuel surcharge resulted in $10.0 million of additional revenue. For additional information concerning the rate increases, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" below. Even with the increased fuel revenues, the Company estimateswe estimate that itwe under-recovered fuel and purchased power costs by $2.3 million and $0.1 million for 2002 and 2001, respectively. In addition,

During 2002, total electric energy sales decreased by 0.5% compared with 2001, primarily reflecting a decline in Octobersales for resale to other utilities due to a reduced demand for wholesale power. Most of the remaining customer classes had increased sales in 2002 reflecting favorable weather and the Company implementedgrowth in the average number of customers. Sales to our largest commercial/industrial customers, two iron ore mines, declined by 2.8% between the comparative periods due to the shutdown of a PSCW approved surcharge f or recoverymine in the first quarter of 2002. Excluding these mines, total electric sales decreased by 0.4% and sales to the remaining large commercial/industrial customers increased annual transmission costs associated with American Transmission Company LLC ("ATC") which increased 2002 revenues by approximately $8.7 million.0.1% between the comparative periods.

Between the comparative periods, fuel and purchased power expenses decreased by $16.4 million or 3.3% primarily due to lower natural gas prices, lower wholesale power prices, and lower megawatt sales. These reductions were partially offset by higher costs due to a larger number of planned outages including a second refueling outage at the Point Beach Nuclear Plant during 2002. The lower fuel and purchased power expenses and increased sales to higher margin customers offset the impact on electric revenues of the decline in electric megawatt-hours such that the total gross margin on electric operating revenues increased by $61.2 million or 4.6% during 2002 compared with the same period in 2001.



26


2001 vs 2000:   During 2001, totalOur electric sales fell by 2.7% compared with 2000, reflecting a softening economy that especially affected large commercial and industrial customers such as Wisconsin Electric's largest retail customers, two iron ore mines. Sales to these mines decreased by 17.7% duringgross margin was $1,397.5 million or 4.6% higher than 2001. Excluding the two mines, total electric sales decreased 1.5% during 2001 and salesThe increase is primarily related to the remaining large commercial/industrial customers decreasedfavorable impact of weather and higher fuel cost recovery compared to the prior year. In addition, we implemented a PSCW-approved surcharge in October 2002 for recovery of increased annual transmission costs associated with ATC, which increased year-to-date 2002 gross margin by 2.3% when compared with 2000. Due to warmer weather during the summer of 2001, a 1.8% increase in sales to residential customers, who are more weather sensitiveapproximately $8.7 million. Non-fuel operation and contribute higher margins than other customer classes, partially offset the effects of the soft economy on electric sales during 2001. As measured by cooling degree days, 2001 was 25.6% warmer than 2000 and 3.8% warmer than normal. Sales for resale to other utilities, the Resale-Utilities customer class, declined 19.8% during 2001 primarily as a resul t of reduced demand for wholesale power.

During 2001, Wisconsin Electric's total electric utility operating revenuesmaintenance costs increased by $76.4 million or 4.3% compared with 2000. Wisconsin Electric attributes this growth mostlya similar amount, so there was little impact to incremental rate increases in effect during 2001 related to higher fuel, purchased power and other operating costs. For additional information concerning these rate increases, see "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources" below. Higher electric cooling load during the summer of 2001 caused by a return to normal summer weather also contributed to the growth in electric operating revenues. These revenue increases were partially offset by a reduction in total electric sales during 2001 due in large part to a softening economy in the region.

Purchased power expenses increased by $28.5 million or 17.1% during 2001 primarilyOperating Income as a result of higher natural gas prices and, to a lesser extent, as a result of higher demand costs during 2001 associated with purchased power contracts. However, a $16.5 million or 5.1% decline in fuel costs during 2001, primarily driven by a change in the Company's electric supply mix to lower cost nuclear generation and by an overall reduction in demand for electric energy during 2001, resulted in a net increase in fuel and purchased power expenses of $12.0 million or 2.4% when compared with 2000. Due to the increase in operating revenues partially offset by the slightly higher fuel and purchased power costs, electric gross margin (total electric utility operating revenues less fuel and purchased power expenses) grew by $64.4 million or 5.1% during 2001 when compared with 2000.

transmission surcharge.

 

Gas Utility Revenues and Gross Margins and Therm Deliveries

Gross margin is a better performance indicator than revenues because changes in the cost of gas sold flow through to revenue under a gas cost recovery mechanism. The following table compares Wisconsin Electric'sour gas utility operating revenues and its gross marginmargins (total gas utility operating revenues less cost of gas sold) during 2003, 2002 2001 and 2000.2001.

Gas Utility Operations

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

  

Gas Utility Operations

   2002   

   2001   

   2000   

(Millions of Dollars)

(Millions of Dollars)

        

Gas Operating Revenues

$389.8     

$457.1     

$399.7     

 

$513.0  

 

$389.8  

 

$457.1  

Cost of Gas Sold

   240.8     

   319.0     

    258.7     

 

355.4  

 

240.8  

 

319.0  

Gross Margin

 $149.0     

 $138.1     

 $141.0     

$157.6  

$149.0  

$138.1  

====    

====    



29


 

2003 vs 2002:   During 2003 gas operating revenues increased by $123.2 million or 31.6%. This increase in revenues is due primarily to a $114.6 million increase in the delivered cost of natural gas, recognition of $4.5 million of increased gas cost incentive revenues under our gas cost recovery mechanism and increased deliveries resulting from colder weather during 2003 compared with 2002. The increase in purchased gas costs is passed on to customers because changes in the cost of gas sold flow through to revenue under the gas cost recovery mechanism.

2002 vs 2001:   During 2002, total gas utility operating revenues decreased by $67.3 million or 14.7% compared to 2001 due to lower gas costs offset in part by increased deliveries resulting from colder winter weather. This decline primarily reflects a decrease in natural gas costs in 2002, which are passed on to customers under gas cost recovery mechanisms.

2001 vs 2000:   During 2001, Wisconsin Electric's gas operating revenues increased by $57.4 million or 14.4% when compared with 2000 revenues. This increase reflected a $60.3 million increase due to increases in the cost of gas sold offset in part by warmer weather which reduced volumes sold. Because changes in the cost of natural gas purchased at market prices were included in customer rates through the gas cost recovery mechanism, gas operating revenues changed by approximately the same amount as the cost of gas soldmechanism.

Gas Utility Gross Margins and gross margin was unaffected by such changes.Therm Deliveries



27


The following table compares Wisconsin Electric's gas utility gross marginsmargin and therm deliveries during 2003, 2002 2001 and 2000.2001.

 

Gross Margin

 

Therm Deliveries

                Gross Margin                

             Therm Deliveries             

Gas Utility Operations

Gas Utility Operations

   2002   

   2001   

   2000   

   2002   

   2001   

   2000   

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

(Millions of Dollars)

(Millions)

 

(Millions of Dollars)

 

(Millions)

Customer Class

Customer Class

                 

Residential

Residential

$95.3   

$87.4   

$88.4   

345.4   

318.4   

335.7   

 

$98.8   

 

$95.3   

 

$87.4   

 

361.0   

 

345.4   

 

318.4   

Commercial/Industrial

Commercial/Industrial

32.7   

31.2   

31.6   

199.2   

194.5   

206.2   

 

34.2   

 

32.7   

 

31.2   

 

210.8   

 

199.2   

 

194.5   

Interruptible

Interruptible

      0.5   

      0.7   

     0.9   

     7.4   

    8.9   

  12.0   

 

0.5   

 

0.5   

 

0.7   

 

6.8   

 

7.4   

 

8.9   

Total Gas Sold

Total Gas Sold

128.5   

119.3   

120.9   

552.0   

521.8   

553.9   

 

133.5   

 

128.5   

 

119.3   

 

578.6   

 

552.0   

 

521.8   

Transported Gas

Transported Gas

16.7   

15.7   

18.7   

338.0   

330.6   

391.0   

 

16.2   

 

16.7   

 

15.7   

 

309.7   

 

338.0   

 

330.6   

Other Operating

Other Operating

      3.8   

      3.1   

     1.4   

     -      

    -      

    -      

 

7.9   

 

3.8   

 

3.1   

 

-      

 

-      

 

-      

Total

Total

$149.0   

$138.1   

$141.0   

890.0   

852.4   

944.9   

 

$157.6   

 

$149.0   

 

$138.1   

 

888.3   

 

890.0   

 

852.4   

===== 

===== 

===== 

==== 

==== 

Weather -- Degree Days (a)

Weather -- Degree Days (a)

                 

Heating (6,769 Normal)

  

6,551   

6,338   

6,716   

     

(a)

As measured at Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Normal degree days are based upon a twenty-year moving average.

Heating (6,721 Normal)

       

7,063   

 

6,551   

 

6,338   

(a)

As measured at Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Normal degree days are based upon a twenty-year moving average.

2003 vs 2002:   Gas gross margin totaled $157.6 million in 2003, an $8.6 million improvement from 2002. This was directly related to a favorable weather-related increase in therm deliveries, especially to residential customers who are more weather sensitive and contribute higher margins per therm than other customer classes. As measured by heating degree days, 2003 was 7.8% colder than 2002 and 5.1% colder than normal. A $4.5 million increase in gas cost incentive revenues during 2003 under our gas cost recovery mechanism also contributed to the increased gross margin between the comparative periods. Total therm deliveries of natural gas decreased by 0.2% during 2003, but varied within customer classes. Volume deliveries for the residential and commercial/industrial customer classes increased by 4.5% and 5.8%, respectively, reflecting colder weather.

2002 vs 2001:   Gas gross margin for 2002 totaled $149.0 million, or an increase of $10.9 million from 2001. This increase was primarily due to a return to coolercolder winter weather in 2002, which increased the heating degree days compared to 2001. In addition, the Companywe had a rate increase which became effective December 20, 2001, which contributed $3.2 million in 2002. The average number of customers also increased in 2002, which favorably impacted the fixed component of operating revenues that is not affected by volumesvolume fluctuations.

2001 vs 2000:Gas margins totaled $138.1 million in 2001, or a $2.9 million decline from 2000. This decline was directly related to warmer winter weather which reduced the heating load. Total therm deliveries of natural gas decreased by 9.8% during 2001, but varied within customer classes. Volume deliveries for the residential and commercial/industrial customer classes decreased by 5.2% and 5.7%, respectively, reflecting warmer weather. Residential and commercial customers are more weather sensitive and contribute higher margins per therm than other customers. Transportation volumes were 15.4% lower than the prior year reflecting fuel switching to lower-cost fuel options and a softening economy.

 

Other Utility Items

Other Operation and Maintenance Expenses:   Expenses

2003 vs 2002:   Other operation and maintenance expenses increased by $47.7 million or 6.5% during 2003 when compared with 2002. The increase was primarily attributable to approximately $39.4 million of higher electric transmission expenses. A surcharge for transmission costs that was approved by the PSCW in October 2002 offset

30


the impact of higher transmission expenses. Pension, medical and other benefit costs increased by approximately $25.0 million during 2003. Overall, nuclear costs were $8.7 million higher during 2003 compared with 2002 due to an extended outage and costs associated with supplemental inspections at Point Beach by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Insurance recoveries of approximately $11.1 million in 2003 compared to associated settlement costs of $17.3 million in 2002, both primarily related to the Giddings & Lewis/City of West Allis litigation, offset some of the increase in other operation and maintenance expenses. We spent approximately $7.2 million more in 2003 than 2002 on the implementation of Wisconsin Energy'sPower the Future strategy.

2002 vs 2001:   Other operation and maintenance expenses increased by $54.4 million or 8.0% during 2002 compared with 2001. The most significant change in other operation and maintenance expenses between 2002 and 2001 resulted from $17.3 million for the settlements of litigation with the City of West Allis in the second quarter of 2002 and Giddings & Lewis Inc. and Kearney & Trecker Corporation (now part of Giddings & Lewis) in the third quarter of 2002. Increased other operation and maintenance expenses during 2002 were also attributable to $9.8 million of higher electric transmission expenses associated with ATC which were offset by increased revenues recorded due to the surcharge whichthat became effective in October of 2002, $9.2 million of increased scheduled maintenance at several steam generation plants and $15.4 million associated with the second scheduled outage and incremental costs associated wit hwith reactor vessel head inspections at Point Beach Nuclear Plant in 2002. In 2002, both Point Beach nuclear units had scheduled outages. In 2001, only one nuclear unit had a scheduled outage. One outage is scheduled for 2003. The CompanyWe also experienced an increase of $13.7 million for employee benefit and pension costs and $4.8 million in property insurance costs which were partially offset by cost reduction efforts during 2002. These increased expenses were offset in part by lower intercompany costs related to information systems. Prior to August 2001, Wisconsin Gas utilized its own customer service system. In connectionFollowing the April 2000 merger of Wisconsin Energy with the merger,WICOR, Inc., in August of 2001, Wisconsin Gas transferred itswe combined our customer service function towith Wisconsin ElectricGas' customer service function which resulted in decreased operating and maintenance costs of $7.8 million for Wisconsin Electricus for 2002 compared to 2001.



28


Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased by $14.2 million during 2001 when compared with 2000. The most significant change in other operation and maintenance expenses between the comparative periods resulted from $44.9 million of higher electric transmission expenses caused by a change in how electric transmission costs are recorded as a result of the transfer of Wisconsin Electric's electric transmission assets to ATC on January 1, 2001. Also, in 2000, the Company recorded $52.7 million of costs associated with the WICOR merger including severance, benefits and other items which did not recur in 2001. Partially offsetting this was a reduction in costs as a result of the WICOR merger, which led to the consolidation of common operating and support areas.

Depreciation, Decommissioning and Amortization Expenses:Expenses

2003 vs 2002:   Depreciation, decommissioning and amortization expenses increased by $8.3 million or 3.1% during 2003 primarily due to a higher base of depreciable assets between the comparative periods.

2002 vs 2001:   Depreciation, decommissioning and amortization expenses increased by $3.6 million during 2002 compared with 2001. This slight increase was primarily due to capital asset additions of longer-lived assets offset by the impact of the retirement of several shorter-lived intangible assets.

Depreciation, decommissioning and amortization expenses were $8.4 million lower during 2001 compared with 2000. The transfer of electric transmission assets to the ATC resulted in a reduction in depreciation expense, which was partially offset by increased capital asset additions for electric generation and for electric and gas distribution systems.

Other Income and Deductions:   Other Income and Deductions

2003 vs 2002:   Other income and deductions increased by $7.2 million in 2003 compared to 2002. This increase is primarily due to increased equity in earnings of ATC, our unconsolidated affiliate offset in part by $5.3 million of costs associated with bond redemptions we recorded in 2002 and a $3.2 million civil penalty we agreed to pay in 2003 pursuant to the terms of a consent decree with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

2002 vs 2001:   Other income and deductions decreased by $11.7 million duringin 2002 compared to 20012001. This decrease is primarily due to $10.5 million ofin interest income accrued in 2001 related to litigation.

Other Income and Deductions increased

Financing Costs

Total financing costs decreased by $45.8$1.5 million during 2001 over 2000in 2003 compared to 2002. This decline was primarily due to recognition of equity in the earnings of ATC of $20.6 million, reduced contributions to the Wisconsin Energy Foundation, and $10.5 million of interest income the Company accrued on the deposit tendered in the Giddings & Lewis, Inc./City of West Allis lawsuit partially offset by lower interest income on investments. For more information concerning this lawsuit see "Note O -- Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Financing Costs:   Financingrates. Total financing costs decreased by $16.2 million duringin 2002 compared to 20012001. This decline was primarily due primarily to lower interest rates and the early repayment of $103.4 million of long-term debt in 2002 and lower interest rates.debt.



31


Financing costs decreased by $7.3 million during 2001 compared to 2000, primarily due to lower interest rates on variable rate debt.Income Taxes

Income Taxes:   Wisconsin Electric'sOur effective income tax rate was 37.6%, 37.8%, and 38.8% and 38.5% infor each of the three years endedending December 31, 2003, 2002, 2001 and 2000,2001, respectively. The 2003 and 2002 rate was favorably impacted by historicaleffective income tax rates reflect tax credits associated with rehabilitation tax credits.projects.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

CASH FLOWS

The following table summarizes Wisconsin Electric'sour cash flows during 2003, 2002 2001 and 2000:2001:

Wisconsin Electric Power Company

   2002   

   2001   

   2000   

Wisconsin Electric

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

(Millions of Dollars)

 

(Millions of Dollars)

Cash Provided by (Used in)

       

Operating Activities

$656.3  

$537.1  

$572.7  

 

$514.2  

 

$656.3  

 

$537.1  

Investing Activities

($416.1) 

($301.8) 

($419.3) 

 

($402.8) 

 

($416.1) 

 

($301.8) 

Financing Activities

($248.2) 

($224.6) 

($192.7) 

 

($104.7) 

 

($248.2) 

 

($224.6) 

 

Operating Activities

Cash provided by operating activities decreased to $514.2 million during 2003 compared with $656.3 million during the same period in 2002. This decrease was primarily due to a $116 million refund received in the first quarter of 2002 from a favorable court ruling in the Giddings & Lewis/City of West Allis litigation, increased use of working capital in 2003 due to higher natural gas prices and higher volumes of natural gas in storage and increased tax payments.

During 2002, cash flow from operations increased to $656.3 million, or a $119.2 million improvement over 2001. This increase was primarily attributable to the return of a $100 million deposit plus accrued interest as a result of athe favorable court ruling. During 2001, cash flow from operations decreased to $537.1 million or $35.6 million from

29


2000 levels primarily attributable to changes in working capital requirements, non-cash changes in how the Company accounts for electric transmission operations offset by increased operating income.

ruling discussed above.

 

Investing Activities

During 2003, we made net investments totaling $402.8 million, a decrease of $13.3 million over the prior year. For 2003 and 2002, Wisconsin Electriccapital expenditures totaled $343.7 million and $365.7 million, respectively. In addition, due to the timing of refueling outage schedules at Point Beach Nuclear Plant, we spent $17.6 million more on the acquisition of nuclear fuel in 2003 than in 2002.

During 2002, we had net cash outflows for investing activities of $416.1 million as compared to $301.8 million in 2001. For 2002 and 2001, capital expenditures totaled $365.7 million and $377.0 million, respectively. The primary reason for the decline is the receipt during 2001 of $105.2 million from ATC as a partial return of the Company'sour investment. In addition, due to the timing of refueling outage schedules at Point Beach Nuclear Plant, the Companywe spent $10.8 million more on the acquisition of nuclear fuel between the comparative periods.

During 2001, the Company transferred its transmission assets with a net book value of approximately $224.1 million to ATC, in exchange for approximately a 37% equity interest. ATC remitted $105.2 million of cash back to the Company2002 than in 2001 as a partial return of its investment. During 2001, the Company spent $377.0 million on capital expenditures, which was a $24.5 million increase over 2000. The largest increase in capital expenditures was for electric and gas distribution assets.2001.

 

Financing Activities

During 2003, we used $104.7 million of net cash in our financing activities consisting primarily of the payment of $179.6 million of dividends to Wisconsin Energy. In May 2003, we sold $635 million of unsecured Debentures ($300 million of ten-year 4.50% Debentures due 2013 and $335 million of thirty-year 5.625% Debentures due 2033) under an existing $800 million shelf registration statement filed with the SEC. We used a portion of the proceeds from the Debentures to repay short-term debt, which was originally incurred to retire debt that matured in December 2002. The balance of the proceeds were used to redeem $425 million of our debt securities in June 2003 and to fund the early redemption in August 2003 of another $60 million debt issue.



32


The debt refinancings in June and August 2003 are being accounted for using the PSCW-authorized revenue neutral method of accounting, under which net debt extinguishment costs in the amount of approximately $18.3 million were deferred and are being amortized over an approximately two year period based upon the level of interest savings achieved.

In October 2003, we redeemed $9 million of 6.85% First Mortgage Bonds.

During 2002, Wisconsin Electricwe used $248.2 million of net cash in itsour financing activities consisting primarily of the payment of $179.6 million of dividends to Wisconsin Energy. In January 2002, the Companywe redeemed $103.4 million of debt with a weighted average interest rate of 8.4%. In December 2002, the Companywe retired $150.0$150 million of 6 5/8% debentures at maturity. These redemptions and maturityretirements were originally financed with short-term commercial paper bearing rates of approximately 2%.

During 2001, the Company used $224.6 million of net cash in its financing activities consisting primarily of the payment of $130.0 million of dividends to Wisconsin Energy.

 

CAPITAL RESOURCES AND REQUIREMENTS

 

Capital Resources

The Company anticipatesWe anticipate meeting itsour capital requirements during 20032004 primarily through internally generated funds, short-term borrowings and existing lines of credit, supplemented through the issuance of debt securities.securities depending on market conditions and other factors. Beyond 2003, Wisconsin Electric anticipates2004, we anticipate meeting itsour capital requirements through internally generated funds supplemented, when required, through the issuance of debt securities. The Company is planning to issue $575 million of debt securities in 2003 under an existing $800 million shelf registration statement, depending on market conditions and other factors, and use the proceeds to redeem four series of its outstanding debt securities aggregating $425 million and to repay short-term debt incurred to retire $150 million of debt that matured in December 2002.

The Company hasWe have access to the capital markets and hashave been able to generate funds internally and externally to meet itsour capital requirements. Wisconsin Electric'sOur ability to attract the necessary financial capital at reasonable terms is critical to the Company'sour overall strategic plan. Wisconsin Electric believesWe believe that it haswe have adequate capacity to fund itsour operations for the foreseeable future through itsour borrowing arrangements and internally generated cash.

OnWe have $165 million of unsecured notes outstanding at December 31, 2002,2003 that were issued as support for a similar amount of variable rate tax-exempt bonds issued on our behalf. The terms of the variable rate tax-exempt bonds require resetting of the interest rate on a weekly basis and allow holders to put the bonds at par value to the issuer with seven days notice. Our credit agreements, as well as those of Wisconsin ElectricEnergy, provide liquidity support of our obligations with respect to variable rate tax-exempt bonds and commercial paper.

As of December 31, 2003, we had approximately $230$350.0 million of available unused lines of bank back-up credit facilities on a consolidated basis. The CompanyWe had approximately $354.8$315.9 million of total consolidated short-term debt outstanding on such date.



30


The Company reviews itsWe review our bank back-up credit facility needs on an ongoing basis and expectsexpect to be able to maintain adequate credit facilities to support itsour operations. The following table summarizes such facilities at December 31, 2002:2003:


    Company    


Total Facility


Drawn


Credit Available

Facility
Maturity

Facility
  Term  

 

(Millions of Dollars)

  
      

Wisconsin Electric

$230.0     

$  -    

$230.0     

June 2003   

364 Day     


Total Facility

 


Drawn

 


Credit Available

 

Facility
Maturity

 

Facility
Term

(Millions of Dollars)

    
         

$250.0     

 

$  -    

 

$250.0     

 

Jun-2004   

 

364 day     

$100.0     

 

$  -    

 

$100.0     

 

Aug-2004   

 

9 month     

 

On June 26, 2002, Wisconsin Electric25, 2003, we entered into an unsecured 364 day $230$250 million bank back-up credit facility to replace a $230 million credit facility that was expiring. The credit facility may be extended for an additional 364 days, subject to lender agreement.

On December 12, 2003, we entered into an unsecured nine month $100 million bank back-up credit facility.



33


The following table shows Wisconsin Electric'sour consolidated capitalization structure at December 31:

Capitalization Structure

             2002        

          2001        

 

2003

 

2002

(Millions of Dollars)

     

(Millions of Dollars)

Common Equity

$2,049.9 

52.6%

$1,980.1 

51.0%

 

$2,131.9 

 

52.3% 

 

$2,049.9 

 

52.6%

Preferred Stock

30.4 

0.8%

30.4 

0.8%

 

30.4 

 

0.7% 

 

30.4 

 

0.8%

Long-Term Debt (including

            

current maturities)

1,459.4 

37.5%

1,703.2 

43.8%

 

1,599.5 

 

39.2% 

 

1,459.4 

 

37.5%

Short-Term Debt

     354.8 

    9.1%

     172.4 

    4.4%

 

315.9 

 

7.8% 

 

354.8 

 

9.1%

Total

$3,894.5 

100.0%

$3,886.1 

100.0%

 

$4,077.7 

 

100.0% 

 

$3,894.5 

 

100.0%

===== 

=====

======

=====

 

Access to capital markets at a reasonable cost is determined in large part by credit quality. The following table summarizes the ratings of the debtour securities of Wisconsin Electric by Standard & Poors Corporation ("S&P")(S&P), Moody's Investors Service ("Moody's")(Moody's) and Fitch as of December 31, 2002.

2003.

Wisconsin Electric Power Company

S&P

Moody's

Fitch

    

   Commercial Paper

A-1A-2

P-1

F1+F1

   Secured Senior Debt

AA-

Aa2Aa3

AAAA-

   Senior Unsecured Debt

A-

Aa3A1

AA-A+

   Preferred Stock

BBB+BBB

A2A3

AA-A

 

In FebruaryMarch 2003, S&P lowered its corporate credit rating on us from A to A-. S&P lowered its rating on our senior secured debt from A to A-. S&P affirmed our A- senior unsecured debt rating. S&P lowered the rating on our preferred stock from BBB+ to BBB. S&P lowered our short-term rating from A-1 to A-2. S&P's ratings outlook for us is stable.

In October 2003, Moody's placed under reviewdowngraded certain of our security ratings. Moody's lowered our senior secured debt rating from Aa2 to Aa3, our senior unsecured debt rating from Aa3 to A1 and our preferred stock debt rating from A2 to A3. Moody's confirmed our P-1 commercial paper rating. Moody's ratings outlook for possible downgrade the long-termus is stable.

In October 2003, Fitch downgraded certain of our security ratings of Wisconsin Electricratings. Fitch lowered our senior secured debt rating from AA to AA-, our senior unsecured debt rating from AA- to A+ and confirmed theour preferred stock rating from AA- to A. Fitch lowered our commercial paper rating of Wisconsin Electric. S&P's' andfrom F1+ to F1. Fitch's currentratings outlook for Wisconsin Electricus is stable.

Wisconsin Electric believesWe believe these security ratings should provide a significant degree of flexibility in obtaining funds on competitive terms. However, these security ratings reflect the views of the rating agencies only. An explanation of the significance of these ratings may be obtained from each rating agency. Such ratings are not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities, but rather an indication of creditworthiness. Any rating can be revised upward or downward or withdrawn at any time by a rating agency if it decides that the circumstances warrant the change. Each rating should be evaluated independently of any other rating.

 

Capital Requirements

Total capital expenditures, excluding the purchase of nuclear fuel, are currently estimated to be $340$406 million during 2003.2004. Due to changing environmental and other regulations such as air quality standards orand electric reliability

31


initiatives that impact the Company,us, future long-term capital requirements may vary from recent capital requirements. Wisconsin ElectricWe currently expectsexpect capital expenditures, excluding the purchase of nuclear fuel and expenditures for new generating capacity contained in theWisconsin Energy'sPower the Future strategy, described below, to be between $325$350 million and $450$425 million per year during the next five years.

Pension Investments:   The Company funds its in Outside Trusts:   We fund our pension obligations, certain other post-retirement obligations and future nuclear obligations in outside trusts. During 2002,Collectively, these trusts had investments that exceeded $1.4 billion as

34


of December 31, 2003. These trusts hold investments that are subject to the pension investments in the trusts have performed consistent withvolatility of the stock market which has resulted in double digit negative returns. In addition,and interest rates have fallen, which results in a higher discountedrates. During 2003, our pension obligation. The Company has recorded a minimum pension liability asinvestments had returns of December 31,24%, and during 2002, for $163.6 million due to the negativewe had losses of 13%. Our other trusts had similar returns on the pension assets and lower discount rates.during these periods.

Financial Instruments:   Wisconsin Electric isOff-Balance Sheet Arrangements:   We are a party to various financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk as a part of itsour normal course of business, including financial guarantees and letters of credit which support construction projects, commodity contracts and other payment obligations. The Company'sOur estimated maximum exposure under suchthese agreements is approximately $3$2.1 million as of December 31, 2002. However, the Company believes the likelihood2003. We believe that such agreements do not have, and are not reasonable likely to have, a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that is remote that material payments will be required under these agreements.to our investors.. See "Note L -- Guarantees" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8this report for more information.

Contractual Obligations/Commercial Commitments:   The Company hasWe have the following contractual obligations and other commercial commitments as of December 31, 2002:2003:

 

                    Payments Due by Period                    

Contractual Obligations (a)

Less than 1 yr

1-3 years

3-5 years

After 5 years

   Total   

 

(Millions of Dollars)

      

Long-Term Debt (b)

$1.9     

$143.8     

$203.3     

$909.3     

$1,258.3     

Capital Lease Obligations (c)

56.1     

89.9     

71.1     

437.5     

654.6     

Operating Lease Obligations (d)

33.6     

77.0     

77.8     

88.2     

280.6     

Unconditional Purchase Obligations (e)

4.1     

13.4     

3.3     

11.8     

32.6     

Other Long-Term Obligations (f)

   127.0     

  205.2     

    47.5     

       24.8     

      400.5     

Total Contractual Cash Obligations

 $222.7     

 $529.3     

 $403.0     

$1,471.6     

 $2,626.6     

 

=====   

=====   

====    

=====    

=====    

  

Payments Due by Period


Contractual Obligations (a)

 


Total

 

Less than 1 year.

