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WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER CO - Annual Report: 2012 (Form 10-K)

 
 
 
 
 
 
                                

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 Ended December 31, 2012

_______________________________________
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 2046
 
 
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 if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes [  ]    No [X]

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.    Yes [  ]    No [X]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (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 registrant 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 whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes [X]    No [  ]

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this Chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in the definitive proxy 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 registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

                                 Large accelerated filer [ ]                                 Accelerated filer [  ]
                                 Non-accelerated filer [X] (Do not                      Smaller reporting company [  ]
check if a smaller reporting company)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes [  ]    No [X]

As of June 30, 2012 (and currently), 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's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date (January 31, 2013):


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


 _______________________________________



Documents Incorporated by Reference

Portions of Wisconsin Electric Power Company's Definitive information statement on Schedule 14C for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be held on April 25, 2013, are incorporated by reference into Part III hereof.


 
 
 
 
 
 
                                

 
2012 Form 10-K


WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
FORM 10-K REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012
_____________________________________
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Item
Page
 
 
PART I
 
 
1.       Business
 
 
1A.    Risk Factors
 
 
1B.    Unresolved Staff Comments
 
 
2.       Properties
 
 
3.       Legal Proceedings
 
 
4.       Mine Safety Disclosures
 
 
Executive Officers of the Registrant
 
 
PART II
 
 
5.       Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of
          Equity Securities
 
 
6.       Selected Financial Data
 
 
7.       Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
 
7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
 
8.       Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
 
Consolidated Income Statements
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets -- Assets
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets -- Capitalization and Liabilities
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
 
Consolidated Statements of Capitalization
 
Consolidated Statements of Common Equity
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
Note A
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 
Note B
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
Note C
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities
 
Note D
Divestitures
 
Note E
Asset Retirement Obligations
 
Note F
Variable Interest Entities
 
Note G
Income Taxes
 
Note H
Common Equity
 
Note I
Long-Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
 
Note J
Short-Term Debt
 
Note K
Derivative Instruments

 
3
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

TABLE OF CONTENTS - (Cont'd)

Item
 
 
Page
 
Note L
Fair Value Measurements
 
Note M
Benefits
 
Note N
Segment Reporting
 
Note O
Related Parties
 
Note P
Commitments and Contingencies
 
Note Q
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
9.       Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
 
9A.   Controls and Procedures
 
9B.    Other Information
 
PART III
 
 
10.    Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance of the Registrant
 
 
11.    Executive Compensation
 
 
12.    Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder
         Matters
 
 
13.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
 
 
14.    Principal Accountant Fees and Services
 
PART IV
 
 
15.    Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
 
 
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
 
 
Signatures
 
 
Exhibit Index
 
 


 
4
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K


DEFINITION OF ABBREVIATIONS AND INDUSTRY TERMS
 
 
 
The abbreviations and terms set forth below are used throughout this report and have the meanings assigned to them below:
 
Primary Subsidiary and Affiliates
 
 
Bostco
 
Bostco LLC
We Power
 
W.E. Power, LLC
Wisconsin Energy
 
Wisconsin Energy Corporation
Wisconsin Gas
 
Wisconsin Gas LLC
 
 
 
Significant Assets
 
 
OC 1
 
Oak Creek expansion Unit 1
OC 2
 
Oak Creek expansion Unit 2
PIPP
 
Presque Isle Power Plant
PSGS
 
Paris Generating Station
PWGS
 
Port Washington Generating Station
PWGS 1
 
Port Washington Generating Station Unit 1
PWGS 2
 
Port Washington Generating Station Unit 2
VAPP
 
Valley Power Plant
 
 
 
Other Affiliates
ATC
 
American Transmission Company LLC
 
Federal and State Regulatory Agencies
CFTC
 
Commodity Futures Trading Commission
DOE
 
United States Department of Energy
DOJ
 
Wisconsin Department of Justice
EPA
 
United States Environmental Protection Agency
FERC
 
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
IRS
 
Internal Revenue Service
MPSC
 
Michigan Public Service Commission
PSCW
 
Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
SEC
 
Securities and Exchange Commission
WDNR
 
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
 
 
 
Environmental Terms
Act 141
 
2005 Wisconsin Act 141
BART
 
Best Available Retrofit Technology
BTA
 
Best Technology Available
CAA
 
Clean Air Act
CAIR
 
Clean Air Interstate Rule
CO2
 
Carbon Dioxide
CSAPR
 
Cross-State Air Pollution Rule
MATS
 
Mercury and Air Toxics Standards

 
5
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

DEFINITION OF ABBREVIATIONS AND INDUSTRY TERMS
 
 
 
The abbreviations and terms set forth below are used throughout this report and have the meanings assigned to them below:
 
NAAQS
 
National Ambient Air Quality Standards
NOV
 
Notice of Violation
NOx
 
Nitrogen Oxide
PM2.5
 
Fine Particulate Matter
RACT
 
Reasonably Available Control Technology
SIP
 
State Implementation Plan
SO2
 
Sulfur Dioxide
 
Other Terms and Abbreviations
AQCS
 
Air Quality Control System
ARRs
 
Auction Revenue Rights
Bechtel
 
Bechtel Power Corporation
Compensation Committee
 
Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of Wisconsin Energy
CPCN
 
Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity
Dodd-Frank Act
 
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act
ERISA
 
Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974
Exchange Act
 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
Fitch
 
Fitch Ratings
FTRs
 
Financial Transmission Rights
GCRM
 
Gas Cost Recovery Mechanism
LMP
 
Locational Marginal Price
MISO
 
Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator, Inc.
MISO Energy Markets
 
MISO Energy and Operating Reserves Market
Montfort
 
Montfort Wind Energy Center
Moody's
 
Moody's Investor Service
NDAA
 
National Defense Authorization Act
NYMEX
 
New York Mercantile Exchange
OTC
 
Over-the-Counter
Plan
 
The Wisconsin Energy Corporation Retirement Account Plan
Point Beach
 
Point Beach Nuclear Power Plant
PTF
 
Power the Future
RTO
 
Regional Transmission Organization
Settlement Agreement
 
Settlement Agreement and Release between Elm Road Services, LLC    and Bechtel effective as of December 16, 2009
S&P
 
Standard & Poor's Ratings Services
WPL
 
Wisconsin Power and Light Company, a subsidiary of Alliant Energy Corp.
Wolverine
 
Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc.
 
 
 
Measurements
 
 
Btu
 
British Thermal Unit(s)
Dth
 
Dekatherm(s) (One Dth equals one million Btu)
kW
 
Kilowatt(s) (One kW equals one thousand Watts)

 
6
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

DEFINITION OF ABBREVIATIONS AND INDUSTRY TERMS
 
 
 
The abbreviations and terms set forth below are used throughout this report and have the meanings assigned to them below:
 
kWh
 
Kilowatt-hour(s)
MW
 
Megawatt(s) (One MW equals one million Watts)
MWh
 
Megawatt-hour(s)
Watt
 
A measure of power production or usage
 
 
 
Accounting Terms
 
 
AFUDC
 
Allowance for Funds Used During Construction
ARO
 
Asset Retirement Obligation
ASU
 
Accounting Standards Update
CWIP
 
Construction Work in Progress
FASB
 
Financial Accounting Standards Board
GAAP
 
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
IFRS
 
International Financial Reporting Standards
OPEB
 
Other Post-Retirement Employee Benefits
 
 
 


 
7
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain statements contained in this report are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act). These statements are based upon management's current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in the statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements concerning management's expectations and projections regarding earnings, completion of construction projects, regulatory matters, on-going legal proceedings, fuel costs, sources of electric energy supply, coal and gas deliveries, remediation costs, environmental and other capital expenditures, liquidity and capital resources and other matters. In some cases, forward-looking statements may be identified by reference to a future period or periods or by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "expects," "forecasts," "goals," "guidance," "intends," "may," "objectives," "plans," "possible," "potential," "projects," "seeks," "should," "targets" or similar terms or variations of these terms.

Actual results may differ materially from those set forth in forward-looking statements. In addition to the assumptions and other factors referred to specifically in connection with these statements, factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in any forward-looking statements or otherwise affect our future results of operations and financial condition include, among others, the following:

Factors affecting utility operations such as catastrophic weather-related or terrorism-related damage; cyber-security threats and disruptions to our technology network; availability of electric generating facilities; unscheduled generation outages, or unplanned maintenance or repairs; unanticipated events causing scheduled generation outages to last longer than expected; unanticipated changes in fossil fuel, purchased power, coal supply, gas supply or water supply costs or availability due to higher demand, shortages, transportation problems or other developments; unanticipated changes in the cost or availability of materials needed to operate new environmental controls at our electric generating facilities or replace and/or repair our electric and gas distribution systems; nonperformance by electric energy or natural gas suppliers under existing power purchase or gas supply contracts; environmental incidents; electric transmission or gas pipeline system constraints; unanticipated organizational structure or key personnel changes; collective bargaining agreements with union employees or work stoppages; or inflation rates.

Factors affecting the demand for electricity and natural gas, including weather and other natural phenomena; the economic climate in our service territories; customer growth and declines; customer business conditions, including demand for their products and services; and energy conservation efforts.

Timing, resolution and impact of future rate cases and negotiations, including recovery of costs associated with environmental compliance, renewable generation, transmission service, distribution system upgrades, fuel and the Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator, Inc. (MISO) Energy Markets.

Increased competition in our electric and gas markets and continued industry consolidation.

The ability to control costs and avoid construction delays during the development and construction of new environmental controls and renewable generation, as well as upgrades to our electric and natural gas distribution systems.

The impact of recent and future federal, state and local legislative and regulatory changes, including any changes in rate-setting policies or procedures; electric and gas industry restructuring initiatives; transmission or distribution system operation and/or administration initiatives; any required changes in facilities or operations to reduce the risks or impacts of potential terrorist activities or cybersecurity threats; required approvals for new construction, and the siting approval process for new generation and transmission facilities and new pipeline construction; changes to the Federal Power Act and related regulations and enforcement thereof by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and other regulatory agencies; changes in allocation of energy assistance, including state public benefits funds; changes in environmental, tax and other laws and regulations to which we are subject; changes in the application of existing laws and regulations; and changes in the interpretation or enforcement of permit conditions by the permitting agencies.

Internal restructuring options that may be pursued by Wisconsin Energy Corporation (Wisconsin Energy).

 
8
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


Current and future litigation, regulatory investigations, proceedings or inquiries, including FERC matters and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) audits and other tax matters.

Events in the global credit markets that may affect the availability and cost of capital.

Other factors affecting our ability to access the capital markets, including general capital market conditions; our capitalization structure; market perceptions of the utility industry or us; and our credit ratings.

The investment performance of Wisconsin Energy's pension and other post-retirement benefit trusts.

The financial performance of American Transmission Company LLC (ATC) and its corresponding contribution to our earnings.

The impact of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act) and any regulations promulgated thereunder, including rules recently adopted and/or proposed by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) that may impact our hedging activities and related costs.

The impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 and any related regulations.

The effect of accounting pronouncements issued periodically by standard setting bodies, including any changes in regulatory accounting policies and practices and any requirement for U.S. registrants to follow International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) instead of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

Unanticipated technological developments that result in competitive disadvantages and create the potential for impairment of existing assets.

Changes in the creditworthiness of the counterparties with whom we have contractual arrangements, including participants in the energy trading markets and fuel suppliers and transporters.

The ability to obtain and retain short- and long-term contracts with wholesale customers.

Potential strategic business opportunities, including acquisitions and/or dispositions of assets or businesses, which we cannot ensure will be beneficial for us.

Incidents affecting the U.S. electric grid or operation of generating facilities.

Foreign governmental, economic, political and currency risks.

Other business or investment considerations that may be disclosed from time to time in our Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings or in other publicly disseminated written documents, including the risk factors set forth in Item 1A of this report.

We expressly disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.


 
9
Wisconsin Electric Power Company


PART I


ITEM 1.
BUSINESS

INTRODUCTION

Wisconsin Electric Power Company, a subsidiary of Wisconsin Energy, was incorporated in the state of Wisconsin in 1896. We maintain our principal executive offices in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Unless qualified by their context when used in this document, the terms Wisconsin Electric, the Company, our, us or we refer to Wisconsin Electric Power Company and its subsidiary, Bostco LLC (Bostco).

We conduct our operations primarily in three reportable segments: an electric utility segment, a natural gas utility segment and a steam utility segment. We serve approximately 1,125,700 electric customers in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, approximately 468,600 gas customers in Wisconsin and approximately 460 steam customers in metropolitan Milwaukee, Wisconsin. For further financial information about our business segments, see Results of Operations in Item 7 and Note N -- Segment Reporting in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.

Wisconsin Energy is also the parent company of Wisconsin Gas LLC (Wisconsin Gas), a natural gas distribution utility, which serves customers throughout Wisconsin; and W.E. Power, LLC (We Power), a non-utility company that was formed in 2001 to design, construct, own and lease to us the new generating capacity included in Wisconsin Energy's Power the Future (PTF) strategy. We have combined common functions with Wisconsin Gas and operate under the trade name of "We Energies."

Bostco is our non-utility subsidiary that develops and invests in real estate. As of December 31, 2012, Bostco had $30.2 million of assets.

Our annual and periodical filings with the SEC are available, free of charge, through Wisconsin Energy's Internet website www.wisconsinenergy.com. These documents are available as soon as reasonably practicable after such materials are filed (or furnished) with the SEC.


UTILITY OPERATIONS

ELECTRIC UTILITY OPERATIONS

We are the largest electric utility in the state of Wisconsin. We generate and distribute electric energy in a territory that includes southeastern (including the metropolitan Milwaukee area), east central and northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

We participate in the MISO Energy Markets. The competitiveness of our generation offered in the MISO Energy Markets affects how our generating units are dispatched and how we buy and sell power. For further information, see Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources in Item 7.

Electric Sales

Our electric energy sales to all classes of customers totaled approximately 30.3 million MWh during 2012 and approximately 31.3 million MWh during 2011. We had approximately 1,125,700 electric customers as of December 31, 2012 and 1,122,500 electric customers as of December 31, 2011.

We 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 (CPCNs) or boundary agreements with other utilities, and in certain territories in the state of Michigan pursuant to franchises granted by municipalities. We also sell wholesale electric power within the MISO Energy Markets.

Electric Sales Growth:   Our service territory experienced flat sales in 2012 as positive customer growth was offset by reduced use per customer. Our weather normalized 2012 retail electric sales, excluding our two largest

 
10
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

customers (two iron ore mines) and two large industrial customers that switched to self-generation, were almost equal to our normalized 2011 electric sales. Assuming continuing improvement in the economy over the five-year forecast horizon, we presently anticipate that total retail electric kWh sales and the associated peak electric demand will grow at annual rates of 0.5% to 1.0% over the next five years (excluding sales to the two iron ore mines). These estimates assume normal weather.

Sales to Large Electric Retail Customers:   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.

Our largest retail electric customers are two iron ore mines located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The combined electric energy sales to the two mines accounted for 6.6% and 7.1% of our total electric utility energy sales during 2012 and 2011, respectively. The mines have notified us that they expect production at one of the mines to be reduced in 2013.

Sales to Wholesale Customers:   During 2012, we sold wholesale electric energy to one municipally owned system, two rural cooperatives and two municipal joint action agencies located in the states of Wisconsin and Michigan. Our wholesale electric energy sales were also made to 16 other public utilities and power marketers throughout the region under rates approved by FERC. Wholesale sales accounted for approximately 10.6% of our total electric energy sales and 6.2% of total electric operating revenues during 2012, compared with 13.1% of total electric energy sales and 7.0% of total electric operating revenues during 2011.

Electric System Reliability Matters:   Our electric sales are impacted by seasonal factors and varying weather conditions. We sell more electricity during the summer months because of the residential cooling load. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) has planning reserve requirements consistent with the MISO calculated planning reserve margin. The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) has not yet established guidelines in this area. In accordance with the MISO calculated planning reserve margin requirements, we had adequate capacity to meet all of our firm electric load obligations during 2012 and expect to have adequate capacity to meet all of our firm obligations during 2013. For additional information, see Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources in Item 7.

Competition

The regulated energy industry continues to experience significant structural changes. Increased competition in the retail and wholesale markets may result from restructuring efforts. It is uncertain when, if ever, retail access might be implemented in Wisconsin. Michigan has adopted retail choice which allows customers to remain with their regulated utility at regulated rates or choose an alternative electric supplier to provide power supply service. We continue providing distribution and customer service functions regardless of the customer's power supplier. Although competition and customer switching to alternative suppliers in our service territories in Michigan has been limited, the additional competitive pressures resulting from retail access could lead to a loss of customers.

Electric Supply

Our electric supply strategy is to provide our customers with energy from plants using a diverse fuel mix that is expected to maintain a stable, reliable and affordable supply of electricity. We supply a significant amount of electricity to our customers from power plants that we own or lease. We supplement our internally generated power supply with long-term power purchase agreements, including the Point Beach Nuclear Power Plant (Point Beach) power purchase agreement discussed later in this report, and through spot purchases in the MISO Energy Markets.


 
11
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Our dependable capability by fuel type as of December 31 is shown below:

 
 
Dependable Capability in MW (a)
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Coal (b)
 
3,828

 
3,904

 
3,671

Natural Gas - Combined Cycle
 
1,090

 
1,090

 
1,090

Natural Gas/Oil - Peaking Units (c)
 
962

 
967

 
1,005

Renewables (d)
 
107

 
80

 
83

Total
 
5,987

 
6,041

 
5,849


(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. We are a summer peaking electric utility. The values were established by tests and may change slightly from year to year.

(b)
The increase in 2011 as compared to 2010 reflects the January 2011 in-service date of Oak Creek expansion Unit 2 (OC 2), partially offset by the March 2011 sale of our interest in Edgewater Generating Unit 5. Our share of the dependable capability of OC 2 is 528 MW.

(c)
The dual-fueled facilities generally 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.

(d)
Includes hydroelectric and wind generation.