 


1-3 years

 


3-5 years

 

More than 5 years

  

(Millions of Dollars)

           

Long-Term Debt Obligations (b)

 

$1,399.4     

 

$141.9     

 

$204.9     

 

$0.4     

 

$1,052.2     

Capital Lease Obligations (c)

 

619.3     

 

52.6     

 

89.8     

 

73.1     

 

403.8     

Operating Lease Obligations (d)

 

272.2     

 

42.5     

 

82.6     

 

67.2     

 

79.9     

Purchase Obligations (e)

 

176.6     

 

42.1     

 

63.9     

 

60.9     

 

9.7     

Other Long-Term Liabilities (f)

 

494.2     

 

174.3     

 

246.6     

 

61.3     

 

12.0     

Total Contractual Obligations

 

$2,961.7     

 

$453.4     

 

$687.8     

 

$262.9     

 

$1,557.6     

(a)

The amounts included in the table are calculated using current market prices, forward curves and other estimates. Contracts with multiple unknown variables have been omitted from the analysis.

  

(b)

Principal payments on our Long-Term Debt and the Long-Term Debt of Wisconsin Electric and its affiliateour affiliates (excluding capital lease obligations).

  

(c)

Capital Lease Obligations of Wisconsin Electric for nuclear fuel lease and purchase power commitments.

  

(d)

Operating LeasesLease Obligations for purchased power and rail car leases for Wisconsin Electric.

  

(e)

Unconditional Purchase Obligations for information technology and other services for utility operations.

  

(f)

Primarily otherOther Long-Term ObligationsLiabilities under various contracts of Wisconsin Electric for the procurement of fuel, power, gas supply and associated transportation, primarily related to utility operations.and post-retirement contributions.

 

ObligationsOur obligations for utility operations by Wisconsin Electric have historically been included as part of the rate making process and therefore are generally recoverable from customers.

Guarantees:   Wisconsin Electric providesWe provide various guarantees supporting certain of itsour operations. The guarantees issued by Wisconsin ElectricWe guarantee payment or performance by the Company under specified agreements or transactions. As a result, the Company'sour exposure under the guarantees is based upon the net liability under the specified agreements or transactions. The majority of the guarantees issued by Wisconsin Electricus limit theour exposure of the Company to a maximum amount stated in the guarantees. See "Note L -- Guarantees" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8this report for more information.



3235


 

 

FACTORS AFFECTING RESULTS, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

MARKET RISKS AND OTHER SIGNIFICANT RISKS

The Company isWe are exposed to market and other significant risks as a result of the nature of its businessour businesses and the environment in which that business operates. Suchthose businesses operate. These risks, described in further detail below, include but are not limited to:

Commodity Price Risk:In the normal course of business, the Company utilizesour utility operations utilize contracts of various duration for the forward sale and purchase of electricity. This is done to effectively manage utilization of its available generating capacity and energy during periods when available power resources are expected to exceed the requirements of itsour obligations. This practice may also include forward contracts for the purchase of power during periods when the anticipated market price of electric energy is below expected incremental power production costs. The Company manages itsWe manage our fuel and gas supply costs through a portfolio of short and long-term procurement contracts with various suppliers for the purchase of coal, uranium, natural gas and fuel oil.

Wisconsin's retail electric fuel cost adjustment procedure mitigates some of Wisconsin Electric'sour risk of electric fuel cost fluctuation. On a prospective basis, ifIf cumulative fuel and purchased power costs for electric utility operations deviate from a prescribed range when compared to the costs projected in the most recent retail rate proceeding, retail electric rates may be adjusted, subject to risks associated with the regulatory approval process including regulatory lag. Regulatory lag risk occurs between the time we submit rate proceedings and we receive final approval or denial. Regulatory risk can increase or decrease due to many factors which may also change during this approval period including commodity price fluctuations, unscheduled operating outages or unscheduled maintenance. In 2002, the PSCW authorized the inclusion of price risk management financial instruments for the management of our electric utility gas costs. During 2003, a gas hedging program was approved by the PSCW and implemented by us. For 2003, our electric fuel cost exceeded fuel recovery by approximately $7.6 million. The PSCW has authorized dollar for dollar recovery for the majority of natural gas costs of Wisconsin Electricfor our gas utility operations through a gas cost recovery mechanisms,mechanism, which mitigates most of the risk of gas cost variations. For additional information concerning the electric utility fuel cost adjustment procedure and theour gas cost recovery mechanisms,mechanism, see "Rates and Regulatory Matters" below. For information concerning commodity price risk as it applies to gas operations see "Commodity Price Risk Programs" below.

Regulatory Recovery Risk:   TheOur electric operations of Wisconsin Electric burn natural gas in several of itsour peaking power plants or as a supplemental fuel at several coal-based plants and the cost of purchased power is tied to the cost of natural gas in many instances. Wisconsin Electric bears someWe bear regulatory risk for the recovery of suchthese fuel and purchased power costs when they are higher than the base rate established in itsour rate structure.

As noted above, theour electric operations ofWisconsin Electric operate under a fuel cost adjustment clause in the Wisconsin retail jurisdiction for fuel and purchased power costs associated with the generation and delivery of electricity. This clause establishes a base rate for fuel and purchased power and Wisconsin Electric assumeswe assume the risks and benefits of fuel cost variances that are within 3% of the base rate. We are subject to risks associated with the regulatory approval process including regulatory lag once the costs fall outside the 3% variances of the base rate. During the second quarter of 2002, the PSCW issued an order authorizing new fuel cost adjustment rules to be implemented in the Wisconsin retail jurisdiction. The new rules will not be effective for us until January 2006, the end of a five year rate freeze associated with the WICOR Merger Order. Until that time, we will operate under an approved transaction mechanism similar to the old fuel cost adjustment procedure. For 2003, 2002 and 2001, and 2000,our actual fuel and purchasedpurch ased power costs at Wisconsin Electric exceeded base fuel rates by $7.6 million, $2.3 million $0.1 million and $25.9$0.1 million, respectively. In 2002 and 2001,all three years, the electric rates included a fuel surcharge.

Weather:   The ratesGas Costs:   Significant increases in the cost of Wisconsin Electricnatural gas affect our electric and gas utility operations. Gas costs have increased significantly because the supply of gas in recent years has not kept pace with the demand for natural gas, which has grown throughout the United States as a result of increased reliance on natural gas-based electric generating facilities. We expect that demand for natural gas will remain high into the foreseeable future and that significant price relief will not occur until additional natural gas is added to the nation's energy supply mix.

Higher gas costs increase our working capital requirements resulting in higher gross receipts taxes in the state of Wisconsin. Higher gas costs combined with poor economic conditions also expose us to greater risks of accounts

36


receivable write-offs as more customers are unable to pay their bills. Our risks related to bad debt expenses associated with non-paying customers have increased because federal and state energy assistance dollars have decreased.

As a result of a gas cost recovery mechanism, our gas distribution operations receive dollar for dollar pass through on most of the cost of natural gas. However, increased natural gas costs increase the risk that customers will switch to alternative fuel sources, which could reduce future gas margins.

Weather:   Our rates are set by the PSCW based upon estimated temperatures which approximate 20-year averages. Wisconsin Electric'sOur electric revenues are sensitive to the summer cooling season, and to some extent, to the winter heating season. TheOur gas revenues are sensitive to the winter heating season. A summary of actual weather information in the utility'sour service territory during 2003, 2002 2001 and 2000,2001, as measured by degree-days, may be found above in "Results of Operations".

Interest Rate Risk:The Company, including its affiliate, hasWe have various short-term borrowing arrangements to provide working capital and general corporate funds. Wisconsin ElectricWe also hashave variable rate long-term debt outstanding at December 31, 2002.2003. Borrowing levels under suchthese arrangements vary from period to period depending upon capital investments and other factors. Future short-term interest expense and payments will reflect both future short-term interest rates and borrowing levels.

The CompanyWe performed an interest rate sensitivity analysis at December 31, 20022003 of itsour outstanding portfolio of $354.8$315.9 million of short-term debt with a weighted average interest rate of 1.63%1.7% and $165.4 million of variable-rate long-term debt with a weighted average interest rate of 1.78%1.4%. A one-percentage point change in interest rates would cause the Company'sour annual interest expense to increase or decrease by approximately $3.5$3.2 million before taxes from short-term borrowings and by $1.7 million before taxes from variable rate long-term debt outstanding.



33


Marketable Securities Return Risk:The Company funds its   We fund our pension, other postretirementpost-retirement benefit and nuclear decommissioning obligations through various trust funds, which in turn invest in debt and equity securities. Changes in the market price of the assets in these trust funds can affect future pension, other postretirementpost-retirement benefit and nuclear decommissioning expenses. Future annuity paymentscontributions to these trust funds can also be affected by changes in the market price of trust fund assets. Wisconsin Electric expectsWe expect that the risk of expense and annuity paymentcontribution variations as a result of changes in the market price of trust fund assets would be mitigated in part through future rate actions by the Company'sour various utility regulators. However, the Company iswe are currently operating under a PSCW ordered,PSCW-ordered, qualified five-year rate restriction period through 2005. For further information about the rate restriction, see "Rates and Regulatory Matters" below.

At December 31, 2002, the Company2003, we held the following total trust fund assets at fair value, primarily consisting of publicly traded debt and equity security investments.

Wisconsin Electric Power Company

Millions of Dollars

  

Pension trust funds

$609.6          695.2

Nuclear decommissioning trust fund

$550.0          674.4

Other postretirementpost-retirement benefits trust funds

$78.6          95.7

Wisconsin Electric manages itsWe manage our fiduciary oversight of the pension and other postretirementpost-retirement plan trust fund investments through a Board-appointed Investment Trust Policy Committee. Qualified external investment managers are engaged to manage the investments. The Company conductsWe conduct asset/liability studies periodically through an outside investment advisor. The current study projects long-term, annualized returns of approximately 9%.

Fiduciary oversight for the nuclear decommissioning trust fund investments is also the responsibility of the Board-appointed Investment Trust Policy Committee. Qualified external investment managers are also engaged to manage these investments. An asset/liability study is periodically conducted by an outside investment advisor, subject to additional constraints established by the PSCW. The current study projects long-term, annualized returns of approximately 9%. Current PSCW constraints allow a maximum allocation of 65% in equities. The allocation to equities is expected to be reduced as the date for decommissioning Point Beach Nuclear Plant approaches in order to increase the probability of sufficient liquidity at the time the funds will be needed.



37


Wisconsin Electric insuresWe insure various property and outage risks through Nuclear Electric Insurance Limited ("NEIL")(NEIL). Annually, NEIL reviews its underwriting and investment results and determines the feasibility of granting a distribution to policyholders. Adverse loss experience, rising reinsurance costs, or impaired investment results at NEIL could result in increased costs or decreased distributions to Wisconsin Electric.us.

Credit Rating Risk:   We do not have any credit agreements that would require material changes in payment schedules or terminations as a result of a credit rating downgrade. We do have certain agreements in the form of commodity and energy services contracts and employee benefit plans that could require collateral or termination payments in the event of a credit ratings change to below investment grade. At December 31, 2003, we estimate that the potential payments under these agreements that could result from credit rating downgrades totaled approximately $90 million.

Economic Risk.   The Company isWe are exposed to market risks in the regional Midwest economy.midwest economy for our utility operations.

Inflationary Risk:   The Company continuesWe continue to monitor the impact of inflation, especially with respect to the rising costs of medical plans, in order to minimize its effects in future years through pricing strategies, productivity improvements and cost reductions. Except for continuance of an increasing trend in the inflation of medical costs and the impacts on the Company'sour medical and post retirementpost-retirement benefit plans, the Company haswe have expectations of low-to-moderate inflation. Wisconsin Electric doesWe do not believe the impact of general inflation will have a material effect on itsour future results of operations.

For additional information concerning risk factors, including market risks, see "Cautionary Factors" below.

 

RATES AND REGULATORY MATTERS

The PSCW regulates retail electric, natural gas, and steam rates in the state of Wisconsin, while the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ("FERC")(FERC) regulates wholesale power, electric transmission and interstate gas transportation service rates. The Michigan Public Service Commission ("MPSC")(MPSC) regulates retail electric rates in the state of

34


Michigan. Orders from the PSCW can be viewed at http://psc.wi.gov/ and orders from the MPSC can be viewed at www.michigan.gov/mpsc/.

 

Wisconsin Jurisdiction

WICOR Merger Order:   As a condition of its March 2000 approval of the WICOR acquisition, the PSCW ordered a five-year rate freeze forrestriction period in effect freezing electric and natural gas rates for Wisconsin Electricus and Wisconsin Gas effective January 1, 2001 subject to a limited number of "carve out" items. The Company2001. We may seek biennial rate reviews during the five-year rate restriction period limited to "carve out" changes in revenue requirements as a result of:

To the extent that natural gas rates and rules need to be modified during the integration of theour gas operations and those of Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas, the Company'sour total gas revenue requirements are to remain revenue neutral under the merger order. In its order, the PSCW found that electric fuel cost adjustment procedures as well as gas cost recovery mechanisms would not be subject to the five-year rate restriction period and that it was reasonable to allow the Companyus to retain efficiency gains associated with the merger. A full rate review will be required by the PSCW atfor rates beginning in January 1, 2006.

Limited Rate Adjustment Request:   On July 2, 2003, we filed an application with the endPSCW for an increase in electric, gas and steam rates for anticipated 2004 revenue deficiencies associated with (1) costs for the new Port Washington Generating Station being constructed as part of Wisconsin Energy'sPower the five-year rate restriction period.Future strategy, (2) increased costs linked to changes in Wisconsin's public benefits legislation and (3) costs related to steam utility operations. The filing identified anticipated revenue deficiencies in 2004 attributable to Wisconsin in the amount of $63.5 million (3.5%) for our electric operations and $0.6 million (3.9%) for our steam operations. The filing also included an additional anticipated 2005 Wisconsin revenue deficiency in the amount of $0.4 million (2.6%) for our

38


steam operations. In 2004, we expect to file with the PSCW for recovery of additional anticipated 2005 electric revenue deficiencies associated with costs for the Elm Road Generating Station. Hearings on our July 2003 request were completed in December 2003, and we anticipate an order from the PSCW on this request in early 2004.

Recent Rate Changes:   The table below summarizes the anticipated annualized revenue impact of recent rate changes, primarily in the Wisconsin jurisdiction, authorized by regulatory commissions for Wisconsin Electric'sour electric, natural gas and steam utilities. Our current Wisconsin rates are based on an authorized return on common equity of 12.2%. See "Rates and Regulatory Matters" above for the web site addresses where the related rate orders can be found.

 

Incremental

   
 

Annualized

 

Authorized

 
 

Revenue

Percent

Return on

 
 

Increase

Change

Common

Effective

Service -- Wisconsin Electric

(Decrease)

  in Rates  

    Equity    

    Date    

 

(Millions)

(%)

(%)

 
     

     Retail electric, WI (a)

$48.1     

3.2%     

-           

10/22/02  

     Retail electric, MI (b)

$3.2     

7.8%     

11.0%     

9/16/02  

     Fuel electric, MI

$1.6     

3.8%     

-           

1/01/02  

     Retail gas (c)

$3.6     

0.9%     

12.2%     

12/20/01  

     Fuel electric, WI (d)

$20.9     

1.4%     

-           

5/03/01  

     Fuel electric, WI (d)

$37.8     

2.5%     

-           

2/09/01  

     Fuel electric, MI

$1.0     

2.4%     

-           

1/01/01  

     Retail electric, WI

$27.5     

1.8%     

12.2%     

1/01/01  

     Retail electric, WI (e)

$11.3     

0.8%     

12.2%     

8/30/00  

     Retail gas (e)

($3.6)    

(0.9)%    

12.2%     

8/30/00  

     Retail electric, WI (e)

$25.2     

1.7%     

12.2%     

4/11/00  

     Retail gas (e)

$11.6     

3.1%     

12.2%     

4/11/00  




Service -- Wisconsin Electric

 

Incremental
Annualized
Revenue
Increase

 


Percent
Change
  in Rates  

 



Effective
    Date    

  

(Millions)

 

(%)

  
       

     Fuel electric, MI

 

$3.3     

 

7.6%     

 

January 1, 2004  

     Fuel electric, WI (a)

 

$6.1     

 

0.3%     

 

October 2, 2003  

     Fuel electric, WI (a)

 

$55.1     

 

3.3%     

 

March 14, 2003  

     Fuel electric, MI

 

$0.9     

 

2.0%     

 

January 1, 2003  

     Retail electric, WI (b)

 

$48.1     

 

3.2%     

 

October 22, 2002  

     Retail electric, MI (c)

 

$3.2     

 

7.8%     

 

September 16, 2002  

     Fuel electric, MI

 

$1.6     

 

3.8%     

 

January 1. 2002  

     Retail gas (d)

 

$3.6     

 

0.9%     

 

December 20, 2001  

     Fuel electric, WI (e)

 

$20.9     

 

1.4%     

 

May 3, 2001  

     Fuel electric, WI (e)

 

$37.8     

 

2.5%     

 

February 9, 2001  

     Fuel electric, MI

 

$1.0     

 

2.4%     

 

January 1, 2001  

     Retail electric, WI

 

$27.5     

 

1.8%     

 

January 1, 2001  

(a)

In October 2003, the PSCW issued a final order authorizing a fuel surcharge for $6.1 million of additional fuel costs. In March 2003, the PSCW issued an interim order authorizing a surcharge for $55.1 million of additional fuel costs on an annualized basis subject to true up.

(b)

In October 2002, the PSCW issued its order authorizing a surcharge for recovery of $48.1 million of annual estimated incremental costs associated with the formation and operation of the ATC. The additional revenues will be offset by additional transmission costs.

  

(b)(c)

In September 2002, the MPSC issued an order authorizing an annual electric retail rate increase of $3.2 million for Wisconsin Electric. In addition, the September 2002 order issued by the MPSC authorized the Companyus to include the transmission costs from ATC prospectively in its Power Supply Cost Recovery clause.

  

(c)(d)

In November 2001, the Milwaukee County Circuit Court overturned the PSCW's August 2000 final order for natural gas rates and the PSCW reinstated thea higher April 2000 interim gas rate order, effective December 2001.



35


(d)(e)

The February 2001 order was an interim order that was effective until the May 2001 final order was issued by the PSCW. The final May 2001 order superceded the February 2001 interim order.

(e)

The April 2000 order was an interim order that was effective until the August 2000 final order was issued by the PSCW. The retail gas August 2000 final order was amended in the December 2001 Order.

 

In March 2000, the PSCW approved Wisconsin Electric's request for interim price increases related to the 2000/2001 biennial period, authorizing a $25.2 million (1.7%) increase for electric operations and an $11.6 million (3.1%) increase for gas operations. The interim increase, which was subject to potential refund, became effective in April 2000. Rates in the interim order were based upon a 12.2% return on common equity.

In August 2000, the PSCW issued its final order in the 2000/2001 pricing proposal. The final order authorized a $36.5 million (2.5%) increase for electric operations (or $11.3 million higher than authorized in the interim order) as well as an $8 million (2.1%) increase for gas operations (or $3.6 million lower than authorized in the interim order). Wisconsin Electric refunded to gas customers revenues that resulted from the difference in gas rates between the interim and final orders. In its August 2000 final order, the PSCW authorized a second $27.5 million (1.8%) increase for electric operations effective in January 2001. Rates in the final order were based upon a 12.2% return on common equity.

In November 2000, Wisconsin Electric filed a petition for judicial review with the Milwaukee County Circuit Court challenging the PSCW's decision to limit the final gas rate increase to $8.0 million rather than the $11.6 million found reasonable for the interim increase. In November 2001 the Milwaukee County Circuit Court ruled in Wisconsin Electric's favor and remanded the case back to the PSCW for action. The PSCW did not challenge the court's decision and authorized the Company to increase natural gas rates by $3.6 million effective December 2001.

In its final order related to the 2000/2001 biennial period, the PSCW authorized recovery of revenue requirements for, among other things, electric reliability and safety construction expenditures as well as for nitrogen oxide ("NO(NOx") remediation expenditures. Revenue requirements for electric reliability and safety construction expenditures were subject to refund at the end of 2001 to the extent that actual expenditures were less than forecasted expenditures included in the final order. During 2002, the Companywe accrued a $1.1 million refund liability associated with the electric safety and reliability spending requirements subject to PSCW review and future resolution. In March 2000, the PSCW had previously authorized all Wisconsin utilities to depreciate NOx emission reduction costs over an accelerated 10-year recovery period. Due to the uncertainty regarding the level and timing of these expenditures, the PSCW, in its final order, required Wisconsin Electricus to estab lishestablish escrow accounting for the revenue requirement components associated with NOx expenditures. Wisconsin Electric'sOur actual NOx remediation expenditures resulted in an under-spent balance of

39


approximately $11.9$2.7 million in the escrow account, a component of deferred regulatory liabilities at the end of 2002.2003. The NOx escrow balance will be impacted by future NOx expenditures and rate making activities.

The Company hasWe have the ability to request biennial rate reviews for certain "carve out"changes in revenue requirement items. The Company isWe are currently evaluating the needupdating a request for regulatory relief for the year beginning January 1, 2004.2005. See "Limited Rate Adjustment Request" above for more information.



36


Electric Transmission Cost Recovery:Recovery:   In September 2001, Wisconsin Electricwe requested that the PSCW approve $58.8 million of annual rate relief to recover the estimated incremental costs associated with the formation and operation of ATC, which was designed to enhance transmission access and increase electric system reliability and market efficiency in the state of Wisconsin. Wisconsin Electric wasWe were also seeking to recover associated incremental transmission costs of the Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator Inc. (Midwest ISO), the multi-state organization that will monitormonitors and controlcontrols electric transmission throughout the Midwest. These increased costs are primarily due to the implementation of capital improvement projects for the period 2001-2005 and associated operation costs that are expected to increase transmission capacity and reliability. The Company anticipates that cost recovery of the transmission related costs under this request and similar requests in t he Michigan jurisdiction will be earnings neutral subject to approval of these requests by the PSCW and MPSC. In October 2002, the PSCW issued its order authorizing a surcharge for recovery of $48$48.1 million of annual costs reflecting lower projectedprojecte d transmission costs through 2005 than estimated by the Company.we estimated. Recognizing the uncertainty of these transmission related costs, the PSCW order authorized a four year escrow accounting treatment such that rate recovery will ultimately be trued-up to actual costs plus a return on the unrecovered costs. The October 2002 order is expected to increase bothincreased annual revenues and operating costs by $48approximately $48.1 million, with an insignificant impact to net earnings. We estimate that we are recovering approximately 96% of our incremental transmission related costs from our customers.

Fuel Cost Adjustment Procedure:   As previously reported, Wisconsin Electric operates   We operate under a fuel cost adjustment clause for fuel and purchased power costs associated with the generation and delivery of electricity and purchase power contracts. In December 2000, Wisconsin Electricwe submitted an application withto the PSCW seeking a $51.4 million increase in rates on an expedited basis to recover increased costs of fuel and purchased power in 2001. Wisconsin ElectricWe revised itsour projected power supply cost shortfall in January 2001 to reflect updated natural gas cost projections for 2001. This update resulted in a request for an additional $11.1 million in 2001, bringing the total requested increase to $62.5 million. Hearings on this matter were held in mid-January 2001. In February 2001, the PSCW issued an interim order authorizing a $37.8 million increase in rates for 2001 power supply costs. Hearings on the final phase of the cas e were held in late March and early April 2001. The PSCW issued a final order in May 2001, effective immediately, authorizing a total increase in rates of $58.7 million (or an additional $20.9 million over the interim order). Under the final order, Wisconsin Electricwe would have to refund to customers any over recoveries of fuel costs as a result of the surcharges authorized in 2001. During 2003, 2002 and 2001, the Companywe did not over recover fuel costs.

During the second quarter of 2002, the PSCW issued an order authorizing new fuel cost adjustment rules to be implemented in the Wisconsin retail jurisdiction. The order redefined fuel for fuel cost recovery. The new rules will not be effective for Wisconsin Electricus until January 2006, the end of a five yearfive-year rate freeze associated with the WICOR Merger Order. Until such time, Wisconsin Electricwe will operate under an approved transaction mechanism similar to the old fuel cost adjustment procedure.

In addition, as previously reported, on June 4, 2001, two consumer advocacy groups petitioned the Dane County Circuit Court for review of decisions related to authorization by the PSCW for Wisconsin Electric to add a surcharge to its electric rates to recover its expected 2001 power supply costs. The petitioners alleged that the PSCW made various material errors of law and procedure as a result of which the Court should set aside both interim and final orders and remand the case to the PSCW. The case was settled and, in May 2002, the Dane County Circuit Court issued a final order dismissing the petition.

In February 2003, Wisconsin Electricwe completed a power supply cost analysis, which included updated natural gas cost projections for 2003. Based on this analysis, in February 2003 we determined that projected costs had deviated outside of a range prescribed by the CompanyPSCW when compared to fuel and purchased power costs authorized in current rates. As a result, we filed a request with the PSCW to increase Wisconsin retail electric rates by $55.0$55.1 million annually to recover the forecasted increases in fuel and purchased power costs. Under the current fuel cost adjustment procedure, Wisconsin Electric expects to receiveWe received an interim order from the PSCW authorizing an increase of $55.1 million in electric rates in March 2003. TheIn October 2003, the PSCW approved the fuel surcharge adjustment request authorizing an increase of $61.2 million for 2003, $6.1 million more than the interim order would be subject to refund pending the PSCW audit andon an annualized basis. The final order laterreflects seven months of actual costs incurred plus changes in the year.natural gas prices. The final order imposes an obligation on us to refu nd any fuel surcharge amounts that result in excess revenues as defined. We do not anticipate a refund will occur.

Gas Cost Recovery Mechanism:   As a result of theWisconsin Energy's acquisition of WICOR, by Wisconsin Energy, the PSCW required similar gas cost recovery mechanisms ("GCRM")(GCRM) for theour gas operations and for those of Wisconsin Electric and for Wisconsin Gas. In recent years, Wisconsin ElectricPrior to the acquisition, we had operated under a modified dollar-for-dollar GCRM, which included after the fact prudence reviews by the PSCW. The majority of the Company's gas costs are passed through to customers under itsour existing gas cost recovery mechanisms.mechanism.



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In February 2001, the PSCW issued an order to Wisconsin Electricus authorizing a new GCRM. Under the new GCRM, gas costs are passed directly to customers through a purchased gas adjustment clause. However, Wisconsin Electric has the opportunity towe may increase or decrease earnings by up to approximately 2.5% of itsour total annual gas costs based upon how closely actual gas commodity and capacity costs compare to benchmarks established by the PSCW.

Commodity Price Risk:TheRisk Programs:   Our gas operations of Wisconsin Electric have a commodity risk management programprograms that hashave been approved by the PSCW. This program hedgesThese programs hedge the cost of natural gas. As gas and thereforecosts are recovered from customers, changes in the value of the financial instruments do not impact net income. This program allows the Company'sThese programs allow our gas operations to utilize call and put option contracts to reduce market risk associated with fluctuations in the price of natural gas purchases and gas in storage. Under this program, Wisconsin Electric hasthese programs, we have the ability to hedge up to 50% of itsour planned flowing gas and storage inventory volumes. The cost of applicable call and put option contracts, as well as gains or losses realized under the contracts, do not affect net income as they are fully recovered under the purchase gas adjustment clauses of Wisconsin Electric'sour gas cost recovery mechanism. In addition, under the Gas Cost Incentive Mechanism, Wisconsin Electric usesthese programs, we use derivative financial instruments to manage the cost of gas. The cost of these financial instruments, as well asa s any gains or losses on the contracts, are subject to sharing under the incentive mechanism.mechanisms. For information concerning commodity price risk as it applies to electric operations see "Commodity Price Risk" above.

Bad Debt Expense:   In 2003, due to a combination of unusually high natural gas prices, the soft economy within our utility service territories and limited governmental assistance available to low-income customers, we have seen a significant increase in uncollectible accounts receivable. Because of this, we sent a letter to the PSCW in July 2003 requesting authority to defer for future rate recovery all residential bad debt write-offs during 2003 in excess of amounts included in current annual utility rates. The PSCW approved our request for deferral of 2003 uncollectible accounts receivable effective October 2003. We have deferred approximately $10.9 million in uncollectible accounts receivable as of December 31, 2003. Our annual residential bad debt expense in base rates is approximately $11.6 million.