The table below indicates our sources of electric energy supply as a percentage of sales for the three years ended December 31, 2012, as well as an estimate for 2013:

 
 
Estimate
 
Actual
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Coal
 
56.0
%
 
43.0
%
 
54.2
%
 
53.9
%
Natural Gas - Combined Cycle
 
7.5
%
 
15.9
%
 
6.6
%
 
8.4
%
Wind
 
2.3
%
 
2.3
%
 
1.0
%
 
1.0
%
Hydroelectric
 
1.1
%
 
0.7
%
 
1.0
%
 
1.0
%
Natural Gas/Oil - Peaking Units
 
0.1
%
 
0.7
%
 
0.1
%
 
0.3
%
Biomass
 
0.1
%
 
%
 
%
 
%
Net Generation
 
67.1
%
 
62.6
%
 
62.9
%
 
64.6
%
Purchased Power
 
32.9
%
 
37.4
%
 
37.1
%
 
35.4
%
Total
 
100.0
%
 
100.0
%
 
100.0
%
 
100.0
%

Our average fuel and purchased power costs per MWh by fuel type for the years ended December 31 are shown below:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Coal
 
$
30.71

 
$
29.78

 
$
26.44

Natural Gas - Combined Cycle
 
$
23.62

 
$
38.02

 
$
43.14

Natural Gas/Oil - Peaking Units
 
$
53.40

 
$
119.83

 
$
97.36

Purchased Power
 
$
41.92

 
$
42.79

 
$
43.11


Historically, coal has been purchased under long-term contracts, which helped with price stability. Coal and associated transportation services have continued to see volatility in pricing due to increased domestic and world-wide demand for coal and the impacts of diesel costs which are incorporated into fuel surcharges on rail transportation.

Natural gas costs have been volatile. We have a PSCW-approved hedging program to help manage our natural gas price risk. This hedging program is generally implemented on a 36-month forward-looking basis. Proceeds related to the natural gas hedging program are reflected in the average costs of natural gas and purchased power shown above.


 
12
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Coal-Fired Generation

Coal Supply:   We diversify the coal supply for our power plants by purchasing coal from mines in Wyoming, Pennsylvania and Montana, as well as from various other states. During 2013, 90% of our projected coal requirements of 10.7 million tons are under contracts which are not tied to 2013 market pricing fluctuations. At the end of 2012, our coal-fired generation consisted of six operating plants with a dependable capability of approximately 3,828 MW.

The annual tonnage amounts contracted for 2013 through 2015 are as follows:

Year
 
Annual Tonnage
 
 
(Thousands)
 
 
 
2013
 
9,586
2014
 
5,753
2015
 
4,000

Coal Deliveries:   All of our 2013 coal requirements are expected to be delivered by unit trains owned or leased by us. The unit trains will transport coal for the Oak Creek and Pleasant Prairie Power Plants from Wyoming mines, and transport coal for the Oak Creek expansion units from Pennsylvania and Wyoming. Coal from a Montana mine is also transported via rail to Lake Michigan transfer docks and delivered by lake vessel to the Milwaukee harbor for Milwaukee-based power plants. Montana and Wyoming coal for the Presque Isle Power Plant is transported via rail to Superior, Wisconsin, placed in dock storage and reloaded into lake vessels for plant delivery.

Certain of our coal transportation contracts contain fuel cost adjustments that are tied to changes in diesel fuel and crude oil prices. Currently, diesel fuel contracts are not actively traded; therefore, we use financial heating oil contracts to mitigate risk related to diesel fuel prices. We have a PSCW-approved hedging program that allows us to hedge up to 75% of our potential risks related to fuel surcharge exposure. The costs of this program are included in our fuel and purchased power costs.

Edgewater Generating Unit 5:   On March 1, 2011, we sold our 25% interest in Edgewater Generating Unit 5 to Wisconsin Power and Light Company, a subsidiary of Alliant Energy Corp. (WPL), for our net book value, including working capital, of approximately $38 million.

Wolverine Joint Ownership Agreement:   In November 2012, we entered into a joint ownership agreement with Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc. (Wolverine) regarding the Presque Isle Power Plant (PIPP), whereby Wolverine will pay for the installation of environmental controls at the plant and will receive a minority ownership interest in the plant in return. We will continue to operate the plant. The transaction and the environmental controls to be installed will require approvals from various state and federal agencies, including the PSCW, the MPSC, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and the FERC.

Environmental Matters:   For information regarding emission restrictions, especially as they relate to coal-fired generating facilities, see Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Environmental Matters in Item 7.

Natural Gas-Fired Generation

Our natural gas-fired generation consists of four operating plants with a dependable capability of approximately 1,872 MW as of December 31, 2012.

We purchase natural gas for these plants on the spot market from gas marketers, utilities and producers and we arrange for transportation of the natural gas to our plants. We have firm and interruptible transportation, balancing and storage agreements intended to support the plants' variable usage.


 
13
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

We have a PSCW-approved hedging program that allows us to hedge up to 65% of our estimated gas usage for electric generation in order to help manage our natural gas price risk. The costs of this program are included in our fuel and purchased power costs.

Oil-Fired Generation

Fuel oil is used for the combustion turbines at the Germantown Power Plant units 1-4, boiler ignition and flame stabilization at the Presque Isle Power Plant, and diesel engines at the Pleasant Prairie Power Plant and Valley Power Plant (VAPP). Our oil-fired generation had a dependable capability of approximately 180 MW as of December 31, 2012. Our natural gas-fired peaking units have the ability to burn oil if natural gas is not available due to delivery constraints. Fuel oil requirements are purchased under agreements with suppliers.

Renewable Generation

Hydroelectric:   Our hydroelectric generating system consists of 13 operating plants with a total installed capacity of approximately 88 MW and a dependable capability of approximately 40 MW as of December 31, 2012. Of these plants, 12 plants (86 MW of installed capacity) have long-term licenses from FERC. The other plant, with an installed generating capacity of approximately 2 MW, is operated under a permit granted by another federal agency.

Wind:   We purchased Montfort Wind Energy Center (Montfort) from NextEra Energy Resources on December 21, 2012 for $27 million. We now have four wind sites, consisting of 200 turbines with an installed capacity of 338 MW and a dependable capability of 67 MW.

Biomass:   We are constructing a biomass-fueled power plant at Domtar Corporation's Rothschild, Wisconsin paper mill site. Wood waste and wood shavings will be used to produce approximately 50 MW of renewable electricity and will also support Domtar's sustainable papermaking operations. Construction commenced in June 2011. We currently expect to invest between $245 million and $255 million, excluding Allowance for Funds Used During Construction (AFUDC), in the plant. We are targeting completion of the facility by the end of 2013.

Power Purchase Commitments

We enter into short and long-term power purchase commitments to meet a portion of our anticipated electric energy supply needs. The following table identifies our power purchase commitments as of December 31, 2012 with unaffiliated parties for the next five years:

Year
 
MW (a)
 
 
 
2013
 
1,267
2014
 
1,267
2015
 
1,267
2016
 
1,267
2017
 
1,267

(a)
MW do not include leased generation from PTF units.

The above commitments include approximately 1,030 MW per year related to the Point Beach long-term power purchase agreement. Under this agreement, we pay a predetermined price per MWh for energy delivered according to a schedule included in the agreement. The balance of these power purchase commitments is a tolling arrangement whereby we are responsible for the procurement, delivery and the cost of natural gas fuel related to a specific unit identified in the contract.

Electric Transmission and Energy Markets

American Transmission Company:   ATC is a regional transmission company that owns, maintains, monitors and operates electric transmission systems in Wisconsin, Michigan and Illinois. ATC is expected to provide comparable service to all customers, including us, and to support effective competition in energy markets without

 
14
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

favoring any market participant. ATC is regulated by FERC for all rate terms and conditions of service and is a transmission-owning member of MISO. MISO maintains operational control of ATC's transmission system, and we are a non-transmission owning member and customer of MISO. We owned approximately 23.0% of ATC as of December 31, 2012 and 2011. For additional information, see Note O -- Related Parties in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

In April 2011, ATC and Duke Energy announced the creation of a joint venture, Duke-American Transmission Company, that will build, own and operate new electric transmission infrastructure in North America to address increasing demand for affordable, reliable transmission capacity.

MISO:   In connection with its status as a FERC approved Regional Transmission Organization (RTO), MISO developed bid-based energy markets, which were implemented on April 1, 2005. In January 2009, MISO commenced the Energy and Operating Reserves Markets, which includes the bid-based energy markets and the ancillary services market. For further information on MISO and the MISO Energy Markets, see Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Industry Restructuring and Competition - Electric Transmission and Energy Markets in Item 7.

 
15
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Electric Utility Operating Statistics

The following table shows certain electric utility operating statistics for the past five years:

SELECTED CONSOLIDATED ELECTRIC UTILITY OPERATING DATA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
2009
 
2008
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Revenues (Millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
 
$
1,163.9

 
$
1,159.2

 
$
1,114.3

 
$
977.6

 
$
962.5

Small Commercial/Industrial
 
1,013.6

 
1,006.9

 
922.2

 
860.3

 
869.7

Large Commercial/Industrial
 
744.3

 
763.7

 
677.1

 
599.4

 
646.3

Other - Retail
 
22.8

 
22.9

 
21.9

 
21.2

 
20.8

Total Retail Revenues
 
2,944.6

 
2,952.7

 
2,735.5

 
2,458.5

 
2,499.3

Wholesale - Other
 
144.4

 
154.0

 
134.6

 
116.7

 
77.7

Resale - Utilities
 
53.4

 
69.5

 
40.4

 
47.5

 
37.7

Other Operating Revenues
 
51.5

 
35.1

 
25.8

 
62.3

 
45.9

Total Operating Revenues
 
$
3,193.9

 
$
3,211.3

 
$
2,936.3

 
$
2,685.0

 
$
2,660.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MWh Sales (Thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
 
8,317.7

 
8,278.5

 
8,426.3

 
7,949.3

 
8,277.1

Small Commercial/Industrial
 
8,860.0

 
8,795.8

 
8,823.3

 
8,571.6

 
9,023.7

Large Commercial/Industrial
 
9,710.7

 
9,992.2

 
9,961.5

 
9,140.3

 
10,691.7

Other - Retail
 
154.8

 
153.6

 
155.3

 
156.5

 
161.5

Total Retail Sales
 
27,043.2

 
27,220.1

 
27,366.4

 
25,817.7

 
28,154.0

Wholesale - Other
 
1,566.6

 
2,024.8

 
2,004.6

 
1,529.4

 
2,620.7

Resale - Utilities
 
1,642.4

 
2,065.7

 
1,103.8

 
1,548.9

 
881.0

Total Sales
 
30,252.2

 
31,310.6

 
30,474.8

 
28,896.0

 
31,655.7

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Customers - End of Year (Thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
 
1,008.2

 
1,005.5

 
1,003.6

 
1,001.2

 
999.1

Small Commercial/Industrial
 
114.3

 
113.8

 
113.5

 
113.1

 
112.6

Large Commercial/Industrial
 
0.7

 
0.7

 
0.7

 
0.7

 
0.7

Other
 
2.5

 
2.5

 
2.4

 
2.4

 
2.4

Total Customers
 
1,125.7

 
1,122.5

 
1,120.2

 
1,117.4

 
1,114.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Customers - Average (Thousands)
 
1,123.8

 
1,121.0

 
1,118.7

 
1,115.5

 
1,111.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Degree Days (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Heating (6,662 Normal)
 
5,704

 
6,633

 
6,183

 
6,825

 
7,073

Cooling (696 Normal)
 
1,041

 
793

 
944

 
475

 
593


(a)
As measured at Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Normal degree days are based upon a 20-year moving average.


 
16
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

GAS UTILITY OPERATIONS

We are authorized to provide retail gas distribution service in designated territories in the state of Wisconsin, as established by indeterminate permits, CPCNs or boundary agreements with other utilities. We also transport customer-owned gas. Our 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

Our gas utility business is highly seasonal due to the heating requirements of residential and commercial customers, and annual gas sales are impacted by the variability of winter temperatures.

Total gas therms delivered, including customer-owned transported gas, were approximately 809.1 million therms during 2012, a 3.4% decrease compared with 2011. As of December 31, 2012, we were transporting gas for approximately 500 customers who purchased gas directly from other suppliers. Transported gas accounted for approximately 42.6% of the total volumes delivered during 2012, 35.1% during 2011 and 37.0% during 2010. We had approximately 468,600 and 466,000 gas customers as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Our peak daily send-out during 2012 was 603,719 Dth on January 19, 2012.

Sales to Large Gas Customers:   We provide gas utility service to a diversified base of industrial customers who are largely within our electric service territory. Major industries served include the paper, food products and fabricated metal products industries.

Gas Deliveries Growth:   We currently forecast total retail therm deliveries (excluding natural gas deliveries for generation) to stay flat over the five-year period ending December 31, 2017 as new customer additions are expected to be offset by a reduction in the average use per customer. This forecast reflects a current year weather normalized sales level and normal weather.

Competition

Competition in varying degrees exists between natural gas and other forms of energy available to consumers. A number of our large commercial and industrial customers are dual-fuel customers that are equipped to switch between natural gas and alternate fuels. We are allowed to offer lower-priced gas sales and transportation services to dual-fuel customers. Under gas transportation agreements, customers purchase gas directly from gas marketers and arrange with interstate pipelines and us to have the gas transported to their facilities. We earn substantially the same margin (difference between revenue and cost of gas) whether we sell and transport gas to customers or only transport their gas.

Our ability to maintain our share of the industrial dual-fuel market depends on our success and the success of third-party gas marketers in obtaining long-term and short-term supplies of natural gas at competitive prices compared to other sources and 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. While the gas utility distribution function is expected to remain a highly regulated, monopoly function, the sale of the natural gas commodity and related services are expected to remain subject to competition from third parties. 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 we begin to face competition for the sale of gas to our smaller firm customers.

Gas Supply, Pipeline Capacity and Storage

We have been able to meet our contractual obligations with both our suppliers and our customers.

Pipeline Capacity and Storage:   The interstate pipelines serving Wisconsin originate in major gas producing areas of North America: the Oklahoma and Texas basins, the Gulf of Mexico, western Canada and the Rocky Mountains. We have contracted for long-term firm capacity from a number of these sources. This strategy reflects management's belief that overall supply security is enhanced by geographic diversification of the supply portfolio.

 
17
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


Due to the daily and seasonal variations in gas usage in Wisconsin, we have also contracted for substantial underground storage capacity, primarily in Michigan. We target storage levels at approximately 35% of forecasted winter demand. Storage capacity, along with our gas purchase contracts, enables us to manage significant changes in daily demand and to optimize our overall gas supply and capacity costs. We generally inject gas into storage during the spring and summer months when demand is lower and withdraw it in the winter months. As a result, we can contract for less long-line pipeline capacity during periods of peak usage than would otherwise be necessary and can purchase gas on a more uniform daily basis from suppliers year-round. Each of these capabilities enables us to reduce our overall costs.

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

Term Gas Supply:   We have contracts for firm supplies with terms in excess of 30 days with suppliers for gas acquired in the Chicago, Illinois market hub and in the producing areas discussed above. The pricing of the term contracts is based upon first of the month indices. Combined with our storage capability, management believes that the volume of gas under contract is sufficient to meet our 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, like our gas operations, must contract for capacity and supply sufficient to meet the firm peak-day demand of their 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 rate payers, subject to our approved Gas Cost Recovery Mechanism (GCRM). During 2012, we continued to participate in the capacity release market. See Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Rates and Regulatory Matters in Item 7 for information on the GCRM.

Spot Market Gas Supply:   We expect to continue to make gas purchases in the 30-day spot market as price and other circumstances dictate. We have supply relationships with a number of sellers from whom we purchase spot gas.

Hedging Gas Supply Prices:   We have PSCW approval to hedge (i) up to 60% of planned winter and (ii) up to 30% planned summer flowing gas supply using a mix of New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) based natural gas options and natural gas future contracts. Those approvals allow us to pass 100% of the hedging costs (premiums and brokerage fees) and proceeds (gains and losses) to rate payers through our GCRM. Hedge targets (volumes) are provided annually to the PSCW as part of our three-year gas supply plan and risk management filing.

To the extent that opportunities develop and physical supply operating plans are supportive, 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 GCRM.

 
18
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Gas Utility Operating Statistics

The following table shows certain gas utility operating statistics for the past five years:

SELECTED CONSOLIDATED GAS UTILITY OPERATING DATA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
2009
 
2008
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Revenues (Millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
 
$
250.7

 
$
304.1

 
$
310.6

 
$
365.9

 
$
445.8

Commercial/Industrial
 
115.4

 
149.9

 
151.3

 
189.7

 
238.5

Interruptible
 
2.3

 
2.8

 
3.1

 
3.5

 
6.0

Total Retail Gas Sales
 
368.4

 
456.8

 
465.0

 
559.1

 
690.3

Transported Gas
 
15.1

 
15.0

 
14.2

 
12.9

 
14.3

Other Operating Revenues
 
1.6

 
5.5

 
2.4

 
(7.8
)
 
4.6

Total Operating Revenues
 
$
385.1

 
$
477.3

 
$
481.6

 
$
564.2

 
$
709.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Therms Delivered (Millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
 
294.3

 
339.4

 
321.8

 
349.4

 
364.7

Commercial/Industrial
 
165.3

 
198.7

 
184.5

 
208.8

 
216.2

Interruptible
 
5.0

 
5.3

 
5.5

 
5.9

 
6.9

Total Retail Gas Sales
 
464.6

 
543.4

 
511.8

 
564.1

 
587.8

Transported Gas
 
344.5

 
294.4

 
300.8

 
298.4

 
313.3

Total Therms Delivered
 
809.1

 
837.8

 
812.6

 
862.5

 
901.1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Customers - End of Year (Thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
 
429.6

 
427.1

 
425.6

 
423.8

 
422.0

Commercial/Industrial
 
38.5

 
38.5

 
38.3

 
38.2

 
38.1

Transported Gas
 
0.5

 
0.4

 
0.4

 
0.4

 
0.4

Total Customers
 
468.6

 
466.0

 
464.3

 
462.4

 
460.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Customers - Average (Thousands)
 
466.9

 
464.7

 
462.9

 
460.8

 
458.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Degree Days (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Heating (6,662 Normal)
 
5,704

 
6,633

 
6,183

 
6,825

 
7,073


(a)
As measured at Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Normal degree days are based upon a 20-year moving average.


STEAM UTILITY OPERATIONS

Our steam utility generates, distributes and sells steam supplied by our VAPP and Milwaukee County Power Plant. We operate a district steam system in downtown Milwaukee and the near south side of Milwaukee. Steam is supplied to this system from VAPP, a coal-fired cogeneration facility. We also operate 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 2012, the steam utility had $34.3 million of operating revenues from the sale of 2,449 million pounds of steam compared with $39.0 million of operating revenues from the sale of 2,733 million pounds of steam during 2011. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, steam was used by approximately 460 customers and 465 customers, respectively, for processing, space heating, domestic hot water and humidification.

 
19
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


UTILITY RATE MATTERS

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


REGULATION

We are a holding company because of our ownership interest in ATC, but are exempt from the requirements of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2005.