Power the Future - Port Washington Order:   Washington:   The PSCW issued itsa written order on December 20, 2002 (the Port Order) granting Wisconsin Energy, We Power and us a CPCN to commence construction of the Port Washington Generating Station consisting of two 545 megawatt545-megawatt natural gas-based combined cycle generating units (Port Units 1 and 2) on the site of Wisconsin Electric'sour existing Port Washington Wisconsin generating station ("Power Plant. The Port Units 1 & 2"). The Order also authorized Wisconsin Gas to proceed with the construction of a connecting natural gas lateral and ATC to construct required transmission system upgrades to serve the Port Washington station.Generating Station. As part of the Orderproceedings, the PSCW also approved in substance the lease agreements and related documents under which Wisconsin Electricwe will staff, operate and maintain Port Units 1 &and 2. Key financial terms of the leased generation contracts include:

After receiving approval for the Port Washington project, We Power is required to begin construction of Port Unit 1 no later then 12 months after it receives all necessary federal, state and local permits. We Power anticipates commencing construction of Port Unit 1 during the summer of 2003. We Power has entered into binding contracts with third parties to secure necessary engineering, design and construction services and major equipment components for Port Unit 1. In January 2003, we commenced demolition of two of our existing coal-based generating units on the Port Washington plant site to make room for the new facility. We Power began construction of the new facility in July 2003 and expects to complete construction by the end of the second quarter of 2005. We Power began collecting certain costs from us in the third quarter of 2003 as provided for in lease generation contracts that were signed in May 2003. In January 2003, we filed a request with the PSCW to defer costs for recovery in future rates. Wisconsin state law allows us to recover fully in our retail rates any portion of a lease generation contract that the PSCW has approved and allocated to retail electric service. The PSCW approved the req uest in an open meeting in April 2003. (See "Limited Rate Adjustment Request" above for further information.) Before beginning construction of Port Unit 2, the Orderorder requires that an updated demand and energy forecast be filed with the PSCW to document market demand for additional generating capacity. In October 2003, we received approval from the FERC to transfer by long-term lease certain associated FERC jurisdictional assets from We Power expectsto us.



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In March 2003, an individual who participated in the Port Washington CPCN proceedings before the PSCW filed a petition for review with the Dane County Circuit Court requesting the Court to reverse and remand in its entirety the PSCW's December 2002 Port Order granting the CPCN. In January 2004, the Dane County Circuit Court issued a decision vacating the Port Order and remanding the matter to the PSCW to develop additional environmental analysis to justify its decision to perform only an Environmental Assessment, rather than a more comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement. The PSCW has begun a process to revise the Environmental Assessment consistent with the Court's decision. The PSCW has not made a decision on whether to appeal the Dane County Circuit Court decision.

Associated with construction of the Port Washington Generating Station, Wisconsin Gas received a Certificate of Authority from the PSCW in January 2003 authorizing construction of a 16.8 mile gas lateral that will connect the plant to the ANR Pipeline. It will also improve reliability for the natural gas distribution system in the area. Wisconsin Gas received a Chapter 30 wetland permit from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) in July 2003 approving construction of this lateral. The WDNR permitted construction of substantially the entire lateral consistent with the planned route previously approved by the PSCW, with certain exceptions. Wisconsin Gas has modified the planned route pursuant to the WDNR's request and received the necessary approvals for the modified route. Including the requested changes, the PSCW approved an updated cost estimate for the project of $41.5 million in November 2003. Construction of the lateral is scheduled to begin in spring 2004 and to be completed by late 2004.

In July and August 2003, two landowners filed separate Petitions for Review in Ozaukee County Circuit Court challenging the collectionChapter 30 permit issued in July 2003 by the WDNR to Wisconsin Gas for the Port Washington Lateral natural gas pipeline. Further, in September 2003, one of certain amounts as providedthe same landowners filed an additional Petition for Review in Ozaukee County Circuit Court challenging the WDNR's denial of a request for a contested case hearing on the issuance of the Chapter 30 permit. Wisconsin Energy has reached a settlement with the landowners and the Petitions for Review have been dismissed.

Power the Future - Elm Road:   In November 2003, the PSCW issued an order (the Elm Road Order) granting Wisconsin Energy, We Power and us a CPCN to commence construction of two 615-megawatt coal-based units (the Elm Road units) to be located on the site of our existing Oak Creek Power Plant. The Elm Road Order concluded:

We expect that we will have co-owners for approximately 17% of the project. In December 2003, Wisconsin Energy submitted lease generation contracts from Wisconsin Electricfor the Elm Road units to the PSCW for approval. We anticipate these lease generation contracts, when approved by the PSCW, will, under state law, be recovered fully in 2003. our retail rates for that portion which the PSCW allocates to retail electric service.



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In March 2003, the City of Oak Creek reached a tentative environmental and economic agreement with us covering our expansion plans for new generation at the Oak Creek site. We have also agreed to follow the City of Oak Creek's conditional use permit for construction on the Oak Creek site.

Four appeals challenging the PSCW's Elm Road Order have been filed, which appeals have been consolidated in Dane County Circuit Court. We have filed a Notice of Appearance and Statement of Position in three of these proceedings requesting that the PSCW's decision be upheld and the petitions be dismissed. Also, two cases were filed in January 2004 in Dane County Circuit Court against the WDNR contending that the WDNR did not comply with state laws when it participated with the PSCW in preparing the Environmental Impact Statement for the Elm Road units. We have filed a Notice of Appearance and Statement of Position in these two proceedings requesting that the WDNR's decision be upheld and the petitions be dismissed.

In September 2003, Wisconsin Electricseveral parties filed a request with the WDNR for a contested case hearing in connection with our application to the WDNR for a water discharge permit for the Elm Road units. That request was granted. In January 2004, the WDNR issued the air pollution control construction permit to us for the Elm Road units. In February 2004, parties submitted to the WDNR and to the Dane County Circuit Court requests for a contested case hearing and for judicial review, respectively, on the Elm Road units air pollution control construction permit. No proceedings on these permit hearings have been scheduled. We continue to work with the PSCW and the WDNR, and other agencies, to defer such costs for recovery in future rates.obtain all required permits and project approvals.

 

Michigan Jurisdiction

In Novembermid-November 2000, Wisconsin Electricwe submitted an application withto the MPSC requesting an electric retail rate increase of $3.7 million or 9.4% on an annualized basis. Hearings on this rate relief request were completed in June of 2001. In December of 2001, the MPSC issued an order reopening the case on a limited basis to incorporate the rate effects of the transfer of Wisconsin Electricour transmission assets to ATC. Hearings were completed onin April 10, 2002. In September 2002, the MPSC issued its order authorizing an annual electric retail rate increase of $3.2 million effective immediately. On February 20, 2003, International Paper Corporation filed a claim of appeal from the Michigan Public Service Commission'sMPSC's final order in Case No. U-12725, which awarded the Companyus a $3.2 million rate increase and changed the procedures by which the Company recoverswe recover the cost of obtaining transmission services. The Company believesWe believe the CommissionMPSC will prevail in defense of its order.



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Used Nuclear Fuel Rates:    In March 2003, a group of consumer advocacy groups led by the Michigan Environmental Council (collectively, MEC) filed a Formal Complaint and Request to Open a Formal Proceeding (the Complaint) with the MPSC naming us and four other utilities operating in Michigan as defendants. MEC claims that we improperly collect revenues for used nuclear fuel storage and disposal. The amounts of these revenues claimed by MEC to be collected from Michigan customers is between $2.3 million and $11.4 million. MEC requested that the MPSC open a contested case and review the rate making mechanisms for these used nuclear fuel revenues, as well as prospective remedies including ratepayer reductions, long-term mechanisms to ensure that used nuclear fuel revenues do not become stranded and performance or surety bonds to protect Michigan ratepayers. In April 2003, the MPSC certified the Complaint. We filed a notice of intent to file claim with the Michigan Court of Claims and a motion to dismiss the Complaint with the MPSC in May 2003. MEC filed its answer to our motion to dismiss in July 2003. We believe that the revenues are properly collected as the collection of these revenues is authorized by the MPSC. The resolution of this matter is not expected to have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

Electric Transmission Cost Recovery:   Consistent with the requestrequests in Wisconsin noted above, the Companywe filed a request with the MPSC in September 2001 for rate recovery of estimated 2002 transmission costs over 2001 levels in the amount of $0.3 million through the Michigan Power Supply Cost Recovery mechanism. In September 2002, the MPSC issued an order that authorized Wisconsin Electricus to recover transmission costs in itsour Power Supply Cost Recovery Clauseclause prospectively. During the fourth quarter of 2002, the Company filed a separate requestIn April 2003, we received MPSC approval to defer costs associated with the MPSC for ATCstart-up, formation of, and obtaining transmission service from ATC. As of December 31, 2003, we have deferred $1.2 million of start-up and incremental ATC cost deferrals to date that amounted to approximately $1.2 million.network charges for the period January 2001 through September 2002 plus carrying costs.



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ELECTRIC SYSTEM RELIABILITY

In response to customer demand for higher quality power as a result ofrequired by modern digital equipment, Wisconsin Electric iswe are evaluating and updating itsour electric distribution system as part of Wisconsin Energy's enhancedPower the Future strategy. The Company isWe are taking some immediate steps to reduce the likelihood of outages by upgrading substations and rebuilding lines to upgrade voltages and reliability. These improvements, along with better technology for analysis of the Company'sour existing system, better resource management to speed restoration and improved customer communication, are near-term efforts to enhance the Company'sour current electric distribution infrastructure. In the long-term, Wisconsin Electric iswe are initiating a new distribution system design that is expected to consistently provide the level of reliability needed for a digital economy, using new technology, advanced communications and a two-way electricity flow. Implementation of theWisconsin Energy'sPower the Future strategy is subject to a num bernumber of state and federal regulatory approvals. For additionalad ditional information, see "Corporate Developments" above.

Wisconsin ElectricWe had adequate capacity to meet all of itsour firm electric load obligations during 2002.2003. All of Wisconsin Electric'sour generating plants performed well during the hottest periods of the summer and all power purchase commitments under firm contract were received. PublicDuring this period, public appeals for conservation were not required, nor was there the need to interrupt or curtail service to non-firm customers who participate in load management programs in exchange for discounted rates. In mid-May a flood at a hydroelectric dam owned by another utility forced a complete shutdown of our 618-megawatt Presque Isle Power Plant in Marquette, Michigan, which resulted in the curtailment of non-firm service to some customers, as well as brief interruptions to firm service. Deliveries were also curtailed on several occasions to certain special contract customers in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan because of transmission constraints in the area.area including an incident in December 2003. During the December incident, flow was inter rupted on the three main electric transmission lines owned by ATC and connecting Wisconsin to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This incident also resulted in short outages to some firm customers.

Wisconsin Electric expectsWe expect to have adequate capacity to meet all of itsour firm load obligations during 2003.2004. However, extremely hot weather, unexpected equipment failure or unavailability could require Wisconsin Electricus to call upon load management procedures during 20032004 as it haswe have in past years.

 

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

Consistent with other companies in the energy industry, Wisconsin Electric faceswe face potentially significant ongoing environmental compliance and remediation challenges related to current and past operations. Specific environmental issues affecting the Company includesour utility operations include but are not limited to (1) air emissions such as carbon dioxide ("CO(CO2"), sulfur dioxide ("SO(SO2"), nitrogen oxide ("NOx")(NOx), small particulates and mercury, (2) disposal of combustion by-products such as fly ash, (3) remediation of former manufactured gas plant sites, (4) disposal of used nuclear fuel and (5) the eventual decommissioning of nuclear power plants.

Wisconsin Electric isWe are currently pursuing a proactive strategy to manage itsour environmental issues including (1) substituting new and cleaner generating facilities for older facilities as part of theWisconsin Energy'sPower the Future strategy, (2) developing additional sources of renewable electric energy supply, (3) participating in regional initiatives to reduce the emissions of NOx from the Company'sour fossil fuel-based generating facilities, (4) entering into a voluntary multi-emission agreementagreements with the Wisconsin Department of Natural ResourcesWDNR and EPA to reduce emissions of SO2, and NOx and mercury by 45-50%, 60-65%, and 50%, respectively, within 10 years from Wisconsin Electric'sour coal-based power plants in Wisconsin and Michigan by more than 65% and mercury by 50% within 10 years, (5) recycling of ash from coal-based generating units and (6) the clean-up of former manufactured gas plant sites. The capital cost of implementing the EPA agreement is estimated to be approximately $600 million over 10 years. For further information concerning the associated consent decree, see "Note O -- Commitmen ts and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this report. For further information concerning disposal of used nuclear fuel and nuclear power plant decommissioning, see "Nuclear Operations" below a ndand "Note FE -- Nuclear Operations" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this report, respectively.

National Ambient Air Quality Standards:In July 1997, the EPA revised the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for ozone and fine particulate matter. Legal challenges to the new standards are complete and the EPA and the states are currently developing rules to implement them. Although specific emission control requirements are not yet defined, and despite legal challenges to these standards that will impact compliance requirements and timing, Wisconsin Electric

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believeswe believe that the revised standards will likely require significant reductions in SO2 and NOx emissions from coal-based generating facilities. If these new standards withstand ongoing legal challenges, Wisconsin Electric expectsWe expect that reductions needed to achieve compliance with the

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8-hour ozone attainment standardsstandard will be implemented in stages from 20042007 through 2012,2010, beginning with the 1-hour ozone transport reductions described below. Reductions associated with the new fine particulate matter standards are expected to be implemented in stages after the year 2010 and extending to the year 2017. Beyond the cost estimates identified below, Wisconsin Electric iswe are currently unable to estimate the impact of the revised air quality standards on itsour future liquidity, financial condition or results of operation.

Ozone Non-Attainment Rulemaking:   In October 1998, the EPA promulgatedStandards:   The 1-hour ozone transportnonattainment rules to address transport of NOx and ozone into ozone non-attainment areas in the eastern half of the United States. The rules would have required electric utilities in 22 eastern states and the District of Columbia, includingcurrently being implemented by the state of Wisconsin to significantly reduce NOx emissionsand ozone transport rules implemented by May 1, 2003. A court decision was issued in March 2000 excluding the state of Wisconsin but continuing to include southern Michigan as one of 19 stateslimit NOx emissions in a region east ofphases over the Mississippi River that would remain subject to the October 1998 rules.next five years.

Independent of any court decisions, Wisconsin and some other states in the Lake Michigan region have concluded rulemaking proceedings that require utilities, including Wisconsin Electric, to reduce NOxemissions as part of separate, existing 1-hour ozone attainment demonstration rules required by the EPA for the Lake Michigan region's severe non-attainment areas.

Michigan's and Wisconsin's rules are both in effect. Wisconsin ElectricWe currently expectsexpect to incur total annual expenditures of $12.7 million to $18.4 million and annual operation and maintenance costs of $1$1-2 million during the period 20032004 through 20042005 to comply with the Michigan and Wisconsin rules. Wisconsin Electric believesWe believe that compliance with the NOx emission reductions requirements will substantially mitigate costs to comply with the EPA's July 1997 revisions to the8-hour ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards discussed above.

In January 2000, the PSCW approved Wisconsin Electric'sour comprehensive plan to meet the Wisconsin regulations, permitting recovery in rates of NOx emission reduction costs over an accelerated 10-year recovery period and requiring that these costs be separately itemized on customer bills.period.

Mercury Emission Control Rulemaking:   As required by the 1990 amendments to the Federal Clean Air Act, the EPA issued a regulatory determination in December 2000 that utility mercury emissions should be regulated. The EPA will developissued draft rules byin December 2003 and will issue final rules by December 2004. In June 2001, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources ("WDNR")WDNR independently developed draft mercury emission control rules that would affect electric utilities in Wisconsin. In May 2003, the WDNR released a final draft of the proposed rules, which include mercury emission reductions of 40% by 2010 and 80% by 2015. The draft rules callprovide for 30%, 50%a multi-emission alternative approach for compliance, but it is not clear if this would apply to the second phase of reductions. In June 2003, the Natural Resources Board approved the rules and 90% reductions in mercury air emissions over 5, 10 and 15 years, respectively.sent them to the Wisconsin Legislature. The draftWisconsin Legislature rejected the rules also require offsets for new mercury-emitting generating facilities. Wisconsin's draft rules have not been finalized and will likely be revised if finalized at some future date. The Company isduring the third quarter of 2003. We are currently unable to predict the ultimate rules, if any, that will be developed and adopted by the EPA or the WDNR, nor is itare we able to predict the impact,impacts, if any, that the EPA's and WDNR's mercury emission control rulemakings might have on the operations of itsour existing or potentialWisconsin Energy's anticipated coal-based generating facilities.

Manufactured Gas Plant Sites:Wisconsin Electric is   We are voluntarily reviewing and addressing environmental conditions at a number of former manufactured gas plant sites. For further information, see "Note O -- Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Ash Landfill Sites:Wisconsin Electric   We aggressively seeksseek environmentally acceptable, beneficial uses for itsour combustion byproducts. For further information, see "Note O -- Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

EPA Information Requests:Wisconsin Electric   We received a request during 2001requests for information from the EPA regional offices pursuant to Section 114(a) of the Clean Air Act. For further information, see "Note O -- Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



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LEGAL MATTERS

Giddings & Lewis Inc./City of West Allis Lawsuit:   In July 1999, a jury issued a verdict against Wisconsin Electricus awarding the plaintiffs $4.5 million in compensatory damages and $100 million in punitive damages in an action alleging that Wisconsin Electricwe had deposited contaminated wastes at two sites in West Allis, Wisconsin owned by the plaintiffs. In September 2001, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals overturned the $100 million punitive damage award and remanded the punitive damage claim back to the lower court for retrial. In January 2002, the Wisconsin Supreme Court denied the plaintiffs' petition for review. Plaintiffs' claims were settled during 2002 for a total cost of $17.3 million. During 2003, we recovered settlements with various insurance carriers for approximately $11.2 million. We are continuing to pursue litigation against the remaining insurance carriers and other third parties. For further information, see "Note O -- Commitments and Contingencies" in the NotesNot es to Consolidated Financial Statements.Statements in this report.



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Presque Isle Flood:   During the second quarter of 2003, our Presque Isle Power Plant was temporarily shut down due to the failure of a hydroelectric reservoir dike which flooded Marquette, Michigan. We estimate that our fuel and purchased power costs increased by approximately $9 million due to the need for replacement power during the plant outage. These increased costs were included as part of the fuel surcharge request discussed above. In addition, we incurred approximately $13.5 million in damage to equipment and property. We are pursuing recovery from insurance carriers and other parties for the above costs. We are continuing to analyze and refine the costs associated with this matter.

 

NUCLEAR OPERATIONS

Point Beach Nuclear Plant:Wisconsin Electric owns   We own two 510-megawatt518-megawatt electric generating units at Point Beach Nuclear Plant in Two Rivers, Wisconsin which are operated by Nuclear Management Company, LLC ("NMC")(NMC), a joint venturecompany owned by one of the Companyour affiliates and affiliates of other unaffiliated utilities. During 2003, 2002 2001, and 2000,2001, Point Beach provided 22%, 25% and 23% of Wisconsin Electric'sour net electric energy supply, respectively.supply. The United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission ("NRC")(NRC) operating licenses for Point Beach expire in October 2010 for Unit 1 and in March 2013 for Unit 2.

In July 2000, Wisconsin Electric'sour senior management authorized the commencement of initial design work for the power uprate of both units at Point Beach. Subject to approval by the PSCW, and a decision to relicense the units, the project may be completed by May 2007 and could add approximately 90 megawatts of electrical output to Point Beach. We are currently evaluating the timing for implementation of the power uprate project. In February 2003, Point Beach completed an equipment upgrade, which resulted in a capacity increase of 7 megawatts per generating unit.

In 2003, NMC has formed an operating license renewal team which is expected to completecompleted a technical and economic evaluation of license renewal by mid-2003.renewal. Based upon the results of this evaluation and subject tofollowing approval by executive management and by theour Board of Directors of Wisconsin Energy and Wisconsin Electric, Wisconsin Electric will determine whether to seek appropriate regulatory approvals, including submittal ofin December 2003, NMC filed an application toin February 2004 with the NRC in early 2004 for an extension ofto renew the operating licenses for both of Point Beach Nuclear PlantBeach's nuclear reactors for a period of up toan additional 20 years.

In August 2001, theFebruary 2003, NRC issued Bulletin 2001-01, "Circumferential Cracking of Reactor Pressure Vessel Head Penetration Nozzles", requesting thatan order establishing interim inspection requirements for reactor vessel heads at pressurized water reactorreactors. The order formally establishes requirements for licensees provide information onto implement the structural integrityprovisions of the subject nozzles. NMC responded that tests and inspections conducted at Point Beach over the last several years had not identified any evidence of such cracking. NMC conducted more thorough inspections of the reactor pressure vessel head and nozzles during the Spring 2002 Unit 2 refueling outage and found no indications of degradation. On August 9, 2002, NRC issued Bulletin 2002-02, "Reactor Pressure Vessel Head and Vessel Head Penetration Nozzle Inspection Programs," providing additional NRC expectations for reactor vessel head examinations. As a result of this new NRC guidance, NMC conducted more extensive examinations of the Unit 1 reactor pressure vessel head during the Fall 2002 refueling outage. The results of these examinations were also acceptable . The Company plansissued in August 2002. We plan to replace both reactor vessel heads during the 2005 refueling outages as an alternative to incurring the additional time and costs of these examinations. The estimated cost of thisexaminations and filed such an application with the PSCW in June 2003. In October 2003, the PSCW approved reactor vessel head replacement for Units 1 and 2 at Point Beach. Total capital expenditure isto replace the two reactor vessel heads are estimated at approximately $40 million in$54 million.

During 2002 dollars.

On July 12, 2002,and 2003, the NRC issued a Notice of Violation and provided its final significance determination, upholding its April 8, 2002 preliminaryFinal Significance Determination letters for two red finding for(high safety significance) inspection findings regarding problems identified by Point Beach related to a potential failure ofwith the plant's auxiliary feedwater system under certain postulated accident scenario analyses. In November 2001, as part of a comprehensive risk assessment, plant employees discovered the potential for a common mode failure of the plant's auxiliary feedwater pumps. The matter was immediately reported to the NRC and prompt interim corrective actions were implemented. Point Beach has completed equipment modifications and updated its procedures to ensure operators have explicit guidance that matches training and to ensure plant personnel take appropriate actions when necessary. The NRC conducted an inspection in September 2002 to gather additional information. On October 2, 2002, the NRC determined that treatment as an old design issue not representative of current performance is appropriate. However, NRC's consideration of this finding in their assessment of Point Beach's current overall performance is presently on hold pending final resolution of a subsequent issue involving the plant's auxiliary

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feedwater system. On October 24, 2002, while conducting post-maintenance testing, plant employees discovered the potential for another common mode failure mechanism under specific conditions for the plant's auxiliary feedwater pumps. The matter was immediately reported to the NRC and prompt interim corrective actions were implemented. Analysis and evaluation of the susceptibility of the auxiliary feedwater system recirculation lines. During 2003 the NRC conducted a three-phase supplemental inspection of Point Beach in accordance with NRC Inspection Procedure 95003 to this failure mode, assessmentreview corrective actions for the findings as well as the effectiveness of the corrective action, emergency preparedness and engineering programs.

The inspection results were presented at a public meeting in December 2003 and documented in a February 2004 NRC letter to NMC. The NRC determined that the plant is being operated in a manner that ensures public safety significancebut also identified several performance issues in the areas of this postulated condition,problem identification and interactionsresolution, emergency preparedness, electrical design basis calculation control and engineering-operations communication.

NMC responded to the supplemental inspection in February 2004 with specific commitments to address the NRC concerns, including revision of the Point Beach Excellence Plan. NRC will review the adequacy of the revised Excellence Plan and its implementation and will continue to achieve appropriate resolutionprovide increased oversight at Point Beach.

As a result of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, NRC and the industry have been strengthening security at nuclear power plants. Security at Point Beach remains at a high level, with limited access to the site continuing. NMC has responded to NRC's February 2002 Order for interim safeguards and security compensatory measures. NMC has also responded to NRC orders regarding security of independent spent fuel storage installations, design

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basis threat, and security officer training and work hours. Federal legislation is also pending on the federalization of nuclear plant security. We are continuing. The Company is currently unable to estimate the impact, if any, that may result.

Used Nuclear Fuel Storage and Disposal:   During 1995, Wisconsin Electric completed construction of a facility at Point Beach for the temporary dry storage of up to 48 canisters containing used nuclear fuel. During 2000, Wisconsin Electric finished loading the last of twelve canisters originally   We are authorized by the PSCW. On March 13, 2001, the PSCW approved a May 2000 application for authority to load additional temporary usedand store sufficient dry fuel dry storage containers. The application requested authorization for sufficient additional containers at a cost of up to approximately $46 million, to operateallow Point Beach Units 1 and 2 to operate to the end of their current operating licenses but not to exceed the original 48-canister capacity of the facility. NMC is under contract with a new vendor to supply the next generation of useddry fuel dry storage containers for Point Beach.facility.

Temporary storage alternatives at Point Beach are necessary until the United States Department of Energy takes ownership of and permanently removes the used fuel as mandated by the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982, as amended in 1987 (the "Waste Act")Waste Act). Effective January 31, 1998, the Department of Energy failed to meet its contractual obligation to begin removing used fuel from Point Beach, a responsibility for which Wisconsin Electric haswe have paid a total of $185.3$193.2 million over the life of the plant. The Department of Energy has indicated that it does not expect a permanent used fuel repository to be available any earlier than 2010. It is not possible, at this time, to predict with certainty when the Department of Energy will actually begin accepting used nuclear fuel.

On August 13, 2000, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit ruled in a lawsuit brought by Maine Yankee and Northern States Power Company that the Department of Energy's failure to begin performance by January 31, 1998 constituted a breach inof the Standard Contract, providing clear grounds for filing complaints in the Court of Federal Claims. Consequently, Wisconsin Electricwe filed a complaint on November 16, 2000 against the Department of Energy in the Court of Federal Claims. The matter is pending. As of December 2002, Wisconsin Electric has2003, we have incurred damages in excess of $35$70 million, which it seekswe seek to recover from the United States Department of Energy. Damages continue to accrue, and, accordingly, Wisconsin Electric expectswe expect to seek recovery of itsour damages in this lawsuit.

In January 2002, as required by the Nuclear Waste Policy Act, the Secretary of Energy notified the Governor of Nevada and the Nevada Legislature that he intended to recommend to the President that the Yucca Mountain site is scientifically sound and suitable for development as the nation's long-term geological repository for used nuclear fuel. OnIn February 14, 2002, the Secretary provided the formal recommendation to the President. In a February 2002 letter to Congress, the President expressed his support for the development of the Yucca Mountain site. The letter also affirmed the need for a permanent repository by supporting the need for nuclear power and its cost competitiveness, as well as acknowledging that successful completion of the repository program will redeem the clear Federal legal obligation set forth in the Nuclear Waste Policy Act. OnIn April 8, 2002, the Nevada Governor announced the state's official disapproval of the President's recommendation. OnIn May 8, 2002, the U.S. Ho useHouse of Representatives endorsed the President'sPres ident's recommendation to develop the Yucca Mountain site as the nation's long-term geological repository for used nuclear fuel overriding the state of Nevada's objections. OnIn July 9, 2002, the U.S. Senate approved Yucca Mountain as such a repository. The President signed the resolution onin July 23, 2002 which now clearscleared the way for the U.S. Department of Energy to begin preparation of the application to the NRC for a license to design and build the repository.

 

INDUSTRY RESTRUCTURING AND COMPETITION

Electric Utility Industry

Across the United States, electric industry restructuring progress has generally stalled subsequent to the California price and supply problems in early 2001. The wide-spread outage in the eastern United States that had restructured and implemented retail access beforein August of 2003 further slowed the California problems generally have not gone backpace of electric industry restructuring. FERC continues to traditional regulation. Several states (Arkansas, Montana, New Mexico and Oklahoma) have delayed retail access or plan to implement limited retail access (Nevada and Oregon).

42


Texas and Michigan implemented restructuring by offering retail access on January 1, 2002. FERC has come out strongly supportingsupport large Regional Transmission Organizations ("RTOs")(RTOs), which will affect the structure of the wholesale market. The timeline for restructuring and retail access has beencontinues to be stretched out and it is uncertain when retail access will happen in Wisconsin. There are manyLate in 2003 a federal bills onenergy bill containing changes that would impact the electric utility industry restructuring currently beforepassed the U.S.U. S. House andof Representatives, however it was not passed by the Senate. These bills are receiving some attention, but the direction is not clear as both the House and Senate do not appear to have developed a strong vision of where they want the industry to go. Major issues in industry restructuring are:like deregulating existing generation, unbundling transmission and generation from distribution costs, implementing RTOs, and market power mitigation. This list of issues is not all-inclusive, nor do all items need to be accomplished by a "date-certain." The Company continuesmitigation received little attention in 2003. We continue to focus on infrastruc tureinfra structure issues through Wisconsin Energy'sPower the Future growth strategy.

Restructuring in Wisconsin:Electric utility revenues in Wisconsin are regulated by the PSCW. Due to many factors, including relatively competitive electric rates charged by the state's electric utilities, Wisconsin is proceeding with restructuring of the electric utility industry at a much slower pace than many other states in the

47


United States. Instead, the PSCW has been focused in recent years on electric reliability infrastructure issues for the state of Wisconsin such as:

The PSCW continues to maintain the position that the question of whether to implement electric retail competition in Wisconsin should ultimately be decided by the Wisconsin legislature.Legislature. No such legislation has been introduced in Wisconsin to date.