We are subject to the Federal Power Act and the corresponding regulations developed by certain federal agencies. The Energy Policy Act amended the Federal Power Act in 2005 to, among other things, make electric utility industry consolidation more feasible, authorize FERC to review proposed mergers and the acquisition of generation facilities, change the FERC regulatory scheme applicable to qualifying cogeneration facilities and modify certain other aspects of energy regulations and Federal tax policies applicable to us. Additionally, the Energy Policy Act created an Electric Reliability Organization to be overseen by FERC, which established mandatory electric reliability standards and which has the authority to levy monetary sanctions for failure to comply with these standards.

We 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. We are also subject to the regulation of the PSCW as to certain levels of short-term debt obligations. We are subject to the regulation of the MPSC as to the various matters associated with retail electric service in the state of Michigan, except as to the issuance of securities in the ordinary course of business, construction of certain new facilities, levels of short-term debt obligations and advance approval of transactions with affiliates in the ordinary course of business. Our hydroelectric facilities are regulated by FERC. We are subject to the regulation of FERC with respect to wholesale power service, electric reliability requirements and accounting and with respect to our participation in the interstate natural gas pipeline capacity market. For information on how rates are set, see Rates and Regulatory Matters under Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources in Item 7.

The following table compares our operating revenues by regulatory jurisdiction for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Electric
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wisconsin - Retail
 
$
2,808.4

 
87.9
%
 
$
2,775.8

 
86.4
%
 
$
2,568.3

 
87.5
%
Michigan - Retail
 
187.8

 
5.9
%
 
212.0

 
6.6
%
 
193.0

 
6.6
%
FERC - Wholesale
 
197.7

 
6.2
%
 
223.5

 
7.0
%
 
175.0

 
5.9
%
Total
 
3,193.9

 
100.0
%
 
3,211.3

 
100.0
%
 
2,936.3

 
100.0
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gas - Wisconsin - Retail
 
385.1

 
100.0
%
 
477.3

 
100.0
%
 
481.6

 
100.0
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Steam - Wisconsin - Retail
 
34.3

 
100.0
%
 
39.0

 
100.0
%
 
38.8

 
100.0
%
Total Utility Operating Revenues
 
$
3,613.3

 


 
$
3,727.6

 


 
$
3,456.7

 



Our operations are also subject to regulations, where applicable, of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR), the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Public Benefits and Renewable Portfolio Standard

2005 Wisconsin Act 141 (Act 141) established a goal that 10% of electricity consumed in Wisconsin be generated by renewable resources by December 31, 2015. Under Act 141, we must meet certain minimum requirements for renewable energy generation. For the years 2010 through 2014, we must increase our percentage of total retail energy sales provided by renewable sources (renewable energy percentage) by at least two percentage points from

 
20
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

our baseline renewable percentage of 2.27% to a level of 4.27%. Act 141 defines "baseline renewable percentage" as the average of an energy provider's renewable energy percentage for 2001, 2002 and 2003. As of December 31, 2012, we are in compliance with the Wisconsin renewable energy percentage of 4.27%. Act 141 further requires that for the year 2015 and beyond, the renewable energy percentage must increase at least six percentage points above the baseline to a level of 8.27%. In addition, under this Act, 1.2% of utilities' annual operating revenues were required to be used to fund energy conservation programs in 2012. The funding required by Act 141 for 2013 is also 1.2% of annual operating revenues.

Public Act 295 enacted in Michigan requires 10% of the state's energy to come from renewables by 2015 and energy optimization (efficiency) targets up to 1% annually by 2015. Public Act 295 specifically calls for current recovery of costs incurred to meet the standards and provides for ongoing review and revision to assure the measures taken are cost-effective.

For additional information on Act 141 and current renewable projects, see Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Rates and Regulatory Matters - Renewables, Efficiency and Conservation and Rates and Regulatory Matters - Renewable Energy Portfolio in Item 7.


ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE

Our operations are subject to extensive environmental regulations by state and federal environmental agencies governing air and water quality, hazardous and solid waste management, environmental remediation and management of natural resources. Costs associated with complying with these requirements are significant. Additional future environmental statutes and regulations or revisions to existing laws, including for example, additional regulation of greenhouse gas emissions, coal combustion products, air emissions or wastewater discharges, could significantly increase these environmental compliance costs.

Anticipated expenditures for environmental compliance and remediation issues for the next three years are included in estimated 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 and water quality standards and rulemaking initiated by the EPA, including estimated costs of compliance, see Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Environmental Matters in Item 7. For a discussion of matters related to certain solid waste and coal combustion product landfills, manufactured gas plant sites and air quality, see Note P -- Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.

Compliance with federal, state and local environmental protection requirements resulted in capital expenditures of approximately $64.1 million in 2012 compared with $120.3 million in 2011. Expenditures incurred during 2012 and 2011 primarily included costs associated with the installation of pollution abatement facilities at our power plants. These expenditures are expected to be approximately $22 million during 2013, reflecting the addition of control equipment for Nitrogen Oxide (NOx), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) and other pollutants needed to comply with various rules promulgated by the EPA and the Consent Decree entered into with the EPA in 2003. Operation, maintenance and depreciation expenses for fly ash removal equipment and other environmental protection systems were approximately $82.6 million and $79.0 million during 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Coal Combustion Product Fills and Landfills

We currently have a program of beneficial utilization for substantially all of our coal combustion products, including fly ash, bottom ash and gypsum, which minimizes the need for disposal in specially-designed landfills. Some early designed and constructed coal combustion product landfills, which we used prior to developing this program, may allow the release of low levels of constituents resulting in the need for various levels of remediation. Where we have become aware of these conditions, efforts have been made to define the nature and extent of any release, and work has been performed to address these conditions. In addition, fill areas for coal ash were used prior to the introduction of landfill regulations. Sites currently undergoing review include the following:

Oak Creek Site Landfills:   Groundwater impacts identified near the sites, located in the Village of Caledonia and the City of Oak Creek, Wisconsin, prompted us to begin investigation in 2009 for the source of impacts found in monitoring wells on the site and surrounding area. Our study indicates that the groundwater impacts may be naturally occurring or are from other sources based on groundwater flow direction and increasing concentrations of

 
21
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1. BUSINESS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

elements deeper in the ground. The WDNR began sampling work in 2011 to identify the source of the groundwater impacts and issued its report on January 24, 2013. The WDNR study found that the data was inconclusive as to the source causing the groundwater impacts. We reviewed the WDNR report and provided technical comments on February 18, 2013 further supporting our position that regional ground water impacts are not a result of coal ash management activities at the Oak Creek site.


See Item 3 Legal Proceedings -- Environmental Matters for a discussion of the bluff collapse at our Oak Creek Power Plant.


OTHER

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


Employees:   As of December 31, 2012, we had 4,054 total employees, of which 2,660 were represented under labor agreements with the following bargaining units:

 
 
Number of Employees
 
Expiration Date of Current Labor Agreement
Local 2150 of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
 
1,829

 
August 15, 2013
Local 420 of International Union of Operating Engineers
 
554

 
March 31, 2013 
Local 2006 Unit 5 of United Steel Workers
 
161

 
October 31, 2013  
Local 510 of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
 
116

 
April 30, 2013
Total
 
2,660

 
 



 
22
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

ITEM 1A.
RISK FACTORS

Risks Related to the Operation of Our Business

Our business is significantly impacted by governmental regulation.

We are subject to significant state, local and federal governmental regulation. We 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, short-term debt obligations, construction of certain new facilities, transactions with affiliates, billing practices and various other matters. In addition, we are subject to the regulation of the MPSC as to the various matters associated with retail electric service in the state of Michigan, except as to the issuance of securities in the ordinary course of business, construction of certain new facilities, levels of short-term debt obligations and advance approval of transactions with affiliates in the ordinary course of business. Further, our hydroelectric facilities are regulated by FERC, and FERC also regulates our wholesale power service practices, electric reliability requirements, and participation in the interstate natural gas pipeline capacity market. Our significant level of regulation imposes restrictions on our operations and causes us to incur substantial compliance costs.

We are obligated to comply in good faith with all applicable governmental rules and regulations. If it is determined that we failed to comply with any applicable rules or regulations, whether through new interpretations or applications of the regulations or otherwise, we may be liable for customer refunds, penalties and other amounts, which could materially and adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

We estimate that approximately 88% of our electric revenues are regulated by the PSCW, 6% are regulated by the MPSC and the balance of our electric revenues is regulated by FERC. All of our natural gas and steam revenues are regulated by the PSCW. Our ability to obtain rate adjustments in the future is dependent upon regulatory action, and there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain rate adjustments in the future that will allow us to recover our costs and expenses and to maintain our current authorized rates of return.

We believe we have obtained the necessary permits, approvals and certificates for our existing operations and that our respective businesses are conducted in accordance with applicable laws; however, the impact of any future revision or changes in interpretations of existing regulations or the adoption of new laws and regulations applicable to us cannot be predicted. Changes in regulation, interpretations of regulations or the imposition of additional regulations could influence our operating environment and may result in substantial compliance costs.

Governmental agencies could modify our permits, authorizations or licenses.

We are required to comply with the terms of various permits, authorizations and licenses. These permits, authorizations and licenses may be revoked or modified by the agencies that granted them if facts develop that differ significantly from the facts assumed when they were issued. In addition, discharge permits and other approvals and licenses are often granted for a term that is less than the expected life of the associated facility. Licenses and permits may require periodic renewal, which may result in additional requirements being imposed by the granting agency.

Also, if we are unable to obtain, renew or comply with these governmental permits, authorizations or licenses, or if we are unable to recover any increased costs of complying with additional license requirements or any other associated costs in our rates in a timely manner, our results of operations and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected.

Factors beyond our control could adversely affect project costs and completion of construction projects.