Restructuring in Michigan:   Electric utility revenues in Michigan are regulated by the MPSC. In June 2000, the Governor of Michigan signed the "Customer Choice and Electric Reliability Act" into law empowering the MPSC to implement electric retail access in Michigan. The new law provides that as of January 1, 2002 all Michigan retail customers of investor-owned utilities have the ability to choose their electric power producer. The Michigan Retail Access law was characterized by the Michigan Governor as "Choice for those who want it and protection for those who need it."

As of January 1, 2002, our Michigan retail customers of Wisconsin Electric were allowed to remain with their regulated utility at regulated rates or choose an alternative electric supplier to provide power supply service. Wisconsin Electric hasWe have maintained itsour generation capacity and distribution assets and providesprovide regulated service as it haswe have in the past. Wisconsin Electric continuesWe continue providing distribution and customer service functions regardless of the customer's power supplier.

Competition and customer switching to alternative suppliers in the Company'sour service territory in Michigan has been limited. NoWith the exception of one general inquiry, no alternate supplier activity has occurred in the Company'sour service territory in Michigan, reflecting the small market area, the Company'sour competitive regulated power supply prices and a lack of interest in general in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan as a market for alternative electric suppliers.

Restructuring in Illinois:   In 1999, the state of Illinois passed legislation that introduced retail electric choice for large customers and introduced choice for all retail customers in May 2002. This legislation has nois not expected to have a material impact on Wisconsin Electric'sour business. Wisconsin Electric hasWe have one wholesale customer in Illinois, the City of Geneva, whose contract is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2005.

Electric Transmission

American Transmission Company:   Effective January 1, 2001, we transferred all of our electric utility transmission assets to ATC in exchange for an ownership interest in this new company. Joining ATC is consistent with the FERC's Order No. 2000, intended to foster competition, efficiency and reliability in the electric industry.

ATC is regulated by the FERC for all rate terms and conditions of service and is a transmission-owning member of the Midwest ISO. As of February 1, 2002, operational control of ATC's transmission system was transferred to the Midwest ISO and we became a non-transmission owning member and customer of the Midwest ISO.

Midwest ISO:   In connection with its role as a FERC-approved RTO, the Midwest ISO is in the process of developing a bid-based energy market, which is currently proposed to be implemented on December 1, 2004. In connection with the development of the energy market, the Midwest ISO is developing a market-based platform for valuing transmission congestion premised upon the locational marginal pricing (LMP) system that has been implemented in certain northeastern and mid-atlantic states. It is expected that the LMP system will include the ability to mitigate or eliminate congestion costs through the use of Financial Transmission Rights (FTR) which will be initially allocated by the Midwest ISO and, it is anticipated, will be available through an auction-based system run by the Midwest ISO. It is unknown at this time how and in what quantity FTRs will be initially allocated by the Midwest ISO and, what, if any, financial impact the LMP congestion pricing system might have on us.

4348


Additionally, the Midwest ISO is currently deferring the costs to start-up their energy market (new software systems and personnel), but once the market is operational, these costs will be charged to customers.

In the Midwest ISO, base transmission costs are currently being paid by load serving entities (LSEs) located in the service territories of each Midwest ISO transmission owner in proportion to the load served by the LSE versus the total load of the service territory. This "license plate" rate design is scheduled to be replaced after a six-year phase-in of rates in Midwest ISO. It is unknown at this point what rate design will replace the license plate rate design or the impact that any new rate design will have on our results of operations or financial position.

Lost Revenue Charges:   The FERC permits transmission owning utilities that have not joined an RTO to propose a charge to recover revenues that would be lost as a result of RTO membership. These lost revenues result from FERC's requirement that, within an RTO and for transmission between the systems operated by the Midwest ISO and PJM Interconnection, LLC, entities that currently pay a transmission charge to move energy through or out of a neighboring transmission system will no longer pay this charge to the neighboring transmission system owner or operator upon the neighboring transmission system owner or operator joining an RTO.

In December 2003, we, along with other entities, reached an agreement with the Midwest ISO and a consortium of companies referred to as the Grid America Companies on a lost revenue payment resulting from the Grid America Companies' decision to place their transmission facilities under the operational control of the Midwest ISO. Discussions as to appropriate lost revenue charges are currently ongoing with regard to several entities' decisions, including that of Commonwealth Edison Company, a transmission provider to us, to place their transmission facilities under the control of PJM.

 

Natural Gas Utility Industry

Restructuring in Wisconsin:   The PSCW has instituted generic proceedings to consider how its regulation of gas distribution utilities should change to reflect the changing competitive environment in the natural gas industry. To date, the PSCW has made a policy decision to deregulate the sale of natural gas in customer segments with workably competitive market choices and has adopted standards for transactions between a utility and its gas marketing affiliates. However, work on deregulation of the gas distribution industry by the PSCW is presently on hold. Currently, Wisconsin Electric iswe are unable to predict the impact of potential future deregulation on the Company'sour results of operations or financial position.

 

ACCOUNTING DEVELOPMENTS

New Pronouncements:   In January 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board authorized issuance of(FASB) issued Interpretation 46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities. Interpretation 46, whichEntities (FIN 46). This standard requires an enterprise that is effective for interim periods beginning after June 15, 2003, which requires companies with variable interests inthe primary beneficiary of a variable interest entitiesentity to evaluate whether they must consolidate these entities subject to the provisions included in Interpretation 46.that entity. The Interpretation must bewas applied to any existing interests in variable interest entities beginning in the third quarter of 2003. The Company doesIn October 2003, the FASB deferred the adoption of FIN 46 for entities commonly referred to as special-purpose entities to the first reporting period ending after December 15, 2003. See "Note B -- Recent Accounting Pronouncements" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information. In December 2003, the FASB revised the effective date for all other types of entities to financial statements for periods after March 15, 2004. While we are continuing to evaluate the impact of the application o f these new rules, we do not expect to consolidate any existing interest in unconsolidated entities as a resultadoption of the final phase of Interpretation 46. 46 to have a significant impact on our balance sheets or on our results of operations.

The Company expectsFASB issued FASB Staff Position No. SFAS 106-1, "Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to begin applicationthe Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003", (FSP 106-1) that allows sponsors to elect to defer recognition of the effects of the Act. In accordance with FSP 106-1, we elected to defer recognition of the effects of the Act. Specific authoritative guidance on the accounting for the federal subsidy is pending and that guidance, when issued, could require us to change previously reported information. See "Note K -- Benefits" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Interpretation July 1, 2003.report for more information.



49


 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIESESTIMATES

Preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in compliance with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP")(GAAP) requires the application of appropriate technical accounting rules and guidance, as well as the use of estimates. The application of these policies necessarily involves judgments regarding future events, including the likelihood of success of particular projects, legal and regulatory challenges and anticipated recovery of costs. These judgments, in and of themselves, could materially impact the financial statements and disclosures based on varying assumptions. In addition, the financial and operating environment also may have a significant effect, not only on the operation of theour business, but on theour results reported through the application of accounting measures used in preparing the financial statements and related disclosures, even if the nature of the accounting policies applied have not changed.

The following is a list of accounting policies that are most significant to the portrayal of Wisconsin Electric'sour financial condition and results of operations and that require management's most difficult, subjective or complex judgments.

Regulatory Accounting:Wisconsin Electric operates   Our electric, gas and steam operations operate under rates established by state and federal regulatory commissions, which 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 prices which are based upon factors other than the traditional original cost of investment. In such athis situation, continued deferral of certain regulatory asset and liability amounts on the Company'sour books, as allowed under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 71, Accounting for the Effects of Certain Types of Regulation ("SFAS 71")(SFAS 71), may no longer be appropriate and the unamortized regulatory assets net of the regulatory liabilities would be recorded as an extraordinary after-tax non-cash charge to earnings. As of December 31, 2002, the Company2003, we had $458.5$443.4 million in regulatory assets and $157.5$561.7 million in regulatory liabilities. The CompanyWe continually reviewsreview the applicability of SFAS 71 and hashave determined that it is currently appropriate to continue following SFAS 71. See "Note A -- Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Pension and Postretirement Plans:   The Company has significantOther Post-retirement Benefits:   Our reported costs of providing non-contributory defined pension benefits (described in "Note K -- Benefits" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements) are dependent upon numerous factors resulting from actual plan experience and postretirement obligationsassumptions of future experience. Pension costs are impacted by actual employee demographics (including age, compensation levels, and employment periods), the level of contributions made to plans and earnings on plan assets. Changes made to the provisions of the plans may also impact current and future pension costs. Pension costs that are developed frommay also be significantly affected by changes in key actuarial valuations. Inherent in these valuations are key assumptions, including discountanticipated rates expectedof return on plan assets and medical trendthe discount rates used in determining the projected benefit obligation and pension costs.

In accordance with SFAS 87, Employers' Accounting for Pensions (SFAS 87), changes in pension obligations associated with these factors may not be immediately recognized as pension costs on the income statement but generally are recognized in future years over the remaining average service period of plan participants. As such, significant portions of pension costs recorded in any period may not reflect the actual level of cash benefits provided to plan participants.

As of December 31, 2002, approximately 72% of our pension plan assets were invested in equity securities. Remaining plan assets were invested primarily in corporate and government bonds. During 2002, the funded status of our plans fell significantly due to the decline in the value of plan investments and due to the increase in the benefit obligation resulting from a lower discount rate. Our pension plans went from a $50 million underfunded status as of December 31, 2001 to a $241 million underfunded status as of December 31, 2002. As a result, we recorded a minimum pension liability of $164 million in December 2002. The regulators of our utility segment have adopted SFAS 87 and 88 for rate making purposes. As such, during 2002 we recorded a corresponding $136 million regulatory asset under SFAS 71 (see "Note A -- Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements) representing future pension costs expected t o be recoverable in future rates.

As of December 31, 2003, approximately 76% of our pension plan assets were invested in equity securities. Remaining plan assets were invested primarily in corporate and government bonds. During 2003, the funded status of our plans recovered from the 2002 levels but they still remain $237 million underfunded. As a result, we recorded a minimum pension liability of $113.8 million in December 2003. We recorded a corresponding $70.4 million regulatory asset under SFAS 71 during 2003 (see "Note A -- Summary of Significant Accounting

50


Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements) representing future pension costs expected to be recoverable in future rates.

The following chart reflects pension plan sensitivities associated with changes in certain actuarial assumptions by the indicated percentage. Each sensitivity reflects a change to the given assumption, holding all other assumptions constant for our pension plans.


Pension Plans
Actuarial Assumption (a)

Impact on
Reported
Annual Cost

(Millions of Dollars)

0.5% decrease in discount rate

$2.8

0.5% decrease in rate of return on plan assets

$3.6

(a)

The inverse of the change in the actuarial assumption may be expected to have an approximately similar impact in the opposite direction.

In addition to pension plans, we maintain other post-retirement benefit plans, which provide health and life insurance benefits for retired employees (described in "Note K -- Benefits" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements). We account for these plans in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 106, Employers' Accounting for Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pensions (SFAS 106). Our reported costs of providing these post-retirement benefits are dependent upon numerous factors resulting from actual plan experience including employee demographics (age and compensation levels), our contributions to the plans, earnings on plan assets and health care cost trends. Changes made to the provisions of the plans may also impact current and future post-retirement benefit costs. Other post-retirement benefit costs may also be significantly affected by changes in thesekey actuarial assumptions, including anticipated rates of return on plan assets and the discount rates used in determining the post-retirement benefit obligation and post-retirement costs. Our other post-retirement benefit plan assets are primarily influenced

44


made up of equity and fixed income investments. Fluctuations in actual equity market returns as well as changes in general interest rates may result in increased or decreased other post-retirement costs in future periods. Similar to accounting for pension plans, the regulators of our utility operations have adopted SFAS 106 for rate making purposes.

The following chart reflects other post-retirement benefit plan sensitivities associated with changes in certain actuarial assumptions by factors outside the Company's control and can haveindicated percentage. Each sensitivity reflects a significant effect onchange to the amounts reported in the financial statements.

given assumption, holding all other assumptions constant for our other post-retirement plans.


Other Post-retirement Benefit Plans
Actuarial Assumption (a)

Impact on
Reported
Annual Cost

(Millions of Dollars)

0.5% decrease in discount rate

$2.2 

0.5% decrease in health care cost trend rate

($1.4)

0.5% decrease in rate of return on plan assets

$0.3 

(a)

The inverse of the change in the actuarial assumption may be expected to have an approximately similar impact in the opposite direction.

Unbilled Revenues:   The Company records   We record utility operating revenues when energy is delivered to itsour customers. However, the determination of energy sales to individual customers is based upon the reading of their meters, which occurs on a systematic basis throughout the month. At the end of each month, amounts of energy delivered to customers since the date of their last meter reading are estimated and corresponding unbilled revenues are calculated. This unbilled

51


revenue is estimated each month based upon actual generation and throughput volumes, recorded sales, estimated customer usage by class, weather factors, estimated line losses and applicable customer rates. Significant fluctuations in energy demand for the unbilled period or changes in the composition of customer classes could impact the accuracy of the unbilled revenue estimate. Total utility operating revenues during 2003 of $2.5 billion included accrued utility revenues of $149.8 million at December 31, 2003.

Asset Retirement Obligations:   Effective January 1, 2003, the Companywe adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations ("SFAS 143")(SFAS 143), which requires entities to recognize the estimated fair value of legal liabilities for asset retirements in the period in which they are incurred. SFAS 143 applies primarily to decommissioning costs for the Company's Point Beach Nuclear Plant. Using a discounted future cash flow methodology, the Companywe estimated that itsour nuclear asset retirement obligation was approximately $673 million at January 1, 2003. Calculation of this asset retirement obligation is based upon projected decommissioning costs calculated by an independent decommissioning consulting firm as well as several significant assumptions including the timing of future cash flows, future inflation rates, the discount rate applied to future cash flows and an 85% probability of plant relice nsing.relicensing. Assuming the following changes in key assumptions and holding all other assumptions constant, we estimate that our nuclear asset retirement obligation at January 1, 2003 would have changed by the following amounts:

Change in Assumption

Change in Liability

(Millions of Dollars)

1% increase in inflation rate

$226 

1% decrease in inflation rate

($167)

0% probability of license extension

$138 

100% probability of license extension

($24)

At January 1, 2003, we were unable to identify a viable market for or third party who would be willing to assume this liability. Accordingly, we used a market-risk premium of zero when measuring our nuclear asset retirement obligation. We estimate that for each 1% increment that would be included as a market-risk premium, our nuclear asset retirement obligation would increase by approximately $7.1 million.

For additional information concerning adoption of SFAS 143 and the Company'sour estimated nuclear asset retirement obligation, see "Note B -- Recent Accounting Pronouncements" and "Note FE -- Nuclear Operations" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

CAUTIONARY FACTORS

This report and other documents or oral presentations contain or may contain forward-looking statements made by us or on behalf of Wisconsin Electric. Suchour behalf. These statements are based upon management's current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause Wisconsin Electric'sour actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in the statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. When used in written documents or oral presentations, the terms "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "objective," "plan," "possible," "potential," "project" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In addition to the assumptions and other factors referred to specifically in connection with suchthese statements, factors that could cause Wisconsin Electric'sour actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in any forward-looking statements or otherwise affect itsour future results of operations and financial condition include, among others, the following:



53


 

Wisconsin Electric undertakesWe undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.



4654


 

 

ITEM 7A.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

See "Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Market Risks and Other Significant Risks" in Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in this report for information concerning potential market risks to which Wisconsin Electric and its subsidiarieswe are exposed.



4755


 

 

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS

Year Ended December 31

2002

2001

2000

(Millions of Dollars)

Operating Revenues

Electric

$1,884.6

$1,839.8

$1,763.4

Gas

389.8

457.1

399.7

Steam

     21.5

     21.8

     21.9

Total Operating Revenues

2,295.9

2,318.7

2,185.0

Operating Expenses

Fuel and purchased power

493.9

509.7

497.7

Cost of gas sold

240.8

319.0

258.7

Other operation and maintenance

736.3

681.9

696.1

Depreciation, decommissioning

and amortization

267.9

264.3

272.7

Property and revenue taxes

     71.7

     67.8

     65.9

Total Operating Expenses

1,810.6

1,842.7

1,791.1

Operating Income

485.3

476.0

393.9

Other Income and Deductions

Interest income

2.1

13.2

4.0

AFUDC-equity

3.5

1.7

2.6

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates

20.4

20.6

-   

Other

(1.7)

  0.5

(16.4)

Total Other Income and Deductions

24.3

36.0

(9.8)

Financing Costs

Interest expense

94.9

109.7

117.5

AFUDC-debt

(2.2)

(0.8)

(1.3)

Total Financing Costs

92.7

108.9

116.2

Income Before Income Taxes

416.9

403.1

267.9

Income Taxes

157.7

156.6

103.2

Net Income

259.2

246.5

164.7

Preferred Stock Dividend Requirement

      1.2

      1.2

      1.2

Earnings Available for Common

Stockholder

$258.0

$245.3

$163.5

=====

=====

=====

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS

Year Ended December 31

2003

2002

2001

(Millions of Dollars)

Operating Revenues

Electric

$1,986.4

$1,884.6

$1,839.8

Gas

513.0

389.8

457.1

Steam

22.5

21.5

21.8

Total Operating Revenues

2,521.9

2,295.9

2,318.7

Operating Expenses

Fuel and purchased power

562.4

493.9

509.7

Cost of gas sold

355.4

240.8

319.0

Other operation and maintenance

784.0

736.3

681.9

Depreciation, decommissioning and amortization

276.2

267.9

264.3

Property and revenue taxes

72.6

71.7

67.8

Total Operating Expenses

2,050.6

1,810.6

1,842.7

Operating Income

471.3

485.3

476.0

Other Income and Deductions

Interest income

0.6

2.1

13.2

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates

22.8

20.4

20.6

AFUDC-equity

2.4

3.5

1.7

Other, net

5.7

(1.7)

0.5

Total Other Income and Deductions

31.5

24.3

36.0

Financing Costs

Interest expense

92.6

94.9

109.7

AFUDC-debt

(1.4)

(2.2)

(0.8)

Total Financing Costs

91.2

92.7

108.9

Income Before Income Taxes

411.6

416.9

403.1

Income Taxes

154.9

157.7

156.6

Net Income

256.7

259.2

246.5

Preferred Stock Dividend Requirement

1.2

1.2

1.2

Earnings Available for Common

Stockholder

$255.5

$258.0

$245.3

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.



48


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Year Ended December 31

2002

2001

2000

(Millions of Dollars)

Operating Activities

Net income

$259.2

$246.5

$164.7

Reconciliation to cash

Depreciation, decommissioning and amortization

282.3

277.6

287.3

Nuclear fuel expense amortization

27.3

32.3

27.4

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliate

(20.4)

(20.6)

-    

Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net

(31.9)

(32.9)

(10.4)

Accrued income taxes, net

37.2

46.5

(3.3)

Change in - Accounts receivable and accrued revenues

(26.1)

17.0

(95.7)

Other accounts receivable

116.4

-    

-    

Inventories

(17.4)

(29.7)

(0.2)

Other current assets

2.0

27.0

31.1

Accounts payable

(20.0)

-    

86.4

Other current liabilities

22.3

(48.2)

46.1

Other

  25.4

  21.6

  39.3

Cash Provided by Operating Activities

656.3

537.1

572.7

Investing Activities

Capital expenditures

(365.7)

(377.0)

(352.5)

Return of investment from ATC

-    

105.2

-    

Nuclear fuel

(20.7)

(9.9)

(41.6)

Nuclear decommissioning funding

(17.6)

(17.6)

(17.6)

Other

  (12.1)

    (2.5)

    (7.6)

Cash Used in Investing Activities

(416.1)

(301.8)

(419.3)

Financing Activities

Dividends paid on common stock

(179.6)

(130.0)

(178.6)

Dividends paid on preferred stock

(1.2)

(1.2)

(1.2)

Issuance of long-term debt

36.0

22.0

25.0

Retirement of long-term debt

(285.8)

(30.8)

(30.2)

Change in short-term debt

   182.4

  (84.6)

    (7.7)

Cash Used in Financing Activities

(248.2)

(224.6)

(192.7)

Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents

(8.0)

10.7

(39.3)

Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year

  21.3

  10.6

  49.9

Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year

$13.3

$21.3

$10.6

====

====

====

Supplemental Information - Cash Paid For

Interest (net of amount capitalized)

$114.8

$131.7

$137.8

Income taxes (net of refunds)

$124.1

$142.1

$59.7

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.



49


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

December 31

ASSETS

2002

2001

(Millions of Dollars)

Property, Plant and Equipment

Electric

$5,297.2

$5,064.4

Gas

623.5

596.2

Steam

68.5

66.0

Common

346.5

334.4

Other

     31.0

     17.2

6,366.7

6,078.2

Accumulated depreciation

(3,344.0)

(3,208.5)

3,022.7

2,869.7

Construction work in progress

188.8

163.3

Leased facilities, net

110.3

116.0

Nuclear fuel, net

     63.2

     73.6

Net Property, Plant and Equipment

3,385.0

3,222.6

Investments

Nuclear decommissioning trust fund

550.0

589.6

Investment in ATC

130.9

128.6

Other

    6.3

   15.1

Total Investments

687.2

733.3

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

13.3

21.3

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for

doubtful accounts of $30.2 and $22.7

246.6

236.1

Other accounts receivable

-   

116.4

Accrued revenues

147.8

132.2

Materials, supplies and inventories

244.5

227.1

Prepayments

72.4

72.0

Deferred income taxes - current

38.3

-   

Other

    3.6

    6.0

Total Current Assets

766.5

811.1

Deferred Charges and Other Assets

Deferred regulatory assets

458.5

287.4

Other

  35.1

  13.1

Total Deferred Charges and Other Assets

493.6

300.5

Total Assets

$5,332.3

$5,067.5

======

======

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.



50


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

December 31

CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES

2002

2001

(Millions of Dollars)

Capitalization (See Statements of Capitalization)

Common equity

$2,049.9

$1,980.1

Preferred stock

30.4

30.4

Long-term debt

1,432.4

1,420.5

Total Capitalization

3,512.7

3,431.0

Current Liabilities

Long-term debt currently due

27.0

282.7

Short-term debt

354.8

172.4

Accounts payable

193.6

213.6

Payroll and vacation accrued

62.1

52.3

Taxes accrued - income and other

110.1

72.5

Interest accrued

16.5

18.3

Deferred income taxes

-   

6.8

Other

  74.9

  60.9

Total Current Liabilities

839.0

879.5

Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities

Deferred income taxes - long-term

430.5

399.0

Accumulated deferred investment tax credits

65.8

70.2

Deferred regulatory liabilities

157.5

141.4

Minimum pension liability

163.6

-   

Other

163.2

146.4

Total Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities

980.6

757.0

Commitments and Contingencies (Note O)

        -   

        -   

Total Capitalization and Liabilities

$5,332.3

$5,067.5

======

======

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.



51


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CAPITALIZATION

December 31

2002

2001

(Millions of Dollars)

Common Equity (See Statements of Common Equity)

Common stock - $10 par value; authorized

65,000,000 shares; outstanding - 33,289,327 shares

$332.9

$332.9

Other paid in capital

530.7

530.7

Retained earnings

1,194.9

1,116.5

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

    (8.6)

      -   

Total Common Equity

2,049.9

1,980.1

Preferred Stock

Six Per Cent. Preferred Stock - $100 par value;

authorized 45,000 shares; outstanding - 44,498 shares

4.4

4.4

Serial preferred stock -

$100 par value; authorized 2,286,500 shares; 3.60% Series

redeemable at $101 per share; outstanding - 260,000 shares

26.0

26.0

$25 par value; authorized 5,000,000 shares; none outstanding

  -   

  -   

Total Preferred Stock

30.4

30.4

Long-Term Debt

First mortgage bonds

7-1/4% due 2004

140.0

140.0

7-1/8% due 2016

100.0

100.0

6.85% due 2021

9.0

9.0

7-3/4% due 2023

100.0

100.0

7.05% due 2024

60.0

60.0

9-1/8% due 2024

-   

3.4

8-3/8% due 2026

-   

100.0

7.70% due 2027

200.0

200.0

Debentures (unsecured)

6-5/8% due 2002

-   

150.0

6-5/8% due 2006

200.0

200.0

9.47% due 2006

2.8

3.5

8-1/4% due 2022

25.0

25.0

6-1/2% due 2028

150.0

150.0

6-7/8% due 2095

100.0

100.0

Notes (secured, nonrecourse)

2% stated rate due 2011

1.3

-   

Notes (unsecured)

6.36% effective rate due 2006

4.8

6.0

1.80% variable rate due 2006 (a)

1.0

1.0

1.80% variable rate due 2015 (a)

17.4

17.4

1.75% variable rate due 2016 (a)

67.0

67.0

1.80% variable rate due 2030 (a)

80.0

80.0

Obligations under capital leases

218.2

211.4

Unamortized discount

(17.1)

(20.5)

Long-term debt currently due

  (27.0)

(282.7)

Total Long-Term Debt

1,432.4

1,420.5

Total Capitalization

$3,512.7

$3,431.0

======

======

(a) Variable interest rate as of December 31, 2002.

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.



52


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMMON EQUITY

Accumulated

Other

Common

Other Paid

Retained

Comprehensive

Stock

In Capital

Earnings

Income

Total

(Millions of Dollars)

Balance - December 31, 1999

$332.9

$530.7

$1,017.3

$   -   

$1,880.9

Net income

164.7

164.7

Property dividend - common stock

(1.0)

(1.0)

Cash dividends

Common stock

(178.6)

(178.6)

Preferred stock

          

         

     (1.2)

         

     (1.2)

Balance - December 31, 2000

332.9

530.7

1,001.2

-   

1,864.8

Net income

246.5

246.5

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives

qualified as hedges:

Unrealized losses due to cumulative

effect of a change in accounting

principle, net of tax

(5.1)

(5.1)

Reclassification adjustment for gains

included in net income, net of tax

         

          

         

     5.1

 5.1

Comprehensive Income

-   

-   

246.5

-   

246.5

Cash dividends

Common stock

(130.0)

(130.0)

Preferred stock

         

          

     (1.2)

          

     (1.2)

Balance - December 31, 2001

332.9

530.7

1,116.5

-   

1,980.1

Net income

259.2

259.2

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Minimum pension liability

(8.1)

(8.1)

Unrealized hedging losses

         

         

         

(0.5)

  (0.5)

Comprehensive Income (Loss)

-   

-   

259.2

(8.6)

250.6

Cash dividends

Common stock

(179.6)

(179.6)

Preferred stock

            

            

       (1.2)

          

        (1.2)

Balance - December 31, 2002

$332.9

$530.7

$1,194.9

($8.6)

$2,049.9

=====

=====

======

====

======

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.



5356


 

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Year Ended December 31

2003

2002

2001

(Millions of Dollars)

Operating Activities

Net income

$256.7

$259.2

$246.5

Reconciliation to cash

Depreciation, decommissioning and amortization

301.9

282.3

277.6

Nuclear fuel expense amortization

25.3

27.3

32.3

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates

(22.8)

(20.4)

(20.6)

Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net

(1.7)

(31.9)

(32.9)

Accrued income taxes, net

(6.0)

37.2

46.5

Change in - Accounts receivable and accrued revenues

5.3

(26.1)

17.0

Other accounts receivable

-  

116.4

-  

Inventories

(31.7)

(17.4)

(29.7)

Other current assets

(23.2)

2.0

27.0

Accounts payable

(8.7)

(20.0)

-  

Other current liabilities

7.5

22.3

(48.2)

Other

11.6

25.4

21.6

Cash Provided by Operating Activities

514.2

656.3

537.1

Investing Activities

Capital expenditures

(343.7)

(365.7)

(377.0)

Return of investment from ATC

-  

-  

105.2

Nuclear fuel

(38.3)

(20.7)

(9.9)

Nuclear decommissioning funding

(17.6)

(17.6)

(17.6)

Other

(3.2)

(12.1)

(2.5)

Cash Used in Investing Activities

(402.8)

(416.1)

(301.8)

Financing Activities

Dividends paid on common stock

(179.6)

(179.6)

(130.0)

Dividends paid on preferred stock

(1.2)

(1.2)

(1.2)

Issuance of long-term debt

655.2

36.0

22.0

Retirement of long-term debt

(522.2)

(285.8)

(30.8)

Change in short-term debt

(38.9)

182.4

(84.6)

Other, net

(18.0)

-  

-  

Cash Used in Financing Activities

(104.7)

(248.2)

(224.6)

Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents

6.7

(8.0)

10.7

Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year

13.3

21.3

10.6

Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year

$20.0

$13.3

$21.3

Supplemental Information - Cash Paid For

Interest (net of amount capitalized)

$112.1

$114.8

$131.7

Income taxes (net of refunds)

$148.7

$124.1

$142.1

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.



57


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

December 31

ASSETS

2003

2002

(Millions of Dollars)

Property, Plant and Equipment

Electric

$5,726.6

$5,297.2

Gas

671.0

623.5

Steam

69.7

68.5

Common

299.0

346.5

Other

52.8

31.0

6,819.1

6,366.7

Accumulated depreciation

(2,571.4)

(2,389.8)

4,247.7

3,976.9

Construction work in progress

68.3

188.8

Leased facilities, net

104.6

110.3

Nuclear fuel, net

78.4

63.2

Net Property, Plant and Equipment

4,499.0

4,339.2

Investments

Nuclear decommissioning trust fund

674.4

550.0

Investment in ATC

136.2

130.9

Other

0.7

6.3

Total Investments

811.3

687.2

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

20.0

13.3

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for

doubtful accounts of $26.6 and $30.2

239.3

246.6

Accrued revenues

149.8

147.8

Materials, supplies and inventories

276.2

244.5

Prepayments

95.6

72.4

Deferred income taxes - current

42.4

38.3

Other

3.6

3.6

Total Current Assets

826.9

766.5

Deferred Charges and Other Assets

Regulatory assets

443.4

457.9

Other

64.0

34.3

Total Deferred Charges and Other Assets

507.4

492.2

Total Assets

$6,644.6

$6,285.1

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.



58


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

December 31

CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES

2003

2002

(Millions of Dollars)

Capitalization (See Statements of Capitalization)

Common equity

$2,131.9

$2,049.9

Preferred stock

30.4

30.4

Long-term debt

1,435.3

1,432.4

Total Capitalization

3,597.6

3,512.7

Current Liabilities

Long-term debt due currently

164.2

27.0

Short-term debt

315.9

354.8

Accounts payable

184.9

193.6

Payroll and vacation accrued

58.1

62.1

Taxes accrued - income and other

103.7

110.1

Interest accrued

12.2

16.5

Other

91.1

74.9

Total Current Liabilities

930.1

839.0

Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities

Asset retirement obligations

732.0

-  

Regulatory liabilities

561.7

156.9

Cost of removal obligations

-  

954.2

Deferred income taxes - long-term

456.4

430.5

Minimum pension liability

113.8

163.6

Accumulated deferred investment tax credits

61.4

65.8

Other

191.6

162.4

Total Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities

2,116.9

1,933.4

Commitments and Contingencies (Note O)

-  

-  

Total Capitalization and Liabilities

$6,644.6

$6,285.1

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.



59


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CAPITALIZATION

December 31

2003

2002

(Millions of Dollars)

Common Equity (See Consolidated Statements of Common Equity)

Common stock - $10 par value; authorized

65,000,000 shares; outstanding - 33,289,327 shares

$332.9

$332.9

Other paid in capital

532.4

530.7

Retained earnings

1,270.8

1,194.9

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

(4.2)

(8.6)

Total Common Equity

2,131.9

2,049.9

Preferred Stock

Six Per Cent. Preferred Stock - $100 par value;

authorized 45,000 shares; outstanding - 44,498 shares

4.4

4.4

Serial preferred stock -

$100 par value; authorized 2,286,500 shares; 3.60% Series

redeemable at $101 per share; outstanding - 260,000 shares

26.0

26.0

$25 par value; authorized 5,000,000 shares; none outstanding

-  

-  

Total Preferred Stock

30.4

30.4

Long-Term Debt

First mortgage bonds

7-1/4% due 2004

140.0

140.0

7-1/8% due 2016

-  

100.0

6.85% due 2021

-  

9.0

7-3/4% due 2023

-  

100.0

7.05% due 2024

-  

60.0

7.70% due 2027

-  

200.0

Debentures (unsecured)

6-5/8% due 2006

200.0

200.0

9.47% due 2006

2.1

2.8

8-1/4% due 2022

-  

25.0

6-1/2% due 2028

150.0

150.0

6-7/8% due 2095

100.0

100.0

4.50% due 2013

300.0

-  

5.625% due 2033

335.0

-  

Notes (secured, nonrecourse)

2% stated rate due 2011

1.3

1.3

4.81% effective rate due 2030

2.0

-  

Notes (unsecured)

6.36% effective rate due 2006

3.6

4.8

1.52% variable rate due 2006 (a)

1.0

1.0

1.52% variable rate due 2015 (a)

17.4

17.4

1.25% variable rate due 2016 (a)

67.0

67.0

1.52% variable rate due 2030 (a)

80.0

80.0

Obligations under capital leases

213.2

218.2

Unamortized discount

(13.1)

(17.1)

Long-term debt currently due

(164.2)

(27.0)

Total Long-Term Debt

1,435.3

1,432.4

Total Capitalization

$3,597.6

$3,512.7

(a) Variable interest rate as of December 31, 2003.

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.



60


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMMON EQUITY

Accumulated

Other

Common

Other Paid

Retained

Comprehensive

Stock

In Capital

Earnings

Income

Total

(Millions of Dollars)

Balance - December 31, 2000

$332.9

$530.7

$1,001.2

$ -

$1,864.8

Net income

246.5

246.5

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives

qualified as hedges:

Unrealized losses due to cumulative

effect of a change in accounting

principle, net of tax

(5.1)

(5.1)

Reclassification adjustment for gains

included in net income, net of tax

5.1

5.1

Comprehensive Income

-  

-  

246.5

-  

246.5

Cash dividends

Common stock

(130.0)

(130.0)

Preferred stock

(1.2)

(1.2)

Balance - December 31, 2001

$332.9

$530.7

$1,116.5

$ -

$1,980.1

Net income

259.2

259.2

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Minimum pension liability

(8.1)

(8.1)

Unrealized hedging losses

(0.5)

(0.5)

Comprehensive Income (loss)

-  

-  

259.2

(8.6)

250.6

Cash dividends

Common stock

(179.6)

(179.6)

Preferred stock

(1.2)

(1.2)

Balance - December 31, 2002

$332.9

$530.7

$1,194.9

($8.6)

$2,049.9

Net income

256.7

256.7

Other comprehensive income

Minimum pension liability

3.9

3.9

Unrealized hedging gains

0.5

0.5

Comprehensive Income

-  

-  

256.7

4.4

261.1

Cash dividends

Common stock

(179.6)

(179.6)

Preferred stock

(1.2)

(1.2)

Tax Benefit of exercised stock

options allocated from parent

1.7

1.7

Balance - December 31, 2003

$332.9

$532.4

$1,270.8

($4.2)

$2,131.9

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these financial statements.



61


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

A -- SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

General:Wisconsin Electric Power Company ("Wisconsin Electric"(Wisconsin Electric, the Company, Our, We or the "Company")Us), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wisconsin Energy Corporation ("Wisconsin Energy")(Wisconsin Energy), is an electric, gas and steam utility which services electric customers in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, gas customers in Wisconsin and steam customers in metro Milwaukee. Wisconsin Electric consolidates itsMilwaukee, Wisconsin. We consolidate our wholly owned subsidiary Bostco LLC ("Bostco")(Bostco). Bostco owns real estate properties, with total assets of $45.1 million as of December 31, 2003 that are eligible for historical rehabilitation tax credits with total assets of $31.1 million as of December 31, 2002.

On April 26, 2000, Wisconsin Energy acquired WICOR, Inc. ("WICOR") in a business combination that was accounted for as a purchase. WICOR was a diversified utility holding company with utility and non-utility energy subsidiaries, as well as pump manufacturing subsidiaries. Following the merger, WICOR and its subsidiaries, including Wisconsin Gas Company ("Wisconsin Gas"), the largest natural gas distribution public utility in Wisconsin, became subsidiaries of Wisconsin Energy. Wisconsin Energy has integrated the gas operations of Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas, as well as many corporate support areas. On November 1, 2000, Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas filed an application with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin ("PSCW") for authority to transfer Wisconsin Electric's gas utility assets together with certain identified liabilities associated with such assets. On December 4, 2001, Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas entered into a stipulation with the "PSCW" in which a Con sent Order was issued by the PSCW providing for the withdrawal of the joint application. Wisconsin Energy continues to operate the gas business of Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas under the trade name "We Energies" as one operation to achieve operating efficiencies and improved reliability.credits.

All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated from the consolidated financial statements.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of certain assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Reclassifications:   We have reclassifiedReclassifications:Certaincertain prior year financial statement amounts have been reclassified to conform to their current year presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on net income.income or earnings per share.

Revenues:   Energy revenuesThe most significant reclassifications relate to the reporting of accumulated costs of removal, which are recognizednon-legal retirement obligations and accumulated decommissioning costs accrued prior to January 1, 2003. Previously, these costs were included as components of accumulated depreciation on our balance sheets.

Revenues:   We recognize energy revenues on the accrual basis and include estimated amounts for service rendered but not billed.

Wisconsin Electric'sOur rates include base amounts for estimated fuel and purchased power costs. The CompanyWe can request recovery of fuel and purchased power costs prospectively from retail electric customers in the Wisconsin jurisdiction through itsthe rate review process with the PSCWPublic Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) and in interim fuel cost hearings when such annualized costs are more than 3% higher than the forecasted costs used to establish rates. Wisconsin Electric's

Our retail gas rates include monthly adjustments, which permit the recovery or refund of actual purchased gas costs. We defer any difference between actual gas costs incurred (adjusted for a sharing mechanism) and costs recovered through rates as a current asset or liability. The deferred balance is returned to or recovered from customers at intervals throughout the year and any residual balance at the annual October 31 reconciliation date is subsequently refunded to or recovered from customers.

Property and Depreciation:Utilityproperty,   We record utilityproperty, plant and equipment is recorded at cost. Cost includes material, labor, overheadoverheads and allowance for funds used during construction. Additions to and significant replacements of property are charged to property, plant and equipment at cost; minor items are charged to maintenance expense. The cost of depreciable utility property together with removal cost less salvage value is charged to accumulated depreciation when property is retired.

CapitalizedWe collect future removal costs in our rates future removal costs for many assets that do not have an associated legal asset retirement obligation. We record a liability on our balance sheet for the estimated amounts we have collected in rates for future removal costs less amounts we have spent in removal activities. This liability was $400.6 million as of December 31, 2003 and is classified as a regulatory liability. The December 31, 2002 liability was $404.2 million and was classified in Cost of Removal Obligations.

We include capitalized software costs are included inassociated with our regulated operations under the caption "Property, Plant and Equipment" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. AsWe had capitalized software costs of $47.6 million and $50.5 million as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and 2001, capitalized software costs totaled $50.5 million and $61.1 million, respectively.



62


UtilityOur utility depreciation rates are certified by the state regulatory commissions and include estimates for salvage value and removal costs. Depreciation as a percent of average depreciable utility plant was 4.2% in 2003, 4.5% in 2002, and 4.6% in 2001, and 4.5% in 2000.2001. Nuclear plant decommissioning costs are accrued and included in depreciation expense (see Note F)E).

OtherWe record other property, plant and equipment is recorded at cost. Cost includes material, labor, overhead and capitalized interest. AdditionsWe charge additions to and significant replacements of property are charged to property, plant and equipment at cost;

54


cost and we charge minor items are charged to maintenance expense. Upon retirement or sale of other property and equipment we remove the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and include any gain or loss is included in "Other Income and Deductions - Other"Deductions" in the Consolidated Income Statements.

DepreciationEstimated useful lives for non-regulated assets are 2 to 5 years for software.

For assets other than our regulated assets we accrue depreciation expense is accrued at straight-line rates over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Estimated useful lives are 2 to 5 years for software.

Allowance For Funds Used During Construction:   Allowance for funds used during construction ("AFUDC")(AFUDC) is included in utility plant accounts and represents the cost of borrowed funds used during plant construction and a return on stockholders' capital used for construction purposes. Allowance for borrowed funds also includes interest capitalized on qualifying assets of non-utility subsidiaries. In the Consolidated Income Statements, we show the cost of borrowed funds (AFUDC-debt) is shown as an offset to interest expense and include the return on stockholders' capital (AFUDC-equity) isas an item of other income.

As approved by the PSCW, Wisconsin Electricwe capitalized AFUDC-debt and equity at the following rates10.18% during the periods indicated:reported.

  • September 1, 2000 -- continuing

10.18%

  • June 1, 1998 -- August 31, 2000

10.21%

Prior to August 31, 2000, based on PSCW authorization, Wisconsin Electric accrued AFUDC on 50% of all construction work in progress. In a rate order dated August 30, 2000, the PSCW authorized the Companyus to accrue AFUDC on all electric utility nitrogen oxide (NOx) remediation construction work in progress at a rate of 10.18%, and provided a full current return on electric safety and reliability construction work in progress so that no AFUDC accrual is required on such projects. In addition, the August 2000 PSCW order provided a current return on half of other utility construction work in progress and authorized AFUDC accruals on the remaining 50% of these projects.

Materials, Supplies and Inventories:   InventoryOur inventory at December 31 consists of:

Materials,

 

Supplies and Inventories

    2002    

    2001    

Materials,
Supplies and Inventories

 


2003

 


2002

(Millions of Dollars)

  

(Millions of Dollars)

Fossil Fuel

$124.3    

$101.8    

 

$107.0    

 

$124.3    

Natural Gas in Storage

37.4    

43.7    

 

83.8    

 

37.4    

Materials and Supplies

  82.8    

  81.6    

 

85.4    

 

82.8    

Total

$244.5    

$227.1    

 

$276.2    

 

$244.5    

====   

 

SubstantiallyWe price substantially all fossil fuel, materials and supplies and natural gas in storage inventories are priced using the weighted-average method of accounting.

Regulatory Accounting:   The Company accounts   We account for itsour regulated operations in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 71, Accounting for the Effects of Certain Types of Regulation.Regulation (SFAS 71). This statement sets forth the application of generally accepted accounting principles to those companies whose rates are determined by an independent third-party regulator. The economic effects of regulation can result in regulated companies recording costs that have been or are expected to be allowed in the ratemakingrate making process in a period different from the period in which the costs would be charged to expense by an unregulated enterprise. When this occurs, costs are deferred as assets in the balance sheet (regulatory assets) and recorded as expenses in the periods when those same amounts are reflected in rates. We defer all of our regulatory assets pursuant to specific rate orders or by a generic order issued by our primary regulator. We expect to recover our outstanding regulatory assets in rates over a period of no longer than 20 years. As of December 31, 2003, we had approximately $25.2 million of regulatory assets that were not earning a return. Additionally, regulators can impose liabilities upon a regulated

63


company for amounts previously collected from customers and for amounts that are expe ctedexpected to be refunded to customers (regulatory liabilities). As of December 31, 2002, the Company had approximately $20.0 million of regulatory assets that were not earning a return. All regulatory assets have been deferred pursuant to specific rate orders, or by a generic order issued by the Company's primary regulator. Regulatory assets are expected to be recovered in rates over a period of no longer than 20 years.



55


DeferredOur regulatory assets and liabilities at December 31 consist of:

     Deferred Regulatory Assets and Liabilities     

   2002   

   2001   

 

(Millions of Dollars)

Deferred Regulatory Assets

  

  Unrecognized pension costs (See Note K)

$135.8   

$   -    

  Deferred income tax related (See Note E)

138.4   

142.7   

  Deferred transmission costs

62.5   

22.3   

  Other plant related -- capital lease (See Note G)

47.2   

39.0   

  Environmental costs

44.0   

41.2   

  Department of Energy assessments

13.3   

15.9   

  Lightweight aggregate plant

12.2   

16.8   

  Deferred nuclear costs

1.2   

4.7   

  Other, net

      3.9   

      4.8   

Total Deferred Regulatory Assets

$458.5   

$287.4   

 

====  

====  

   

Deferred Regulatory Liabilities

  

  Deferred income tax related (See Note E)

$97.5   

$103.9   

  Tax and interest refunds

20.7   

9.9   

  NOx escrow

11.9   

8.6   

  Other, net

    27.4   

    19.0   

Total Deferred Regulatory Liabilities

$157.5   

$141.4   

 

====  

====  

Regulatory Assets

 

2003

 

2002

  

(Millions of Dollars)

     

  Deferred income tax related (See Note D)

 

$132.3   

 

$138.4   

  Deferred electric transmission costs

 

73.3   

 

62.5   

  Unrecognized pension costs (See Note K)

 

70.4   

 

135.8   

  Plant related -- capital lease (See Note G)

 

54.5   

 

47.2   

  Environmental costs

 

48.7   

 

44.0   

  Debt redemption costs

 

18.3   

 

-      

  Bad debt costs

 

10.9   

 

-      

  Department of Energy assessments (See Note E)

 

10.7   

 

13.3   

  Lightweight aggregate plant

 

8.9   

 

12.2   

  Other, net

 

15.4   

 

4.5   

Total Regulatory Assets

 

$443.4   

 

$457.9   

     

Regulatory Liabilities

 

2003

 

2002

  

(Millions of Dollars)

     

  Cost of removal obligations

 

$400.6   

 

$  -     

  Deferred income tax related (See Note D)

 

91.0   

 

97.5   

  Tax and interest refunds

 

21.2   

 

20.7   

  Derivatives

 

11.5   

 

4.5   

  NOx escrow

 

2.7   

 

11.9   

  Other, net

 

34.7   

 

22.3   

Total Regulatory Liabilities

 

$561.7   

 

$156.9   

As of December 31, 2002, the CompanyWe recorded a minimum pension liability of $163.6 millionin 2003 and in 2002 to reflect the funded status of itsour pension plans. The Company hasplans (See Note K). We concluded that $135.8 millionsubstantially all of the unrecognized pension costs which aroseresulting from recording the recognition of our minimum pension liability under SFAS 87 qualifiesthat relate to our utility operations qualify as a regulatory asset. As a result, we recognized a pre-tax regulatory asset in the amount of $70.4 million and $135.8 million associated with $8.1 million after tax reportedour minimum pension liability as a charge to other comprehensive income.

During 2000, the PSCW authorized Wisconsin Electric to defer with a carrying cost accrual incremental start-up costs and transmission operations costs in excess of transmission costs being recovered in existing rates related to creation of American Transmission Company ("ATC"). These deferred charges increased during 2001December 31, 2003 and 2002, reflecting the incremental costs of receiving transmission service from ATC compared to recovery in the Company's base rates. respectively.

In October 2002, the PSCW issued an order authorizing us to implement a surcharge for recovery of annual electric transmission costs projected through 2005. Recognizing the uncertainty of these transmission-related costs, the PSCW order authorized a transmission surcharge andfour year escrow accounting treatment such that rate recovery will ultimately be trued-up to provide recoveryactual costs plus a return on the unrecovered costs. We are currently recovering incremental transmission costs from our customers. The difference between actual incremental transmission costs incurred and the amount being recovered goes to the escrow account We have deferred a total of $73.3 million of electric transmission costs as a regulatory asset through December 31, 2003.

Consistent with a generic order from and past rate-making practices of the priorPSCW, we defer as a regulatory asset costs associated with the remediation of former manufactured gas plant sites. As of December 31, 2003, we have recorded $48.7 million of environmental costs associated with manufactured gas plant sites as a regulatory asset, including $25.7 million of deferrals for actual remediation costs incurred and a $23.5 million accrual for estimated future site remediation (See Note O). We expect to include total actual remediation costs incurred in our next rate case at which time we would begin amortizing these costs over the following five years.

As permitted by our regulators, we account for certain debt redemption costs under the revenue neutral method of accounting. Under the revenue neutral method of accounting, we defer the costs associated with the redemption of utility debt to the extent that the redeemed debt is refinanced with other utility debt. The redemption costs are amortized based upon the difference between the interest expense of the new and redeemed debt.

64


At December 31, 2003, we have deferred transmission charges plus futureapproximately $18.3 million of net debt redemption costs as a regulatory asset and expect to fully amortize these costs through 2005.

As of December 31, 2003, we have deferred a regulatory asset of approximately $10.9 million in total uncollectible accounts receivable representing incremental transmission charges.

Wisconsin Electric directsbad debt costs in excess of amounts in existing rates. In 2003, due to a varietycombination of demand-side management programsunusually high natural gas prices, the soft economy within our utility service territories and limited governmental assistance available to help foster energy conservation by its customers.low-income customers, we experienced a significant increase in uncollectible accounts receivable. As authorized bya result, in October 2003 the PSCW Wisconsin Electric capitalized certain conservation program costs prior to 1995. Utility rates approved by the PSCW provideour request for a current return on these conservation investments. Includeddeferral of 2003 uncollectible accounts receivable in Investments on the Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2002 and 2001 are conservation investmentsexcess of $6.0 million and $11.6 million, respectively, which are amortized to income based upon PSCW order.amounts included in existing annual utility rates.

During 2000, Wisconsin Electric discontinued operation of its lightweight aggregate plant at Oak Creek Power Plant. As authorized by the PSCW, Wisconsin Electric transferred the associated remaining undepreciated plant balance of $19.7 million on December 31, 2000, to a deferred regulatory asset account, which is being amortized over the five year period ending December 31, 2005.

Income Taxes:   Wisconsin Electric isWe are included in Wisconsin Energy's consolidated Federal income tax return. As such, Wisconsin Energy allocates Federal current tax expense or credits to Wisconsin Electricus based on itsour separate tax computation.

Investment tax credits related to regulated utility assets are recorded as a deferred credit on the balance sheet and amortized to income over the applicable service lives of related properties in accordance with regulatory treatment. Historical rehabilitation credits are reported in income in the year claimed.



56


Wisconsin Energy allocates the tax benefit of stock options exercised to us to the extent the option holders payroll cost was incurred by us. We record the allocated tax benefit as an addition to paid in capital.

Derivative Financial Instruments:   The Company has   We have derivative physical and financial instruments as defined by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities ("SFAS 133"), however(SFAS 133). However, we limit the use of financial instruments is limited and was immaterial during the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000.instruments. For further information, see Note I.Notes I and J.

Statement of Cash Flows:Cash and cash equivalents include marketable debt securities acquired three months or less from maturity.

Restrictions:Various financing arrangements and regulatory requirements impose certain restrictions on theour ability of Wisconsin Electric to transfer funds to Wisconsin Energy in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances. Under Wisconsin law, Wisconsin Electric iswe are prohibited from loaning funds, either directly or indirectly, to Wisconsin Energy. The Company doesWe do not believe that suchthese restrictions will materially affect our operations.

Asset Retirement Obligations:   In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS No 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations. We adopted SFAS 143 effective January 1, 2003. Consistent with SFAS 143, we record a liability at fair value for a legal asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred. When a new legal obligation is recorded, we capitalize the costs of the liability by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. We accrete the liability to its operations.present value each period and depreciate the capitalized cost over the useful life of the related asset. At the end of the asset's useful life, we settle the obligation for its recorded amount or incur a gain or loss. As it relates to our regulated operations, we apply SFAS 71 and recognize regulatory assets or liabilities for the timing differences between when we recover legal asset retirement obligations in rates and when we would recognize these costs under SFAS 143.

Investments:   Investments in affiliated companies in which the Company haswe have a controlling financial interest are consolidated. Investments in other affiliated companies in which the Company doeswe do not maintain control are accounted for using the equity method.

Nuclear Fuel Amortization:   The Company leasesWe lease our nuclear fuel and amortizes itamortize the fuel inventory to fuel expense as the power is generated, generally over a period of 60 months.

Use of Estimates:  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of certain assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

B -- RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Asset Retirement Obligations:   In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations. SFAS 143, which is effective January 1, 2003, requires entities to record the fair value of a legal liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred. When a new liability is recorded beginning in 2003, the entity will capitalize the costs of the liability by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. The liability is accreted to its present value each period, and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the useful life of the related asset. Upon settlement of the liability, an entity settles the obligation for its recorded amount or incurs a gain or loss upon settlement. The Company adopted SFAS 143 effective January 1, 2003.

The Company has completed a detailed assessment of the specific applicability and implications of SFAS 143. The scope of SFAS 143 includes primarily decommissioning costs for the Point Beach Nuclear Plant ("Point Beach"). It also applies to a smaller extent to several other utility assets including: active ash landfills, water treatment basins, removal of certain coal handling equipment and water intake facilities located on lakebeds, and the dismantlement of certain hydro facilities. Other than for Point Beach, the Company's asset retirement obligations as of January 1, 2003 will not be significant. As it relates to regulated operations, the Company believes that adoption of SFAS 143 results primarily in timing differences in the recognition of legal asset retirement costs that the Company is currently recovering in rates and will be deferring such differences under SFAS 71 (See Note A).

Prior to January 2003, the Company recorded nuclear decommissioning charges in Accumulated Depreciation. Upon adoption of SFAS 143, the Company will reverse the $550 million it had previously recorded in Accumulated Depreciation, and it will record a liability of approximately $673 million, and a net asset of approximately $30 million. The difference between amounts previously recorded and the net SFAS 143 liability will be deferred as a regulatory asset and is expected to approximate $93 million. The asset retirement obligations for active ash landfills, water treatment basins and the removal of certain coal handling equipment and water intake facilities located on lakebeds cannot be reasonably estimated due to an indeterminate life for the associated assets. The time period until retirement is unknown at the current time and therefore no liability was recorded for these obligations with the adoption of SFAS 143.



57


The regulated operations of the Company also collect removal costs in rates for certain assets that do not have associated legal asset retirement obligations. As of December 31, 2002, the Company estimates that it has approximately $400 million of such regulatory liabilities recorded in Accumulated Depreciation.

Variable Interest Entities:   In January 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards BoardFASB issued Interpretation 46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities.Entities (FIN 46). This standard will requirerequires an enterprise that is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity to consolidate that entity. TheWe applied the Interpretation must be applied to any existing interests in variable interest entities beginning in the third quarter of 2003. The Company doesIn October 2003, the FASB deferred the adoption of FIN 46 for all entities commonly referred to as special-purpose entities to the first reporting period ending after December 15, 2003. In

65


December 2003, the FASB revised the effective date for all other types of entities to financial statements for periods ending after March 15, 2004. While we are continuing to evaluate the impact of the application of these new rules, we do not expect to consolidate any existing interest in unconsolidated entities as a resultadoption of the final phase of Interpretation 46.46 to have a significant impact on our balance sheets or on our results of operations.

Derivative Instruments:   We adopted SFAS 149, Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, effective July 1, 2003. SFAS 149, which was issued by FASB in April 2003, amends Statement 133 for certain decisions made by the FASB as part of the Derivatives Implementation Group process and other FASB projects dealing with financial instruments. SFAS 149 also amends Statement 133 to incorporate clarifications of and to expand the definition of a derivative.

Pension and Other Post-retirement Benefit Plans:   We adopted SFAS 132R, Employers' Disclosures about Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits, in December 2003. SFAS 132R, which was issued by FASB in December 2003, replaces existing FASB disclosure requirements for defined benefit plans. In addition to expanded annual disclosures, the FASB is requiring companies to report the various elements of pension and other post-retirement benefit costs on a quarterly basis (See Note K).

 

 

C -- AMERICAN TRANSMISSION COMPANY

Effective January 1, 2001, Wisconsin Electricwe transferred its electric utility transmission system assets with a net book value of approximately $224.1 million to American Transmission Company LLC ("ATC")(ATC) in exchange for an equityownership interest in this new company. No gain or loss was recorded in this transaction. During 2001, ATC issued debt and distributed $105.2 million of cash back to Wisconsin Electricus as a partial return of the original equity contribution. As of December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Companywe had an equitya total ownership interest of approximately 34.6% and 37%, respectively, in ATC. Wisconsin Electric isWe are represented by one out of fourteen ATC board members, each of whichwhom has one vote. Due to the voting requirements, no individual member has more than 8% of the voting control. The Company accountsWe account for itsour investment in ATC under the equity method.

 

 

D -- CHARGES

During the fourth quarter of 2000, the Company recorded one-time charges totaling $43.9 million after tax. Of this, $34.3 million related to severance and employee benefits and merger-related items. In connection with the WICOR merger and the divestiture of non-core businesses, approximately 170 employees received severance benefits under severance agreements and enhanced retirement initiatives. The Company has paid all of the anticipated expenses as of December 31, 2002. No other adjustments were made to the reserves. The Company made a contribution of $9.6 million after tax in 2000 to the Wisconsin Energy Foundation to assist it in becoming self-funding.

E -- INCOME TAXES

The Company followsWe follow the liability method in accounting for income taxes as prescribed by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes ("SFAS 109")(SFAS 109). SFAS 109 requires the recording of deferred assets and liabilities to recognize the expected future tax consequences of events that have been reflected in the Company'sour financial statements or tax returns and the adjustment of deferred tax balances to reflect tax rate changes. Tax credits associated with regulated operations are deferred and amortized over the life of the assets. Historical rehabilitation tax credits are recognized in income in the year the credit is claimed.