We are in the process of constructing new renewable generation, including the biomass facility in Rothschild, Wisconsin. These types of construction projects are subject to usual construction risks over which we will have limited or no control and which might adversely affect project costs and completion time. These risks include, but are not limited to, shortages of, the ability to obtain or the cost of labor or materials; the ability of the contractors to perform under their contracts; strikes; adverse weather conditions; the ability to obtain necessary operating permits in a timely manner; legal challenges; changes in applicable law or regulations; adverse interpretation or enforcement of permit conditions, laws and regulations by courts or the permitting agencies; other governmental actions; and events in the global economy.

 
23
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


If we are unable to complete the development or construction of a facility or decide to delay or cancel construction, we may not be able to recover our investment in the facility and may incur substantial cancellation payments under equipment and construction contracts. Even if a construction project is completed, the total costs may be higher than estimated and/or higher than amounts approved by our regulators, and there is no guarantee that we will be allowed to recover these costs in rates. Construction delays can also result in the delay of revenues and, therefore, could affect our results of operations.

In addition, construction delays at our biomass facility currently under construction could result in the loss of a cash grant we expect to receive pursuant to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The PSCW included the anticipated proceeds from this grant when it set our retail electric rates in the 2013 rate case, thereby reducing the amounts collected directly from our customers.

We have announced plans to upgrade our electric and natural gas distribution systems. Although these projects are smaller in scope than the above referenced construction projects, they are still subject to many of the same risks and challenges.

Customer growth in our service areas affects our results of operations.

Our results of operations are affected by customer growth in our service areas. Customer growth and energy use can be affected by population growth as well as economic factors in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, including job and income growth. Customer growth directly influences the demand for electricity and gas, and the need for additional power generation and generating facilities. Population declines and/or business closings in our service territories or slower than anticipated customer growth has a negative impact on our results of operations and cash flow and could expose us to greater risks of accounts receivable write-offs if customers are unable to pay their bills.

Energy sales are impacted by seasonal factors and varying weather conditions from year-to-year.

Our electric and gas utility businesses are generally seasonal businesses. Demand for electricity is greater in the summer and winter months associated with cooling and heating. In addition, demand for natural gas peaks in the winter heating season. As a result, our overall results in the future may fluctuate substantially on a seasonal basis. In addition, we have historically had lower revenues and net income when weather conditions are milder. Our rates in Wisconsin are set by the PSCW based on estimated temperatures which approximate 20-year averages. Mild temperatures during the summer cooling season and during the winter heating season will negatively impact the results of operations and cash flows of our electric utility business. In addition, mild temperatures during the winter heating season negatively impact the results of operations and cash flows of our gas utility business.

Severe weather events, such as floods, droughts, tornadoes and blizzards, could result in substantial damage to or limit the operation of our facilities.

Severe weather events could result in substantial damage to our electric generating and gas distribution facilities, as well as ATC's transmission lines. Our hydroelectric generation operations could be adversely affected if there is a significant change in water levels in their respective waterways. In addition, a significant reduction in water levels in waterways that supply cooling water to our coal- and natural gas-fired power plants, whether by drought or otherwise, could restrict or prevent the operation of such facilities.

In the event we experience any of these weather events or other natural disaster, recovery of any costs in excess of any reserves or applicable insurance is subject to the approval of the PSCW and/or MPSC. There is no guarantee that we will be allowed to fully recover any such costs or that cost recovery will not be delayed or otherwise conditioned. Any denial or delay in recovery of any such costs could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.

In addition, damages resulting from severe weather events within our service territories may result in the loss of customers and reduced demand for electricity and natural gas for extended periods. Any significant loss of customers or reduction in demand could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.


 
24
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Our financial performance may be adversely affected if we are unable to successfully operate our facilities.

Our financial performance depends on the successful operation of our electric generating and gas distribution facilities. Operation of these facilities involves many risks, including: operator error and breakdown or failure of equipment processes; fuel supply interruptions; labor disputes; operating limitations that may be imposed by environmental or other regulatory requirements; or catastrophic events such as fires, earthquakes, explosions, floods or other similar occurrences. Unplanned outages can result in additional maintenance expenses as well as incremental replacement power costs. A decrease in revenues from these facilities or an increase in operating costs could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.

An increase in natural gas costs could negatively impact our electric and gas utility operations.

We burn natural gas in several of our peaking power plants and in Port Washington Generating Station Unit 1 (PWGS 1) and Port Washington Generating Station Unit 2 (PWGS 2), and as a supplemental fuel at several coal-fired plants. In many instances the cost of purchased power is tied to the cost of natural gas. Disruption in the supply of natural gas due to a curtailment in production or distribution can increase the cost of natural gas, as can international market conditions and demand for natural gas. Higher natural gas costs can have the effect of increasing demand for other sources of fuel thereby increasing the costs of those fuels as well. Additionally, high natural gas costs increase our working capital requirements.

For Wisconsin customers, we bear the risk for the recovery of fuel and purchased power costs within a symmetrical two percent fuel tolerance band compared to the forecast of fuel and purchased power costs established in our rate structure. Our gas distribution business receives dollar for dollar recovery of the cost of natural gas, subject to tolerance bands and prudency review.

We may not be able to obtain an adequate supply of coal, which could limit our ability to operate our coal-fired facilities.

We are dependent on coal for much of our electric generating capacity. Although we currently have an adequate supply of coal at our coal-fired facilities, there can be no assurance that we will continue to have an adequate supply of coal in the future. While we have coal supply and transportation contracts in place, there can be no assurance that the counterparties to these agreements will be able to fulfill their obligations to supply coal to us. The suppliers under these agreements may experience financial or operational problems that inhibit their ability to fulfill their obligations to us. In addition, suppliers under these agreements may not be required to supply coal to us under certain circumstances, such as in the event of a natural disaster. Furthermore, international demand for coal can impact its availability and cost. If we significantly reduce our inventory of coal and are unable to obtain our coal requirements under our coal supply and transportation contracts, we may be required to purchase coal at higher prices, or we may be forced to reduce generation at our coal units and replace this lost generation through additional power purchases in the MISO Energy Markets.

Acts of terrorism could materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Our electric generation and gas distribution facilities, including the facilities of third parties on which we rely, could be targets of terrorist activities. A terrorist attack on our facilities (or those of third parties) could result in a full or partial disruption of our ability to generate, transmit, transport, purchase or distribute electricity or natural gas or cause environmental repercussions. Any operational disruption or environmental repercussions could result in a significant decrease in our revenues or significant reconstruction or remediation costs, which could materially and adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

We could be the subject of cyber intrusions that disrupt our electric generation and gas distribution operations and/or result in security breaches that expose us to a risk of loss or misuse of confidential and proprietary information, litigation and potential liability.

We operate in an industry that requires the continued operation of sophisticated information technology systems and network infrastructure, which are part of an interconnected regional transmission grid. In addition, in the ordinary course of business, we collect and retain sensitive information including personal information about our customers and employees.


 
25
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Cyber intrusions, including those targeting the electronic control systems used at our generating facilities and for the electric and gas distribution systems, could result in a full or partial disruption of our electric generation and/or gas distribution operations. Any disruption of these operations could result in a loss of service to customers and a significant decrease in revenues, as well as significant expense to repair system damage and remedy security breaches. Furthermore, we may need to obtain more expensive purchased power to meet customer demand for electricity if our electric generating facilities are unable to operate at full capacity as a result of a cyber intrusion. Any resulting loss of revenue or increase in expense could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flow and financial condition.

In addition, any theft, loss and/or fraudulent use of customer, stockholder, employee or proprietary data as a result of cyber intrusion or otherwise could subject us to significant litigation, liability and costs, as well as adversely impact our reputation with customers, stockholders and regulators, among others.

Internet-based attacks on critical U.S. energy infrastructure are occurring with more frequency. On February 12, 2013, the President issued an Executive Order providing for intelligence gathering and information exchange on cyber attacks and cyber threats to privately owned critical infrastructure. The framework is to be developed jointly by the government and industry. As cyber attacks become more sophisticated generally and/or as this framework is implemented, we may be required to incur significant costs to strengthen our information and electronic control systems from outside intrusions and/or to obtain insurance coverage related to the threat of such attacks.

We could be subject to higher costs and penalties as a result of mandatory reliability standards.

We are subject to mandatory reliability and critical infrastructure protection standards established by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation. The critical infrastructure protection standards focus on controlling access to critical and physical and cybersecurity assets. Compliance with the mandatory reliability standards could subject us to higher operating costs. If we are found to be in noncompliance with the mandatory reliability standards, we could be subject to sanctions, including substantial monetary penalties.

A downgrade in our credit ratings could negatively affect our ability to access capital at reasonable costs and/or require the posting of collateral.

There are a number of factors that impact our credit ratings, including, without limitation, capital structure, regulatory environment, the ability to cover liquidity requirements, and other requirements for capital. We could experience a downgrade in our ratings if the rating agencies determine that the level of business or financial risk of the industry or the Company has deteriorated. Changes in rating methodologies by the rating agencies could also have a negative impact on credit ratings. If we are downgraded by the rating agencies, our borrowing costs could increase, funding sources could decrease and, for any downgrade to below investment grade, collateral requirements may be triggered in several contracts.

Failure to attract and retain an appropriately qualified workforce could adversely impact our results of operations.