The following table is a summary of income tax expense for each of the years ended December 31:

Income Tax Expense

  2002  

  2001  

  2000  

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

(Millions of Dollars)

 

(Millions of Dollars)

       

Current tax expense

$189.7 

$189.5 

$113.6 

 

$156.6 

 

$189.7 

 

$189.5 

Deferred income taxes, net

(27.5)

(28.4)

(5.9)

 

2.8 

 

(27.5)

 

(28.4)

Investment tax credit, net

    (4.5)

 

(4.5)

 

(4.5)

 

(4.5)

Total Income Tax Expense

$157.7 

$156.6 

$103.2 

 

$154.9 

 

$157.7 

 

$156.6 

====



5866


The provision for income taxes for each of the years ended December 31 differs from the amount of income tax determined by applying the applicable U.S. statutory federal income tax rate to income before income taxes and preferred dividend as a result of the following:

             2002             

             2001             

             2000             

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

Effective

 

Effective

 

Effective

Income Tax Expense

 Amount 

Tax Rate

 Amount 

Tax Rate

 Amount 

Tax Rate

 


 Amount 

 

Effective
Tax Rate

 


 Amount 

 

Effective
Tax Rate

 


 Amount 

 

Effective
Tax Rate

 

(Millions of Dollars)

(Millions of Dollars)

            

Expected tax at

             

statutory federal tax rates

$145.9  

35.0%    

$141.0  

35.0%    

$93.8  

35.0%    

 

$144.1  

 

35.0%    

 

$145.9  

 

35.0%    

 

$141.0  

 

35.0%    

State income taxes

             

net of federal tax benefit

20.2  

4.8%    

20.7  

5.1%    

14.4  

5.4%    

 

19.3  

 

4.7%    

 

20.2  

 

4.8%    

 

20.7  

 

5.1%    

Investment tax credit restored

(4.5) 

(1.0%)   

(4.5) 

(1.1%)   

(4.5) 

(1.7%)   

 

(4.5) 

 

(1.1%)   

 

(4.5) 

 

(1.0%)   

 

(4.5) 

 

(1.1%)   

Historical rehabilitation credit

(2.5) 

(0.6%)   

-     

-          

-     

-          

Historical rehabilitation credits

 

(3.3) 

 

(1.0%)   

 

(2.5) 

 

(0.6%)   

 

-     

 

-          

Other, net

    (1.4) 

 (0.4%)   

    (0.6) 

 (0.2%)   

    (0.5) 

 (0.2%)   

 

    (0.7) 

 

(0.0%)   

 

(1.4) 

 

(0.4%)   

 

(0.6) 

 

(0.2%)   

Total Income Tax Expense

$157.7  

 37.8%    

$156.6  

 38.8%    

$103.2  

 38.5%    

 

$154.9  

 

37.6%    

 

$157.7  

 

37.8%    

 

$156.6  

 

38.8%    

==== 

====   

==== 

====   

==== 

====   

 

The components of SFAS 109 deferred income taxes classified as net current assets and net long-term liabilities at December 31 are as follows:

 

Current Assets (Liabilities)

 

Long-Term Liabilities (Assets)

   Current Assets (Liabilities)   

Long-Term Liabilities (Assets)

Deferred Income Taxes

   2002   

   2001   

   2002   

   2001   

 

2003

 

2002

 

2003

 

2002

(Millions of Dollars)

 

(Millions of Dollars)

         

Property-related

$   -        

$607.8     

$568.8     

 

$   -        

 

$   -        

 

$643.2     

 

$607.8     

Construction advances

-        

(75.7)    

(69.8)    

 

-        

 

-        

 

(82.9)    

 

(75.7)    

Decommissioning trust

-        

(59.0)    

(55.0)    

 

-        

 

-        

 

(65.5)    

 

(59.0)    

Contested liability payment

(2.4)    

(44.5)    

-        

 

-        

 

(2.4)    

 

-        

 

-        

Recoverable gas costs

2.3     

(0.5)    

-        

 

(0.5)    

 

2.3     

 

-        

 

-        

Uncollectible account expense

9.1     

7.9     

-        

 

9.8     

 

9.1     

 

-        

 

-        

Employee benefits

         

and compensation

10.7     

10.4     

(37.5)    

(30.6)    

 

10.6     

 

10.7     

 

(44.3)    

 

(37.5)    

Asset impairment charge

10.8     

-        

 

10.7     

 

10.8     

 

-        

 

-        

Other

   7.8     

   9.1     

    (5.1)    

  (14.4)    

 

11.8     

 

7.8     

 

5.9     

 

(5.1)     

Total Deferred Income Taxes

 $38.3     

 ($6.8)    

$430.5     

$399.0     

 

$42.4     

 

$38.3     

 

$456.4     

 

$430.5     

====   

 

Wisconsin Electric hasWe have also recorded deferred regulatory assets and liabilities representing the future expected impact of deferred taxes on utility revenues (see(See Note A).



67


 

 

FE -- NUCLEAR OPERATIONS

Point Beach Nuclear Plant:   Wisconsin Electric owns   We own two 510-megawatt518-megawatt electric generating units at Point Beach Nuclear Plant (Point Beach) in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. Point Beach is operated by Nuclear Management Company, LLC (NMC), a company that, as of December 31, 2002,2003, provides services to nineeight nuclear generating units in the Midwest. Nuclear Management CompanyNMC is owned by the CompanyWisconsin Energy and the affiliates of four other unaffiliated investor-owned utilities in the region. Wisconsin ElectricWe currently expectsexpect the two units at Point Beach to operate to the end of their operating licenses, which expire in October 2010 for Unit 1 and in March 2013 for Unit 2. NMC filed an application in February 2004 with the NRC to renew the operating licenses for both of our plant's nuclear reactors for an additional 20 years.

Nuclear Insurance:   The Price-Anderson Act, as amended and extendedit applies to August 1, 2002,Point Beach, currently limits the total public liability for damages arising from a nuclear incident at a nuclear power plant to approximately $9.4$10.7 billion, of which $200$300 million is covered by liability insurance purchased from private sources. The remaining $9.2$10.4 billion is covered by an industry retrospective loss sharing plan whereby in the event of a nuclear incident resulting in damages exceeding the private insurance coverage, each owner of a nuclear plant would be assessed a deferred premium of up to $88.1$99.2 million per reactor (Wisconsin Electric owns(we own two) with a limit of $10 million per

59


reactor within one calendar year. As the owner of Point Beach, Wisconsin Electricwe would be obligated to pay itsour proportionate share of any such assessment. A provision extending the Price-Andersen Act

We, through the end of 2003 was adopted by Congress in February 2003.

Wisconsin Electric, through itsour membership in Nuclear Electric Insurance Limited ("NEIL")(NEIL), carriescarry decontamination, property damage and decommissioning shortfall insurance covering losses of up to $1.5$2.0 billion at Point Beach. Under policies issued by NEIL, the insured member is liable for a retrospective premium adjustment in the event of catastrophic losses exceeding the full financial resources of NEIL. Wisconsin Electric'sOur maximum retrospective liability under itsthese policies is $13.2$14.9 million.

Wisconsin ElectricWe also maintainsmaintain insurance with NEIL covering business interruption and extra expenses during any prolonged accidental outage at Point Beach, where such outage is caused by accidental property damage from radioactive contamination or other risks of direct physical loss. Wisconsin Electric'sOur maximum retrospective liability under this policy is $10.5$10.0 million.

It should not be assumed that, in the event of a major nuclear incident, any insurance or statutory limitation of liability would protect Wisconsin Electricus from material adverse impact.

Nuclear Decommissioning:   We record decommissioning expense in amounts equal to the amounts collected in rates and funded to the external trusts. Nuclear decommissioning costs are accrued over the expected service lives of the nuclear generating units and are included in electric rates. Decommissioning expense was $17.6 million for each of the years ended 2003, 2002 2001 and 2000.2001. As of December 31, 2003, and 2002, and 2001, the Companywe had the following investments in Nuclear Decommissioning Trust Fund balance,Trusts, stated at fair value, which is equal to the accrued decommissioning liability balance included in accumulated depreciation.value.

 

2003

 

2002

2002      

2001     

 

(Millions of Dollars)   

(Millions of Dollars)   

  

Funding and Realized Earnings

$458.6     

$434.8     

 

$485.2   

 

$458.6   

Unrealized Gains

  91.4     

  154.8     

 

189.2   

 

91.4   

Total

$550.0     

$589.6     

$674.4   

$550.0   

====    

====    

 

In Accordanceaccordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities, Wisconsin Electric'sour debt and equity security investments in the Nuclear Decommissioning Trust Fund are classified as available for sale. Gains and losses on the fund wereare determined on the basis of specific identification; net unrealized holding gains on the fund wereare recorded as part of the fund. We record realized and unrealized fund andearnings as part of accumulated depreciation.a regulatory liability.

The Company records decommissioning expense in amounts equal to the amounts collected in rates and funded to the external trusts. As of December 31, 2002, and 2001, the Companywe had accumulated provisions foraccrued decommissioning expensecosts of $550.0 million and $589.6 million, respectively. Suchmillion. These amounts were included on the 2002 consolidated balance sheets as a long-term liability under Accumulated Depreciation.

Cost of Removal Obligations. Beginning January 1, 2003, the Companywe adopted SFAS 143 Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations. Under SFAS 143, the Companywe recorded a liability on itsour balance sheet for the net present value of the expected cash flows associated with the Company'sour legal obligation to decommission itsour nuclear plants. The Company estimates that this liability was approximately $673 million asplant and reclassified non-legal removal obligations from cost of January 1, 2003.

68


removal obligation to regulatory liabilities. Under SFAS 71, Accounting for the Effects of Certain Types of Regulation, the Companywe recorded a regulatory asset for the amounts that the Asset Retirement Obligation liability exceeded amounts collected in rates. The Company estimates that this regulatory asset was approximately $93 million as of January 1, 2003.rates and cumulative investment gains. In the future, if the SFAS 143 liability is less than the amounts funded, then the Companywe would expect to record a regulatory liability for the difference based on the expected rate treatment from itsour primary regulator. For further information on our asset retirement obligations see Note F.

The asset retirement liability as calculated under SFAS 143 is based on several significant assumptions including the timing of future cash flows, future inflation rates, the extent of work that is performed and the interestdiscount rate applied to discount the future cash flows. These assumptions differ significantly from the assumptions used by the PSCW to calculate the nuclear decommissioning liability for funding purposes. UnderFor the SFAS 143 the Company estimatedcalculation, we assumed an 85% probability of plant relicensinglicense renewal based strictly on industry averages. The Company has not made a decision to apply for relicensing.Our SFAS 143 liability is approximately $732 million as of December 31, 2003.



60


In 2002, the Companywe engaged a consultant to perform a site specific study for regulatory funding purposes. This study assumed that the plants would not run past their current operating licenses of 2010 and 2013, respectively, and the study made several assumptions as to the scope of work. The study also estimated the liability for fuel management costs and non-nuclear demolition costs. These costs are excluded from the calculation of the SFAS 143 liability. The 2002 site specific study estimated that the cost to decommission the plant in 20022003 year dollars was approximately $1,072 million.

$1.1 billion. The following table reconcilesdifferences between the regulatory funding liability withand the anticipated SFAS 143 liability asare primarily related to fuel management costs, non-nuclear demolition costs and the timing of January 1, 2003:

(Millions of Dollars)   

SFAS 143 liability

$673             

Costs included in regulatory funding

     Fuel management costs

151             

     Non-nuclear demolition

88             

Timing of future cash flows

   160 

Total regulatory funding liability

$1,072             

====         

future cash flows.

The ultimate timing and amount of future cash flows associated with nuclear decommissioning is dependent upon many significant variables including the scope of work involved, the ability to relicense the plants, future inflation rates and discount rates. However, based on the current plant licenses, the Company doeswe do not expect to make any nuclear decommissioning expenditures in excess of $1.0 million before the year 2009.

Decontamination and Decommissioning Fund:   The Energy Policy Act of 1992 established a Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning Fund ("D(D&D Fund")Fund) for the United States Department of Energy's nuclear fuel enrichment facilities. Deposits to the D&D Fund are derived in part from special assessments on utilities using enrichment services. As of December 31, 2002, Wisconsin Electric2003, we recorded itsour remaining estimated liability equal to projected special assessments of$10.78.0 million. AAn associated deferred regulatory asset is detailed in Note A. The deferred regulatory asset will be amortized to nuclear fuel expense and included in utility rates over the next fivefour years ending in 2007.

 

 

F -- ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS

SFAS 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations, primarily applies to the future decommissioning costs for Point Beach. Prior to January 2003, we recorded a long-term liability for accrued nuclear decommissioning costs. (See Note E).

SFAS 143 also applies to a smaller extent to several other utility assets including the dismantlement of certain hydro facilities and the removal of certain coal handling equipment and water intake facilities located on lakebeds. We have not recorded any asset retirement obligations for the removal of the coal handling equipment or for the water intake facilities located on lakebeds because the associated liability cannot be reasonably estimated.

During the second quarter of 2003, we signed an agreement to lease the site of our existing coal-based Port Washington Power Plant to our affiliate, W.E. Power LLC, which is constructing and will own a new gas-fired generating station at the site as part of Wisconsin Energy'sPower the Future program. The terms of the lease call for us to raze the existing facilities at the site by the spring of 2006. Accordingly, we recorded an asset retirement obligation and corresponding plant asset in the amount of $14.9 million.



69


If we had adopted SFAS 143 at the beginning of fiscal 2002, we would have reported the following asset retirement obligations on our Consolidated Balance Sheets in "Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities" as of December 31:

 

2003

2002

 

(Millions of Dollars)

Asset Retirement Obligations

  

   Reported

$732.0            

$  -               

   Pro forma

$732.0            

$675.4            

The following table presents the change in our asset retirement obligations during 2003.

Balance at
12/31/02

Initial
Adoption

Liabilities
Incurred

Liabilities
Settled


Accretion

Cash Flow
Revisions

Balance at
12/31/03

(Millions of Dollars)

       

$  -       

$675.4      

$14.9    

$0.8    

$35.2     

$7.3     

$732.0      

G -- LONG-TERM DEBT

First Mortgage Bonds, Debentures and Notes:   At December 31, 2002,2003, the maturities and sinking fund requirements through 20072008 and thereafter for the aggregate amount of our long-term debt outstanding (excluding obligations under capital leases) were:

(Millions of Dollars)

  

(Millions of Dollars)

2003

$1.9           

2004

141.9           

 

$141.9     

2005

1.9           

 

1.9     

2006

203.0           

 

203.0     

2007

0.3           

 

0.2     

2008

 

0.2     

Thereafter

     909.3           

 

1,052.2     

Total

$1,258.3           

$1,399.4     

=====         

 

Sinking fund requirements for the years 20032004 through 2007,2008, included in the preceding table, are $8.0$9.0 million. Substantially all of Wisconsin Electric'sour utility plant is subject to a first mortgage lien.

Long-term debt premium or discount and expense of issuance are amortized over the lives of the debt issues and included as interest expense.



61


In May 2003, we sold $635 million of unsecured Debentures ($300 million of ten-year 4.50% Debentures due 2013 and $335 million of thirty-year 5.625% Debentures due 2033) under an $800 million shelf registration statement filed with the SEC. We used a portion of the proceeds from the Debentures to repay short-term debt, which was originally incurred to retire debt that matured in December 2002. The balance of the proceeds were used to redeem $425 million of our debt securities in June 2003, and to fund the early redemption in August 2003 of another $60 million debt issue.

In October 2003, redeemed $9 million of 6.85% First Mortgage Bonds.

In January 2002, the Companywe redeemed $100 million of 8-3/8% first mortgage bonds due 2026 and $3.4 million of 9-1/8% first mortgage bondsFirst Mortgage Bonds due 2024. Early redemption of this long-term debt was financed through the issuance of short-term commercial paper.



70


Obligations Under Capital Leases:   In 1997, Wisconsin Electricwe entered into a 25-year25 year power purchase contract with an unaffiliated independent power producer. The contract, for 236 megawatts of firm capacity from a gas-basedgas-fired cogeneration facility, includes no minimum energy requirements. When the contract expires in 2022, Wisconsin Electricwe may, at itsour option and with proper notice, renew for another ten years or purchase the generating facility at fair value or allow the contract to expire. Wisconsin Electric accountsWe account for this contract as a capital lease. Thelease and recorded the leased facility and corresponding obligation under the capital lease were recorded at the estimated fair value of the plant's electric generating facilities. TheWe are amortizing the leased facility is being amortized on a straight-line basis over the original 25-year term of the contract.

TheWe treat the long-term power purchase contract is treated as an operating lease for rate-making purposes and thewe record our minimum lease payments are recorded as purchased power expense on the Consolidated Income Statements. Such payments totaledWe paid a total of $23.4 million, $22.3 million and $21.5 million in minimum lease payments during 2003, 2002, and $21.0 million during 2002, 2001, and 2000, respectively. As a result,We record the difference between the minimum lease payments and the sum of the imputed interest and amortization costs calculated under capital lease accounting are recorded as a deferred regulatory asset on our Consolidated Balance Sheets (see deferred regulatory asset - other plant related --- capital lease (seein Note A). Due to the timing of the minimum lease payments, Wisconsin Electric expectswe expect the regulatory asset to increase to approximately $78.5 million by the year 2009 and the total obligation under the capital lease to increase to $160.2 million by the year 2005 before each is reduced to zero over the remaining life of the contract.

Wisconsin Electric hasWe also have a nuclear fuel leasing arrangement with Wisconsin Electric Fuel Trust ("Trust")(Trust), which is treated as a capital lease. TheWe lease and amortize the nuclear fuel is leased and amortized to fuel expense as the power is generated, generally over a period of 60 months. Lease payments include charges for the cost of fuel burned, financing costs and management fees. In the event Wisconsin Electricthat we or the Trust terminates the lease, the Trust would recover its unamortized cost of nuclear fuel from Wisconsin Electric.us. Under the lease terms, Wisconsin Electric iswe are in effect the ultimate guarantor of the Trust's commercial paper and line of credit borrowings financingthat finance the investment in nuclear fuel. InterestWe included $1.4 million of interest expense on the nuclear fuel lease included in fuel expense wasduring 2003, as well as $1.9 million, $3.3 million and $3.9 million during 2002 2001 and 2000, respectively.$3.3 million during 2001.

Following is a summary of Wisconsin Electric'sour capitalized leased facilities and nuclear fuel at December 31.

Capital Lease Assets

     2002     

     2001     

 

2003

 

2002

 

(Millions of Dollars)

(Millions of Dollars)

    

Leased Facilities

      

Long-term purchase power commitment

$140.3  

$140.3  

 

$140.3  

 

$140.3  

Accumulated amortization

   (30.0) 

   (24.3) 

 

(35.7) 

 

(30.0) 

Total Leased Facilities

$110.3  

$116.0  

 

$104.6  

 

$110.3  

==== 

==== 

      

Nuclear Fuel

      

Under capital lease

$118.4  

$127.5  

 

$115.9  

 

$118.4  

Accumulated amortization

(63.7) 

(80.0) 

 

(67.0) 

 

(63.7) 

In process/stock

    8.5  

    26.1  

 

29.5  

 

8.5  

Total Nuclear Fuel

  $63.2  

  $73.6  

 

$ 78.4  

 

$ 63.2  

==== 

==== 



71


 



62


Future minimum lease payments under theour capital leases and the present value of theour net minimum lease payments as of December 31, 20022003 are as follows:

Purchase

 

Power

Nuclear

 

Capital Lease Obligations

Commitment

  Fuel Lease  

     Total       

 

Purchase
Power
Commitment

 


Nuclear
Fuel Lease

 



Total

(Millions of Dollars)

  

(Millions of Dollars)

2003

$28.0    

$28.1    

$56.1    

      

2004

29.0    

17.9    

46.9    

 

$ 29.0    

 

$ 23.6    

 

$ 52.6    

2005

30.1    

12.9    

43.0    

 

30.1    

 

18.3    

 

48.4    

2006

31.2    

5.2    

36.4    

 

31.2    

 

10.2    

 

41.4    

2007

32.4    

2.3    

34.7    

 

32.4    

 

4.2    

 

36.6    

2008

 

33.6    

 

2.9    

 

36.5    

Thereafter

  437.5    

     -        

   437.5    

 

403.8    

 

-        

 

403.8    

Total Minimum Lease Payments

588.2    

66.4    

654.6    

 

560.1    

 

59.2    

 

619.3    

Less: Estimated Executory Costs

(123.1)   

     -        

 (123.1)   

 

(118.5)   

 

-        

 

(118.5)   

Net Minimum Lease Payments

465.1    

66.4    

531.5    

 

441.6    

 

59.2    

 

500.8    

Less: Interest

(307.6)   

   (5.7)   

 (313.3)   

 

(282.5)   

 

(5.1)   

 

(287.6)   

Present Value of Net

       

Minimum Lease Payments

157.5    

60.7    

218.2    

 

159.1    

 

54.1    

 

213.2    

Less: Due Currently

     -        

 (25.1)   

   (25.1)   

 

-        

 

(22.3)   

 

(22.3)   

$157.5    

 $35.6    

$193.1    

=====  

====  

=====  

 

$159.1    

 

$31.8    

 

$190.9    

 

 

H -- SHORT-TERM DEBT

Short-term notes payable balances and their corresponding weighted-average interest rates at December 31 consist of:

             2002             

             2001             

 

2003

 

2002

 

Interest

 

Interest

Short-Term Debt

Balance

   Rate   

Balance

   Rate   

 


Balance

 

Interest
Rate

 


Balance

 

Interest
Rate

(Millions of Dollars)

    

(Millions of Dollars)

Banks and Other

$73.1 

2.59% 

$60.9 

1.90% 

        

Banks and other

 

$ 35.2 

 

6.13% 

 

$ 73.1 

 

2.59% 

Commercial paper

  281.7 

1.38% 

  111.5 

1.87% 

 

280.7 

 

1.15% 

 

281.7 

 

1.38% 

Total Short-Term Debt

 $354.8 

1.63% 

 $172.4 

1.88% 

 

$315.9 

 

1.70% 

 

$354.8 

 

1.63% 

=====

 

=====

 

 

OnAs of December 31, 2002, Wisconsin Electric2003, we had approximately $230$350.0 million of available unused lines of bank back-up credit facilities on a consolidated basis. The CompanyWe had approximately $354.8$315.9 million of total consolidated short-term debt outstanding on such date.

Wisconsin Electric has entered into a Our bank back-up credit agreementfacilities mature beginning June 2004 through August 2004.

We have entered into various bank back-up credit agreements to maintain short-term credit liquidity which, among other terms, require the companiesus to maintain a minimum total funded debt to capitalization ratio of less than 65%.

 

 

I -- DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

Effective JanuaryWe follow SFAS 133 as amended by SFAS 149, Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, effective July 1, 2001 the Company adopted SFAS 133,2003, which requires that every derivative instrumentinstruments be recorded on the balance sheet as an asset or liability measured at its fair value and that changes in the derivative's fair value be recognized currently in earnings unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met. Upon adoption of SFAS 149, prospectively any forward commodity contracts other than electric power contracts that meet the qualification of a capacity

72


contract and are subject to unplanned netting, qualify as a derivative, and any changes in fair value of the derivative are to be recorded currently in earnings. However, the PSCW allows the effects of the fair market value accounting to be offset to regulatory assets and liabilities for any energy-related contracts in the regulated electric operations that qualify as derivatives.

Wisconsin Electric hadWe have a limited number of other financial and physical commodity contracts that are defined as derivatives under SFAS 133 and that qualify for cash flow hedge accounting. These cash flow hedging instruments are comprised of

63


electric forward contracts which are used to manage the supply of and demand for electricity and gas futures and basis swap contracts utilized to manage the cost of gas for the utility's gas operations. The adoption of SFAS 133 on January 1, 2001 requiredgas.

Changes in the fair market values of these derivative instruments to be recorded as assets and liabilities on the balance sheet and a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The impact of this transition as of January 1, 2001, was a $5.1 million reduction in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income which was reclassified into earnings during 2001.

For Wisconsin Electric's gas operation, changes in the fair market values of cash flow hedging instruments, to the extent that the hedges are effective at mitigating the underlying commodity risk, will beare recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. At the date that the underlying transaction occurs, we report the amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income will be reported inas earnings. The ineffective portion of the derivative's change in fair value will beis recorded as a regulatory asset or liability immediately as these transactions are part of the purchased gas adjustment.

For the years ended December 31, 20022003 and 2001,2002, the amount of hedge ineffectiveness was immaterial. Wisconsin ElectricWe did not exclude any components of derivative gains or losses from the assessment of hedge effectiveness. The maximum length of time over which Wisconsin Electric iswe are hedging itsour exposure to the variability in future cash flows of forecasted transactions was two months as of December 31, 2002, was seven months. Wisconsin Electric estimates that losses of $0.5 million will be reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into earnings during the first seven months of 2003 as the hedged transactions affect earnings.

During the third quarter of 2002, Wisconsin Electric's regulated electric operations received approval from the PSCW to establish regulatory asset and liabilities in accordance with SFAS 71 to offset the effects of fair market value accounting for any electric-related contracts that qualify as derivatives under SFAS 133.2002.

 

 

J -- FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The carrying amount and estimated fair value of certain of Wisconsin Electric'sour recorded financial instruments at December 31 are as follows:

             2002             

             2001             

 

2003

 

2002

Carrying

Fair

Carrying

Fair

Financial Instruments

 Amount 

   Value   

 Amount 

   Value   

 

Carrying
Amount

 

Fair
Value

 

Carrying
Amount

 

Fair
Value

(Millions of Dollars)

 

(Millions of Dollars)

         

Nuclear decommissioning trust fund

$550.0 

$589.6 

 

$674.4 

 

$674.4 

 

$550.0 

 

$550.0 

Preferred stock, no redemption required

$30.4 

$17.5 

$30.4 

$16.7 

 

$30.4 

 

$20.9 

 

$30.4 

 

$17.5 

Long-term debt including

         

current portion

$1,258.3 

$1,302.1 

$1,512.3 

$1,549.6 

 

$1,399.4 

 

$1,417.9 

 

$1,258.3 

 

$1,302.1 

The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, net accounts receivable, accounts payable and short-term borrowings approximates fair value due to the short term nature of these instruments. The nuclear decommissioning trust fund is carried at fair value as reported by the trustee (see Note F)E). The fair valuesvalue of Wisconsin Electric'sour preferred stock areis estimated based upon the quoted market value for the same or similar issues. The fair value of Wisconsin Electric'sour long-term debt, including the current portion of long-term debt but excluding capitalized leases, is estimated based upon quoted market value for the same or similar issues or upon the quoted market prices of U.S. Treasury issues having a similar term to maturity, adjusted for the issuing company's bond rating and the present value of future cash flows. The fair values of gas commodity instruments are equal to their carrying values as of December 31, 2002.2003.

 

 

K -- BENEFITS

Pensions and Other PostretirementPost-retirement Benefits:   The Company   We have funded and Wisconsin Energy provideunfunded noncontributory defined benefit pension plans that together cover substantially all of our employees. The plans provide defined benefits based upon years of service and final average salary.

We also have other post-retirement benefit plans covering substantially all of our employees. The health care plans are contributory with participants' contributions adjusted annually; the life insurance plans are noncontributory. The accounting for the health care plans anticipates future cost-sharing changes to the written plans that are consistent

73


with our expressed intent to maintain the current cost sharing levels. The post-retirement health care plans include a limit on our share of costs for recent and future retirees. We use a year end measurement date for all of our pension and other postretirementpost-retirement benefit plans to employees. In 2002, the assets and obligationsplans.

  


Pension Benefits

 

Other Post-retirement
Benefits

Status of Benefit Plans

2003

2002

2001

2003

2002

2001

  

(Millions of Dollars)

Change in Benefit Obligation

            

  Benefit Obligation at January 1

 

$851.2 

 

$806.2 

 

$773.5 

 

$257.6 

 

$205.3 

 

$173.4 

    Service cost

 

27.2 

 

18.3 

 

18.5 

 

10.3 

 

7.5 

 

6.2 

    Interest cost

 

56.9 

 

56.7 

 

57.0 

 

17.6 

 

15.3 

 

13.6 

    Plan participants' contributions

 

-    

 

-    

 

-    

 

0.7 

 

6.9 

 

5.8 

    Plan amendments

 

18.5 

 

0.1 

 

-    

 

-    

 

-    

 

-    

    Actuarial loss

 

32.5 

 

28.6 

 

14.9 

 

14.0 

 

39.8 

 

21.9 

    Benefits paid

(53.8)

(58.7)

(57.7)

(10.9)

(17.2)

(15.6)

  Benefit Obligation at December 31

 

$932.5 

 

$851.2 

 

$806.2 

 

$289.3 

 

$257.6 

 

$205.3 

             

Change in Plan Assets

            

  Fair Value at January 1

 

$609.6 

 

$756.4 

 

$873.2 

 

$78.6 

 

$81.0 

 

$79.4 

    Actual earnings (loss) on plan assets

 

138.2 

 

(91.2)

 

(60.3)

 

11.9 

 

(5.1)

 

(0.1)

    Employer contributions

 

1.2 

 

3.1 

 

1.2 

 

15.4 

 

13.0 

 

11.5 

    Plan participants' contributions

 

-    

 

-    

 

-    

 

0.7 

 

6.9 

 

5.8 

    Benefits paid

 

(53.8)

 

(58.7)

 

(57.7)

 

(10.9)

 

(17.2)

 

(15.6)

  Fair Value at December 31

 

$695.2 

 

$609.6 

 

$756.4 

 

$95.7 

 

$78.6 

 

$81.0 

             

Funded Status of Plans

            

  Funded status at December 31

 

($237.3)

 

($241.6)

 

($49.8)

 

($193.6)

 

($179.0)

 

($124.3)

  Unrecognized

            

    Net actuarial loss

 

153.6 

 

203.2 

 

18.4 

 

94.1 

 

92.1 

 

44.1 

    Prior service cost

 

36.6 

 

22.9 

 

26.2 

 

0.2 

 

0.2 

 

0.3 

    Net transition (asset) obligation

(2.3)

(4.5)

(6.8)

13.8 

15.4 

16.8 

  Net Asset (Accrued Benefit Cost)

($49.4)

($20.0)

($12.0)

($85.5)

($71.3)

($63.1)

Amounts recognized in the Balance Sheet consist of:

    Prepaid benefit cost

$6.9 

$13.5 

$12.3 

$0.1 

$0.1 

$0.1 

    Accrued benefit cost

(49.4)

(28.5)

(24.3)

(85.6)

(71.4)

(63.2)

    Minimum liability

(113.8)

(163.6)

-    

-    

-    

-    

    Intangible asset

36.5 

22.8 

-    

-    

-    

-    

    Regulatory asset (See Note A)

70.4 

135.8 

-    

-    

-    

-    

Net amount recognized at end of year

($49.4)

($20.0)

($12.0)

($85.5)

($71.3)

($63.1)

The accumulated benefit obligation for all of the Company's

64


defined benefit pension plan were transferred from the Company to Wisconsin Energy. Additionally, two of theour defined benefit plans sponsored by Wisconsin Gas were merged into the Wisconsin Energy Plan. The Wisconsin Energy Plan provideswas $858.5 million and $785.7 million at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively.

Information for pension benefits to employees of Wisconsin Energy, the Company and other subsidiaries of Wisconsin Energy.

Wisconsin Energy allocates the service cost component of pension costs to participating companies based on labor dollars. The assets, obligations and the components of SFAS 87 pension costs other than service cost (including the minimum pension liability) are allocated by the Company's actuary to eachplans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of the participating companiesfair value of assets are as if each participating company had its own plan. The disclosures below are based on an allocation of the amounts for the Wisconsin Energy Plan to the Company.

The status of these plans, including a reconciliation of qualified and unqualified benefit obligations, a reconciliation of plan assets and the funded status of the plans follows.follows:

  

Other Postretirement

 

       Pension Benefits       

              Benefits              

            Status of Benefit Plans            

     2002     

     2001     

     2002     

     2001     

 

(Millions of Dollars)

Change in Benefit Obligation

    

  Benefit Obligation at January 1

$806.2    

$773.5    

$205.3    

$173.4    

    Service cost

    18.3    

    18.5    

7.5    

6.2    

    Interest cost

    56.7    

    57.0    

15.3    

13.6    

    Plan participants' contributions

-        

-        

6.9    

5.8    

    Plan amendments

   0.1    

-        

-     

-     

    Actuarial loss

    28.6    

    14.9    

39.8    

21.9    

    Benefits paid

   (58.7)   

  (57.7)   

   (17.2)   

  (15.6)   

  Benefit Obligation at December 31

$851.2    

$806.2    

$257.6    

$205.3    

     

Change in Plan Assets

    

  Fair Value at January 1

$756.4    

$873.2    

$81.0    

$79.4    

    Actual (loss) on plan assets

(91.2)   

(60.3)   

(5.1)   

(0.1)   

    Employer contributions

3.1    

1.2    

13.0    

11.5    

    Plan participants' contributions

-        

-     

6.9    

5.8    

    Benefits paid

   (58.7)   

  (57.7)   

  (17.2)   

 (15.6)   

  Fair Value at December 31

$609.6    

$756.4    

$78.6    

$81.0    

     

Funded Status of Plans

    

  Funded status at December 31

($241.6)   

($49.8)   

($179.0)   

($124.3)   

  Unrecognized

    

    Net actuarial loss (gain)

203.2    

18.4    

92.1    

44.1    

    Prior service cost

22.9    

26.2    

0.2    

0.3    

    Net transition (asset) obligation

    (4.5)   

   (6.8)   

    15.4    

   16.8    

  Net Asset (Accrued Benefit Cost)

  ($20.0)    

($12.0)   

 ($71.3)   

($63.1)   

 

====  

====  

====  

====  

     

Amounts recognized in the Balance Sheet consist of:

    

    Prepaid benefit cost

$13.5   

$12.3    

$0.1    

$0.1    

    Accrued benefit cost

(28.5)   

(24.3)   

(71.4)   

(63.2)   

    Additional minimum liability

(163.6)   

-        

-        

-        

    Intangible asset

22.8    

-        

-        

-        

    Regulatory asset (See Note A)

  135.8    

      -     

     -        

    -        

Net amount recognized at end of year

 ($20.0)   

($12.0)  

 ($71.3)   

($63.1)   

===== 

===== 

===== 

===== 

2003

2002

(Millions of Dollars)

    

Projected benefit obligation

$913.1     

 

$834.6     

Accumulated benefit obligation

$839.9     

 

$785.7     

Fair value of plan assets

$695.2     

 

$609.6     



6574


Additional Information

2003

2002

(Millions of Dollars)

Increase (decrease) in minimum liability included in a combination of other

   

  comprehensive income and regulatory assets

($49.8)     

 

$163.6      

The components of net periodic pension and other postretirementpost-retirement benefit costs are:

  


Pension Benefits

 

Other Post-retirement
Benefits

Benefit Plan Cost Components

2003

2002

2001

2003

2002

2001

Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Income)

            

  Service cost

 

$27.2  

 

$18.3  

 

$18.5  

 

$10.3  

 

$ 7.5  

 

$ 6.2  

  Interest cost

 

56.9  

 

56.7  

 

57.0  

 

17.6  

 

15.3  

 

13.6  

  Expected return on plan assets

 

(64.0) 

 

(68.2) 

 

(71.3) 

 

(6.5) 

 

(6.8) 

 

(6.8) 

Amortization of:

            

  Transition (asset) obligation

 

(2.2) 

 

(2.2) 

 

(2.2) 

 

1.5  

 

1.5  

 

1.5  

  Prior service cost

 

4.8  

 

3.4  

 

3.3  

 

-    

 

-    

 

0.1  

  Actuarial loss (gain)

 

3.0  

 

3.1  

 

0.9  

 

6.6  

 

3.7  

 

1.5  

Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Income)

 

$25.7  

 

$11.1  

 

$ 6.2  

 

$29.5  

 

$21.2  

 

$16.1  

             

Weighted-Average assumptions used to

            

  determine benefit obligations at Dec 31

            

Discount rate

 

6.25%

 

6.75%

 

7.25%

 

6.25%

 

6.75%

 

7.25%

Rate of compensation increase

 

4.5 to

 

4.0 to

 

4.5 to

 

4.5 to

 

4.0 to

 

4.5 to

  

5.0

 

5.0

 

5.0

 

5.0

 

5.0

 

5.0

Weighted-Average assumptions used to

            

  determine net cost for year ended Dec 31

            

Discount rate

 

6.75%

 

7.25%

 

7.50%

 

6.75%

 

7.25%

 

7.50%

Expected return on plan assets

 

9.0

 

9.0

 

9.0

 

9.0

 

9.0

 

9.0

Rate of compensation increase

 

4.0 to

 

4.5 to

 

4.5 to

 

4.0 to

 

4.5 to

 

4.5 to

  

5.0

 

5.0

 

5.0

 

5.0

 

5.0

 

5.0

Assumed health care cost trend rates at Dec 31

            

Health care cost trend rate assumed for

            

  next year

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

10

 

10

 

9

Rate that the cost trend rate gradually

            

  declines to

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

5

 

5

 

5

Year that the rate reaches the rate it is

            

  assumed to remain at

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

2009

 

2008

 

2007

             

The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets was 9% in 2003 and 2002. This return expectation on plan assets was determined by reviewing actual pension historical returns as well as calculating expected total trust returns using the weighted-average assumptions used in accountingweighted average of long term market returns for the plans include the following:

  

Other Postretirement

 

     Pension Benefits      

          Benefits          

Benefit Plan Cost Components

2002

2001

2000

2002

2001

2000

 

(Millions of Dollars)

Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Income)

      

  Service cost

$18.3 

$18.5 

$14.4 

$7.5 

$ 6.2 

$4.2 

  Interest cost

56.7 

57.0 

55.3 

15.3 

 13.6 

14.4 

  Expected return on plan assets

(68.2)

(71.3)

(68.4)

(6.8)

(6.8)

(7.0)

  Amortization of:

      

    Transition (asset) obligation

(2.2)

(2.2)

(2.2)

1.5 

1.5 

4.6 

    Prior service cost

3.4 

3.3 

3.9 

-   

0.1 

0.1 

    Actuarial loss (gain)

3.1 

0.9 

0.5 

3.7 

1.5 

(0.2)

    Terminations/curtailment

      -   

     -  

   1.2 

     -   

      -  

    8.8 

Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Income)

 $11.1 

 $6.2 

 $4.7 

$21.2 

$16.1 

$24.9 

 

====

====

====

====

====

====

       

Weighted-Average Assumptions

      

  Discount rate

6.75

7.25

7.5

6.75

7.25

7.5

  Expected return on plan assets

9.0

9.0

9.0

9.0

9.0

9.0

  Rate of compensation increase

4.0 to

4.5 to

4.5 to

4.0 to

4.5 to

4.5 to

 

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

Pension Plans:   As of December 31, 2002, approximately 71% of plan assets are invested in equity securities, and the balance of plan assets are invested in corporate and government bonds and real estate. In the opinioneach of the Company, current pension trust assets and amounts which are expected to be paid to the trustsasset categories utilized in the future will be adequate to meet pension payment obligations to current and future retirees.fund.

Open window benefits were offered in 2000 to certain participants in the Wisconsin Electric Retirement Account Plan for Non-Union Employees. This benefit enhancement resulted in a one-time SFAS 88 cost of $0.7 million.

Other PostretirementPost-retirement Benefits Plans:   The Company uses   We use various Employees' Benefit Trusts to fund a major portion of other postretirementpost-retirement benefits. The majority of the trusts' assets are mutual funds or commingled indexed funds.

EffectiveSince January 1, 1992, postretirementwe have calculated our post-retirement benefit costs have been calculated in accordance with SFAS 106, Employers' Accounting for PostretirementPost-retirement Benefits Other Than Pensions, andPensions. These costs are recoverable from theour utility customers of Wisconsin Electric.customers.

In 2000, the benefit attribution period was modified for the Wisconsin Electric Postretirement medical plans to equal the 10 years of service following the later of age at hire or age 45. This change resulted in a "negative" plan amendment and a "plan curtailment."



75


The assumed health care cost trend rate for 20032004 is at 10% for all plan participants decreasing gradually to 5% in 2008 and thereafter. Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for health care plans.

A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects:

1% Increase

 

1% Decrease

1% Increase

1% Decrease

(Millions of Dollars)

(Millions of Dollars)

Effect on

    

Postretirement benefit obligation

$22.2      

($19.9)     

Post-retirement benefit obligation

$25.5      

 

($22.7)     

Total of service and interest cost components

$2.6      

($2.3)     

$3.3      

 

($2.9)     

On December 8, 2003, the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the Act) was signed into law. The Act introduced a prescription drug benefit program under Medicare (Medicare Part D) as well as a federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health care benefit plans that provide a benefit that is at least actuarially equivalent to Medicare Part D.

In general, accounting rules require that changes in relevant laws and government benefit programs be considered in measuring post-retirement benefit costs and the Accumulated Post-retirement Benefit Obligation (APBO). However, certain accounting issues raised by the Act -- in particular, how to account for the federal subsidy -- are not explicitly addressed by FASB Statement 106. In addition, significant uncertainties exist for a plan sponsor both as to the direct effects of the Act and its ancillary effects on plan participant's behavior and health care costs.

The FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. SFAS 106-1, "Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003," (FSP 106-1) that allows sponsors to elect to defer recognition of the effects of the Act.

In accordance with FSP 106-1, we elected to defer recognition of the effects of the Act. Accordingly, any measures of the APBO or net periodic post-retirement benefit cost in the financial statements or the accompanying footnotes do not reflect the effects of the Act on the plan. Specific authoritative guidance on the accounting for the federal subsidy is pending and that guidance, when issued, could require us to change previously reported information.

Plan Assets:   In our opinion, current pension trust assets and amounts which are expected to be contributed to the trusts in the future will be adequate to meet pension payment obligations to current and future retirees. Our pension plans asset allocation at December 31, 2003 and 2002, and our target allocation for 2004, by asset category, are as follows:


 

Target
Alocation

 

Percentage of Pension Plans
Assets at December 31

Asset Category

2004

2003

 

2002

Equity Securities

 

72%

 

76%

 

72%

Debt Securities

 

28%

 

24%

 

28%

Total

 

100%

 

100%

 

100%

 

Wisconsin Energy Corporation's common stock is not included in equity securities. Investment managers are specifically prohibited from investing in our securities or any affiliate of ours except if part of a commingled fund.

The target asset allocation was established by our Board of Directors appointed Investment Trust Policy Committee, which oversees investment matters related to all of our funded benefit plans. Asset allocation is monitored by the Investment Trust Policy Committee and support staff on a monthly basis.



6676


Our other post-retirement benefit plans asset allocation at December 31, 2003 and 2002, and our target allocation for 2004, by asset category, are as follows:


 

Target
Alocation

 

Percentage of Pension Plans
Assets at December 31

Asset Category

2004

2003

 

2002

Equity Securities

35%

35%

36%

Debt Securities

 

64%

 

64%

 

63%

Other

 

1%

 

1%

 

1%

Total

 

100%

 

100%

 

100%

Wisconsin Energy Corporation's common stock is not included in equity securities. Investment managers are specifically prohibited from investing in our securities or any affiliate of ours except if part of a commingled fund.

The target asset allocation was established by our Board of Directors appointed Investment Trust Policy Committee, which oversees investment matters related to all of our funded benefit plans. Asset allocation is monitored by the Investment Trust Policy Committee and support staff on a monthly basis.

Cashflows:   



Employer Contributions

 


Pension Benefits

 

Other Post-retirement Benefits

  

(Millions of Dollars)

     

2002

 

$ -     

 

$12.9     

2003

 

-     

 

15.3     

2004 (Expected)

 

15.0   

 

15.5     

Of the $15.0 million expected to be contributed in 2004 for pension benefits, $3.5 million is the minimum required by law for our qualified plans.

All contributions to the other post-retirement benefit plans during 2004 are discretionary, as the plans are not subject to any minimum regulatory funding requirements. These contribution would be expected to be in the form of cash.

Savings Plans:   Wisconsin Electric sponsorsWe sponsor savings plans which allow employees to contribute a portion of their pretax and/and or after tax income in accordance with plan-specified guidelines. Matching contributions underUnder these plans, charged to expense amounted towe expensed $8.8 million of matching contributions during 2003 and $8.3 million $8.3 million and $9.0 millioneach during 2002 2001 and 2000, respectively.2001.



77


 

 

L -- GUARANTEES

Wisconsin Electric entersWe enter into various guarantees to provide financial and performance assurance to third parties. As of December 31, 2002 the Company2003, we had the following guarantees:

Maximum Potential
Future Payments

Outstanding at
Dec 31, 2002

Liability Recorded
at Dec 31, 2002

(Millions of Dollars)

Wisconsin Electric Guarantees (a)

$274.9       

$  -         

$  -         

(a)

None of the guarantees have been recorded as a liability at December 31, 2002.

  

Maximum
Potential
Future
Payments

 



Outstanding at
Dec 31, 2003

 


Liability
Recorded at
Dec 31, 2003

  

(Millions of Dollars)

       

Guarantees

 

$223.3    

 

-       

 

-         

       

Letters of Credit

2.1     

2.1     

-         

Wisconsin Electric guarantees support the commercial paper and line of credit borrowings for the Wisconsin Electric Fuel Trust (See Note G). Wisconsin Electric guaranteesWe guarantee the potential retrospective premiums that could be assessed under the Wisconsin Electric'sour nuclear insurance program (See Note F)E).

Postemployment benefits:   Postemployment benefits provided to former or inactive employees are recognized when an event occurs. As of December 31, 2002, the Company has2003, we have recorded an estimated liability, based on an accrual analysis, of $6.4$4 million.

 

 

M -- SEGMENT REPORTING

Wisconsin Electric,We are a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, hasand have organized itsour operating segments according to how it iswe are currently regulated. Wisconsin Electric'sOur reportable operating segments include electric, natural gas and steam utility segments. The accounting policies of the reportable operating segments are the same as those described in Note A.

TheOur electric utility engages in the generation, distribution and sale of electric energy in southeastern (including metropolitan Milwaukee), east central and northern Wisconsin and in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. TheOur natural gas utility is responsible forengaged in the purchase, distribution and sale of natural gas to retail customers and the transportation of customer-owned natural gas in three service areas in southeastern, east central and northern Wisconsin. TheOur steam utility produces, distributes and sells steam to space heating and processing customers in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area.

Summarized financial information concerning Wisconsin Electric'sour reportable operating segments for each of the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 2001 and 2000,2001, is shown in the following table.



6778


Reportable Operating Segments

  

Reportable Operating Segments

  

Year Ended

Electric

Gas

Steam

Other (a)

Total

Electric

Gas

Steam

Other (a)

Total

(Millions of Dollars)

(Millions of Dollars)

December 31, 2002

     

December 31, 2003

     
          

Operating Revenues (b)

$1,884.6 

$389.8 

$21.5 

$   -   

$2,295.9

$1,986.4 

$513.0 

$22.5 

$   -   

$2,521.9 

Depreciation, Decommissioning

          

and Amortization

$230.0 

$34.6 

$3.3 

$   -   

$267.9

$234.1 

$38.9 

$3.2 

$   -   

$276.2 

Operating Income (c)

$453.3 

$33.5 

($1.5)

$   -   

$485.3

$422.3 

$49.0 

$   -   

$   -   

$471.3 

Equity in Earnings

          

of Unconsolidated Affiliates

$20.4 

$   -   

$   -   

$   -   

$20.4

$22.8 

$   -   

$   -   

$   -   

$22.8 

Capital Expenditures

$312.3 

$34.7 

$1.6 

$17.1

$365.7

$271.6 

$56.8 

$2.6 

$12.7 

$343.7 

Total Assets (d)

$4,499.8 

$499.3 

$48.2 

$285.0

$5,332.3

$5,784.9 

$628.7 

$54.5 

$176.5 

$6,644.6 

          
          

December 31, 2002

     
     

Operating Revenues (b)

$1,884.6 

$389.8 

$21.5 

$   -   

$2,295.9

Depreciation, Decommissioning

     

and Amortization

$230.0 

$34.6 

$3.3 

$   -   

$267.9

Operating Income (Loss) (c)

$453.3 

$33.5 

($1.5)

$   -   

$485.3

Equity in Earnings

     

of Unconsolidated Affiliates

$20.4 

$   -   

$   -   

$   -   

$20.4

Capital Expenditures

$312.3 

$34.7 

$1.6 

$17.1

$365.7

Total Assets (d)

$5,513.3 

$566.2 

$55.3 

$150.3

$6,285.1

     

December 31, 2001

          
          

Operating Revenues (b)

$1,839.8

$457.1

$21.8

$   -   

$2,318.7

$1,839.8

$457.1

$21.8

$   -   

$2,318.7

Depreciation, Decommissioning

          

and Amortization

$231.7

$29.3

$3.3

$   -   

$264.3

$231.7

$29.3

$3.3

$   -   

$264.3

Operating Income (c)

$446.2

$28.6

$1.2

$   -   

$476.0

$446.2

$28.6

$1.2

$   -   

$476.0

Equity in Earnings

          

of Unconsolidated Affiliates

$20.6

$   -   

$   -   

$   -   

$20.6

$20.6

$   -   

$   -   

$   -   

$20.6

Capital Expenditures

$324.4

$34.5

$3.1

$15.0

$377.0

$324.4

$34.5

$3.1

$15.0

$377.0

Total Assets (d)

$4,265.6

$499.8

$48.6

$253.5

$5,067.5

          

December 31, 2000

     
     

Operating Revenues (b)

$1,763.4

$399.7

$21.9

$   -   

$2,185.0

Depreciation, Decommissioning

     

and Amortization

$239.5

$30.0

$3.2

$   -   

$272.7

Operating Income (c)

$368.9

$23.2

$1.8

$   -   

$393.9

Capital Expenditures

$318.9

$32.1

$1.2

$0.3 

$352.5

Total Assets (d)

$4,163.1

$445.3

$48.0

$368.7 

$5,025.1

(a)

Other includes primarily other non-utility property and investments, materials and supplies and deferred charges.

  

(b)

Wisconsin Electric accountsWe account for intersegment revenues at a tariff rate established by the PSCW. Intersegment revenues are not material.

  

(c)

Interest income and interest expense are not included in segment operating income.

  

(d)

Common utility plant is allocated to electric, gas and steam to determine segment assets (see Note A).

 

 

N -- RELATED PARTIES

American Transmission Company ("ATC"):   The Company hasCompany:   We have approximately a 37%34.6% interest in ATC, a regional transmission company established in 2000 under Wisconsin legislation. During 2003, 2002 and 2001, the Companywe paid ATC $94.4 million, $85.1 million and $71.0 million, respectively, for transmission services. The CompanyWe also providesprovide a variety of operational, maintenance and project management work for ATC, which are reimbursed to the Companyus by ATC.



79


Other:   Managerial, financial, accounting, legal, data processing and other services may be rendered between associated companies and are billed in accordance with service agreements approved by the PSCW. The CompanyWe had a net receivable from associated companies of approximately $19.1$10.7 million as of December 31, 2002.2003.



68


 

 

O -- COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Capital Expenditures:   Certain   We have made certain commitments have been made in connection with 20032004 capital expenditures. During 2003,2004, we estimate that total capital expenditures are estimated towill be approximately $340$406 million.

Operating Leases:   The Company entersWe enter into long-term purchase power contracts to meet a portion of itsour anticipated increase in future electric energy supply needs. These contracts expire at various times through 2013. Certain of these contracts were deemed to qualify as operating leases.

Future minimum payments for the next five years and thereafter for these contracts are as follows:

(Millions of Dollars)

 

(Millions of
Dollars)

 

2003

$33.6           

2004

38.4           

 

$42.5     

2005

38.6           

 

41.4     

2006

38.8           

 

41.2     

2007

39.0           

 

40.8     

2008

 

26.4     

Thereafter

  88.2           

 

79.9     

Total

$276.6           

 

$272.2     

====        

 

Giddings & Lewis, Inc./City of West Allis Lawsuit:   Lawsuit:   During 2002, Wisconsin Electricwe entered into Settlement Agreements and Releases with Giddings & Lewis Inc. and Kearney & Trecker Corporation (now a part of Giddings & Lewis) and the City of West Allis, thereby ending all remaining litigation in this lawsuit. Under the Settlement Agreements and Releases, Wisconsin Electricwe paid $17.3 million as full and final settlement of all damage claims against Wisconsin Electric.us. These settlements resulted in a 2002 charge of approximately $10.6 million after tax for Wisconsin Electric.us. The Settlement Agreements were determined to be in the mutual best interests of the settling parties in order to avoid the burden, inconvenience and expense of continued litigation between the parties and doesdo not constitute an admission of liability or wrongdoing by Wisconsin Electricus with respect to any released claims.

OnIn September 25, 2002, Wisconsin Electricwe filed a lawsuit against itsour insurance carriers to recover those costs and expenses associated with this matter covered by insurance. Wisconsin Electric intends to fully pursue any and all rightsmatter. As of recovery against itsDecember 31, 2003, we have recovered amounts totaling approximately $11.2 million from several insurance carriers, under the applicable insurance policies.

As previously reported, in July 1999, a Milwaukee County Circuit Court jury had issued a verdict against Wisconsin Electric awarding the plaintiffs, Giddings & Lewis, Kearney & Trecker, and the City of West Allis, $4.5with $11.1 million in compensatory damages and $100 million in punitive damages in an action alleging that Wisconsin Electric had deposited contaminated wastes at two sites owned by the plaintiffs in West Allis, Wisconsin. In September 2001, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals reversed the $100 million punitive damage judgment in its entirety, ordering a new trial on the issue of punitive damages only. In January 2002, the Wisconsin Supreme Court denied petitions for further review and ordered the Circuit Court to retry the issue of punitive damages. After contested hearings on April 8, 2002, the plaintiffs returned to Wisconsin Electric $117.7 million, consisting of the portion of the paid judgment pertaining to punitive damages and interest accrued on th at amount. The new trial was scheduled to commence on October 21, 2002.

On August 21, 2000 and September 29, 2000, two shareholders, who had made prior demands upon Wisconsin Energy and Wisconsin Electric to initiate a shareholder derivative suit against certain officers, directors, employees and agentsrecorded as a resultreduction of other operation and maintenance expenses. We are continuing to pursue litigation against the City of West Allis/Giddings & Lewis litigation, filed suits on behalf of Wisconsin Energy shareholders in Milwaukee County Circuit Court. A special committee of independent directors of Wisconsin Energy determined after investigation that a derivative proceeding was not in the Company's best interests. The Company agreed to mediation of the matter which resulted in an acceptable proposal to settle the cases. The Court granted preliminary approval of the settlement agreement on October 29, 2001,remaining insurance carriers and authorized sending notice of the settlement to the shareholders. A final hearing on approval of the settlement agreement was held on January 25, 2002, at which time the Court gave final approval to the settlement and dismissed the cases. The settlement di d not have a significant impact on financial position or results of operations.other third parties.



69


Environmental Matters:   The Company   We periodically reviews itsreview our exposure for environmental remediation costs as evidence becomes available indicating that its remediationour liability has changed. Given current information, including the following, management believes that future costs in excess of the amounts accrued and/or disclosed on all presently known and quantifiable environmental contingencies will not be material to the Company'sour financial position or results of operations.

During 2000, the Company expandedWe have a voluntary program of comprehensive environmental remediation planning for former manufactured gas plant sites and coal-ash disposal sites. The Company has performed a preliminary assessmentWe perform ongoing assessments of twenty-three sites, including twelve manufactured gas plant sites previously used by Wisconsin Electric, and elevenrelated disposal sites and coal ash disposal/landfill sites used by Wisconsin Electric,us, as discussed below. The Company isWe are working with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources in itsour investigation and remediation planning. At this time, the Companywe cannot estimate future remediation costs associated with these sites beyond those described below.

Manufactured Gas Plant Sites:   The Company has   We have completed planned remediation activities at three former manufactured gas plant sites, with remediationsites. Remediation at additional sites is currently being completed. Otherperformed, and other sites are being investigated or monitored. The Company estimatesWe have identified additional sites that may have been impacted by historical manufactured gas plant activities. Based upon ongoing analysis, we estimate that the future costs for detailed site investigation and future

80


remediation costs may range from $25-$40 million over the next ten years. This estimate is dependent upon several variables including, among other things, the extent of remediation, changes in technology and changes in regulation. As of December 31, 2002, the Company has2003, we have established reserves of $25.0$23.5 million related to future remediation costs.

The PSCW has allowed Wisconsin utilities, including Wisconsin Electric,us, to defer the costs spent on the remediation of manufactured gas plant sites, and has allowed for suchthese costs to be recovered in rates over five years. As such, the Company hasAccordingly, we have recorded a regulatory asset for remediation costs.

Ash Landfill Sites:   Wisconsin ElectricWe aggressively seeksseek environmentally acceptable, beneficial uses for itsour coal combustion by-products. However, suchthese coal-ash by-products have been, and to somea small degree, continue to be disposed in Company-owned,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 monitoring or adjusting. Where Wisconsin Electric haswe have become aware of these conditions, efforts have been expended to define the nature and extent of any release and work has been performed to address these conditions. The costs of these efforts are included in theour fuel costs of Wisconsin Electric.costs. During 2003, 2002 and 2001, and 2000, the Companywe incurred $2.1 million, $1.2$2.1 million and $2.9$1.2 million, respectively, in coal-ash remediation expenses.

As a result of the Cooperative Agreement, an innovative regulatory agreement signed with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources in February 2001, the Company is now ableDecember 31, 2003 we have no reserves established related to recover fly-ash from its landfills and mix it with coal for combustion at Pleasant Prairie Power Plant. In this way, the carbon left in the ash is recovered as "ash fuel" and the resulting fly-ash produced is a high value product sold as a replacement for cement.landfill sites.

EPA Information Requests:   Wisconsin Electric   We received a request for information in December 2000 from the United States Environmental Protection Agency ("U.S. EPA")(EPA) regional offices pursuant to Section 114(a) of the Clean Air Act in December 2000 and a supplemental request in December 2002. In April 2003, we announced that a consent decree had been reached with the EPA that resolved all issues related to this matter. Under the consent decree, we will significantly reduce our air emissions from our coal-fired generating facilities. The reductions will be achieved between now and 2013 through a combination of installing new pollution control equipment, upgrading existing equipment, and retiring certain older units. The capital cost of implementing this agreement is estimated to be approximately $600 million over 10 years. Under the agreement with EPA, we will spend between $20 million and $25 million to conduct a research project at our Presque Isle facility, in cooperation with th e U.S. Department of Energy, to test new mercury reduction technologies. These requests seek information relatingsteps and the associated costs are consistent with our cost projections for implementing our Wisconsin Multi-Emission Cooperative Agreement and Wisconsin Energy'sPower the Future plan. We also agreed to operationspay a civil penalty of $3.2 million, which was charged to earnings in the second quarter of 2003. On July 21, 2003, the court granted the state of Michigan's and the EPA's joint motion to amend the consent decree to allow Michigan to become a party. Under the terms of the Company's power plants. Wisconsin Electric submitted information responsiveamended consent decree, $0.1 million of the original $3.2 million civil penalty will be paid to the December 2000 request and isstate of Michigan. The agreement has gone through the public comment period. In October 2003, three citizen groups filed a motion with the court to intervene in the processproceeding to contest the consent decree; the court granted their motion. Also, in October 2003, the government filed its response to public comments and a mo tion asking the court to approve the amended consent decree The intervenor groups subsequently filed a motion requesting that the court stay the government's motion for approval of submitting information responsivethe decree to allow the supplemental request. These information requestsintervenors to conduct discovery. Briefing has been completed. Both the intervenors' motion and the government's motion for court approval of the decree are similar to those issued bybefore the U.S. EPA to numerous electric utility companies over the past two years. The Company will continue to cooperate with the U.S. EPA on these matters. At this time, Wisconsin Energy cannot predict whether the U.S. EPA will allege past violations that might subject the Company to fines or penalties.court for consideration.