We operate in an industry that requires many of our employees to possess a unique technical skill set. Events such as an aging workforce without appropriate replacements may lead to operating challenges or increased costs. These operating challenges include lack of resources, loss of knowledge and a lengthy time period associated with skill development. Failure to hire and obtain replacement employees, including the ability to transfer significant internal historical knowledge and expertise to the new employees, may adversely affect our ability to manage and operate our business. If we are unable to successfully attract and retain an appropriately qualified workforce, our results of operations could be adversely affected.

Work stoppages or increased labor costs could adversely affect our operations and financial condition.

As of December 31, 2012, we had 4,054 total employees, of which 2,660 or approximately 66% are represented by labor unions. All of our labor agreements are scheduled to expire in 2013. We expect that rising healthcare, pension and wage costs, among other things, will be important topics for negotiation. It is important for us to control healthcare, pension and wage costs provided for in the labor agreements, or we risk increased operational costs. If we are unable to negotiate acceptable contracts with these unions, we could be subject to strikes, work stoppages or other slowdowns by the affected workers. These actions could disrupt our operations and have an adverse effect

 
26
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

on our financial condition and results of operations.


The use of derivative contracts could result in financial losses.

We use derivative instruments such as swaps, options, futures and forwards to manage commodity exposures. We could recognize financial losses as a result of volatility in the market value of these contracts or if a counterparty fails to perform. These risks are managed through risk management policies, which might not work as planned and cannot entirely eliminate the risks associated with these activities. In addition, although our hedging programs must be approved by the PSCW, derivative contracts entered into for hedging purposes might not offset the underlying exposure being hedged as expected, resulting in financial losses. In the absence of actively quoted market prices and pricing information from external sources, the value of these financial instruments can involve management's judgment or use of estimates. Changes in the underlying assumptions or use of alternative valuation methods could affect the value of the reported fair value of these contracts.

The Dodd-Frank Act, enacted in July 2010, provides for the regulation of derivatives and grants the CFTC expanded regulatory authority over derivative and swap transactions. The CFTC has promulgated numerous regulations that will impose additional requirements on the use of derivatives and swap transactions for us and our counterparties, which could affect both the use and cost of these instruments. Several of the rules still need to be finalized, pending the CFTC's requests for further comments on certain interim rules, interpretations and proposed exemptions, and requests for clarifications by several interested parties. Although we cannot be certain of the impact of these new rules on us until these matters are fully resolved, we currently do not expect it to be material.

Our revenues could be negatively impacted by competitive activity in the wholesale electricity markets.

FERC rules related to transmission are designed to facilitate competition in the wholesale electricity markets among regulated utilities, non-utility generators, wholesale power marketers and brokers by providing greater flexibility and more choices to wholesale customers, including initiatives designed to encourage the integration of renewable sources of supply. In addition, along with transactions contemplating physical delivery of energy, financial laws and regulations impact hedging and trading based on futures contracts and derivatives that are traded on various commodities exchanges, as well as over-the-counter (OTC). Technology changes in the power and fuel industries also have significant impacts on wholesale transactions and related costs. We currently cannot predict the impact of these and other developments or the effect of changes in levels of wholesale supply and demand, which are driven by factors beyond our control.

Restructuring in the regulated energy industry could have a negative impact on our business.

The regulated energy industry continues to experience significant structural changes. Increased competition in the retail and wholesale markets, which may result from restructuring efforts, could have a significant adverse financial impact on us. It is uncertain whether retail access might be implemented in Wisconsin. Michigan has adopted retail choice which allows customers to remain with their regulated utility at regulated rates or choose an alternative electric supplier to provide power supply service. We continue providing distribution and customer service functions regardless of the customer's power supplier. Although competition and customer switching to alternative suppliers in our service territories in Michigan has been limited, the additional competitive pressures resulting from retail access could lead to a loss of customers and our incurring stranded costs. A loss of customers could also have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and cash flows.

FERC continues to support the existing RTOs that affect the structure of the wholesale market within those RTOs. In connection with its status as a FERC approved RTO, MISO implemented bid-based energy markets that are part of the MISO Energy Markets. The MISO Energy Markets rules require that all market participants submit day-ahead and/or real-time bids and offers for energy at locations across the MISO region. MISO then calculates the most efficient solution for all of the bids and offers made into the market that day and establishes a Locational Marginal Price (LMP) that reflects the market price for energy. As a participant in the MISO Energy Markets, we are required to follow MISO's instructions when dispatching generating units to support MISO's responsibility for maintaining stability of the transmission system. MISO also implemented an Ancillary Services Market for operating reserves that was simultaneously co-optimized with its existing energy markets.

These market designs have the potential to increase the costs of transmission, the costs associated with inefficient

 
27
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

generation dispatching, the costs of participation in the market and the costs associated with estimated payment settlements.

Risks Related to Legislation and Regulation

We may face significant costs of compliance with existing and future environmental regulations.

Our operations are subject to extensive environmental legislation and regulation by state and federal environmental agencies governing, among other things, air emissions such as Carbon Dioxide (CO2), SO2, NOx, fine particulates and mercury; water discharges; and management of hazardous, toxic and solid wastes and substances. We incur significant expenditures in complying with these environmental requirements, including expenditures for the installation of pollution control equipment, environmental monitoring, emissions fees and permits at all of our facilities. In April 2003, we reached a Consent Decree with the EPA to significantly reduce air emissions from our coal-fired generating facilities. Through the end of 2012, we had invested approximately $1.2 billion to comply with the Consent Decree. We estimate we will spend an additional $22 million in 2013 for final implementation costs.

We will be required to be in compliance with environmental regulations that become effective over the next several years, including the EPA's Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) rule, new SO2 and Nitrogen Dioxide National Ambient Air Quality Standards and new emission limits on fine particulate matter (PM2.5), as well as rules related to cooling water intake structures at our power plants. In addition, the EPA adopted the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR), which provides for limits on the interstate transport of NOx and SO2 emissions. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit vacated the CSAPR. The EPA had requested the Court to re-hear the case; however, on January 24, 2013 the court denied the EPA's request. The EPA may still appeal this decision to the United States Supreme Court. Therefore, there is still substantial uncertainty as to what capital expenditures may ultimately be required to comply with these regulations. In the meantime, the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR) remains in effect.

We continue to assess the potential cost of complying, and to explore different alternatives in order to comply, with these and other environmental regulations. We entered a joint ownership agreement with Wolverine regarding PIPP, whereby, subject to the approval of various state and federal agencies, Wolverine will pay for the installation of environmental upgrades at the plant and will receive a minority ownership interest in the plant in return. In addition, we announced plans to convert the fuel source for VAPP from coal to natural gas at an expected cost of between $60 million and $65 million. These and other compliance costs we expect to incur over the next three years are included in the table under "Capital Expenditures" in the Liquidity and Capital Resources section of Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Existing environmental regulations may be revised or new laws or regulations may be adopted at the federal or state level which could result in significant additional expenditures, operating restrictions on our facilities and increased compliance costs. In addition, the operation of emission control equipment and further regulations on our intake and discharge of water could increase our operating costs and could reduce the generating capacity of our power plants. Additional environmental legislation and regulation and the related compliance costs could affect future unit retirement and replacement decisions.

If we fail to comply with environmental laws and regulations, even if caused by factors beyond our control, that failure may result in the assessment of civil or criminal penalties and fines. The WDNR has issued notices of violation to us alleging violations of certain environmental rules. An adverse outcome in these matters could require substantial capital expenditures that cannot be determined at this time and could possibly require payment of substantial penalties.

In the event we are not able to recover all of our environmental expenditures and related costs from our customers in the future, our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.

Our electric and gas utility businesses are also subject to significant liabilities related to the investigation and remediation of environmental contamination at certain of our current and former facilities, and at third-party owned sites. Due to the potential for imposition of stricter standards and greater regulation in the future and the possibility that other potentially responsible parties may not be financially able to contribute to cleanup costs, conditions may change or additional contamination may be discovered, our remediation costs could increase, and the timing of our capital and/or operating expenditures in the future may accelerate.


 
28
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

We may also be subject to potential liability in connection with the environmental condition of the facilities that we have previously owned and operated, regardless of whether the liabilities arose before, during or after the time we owned or operated the facilities. If we fail (or failed) to comply with environmental laws and regulations or cause (or caused) harm to the environment or persons, that failure or harm may result in the assessment of civil penalties and damages against us. The incurrence of a material environmental liability or a material judgment in any action for personal injury or property damage related to environmental matters could have a significant adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

Energy conservation and rate increases could negatively impact financial results.

Wisconsin and Michigan have adopted energy efficiency targets to reduce energy consumption by certain dates. To the extent there is any regulatory lag to adjust rates as a result of reduced sales from effective conservation measures, these measures could have a negative impact on our results of operations and cash flows.

In addition, any higher costs that are collected through rates could contribute to reduced demand for electricity, natural gas or steam, which could adversely impact our results of operations and financial condition.

We may face significant costs if coal combustion products are regulated as hazardous waste.

We currently have a program of beneficial utilization for substantially all of our coal combustion products, including fly ash, bottom ash and gypsum, which minimizes the need for disposal in specially-designed landfills. Both Wisconsin and Michigan have regulations governing the use and disposal of these materials. In 2010, the EPA issued draft rules for public comment proposing two alternative rules for regulating coal combustion products, one of which would classify the materials as hazardous waste. If coal combustion products are classified as hazardous waste, it could have a material adverse effect on our ability to continue our current program.

If coal combustion products are classified as hazardous waste and we terminate our coal combustion products utilization program, we could be required to dispose of the coal combustion products at a significant cost to the Company, which could adversely impact our results of operations and financial condition. We anticipate that the earliest the EPA will take action on this matter is the first quarter of 2014.