7081


INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Wisconsin Electric Power Company:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheetsheets and consolidated statementstatements of capitalization of Wisconsin Electric Power Company and subsidiary as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders'common equity, and cash flows for the yearyears then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.audits. The financial statements of Wisconsin Electric Power Company as offor the year ended December 31, 2001 and for the year then ended, were audited by other auditors who have ceased operations. Those auditors expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements in their report dated February 5, 2002.

We conducted our auditaudits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the auditaudits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit providesaudits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Wisconsin Electric Power Company and subsidiary at December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the yearyears then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

As described in Note F, on January 1, 2003, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 143, "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations".

/s/DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Deloitte & Touche LLP

Milwaukee, Wisconsin
February 7, 200320, 2004



7182


The following report is a copy of a report previously issued by Arthur Andersen LLP in connection with the Company'sour Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001. This opinion has not been reissued by Arthur Andersen LLP. See Exhibit 23.2 for further discussion.

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Wisconsin Electric Power Company:

We have audited the accompanying balance sheet and statement of capitalization of Wisconsin Electric Power Company as of December 31, 2001, and the related statements of income, common equity and cash flows for the year then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Wisconsin Electric Power Company as of December 31, 2001, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.

 

 

 

/s/ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
Arthur Andersen LLP

Milwaukee, Wisconsin
February 5, 2002



7283


 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENTITEM 9     CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS

To the Board of Directors and the

   Stockholder of Wisconsin Electric Power Company

In our opinion, the statements of income, of common equity and of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2000 present fairly, in all material respects, the results of operations and cash flows of Wisconsin Electric Power Company for the year ended December 31, 2000 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit of these financial statements in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant esti mates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP ON
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Milwaukee, Wisconsin
February 6, 2001



73


ITEM 9.

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON

ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

In March 2001, the Board of Directors of Wisconsin Energy, upon recommendation of its Audit and Oversight Committee, ended the engagement of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as Wisconsin Electric's independent public accountants and engaged Arthur Andersen LLP to serve as Wisconsin Electric's independent public accountants for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2001.

In July 2002, the Board of Directors of Wisconsin Energy, upon recommendation of its Audit and Oversight Committee, ended the engagement of Arthur Andersen LLP as Wisconsin Electric'sour independent public accountants and engaged Deloitte & Touche LLP to serve as Wisconsin Electric'sour independent auditors for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002.

The members of the Board of Directors of Wisconsin Energy are also the members of theour Board of Directors of Wisconsin Electric and, as such, approved the changes with respect to Wisconsin Electric.us. For more information, see the Company'sour current reportsreport on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2001 and July 8, 2002, respectively.2002.

ITEM 9A.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures:   Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act)) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on such evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of such period, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in recording, processing, summarizing and reporting, on a timely basis, information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act.

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting:   There have not been any changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the fourth quarter of 2003 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

 

PART III

ITEM 10.

DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

The information under "Election of Directors" and, "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance", "Corporate Governance -- Frequently Asked Questions: Are the Audit and Oversight and Compensation Committees comprised solely of independent directors?", "Corporate Governance -- Frequently Asked Questions: Are all the members of the audit committee financially literate and does the committee have an "audit committee financial expert"?" and "Committees of the Board of Directors -- Audit and Oversight" in Wisconsin Electric'sour definitive Information Statement to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for itsour Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held April 25, 200330, 2004 (the "2003"2004 Annual Meeting Information Statement") is incorporated herein by reference. Also see "Executive Officers of the Registrant" in Part I.

Wisconsin Energy has adopted a written code of ethics, referred to as its Code of Business Conduct. We are a wholly owned subsidiary of Wisconsin Energy, and as such, all of our directors and employees, including the principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer, must comply with Wisconsin Energy's Code of Business Conduct. Wisconsin Energy has posted its Code of Business Conduct on its Internet website, www.WisconsinEnergy.com. Any amendments to, or waivers from, the Code of Business Conduct will be disclosed on Wisconsin Energy's website or in a current report on Form 8-K.



84


 

 

ITEM 11.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information under "Compensation of the Board of Directors," "Executive Officers' Compensation," "Employment and Severance Arrangements" and "Retirement Plans" in the 20032004 Annual Meeting Information Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

ITEM 12.

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

All of Wisconsin Electric'sour Common Stock (100% of such class) is owned by itsour parent company, Wisconsin Energy Corporation, 231 West Michigan Street, P.O. Box 2949, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201. TheOur directors, director nominees and executive officers of Wisconsin Electric do not own any of theour voting securities of Wisconsin Electric.securities. The information concerning their beneficial ownership of Wisconsin Energy Corporation stock set forth under "Stock Ownership of Directors, Nominees and Executive Officers" in the 20032004 Annual Meeting Information Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

The Company doesWe do not have any equity compensation plans under which itsour equity securities may be issued. ItsOur directors, officers and certain employees participate in the compensation plans of Wisconsin Energy Corporation.



74


 

 

ITEM 13.

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

The information under "Certain Related Transactions" in the 20032004 Annual Meeting Information Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

ITEM 14.

CONTROLSPRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND PROCEDURESSERVICES

The Company maintains disclosure controlsinformation regarding the fees paid to, and procedures designed to ensure thatservices performed by, our independent auditors and the information the Company must disclose in its filings with the Securitiespre-approval policy of our audit and Exchange Commission is recorded, processed, summarized and reported on a timely basis. The Company's principal executive officer and principal financial officer have reviewed and evaluated the Company's disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-14(c) and 15d-14(c)oversight committee under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act") as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this report (the "Evaluation Date"). Based on such evaluation, such officers have concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective in bringing to their attention on a timely basis material information relating to the Company required to be included"Independent Auditors" in the Company's periodic filings under the Exchange Act.2004 Annual Meeting Information Statement is incorporated herein by reference.



85


Since the Evaluation Date, there have not been any significant changes in the internal controls of the Company, or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls subsequent to the Evaluation Date.

 

 

 

PART IV

ITEM 15.

EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS

 

ON FORM 8-K

(a) 1.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND REPORTS OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS INCLUDED IN PART II OF THIS REPORT

Consolidated Income Statements for the three years ended December 31, 2003.

Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2003 and 2002.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three years ended December 31, 2002.

Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2002 and 2001.

Consolidated Statements of Capitalization at December 31, 2002 and 2001.2003.

Consolidated Statements of Common Equity for the three years ended December 31, 2003.

Consolidated Statements of Capitalization at December 31, 2003 and 2002.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Independent Auditors' Reports.

 

 

    2.

FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES INCLUDED IN PART IV OF THIS REPORT

Financial statementsstatement 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.



75


 

    3.

EXHIBITS AND EXHIBIT INDEX

See the Exhibit Index included as the last part of this report, which is incorporated herein by reference. Each management contract and compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed as an exhibit to this report is identified in the Exhibit Index by two asterisks (**) following the description of the exhibit.

 

 

(b)

REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

A Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of December 22, 2003 was filed by Wisconsin Electric on December 22, 2003 to report that Nuclear Management Company, which operates our Point Beach Nuclear Plant,submitted a letter notifying the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission that it intends to file an application in February 2004 to renew the operating licenses for the plant's two nuclear reactors for an additional 20 years.

No Current Reportsother reports on Form 8-K were filed by Wisconsin Electric during the quarter ended December 31, 2002.2003.

A Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of January 27, 2004 was filed by Wisconsin Electric on January 29, 2003 to report that the Dane County Circuit Court issued a decision which returned to the PSCW for further consideration its decision authorizing construction of the Port Washington Generating Station.

A Current Report on Form 8-K dated as of February 11, 2004 was filed by Wisconsin Electric on February 11, 2004 to report that Richard A. Abdoo, Chairman of the Board of Wisconsin Electric, has decided to retire effective April 30, 2004, and that Gale E. Klappa, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wisconsin Electric, will assume the positions held by Mr. Abdoo effective May 1, 2004.



7686


 

 

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

  

By

/s/RICHARD A. ABDOOGALE E. KLAPPA                                  

Date:   February 28, 2003   March 8, 2004

Richard A. Abdoo, Chairman of the Board

Gale E. Klappa, President 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 date indicated.

/s/RICHARD A. ABDOOGALE E. KLAPPA                            

 

February 28, 2003March 8, 2004

Richard A. Abdoo, Chairman of the Board,Gale E. Klappa, President, Chief Executive Officer

  

Executive Officer and Director -- Principal Executive Officer

  
   

/s/PAUL DONOVANALLEN L. LEVERETT                                  

 

February 28, 2003March 8, 2004

Paul Donovan, Executive Vice President andAllen L. Leverett, Chief Financial Officer --

  

Principal Financial Officer

  
   

/s/STEPHEN P. DICKSON                          

 

February 28, 2003March 8, 2004

Stephen P. Dickson, Controller -- Principal Accounting Officer

  
   

/s/RICHARD A. ABDOO                            

March 8, 2004

Richard A. Abdoo, Director

/s/JOHN F. AHEARNE                                

 

February 28, 2003March 8, 2004

John F. Ahearne, Director

  
   

/s/JOHN F. BERGSTROM                           

 

February 28, 2003March 8, 2004

John F. Bergstrom, Director

  
   

/s/BARBARA L. BOWLES                         

 

February 28, 2003March 8, 2004

Barbara L. Bowles, Director

  
   

/s/ROBERT A. CORNOG                            

 

February 28, 2003March 8, 2004

Robert A. Cornog, Director

  
   

/s/WILLIE D. DAVIS                                  

 

February 28, 2003March 8, 2004

Willie D. Davis, Director

/s/RICHARD R. GRIGG                              

February 28, 2003

Richard R. Grigg, Director

  
   

/s/ULICE PAYNE, JR.                              

 

February 28, 2003March 8, 2004

Ulice Payne, Jr., Director

  
   

/s/FREDERICK P. STRATTON, JR.            

 

February 28, 2003March 8, 2004

Frederick P. Stratton, Jr., Director

  
   

/s/GEORGE E. WARDEBERG                    

 

February 28, 2003March 8, 2004

George E. Wardeberg, Director

  



7787


 

I, Richard A. Abdoo, certify that:

1.   I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Wisconsin Electric Power Company;

2.   Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this annual report;

3.   Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this annual report;

4.   The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this annual report is being prepared;

b) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this annual report (the "Evaluation Date"); and

c) Presented in this annual report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

5.   The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant's auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal controls; and

6.   The registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this annual report whether there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

Date:

February 28, 2003

/s/RICHARD A. ABDOO                                                                         

Chief Executive Officer



78


I, Paul Donovan, certify that:

1.   I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Wisconsin Electric Power Company;

2.   Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this annual report;

3.   Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this annual report;

4.   The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this annual report is being prepared;

b) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this annual report (the "Evaluation Date"); and

c) Presented in this annual report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

5.   The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant's auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal controls; and

6.   The registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this annual report whether there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

Date:

February 28, 2003

/s/PAUL DONOVAN                                                                            

Chief Financial Officer



79


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
(Commission File No. 001-01245)

EXHIBIT INDEX
to
Annual Report on Form 10-K
For the year ended December 31, 20022003

 

The following exhibits are filed or furnished with or incorporated by reference in the report with respect to Wisconsin Electric Power Company. (An asterisk (*) indicates incorporation by reference pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 12b-32.)

  Number  

 

                                               Exhibit                                                    

   

3

 

Articles of Incorporation and By-laws

    
  

3.1*

Restated Articles of Incorporation of Wisconsin Electric Power Company, as amended and restated effective January 10, 1995. (Exhibit (3)-1 to Wisconsin Electric Power Company's 12/31/94 Form 10-K.)

    
  

3.2*

By-lawsBylaws of Wisconsin Electric Power Company, as amended to May 1, 2000. (Exhibit 3.1 to Wisconsin Electric Power Company's 3/31/00 Form 10-Q.)

    
    

4

 

Instruments defining the rights of security holders, including indentures

    
  

4.1*

Reference is made to Article III of the Restated Articles of Incorporation of Wisconsin Electric Power Company. (Exhibit 3.1 herein.)

    
  

Mortgage, Indenture, Supplemental Indenture or Securities Resolutions:

    
  

4.2*

Mortgage and Deed of Trust of Wisconsin Electric Power Company ("Wisconsin Electric"), dated October 28, 1938. (Exhibit B-1 under File No. 2-4340.)

    
  

4.3*

Second Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated June 1, 1946. (Exhibit 7-C under File No. 2-6422.)

    
  

4.4*

Third Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated March 1, 1949. (Exhibit 7-C under File No. 2-8456.)

    
  

4.5*

Fourth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated June 1, 1950. (Exhibit 7-D under File No. 2-8456.)

    
  

4.6*

Fifth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated May 1, 1952. (Exhibit 4-G under File No. 2-9588.)

    
  

4.7*

Sixth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated May 1, 1954. (Exhibit 4-H under File No. 2-10846.)

    
  

4.8*

Seventh Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated April 15, 1956. (Exhibit 4-I under File No. 2-12400.)



E-1


  Number  

                                               Exhibit                                                    

    
  

4.9*

Eighth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated April 1, 1958. (Exhibit 2-I under File No. 2-13937.)

    
  

4.10*

Ninth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated November 15, 1960. (Exhibit 2-J under File No. 2-17087.)



E-1


  Number  

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         

   
  

4.11*

Tenth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated November 1, 1966. (Exhibit 2-K under File No. 2-25593.)

    
  

4.12*

Eleventh Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated November 15, 1967. (Exhibit 2-L under File No. 2-27504.)

    
  

4.13*

Twelfth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated May 15, 1968. (Exhibit 2-M under File No. 2-28799.)

    
  

4.14*

Thirteenth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated May 15, 1969. (Exhibit 2-N under File No. 2-32629.)

    
  

4.15*

Fourteenth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated November 1, 1969. (Exhibit 2-O under File No. 2-34942.)

    

 

 

4.16*

Fifteenth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated July 15, 1976. (Exhibit 2-P under File No. 2-54211.)

    
  

4.17*

Sixteenth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated January 1, 1978. (Exhibit 2-Q under File No. 2-61220.)

    
  

4.18*

Seventeenth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated May 1, 1978. (Exhibit 2-R under File No. 2-61220.)

    
  

4.19*

Eighteenth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated May 15, 1978. (Exhibit 2-S under File No. 2-61220.)

    
  

4.20*

Nineteenth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated August 1, 1979. (Exhibit (a)2(a) to Wisconsin Electric's 9/30/79 Form 10-Q.)

    
  

4.21*

Twentieth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated November 15, 1979. (Exhibit (a)2(a) to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/79 Form 10-K.)

    
  

4.22*

Twenty-First Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated April 15, 1980. (Exhibit (4)-21 under File No. 2-69488.)

    
  

4.23*

Twenty-Second Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated December 1, 1980. (Exhibit (4)-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/80 Form 10-K.)

    
  

4.24*

Twenty-Third Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated September 15, 1985. (Exhibit (4)-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 9/30/85 Form 10-Q.)

    
  

4.25*

Twenty-Fourth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated September 15, 1985. (Exhibit (4)-2 to Wisconsin Electric's 9/30/85 Form 10-Q.)

    
  

4.26*

Twenty-Fifth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated December 15, 1986. (Exhibit (4)-25 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/86 Form 10-K.)

    

 

 

4.27*

Twenty-Sixth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated January 15, 1988. (Exhibit 4 to Wisconsin Electric's 1/26/88 Form 8-K.)



E-2


  Number  

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         

    
  

4.28*

Twenty-Seventh Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated April 15, 1988. (Exhibit 4 to Wisconsin Electric's 3/31/88 Form 10-Q.)

    
  

4.29*

Twenty-Eighth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated September 1, 1989. (Exhibit 4 to Wisconsin Electric's 9/30/89 Form 10-Q.)



E-2


  Number  

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         

   
  

4.30*

Twenty-Ninth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated October 1, 1991. (Exhibit 4-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/91 Form 10-K.)

    
  

4.31*

Thirtieth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated December 1, 1991. (Exhibit 4-2 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/91 Form 10-K.)

    
  

4.32*

Thirty-First Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated August 1, 1992. (Exhibit 4-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 6/30/92 Form 10-Q.)

    
  

4.33*

Thirty-Second Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated August 1, 1992. (Exhibit 4-2 to Wisconsin Electric's 6/30/92 Form 10-Q.)

    
  

4.34*

Thirty-Third Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated October 1, 1992. (Exhibit 4-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 9/30/92 Form 10-Q.)

    
  

4.35*

Thirty-Fourth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated November 1, 1992. (Exhibit 4-2 to Wisconsin Electric's 9/30/92 Form 10-Q.)

    
  

4.36*

Thirty-Fifth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated December 15, 1992. (Exhibit 4-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/92 Form 10-K.)

    

 

 

4.37*

Thirty-Sixth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated January 15, 1993. (Exhibit 4-2 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/92 Form 10-K.)

    
  

4.38*

Thirty-Seventh Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated March 15, 1993. (Exhibit 4-3 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/92 Form 10-K.)

    
  

4.39*

Thirty-Eighth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated August 1, 1993. (Exhibit (4)-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 6/30/93 Form 10-Q.)

    
  

4.40*

Thirty-Ninth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated September 15, 1993. (Exhibit (4)-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 9/30/93 Form 10-Q.)

    
  

4.41*

Fortieth Supplemental Indenture of Wisconsin Electric, dated January 1, 1996. (Exhibit (4)-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 1/1/96 Form 8-K.)

    
  

4.42*

Indenture for Debt Securities of Wisconsin Electric (the "Wisconsin Electric Indenture"), dated December 1, 1995. (Exhibit (4)-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/95 Form 10-K.)

    
  

4.43*

Securities Resolution No. 1 of Wisconsin Electric under the Wisconsin Electric Indenture, dated December 5, 1995. (Exhibit (4)-2 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/95 Form 10-K.)

    
  

4.44*

Securities Resolution No. 2 of Wisconsin Electric under the Wisconsin Electric Indenture, dated November 12, 1996. (Exhibit 4.44 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/96 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)

    
  

4.45*

Securities Resolution No. 3 of Wisconsin Electric under the Wisconsin Electric Indenture, dated May 27, 1998. (Exhibit (4)-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 6/30/98 Form 10-Q.)



E-3


  Number  

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         

    
  

4.46*

Securities Resolution No. 4 of Wisconsin Electric under the Wisconsin Electric Indenture, dated November 30, 1999. (Exhibit 4.46 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/99 Form 10-K.)



E-3


  Number  

 

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         4.47*

Securities Resolution No. 5 of Wisconsin Electric under the Wisconsin Electric Indenture, dated as of May 1, 2003. (Exhibit 4.47 filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Wisconsin Electric's Registration Statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-101054), filed May 6, 2003.)

   
   

Certain agreements and instruments with respect to long-term debt not exceeding 10 percent of the total assets of the Registrant and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis 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

 

Material Contracts

    
  

10.1*

Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, as amended and restated as of December 9, 2002. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/02 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.2*

Service Agreement, dated April 25, 2000, between Wisconsin Electric Power Company and Wisconsin Gas Company. Exhibit 10.32 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/00 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)

    

 

 

10.3*

Executive Deferred Compensation Plan of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, effective January 1, 2001, and as amended and restated as of JanuaryFebruary 1, 2002, and as further amended on March 1, 2002.2004. (Exhibit 10.110.3 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 3/12/31/0203 Form 10-Q10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 

 

10.4*

Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, effective January 1, 1987,as amended and as restated as of January 1, 1996.2004. (Exhibit (10)-410.4 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/9503 Form 10-K (File No. 001--09057)001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.5*

Amended and Restated Wisconsin Energy Corporation Special Executive Severance Policy, effective as of April 26, 2000. (Exhibit 10.3 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 3/31/00 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.6*

Short-Term Performance Plan of Wisconsin Energy Corporation effective January 1, 1992, as amended and restated as of August 15, 2000. (Exhibit 10.12 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/00 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.7*

Amended and Restated Wisconsin Energy Corporation Executive Severance Policy, effective as of April 26, 2000. (Exhibit 10.4 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 3/31/00 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.8*

Service Agreement, dated December 29, 2000, between Wisconsin Electric Power Company and American Transmission Company LLC. (Exhibit 10.33 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/00 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)



E-4


  Number  

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         

    
  

10.9*

Non-Qualified Trust Agreement by and between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and The Northern Trust Company dated December 1, 2000, regarding trust established to provide a source of funds to assist in meeting of the liabilities under various nonqualified deferred compensation plans made between Wisconsin Energy Corporation or its subsidiaries and various plan participants. (Exhibit 10.2 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/00 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.10*

Employment arrangement with Charles R. Cole, effective August 1, 1999. (Exhibit 10.3 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/00 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.



E-4


  Number  

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         

   
  

10.11*

Employment arrangement with Larry Salustro, effective December 12, 1997. (Exhibit 10.7 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/00 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.12*

Supplemental Benefits Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Richard A. Abdoo dated November 21, 1994, as amended by an April 26, 1995 letter agreement. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 6/30/95 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.13*

Amended and Restated Senior Officer Change in Control, Severance and Non-Compete Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Richard A. Abdoo, effective May 1, 2002. (Exhibit 10.13 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/02 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057). Replaces exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Electric Power Company's 6/30/02 Form 10-Q.)** See Note.

    
  

10.14*

Affiliated Interest Agreement (Service Agreement), dated December 12, 2002, by and among Wisconsin Energy Corporation and its affiliates. (Exhibit 10.14 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/02 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)

    
  

10.15*

Amended and Restated Senior Officer Employment, Change in Control, Severance, Special Pension and Non-Compete Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Paul Donovan, effective May 1, 2002. (Exhibit 10.15 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/02 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057). Replaces exhibit 10.2 to Wisconsin Electric Power Company's 6/30/02 Form 10-Q.)** See Note.

    
  

10.16*

Letter Agreement by and between Paul Donovan and Wisconsin Energy Corporation dated April 27, 2003 (Exhibit 10.2 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 3/31/03 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

10.17*

Employment Agreement with George E. Wardeberg as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, effective April 26, 2000. (Exhibit 10.2(a) to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 3/31/00 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.17*10.18*

Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement with George E. Wardeberg, dated April 26, 2000, granted pursuant to the Employment Agreement. (Exhibit 10.2(b) to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 3/31/00 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.18*10.19*

Amended and Restated Senior Officer Employment, Change in Control, Severance and Non-Compete Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Richard R. Grigg, effective May 1, 2002. (Exhibit 10.18 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/02 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057). Replaces exhibit 10.3)** See Note.



E-5


  Number  

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         

10.20*

Letter Agreement by and between Richard R. Grigg and Wisconsin Energy Corporation dated July 23, 2003. (Exhibit 10.4 to Wisconsin Electric Power Company'sEnergy Corporation's 6/30/0203 Form 10-Q.10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.19*10.21*

Amended and Restated Senior Officer Employment and Non-Compete Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Gale E. Klappa, effective October 22, 2003, amended as of December 3, 2003. (Exhibit 10.21 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/03 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

10.22*

Senior Officer Employment and Non-Compete Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Allen L. Leverett, effective July 1, 2003. (Exhibit 10.3 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 6/30/03 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

10.23*

Senior Officer Employment and Non-Compete Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Rick Kuester, effective October 13, 2003. (Exhibit 10.3 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 9/30/03 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

10.24*

Benefit exchange documents between Paul Donovan and Wisconsin Energy Corporation, effective April 23, 2001. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 3/31/01 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

   

   (a) Exchange Agreement

   

   (b) Letter Agreement

   

   (c) Split Dollar Agreement

   

   (d) Collateral Assignment

    
  

10.20*10.25*

Benefit exchange documents between George E. Wardeberg and Wisconsin Energy Corporation, effective April 19, 2001. (Exhibit 10.2 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 3/31/01 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

   

   (a) Exchange Agreement

   

   (b) Letter Agreement

   

   (c) Split Dollar Agreement

   

   (d) Collateral Assignment

   



E-5


  Number  

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         

  

10.21*10.26*

Supplemental Pension Benefit agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Stephen Dickson, effective May 23, 2001. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 6/30/01 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.22*10.27*

Forms of Stock Option Agreements under 1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan. (Exhibit 10.5 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/95 Form 10-K.) Updated as Exhibit 10.1(a) and 10.1(b) to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 3/31/00 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.23*10.28*

1998 Revised forms of award agreements under 1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, for non-qualified stock option awards to non-employee directors, restricted stock awards, incentive stock option awards and non-qualified stock option awards. (Exhibit 10.11 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/98 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.24*10.29*

Form of Nonstatutory Stock Option Agreement under the WICOR, Inc. 1994 Long-Term Performance Plan. (Exhibit 4.2 to WICOR, Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Reg. No. 33-55755).)** See Note.



E-6


  Number  

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         

    
  

10.25*10.30*

Form of Nonstatutory Stock Option Agreement for February 2000 Grants of Options under the WICOR, Inc. 1994 Long-Term Performance Plan. (Exhibit 4.5 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Reg. No. 333-35798).)** See Note.

    
  

10.26*10.31*

WICOR, Inc. 1992 Director Stock Option Plan, as amended. (Exhibit 10.3 to WICOR, Inc.'s 12/31/98 Form 10-K (File No. 001-07951).)** See Note.

    
  

10.27*10.32*

Form of Director Nonstatutory Stock Option Agreement under the WICOR, Inc. 1992 Director Stock Option Plan. (Exhibit 4.2 to WICOR, Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Reg. No. 33-67132).)** See Note.

   
  

10.28*10.33*

Form of Director Nonstatutory Stock Option Agreement for February 2000 Option Grants under the WICOR, Inc. 1992 Director Stock Option Plan. (Exhibit 4.8 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Reg. No. 333-35798).)** See Note.

    
  

10.29*10.34*

WICOR, Inc. 1987 Stock Option Plan, as amended. (Exhibit 4.1 to WICOR, Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Reg. No. 33-67134).)** See Note.

    
  

10.30*10.35*

Form of Nonstatutory Stock Option Agreement under the WICOR, Inc. 1987 Stock Option Plan. (Exhibit 10.20 to WICOR, Inc.'s 12/31/91 Form 10-K (File No. 001-07951).)** See Note.

    
  

10.31*10.36*

2001 Revised forms of award agreements under 1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, for restricted stock awards, incentive stock option awards and non-qualified stock option awards. (Exhibit 10.3 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 3/31/01 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.32*10.37*

1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated, as approved by the shareholders at the 2001 annual meeting. (Appendix A to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's Proxy Statement dated March 20, 2001 for the 2001 annual meeting of shareholders (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

    
  

10.38*

Form of Performance Share Agreement under 1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan, as amended. (Exhibit 10.42 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/03 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

10.39*

Port Washington I Facility Lease Agreement between Port Washington Generating Station LLC as Lessor and Wisconsin Electric Power Company as Lessee dated as of May 28, 2003. (Exhibit 10.7 to Wisconsin Electric Power Company's 6/30/03 Form 10-Q.)

10.40*

Port Washington II Facility Lease Agreement between Port Washington Generating Station LLC as Lessor and Wisconsin Electric Power Company as Lessee dated as of May 28, 2003. (Exhibit 10.8 to Wisconsin Electric Power Company's 6/30/03 Form 10-Q.)

  
  

Note:  Two asterisks (**) identify management contracts and executive compensation plans or arrangements required to be filed as exhibits pursuant to Item 14(c) of Form 10-K.



E-6


  Number  

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         

   

12

 

Statements re Computation of Ratios

    
  

12.1

Statement of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.



E-7


  Number  

 

                                                                       Exhibit                                                                         

   

21

 

Subsidiaries of the registrant

    
  

21.1

Subsidiaries of Wisconsin Electric Power Company.

   

23

 

Consents of experts and counsel

    
  

23.1

Deloitte & Touche LLP -- Milwaukee, WI, Independent Auditors' Consent for the yearyears ended December 31, 2003 and December 31, 2002.

    
  

23.2

Notice regarding Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP -- Milwaukee, WI, Independent Public Accountants for the year ended December 31, 2001.

   

23.3

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP -- Milwaukee, WI, Consent of Independent Accountants for the year ended December 31, 2000.

9931

 

Additional ExhibitsRule 13a-14(a) / 15d-14(a) Certifications

    
  

99.131.1

Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a), as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2

Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a), as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32

Section 1350 Certifications

32.1

Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

    
  

99.232.2

Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 



E-7E-8