In addition, the EPA finalized the Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units rule under the Clean Air Act (CAA), and finalized a Non-Hazardous Secondary Materials Rule. Both of these rules have the potential to negatively affect our ability to reburn coal ash from power plants and landfills.

We may face significant costs to comply with the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions.

The President's administration recently reaffirmed that the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions continues to be a top priority. Legislation that would impose mandatory requirements related to greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy standards and/or energy efficiency standards has failed to pass in the U.S. Congress; however, we expect such legislation to be considered in the future. Although we cannot currently predict with any certainty what form these future regulations will take, the stringency of the regulations or when they will become effective, we do believe that future governmental legislation and/or regulation may require us to limit or control greenhouse gas emissions from our operations, purchase allowances for such emissions or otherwise incur costs in connection with such emissions.

While climate legislation has yet to be adopted, the EPA is pursuing regulation of greenhouse gas emissions using its existing authority under the CAA. In March 2010, the EPA issued regulations governing the applicability of the CAA's permitting requirements for greenhouse gas emissions to power plants and other commercial and industrial facilities. These rules became applicable to sources that are already subject to CAA permitting requirements, as well as new and modified sources, during 2011. In March 2012, the EPA proposed new source performance standards pertaining to greenhouse gas emissions from certain new power plants, including coal-fired plants, based on the performance of combined cycle natural gas-fueled generating plants. We believe this rule effectively prohibits new conventional coal-fired power plants. In June 2012, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit upheld the EPA's authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. We expect the EPA to attempt to address performance standards for existing generating units in 2013. Any such regulations may impact how we operate our existing facilities.

Legislation to regulate greenhouse gas emissions and establish renewable and efficiency standards has also been

 
29
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

considered on the state level. Both Wisconsin and Michigan have adopted renewable portfolio standards and energy optimization (efficiency) targets.

Despite the United States Supreme Court's decision in Connecticut v. American Electric Power Co., where the Court ruled that the plaintiffs in that litigation did not have standing to claim nuisance due to the release of greenhouse gas into the atmosphere by the defendants, states and environmental groups have lawsuits pending against electric utilities and others to force reductions in greenhouse gas emissions based upon their contribution to the alleged public nuisance of climate change.

There is no guarantee that we will be allowed to fully recover costs incurred to comply with any future legislation, regulation or order that requires a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions or that cost recovery will not be delayed or otherwise conditioned. Any future legislation or regulation that may be adopted, either at the federal or state level, designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions could have a material adverse impact on our electric generation and natural gas distribution operations. Such regulation could make some of our electric generating units uneconomic to maintain or operate, and could adversely affect our future results of operations, cash flows and possibly financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated rates.

We continue to monitor the legislative, regulatory and legal developments in this area.

Risks Related to Economic and Market Volatility

Our business is dependent on our ability to successfully access capital markets.

We rely on access to short-term and long-term capital markets to support our capital expenditures and other capital requirements, including expenditures for our utility infrastructure and to comply with future regulatory requirements, to the extent not satisfied by the cash flow generated by our operations. We have historically secured funds from a variety of sources, including the issuance of short-term and long-term debt securities and equity contributions from our parent, Wisconsin Energy. Successful implementation of our long-term business strategies, including capital investment is dependent upon our ability to access the capital markets, including the banking and commercial paper markets, under competitive terms and rates. In addition, we rely on a committed bank credit agreement as back-up liquidity which allows us to access the low cost commercial paper markets. If our access to any of these markets were limited, or our cost of capital significantly increased due to a rating downgrade, an economic downturn or uncertainty, prevailing market conditions, concerns over foreign economic conditions and/or the ability of foreign governments and central banks to respond to changing economic conditions, a negative view of the utility industry, failures of financial institutions or other factors, our ability to implement our business plan could be limited which could materially and adversely affect our results of operations.

We are exposed to risks related to general economic conditions in our service territories.

Our electric and gas utility businesses are impacted by economic cycles and the competitiveness of the commercial and industrial customers we serve. Any economic downturn or disruption of national or international financial markets could adversely affect the financial condition of our customers and demand for their products. Adverse economic conditions in our service territories and/or decreased demand for products produced in our service area could cause a reduction in demand for electricity and/or natural gas that could result in decreased earnings and cash flow. We would also expect our collections of accounts receivable to be adversely impacted.

Our service territories have been impacted by the slow economy the country has been experiencing over the past several years. As a result, we continue to experience electric and natural gas sales below historical trends.

Poor investment performance of benefit plan holdings and other factors impacting benefit plan costs could unfavorably impact our liquidity and results of operations.

Our cost of providing pension and other post-retirement benefit plans is dependent upon a number of factors including actual plan experience and assumptions concerning the future, such as earnings on plan assets, discount rates, the level of interest rates used to measure the required minimum funding levels of the plans, future government regulation and our required or voluntary contributions to be made to the plans. Plan assets are subject to market fluctuations and may yield returns that fall below projected return rates. A decline in the market value of these assets as experienced in prior periods may increase our funding requirements. Changes in interest rates

 
30
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

affect plan liabilities - as rates decrease, the liabilities increase, which could increase our funding requirements. Changes in demographics, such as an increase in the number of retirements or changes in life expectancy assumptions, may also increase our funding requirements. Changes made to the plans may also impact current and future pension costs. We are facing rising medical costs for both active and retired employees. It is possible that these costs may increase at a rate that is significantly higher than anticipated. If we are unable to successfully manage our benefit plan assets and medical costs, our cash flows, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely impacted.

Our ability to obtain insurance and the terms of any available insurance coverage could be adversely affected by international, national, state or local events and company-specific events, as well as the financial condition of insurers. Our insurance coverage may not provide protection against all significant losses.

Our ability to obtain insurance, as well as the cost and coverage of such insurance, could be affected by developments affecting our business, as well as by international, national, state or local events, as well as the financial condition of insurers. Insurance coverage may not continue to be available at all or at rates or terms similar to those presently available to us. A loss for which we are not fully insured could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. In addition, our insurance may not be sufficient or effective under all circumstances and against all hazards or liabilities to which we may be subject. Any losses not covered by insurance could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows or financial condition.


ITEM 1B.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.


ITEM 2.
PROPERTIES

We own our principal properties outright, except that the major portion of our electric utility distribution lines, steam utility distribution mains and gas utility distribution mains and services are located, for the most part, on or under streets and highways and on land owned by others and are generally subject to granted easements, consents or permits. In addition, we lease the PTF generating units.

 
31
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K



As of December 31, 2012, we owned, or leased from We Power, the following generating stations:

 
 
 
 
No. of
 
Dependable
 
 
 
 
Generating
 
Capability
Name
 
Fuel
 
Units
 
In MW (a)
Coal-Fired Plants
 
 
 
 
 
 
South Oak Creek
 
Coal
 
4

 
976

Oak Creek Expansion
 
Coal
 
2

 
1,057

Presque Isle
 
Coal
 
5

 
344

Pleasant Prairie
 
Coal
 
2

 
1,188

Valley
 
Coal
 
2

 
256

Milwaukee County
 
Coal
 
3

 
7

Total Coal-Fired Plants
 
 
 
18

 
3,828

Hydro Plants (13 in number)
 
 
 
33

 
40

Port Washington Generating Station
 
Gas
 
2

 
1,090

Germantown Combustion Turbines
 
Gas/Oil
 
5

 
258

Concord Combustion Turbines
 
Gas/Oil
 
4

 
352

Paris Combustion Turbines
 
Gas/Oil
 
4

 
352

Other Combustion Turbines & Diesel
 
Gas/Oil
 
2

 

Byron Wind Turbines
 
Wind
 
2

 

Blue Sky Green Field
 
Wind
 
88

 
29

Glacier Hills
 
Wind
 
90

 
32

Montfort Wind Energy Center
 
Wind
 
20

 
6

Total System
 
 
 
268

 
5,987


(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. We are a summer peaking electric utility. The values are established by tests and may change slightly from year to year.

As of December 31, 2012, we operated approximately 21,551 pole-miles of overhead distribution lines and 23,912 miles of underground distribution cable, as well as approximately 350 distribution substations and 289,826 line transformers.

As of December 31, 2012, our gas distribution system included approximately 9,468 miles of distribution mains connected at 26 gate stations to the pipeline transmission systems of ANR Pipeline Company, Guardian Pipeline L.L.C., Natural Gas Pipeline Company of America, Northern Natural Pipeline Company and Great Lakes Transmission Company. We have a liquefied natural gas storage plant that converts and stores in liquefied form natural gas received during periods of low consumption. The liquefied natural gas storage plant has a send-out capability of 70,000 Dth per day. Our gas distribution system consists almost entirely of plastic and coated steel pipe.

We also own office buildings, gas regulating and metering stations and major service centers, including garage and warehouse facilities, in certain communities we serve. Where distribution lines and services and gas distribution mains and services occupy private property, we have in some, but not all instances, obtained consents, permits or easements for these installations from the apparent owners or those in possession of those properties, generally without an examination of ownership records or title.

As of December 31, 2012, the combined steam systems supplied by the VAPP and Milwaukee County Power Plant consisted of approximately 43 miles of both high pressure and low pressure steam piping, nine miles of walkable tunnels and other pressure regulating equipment.


 
32
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

ITEM 3.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In addition to those legal proceedings discussed below, 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 other 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 effect on our financial statements.
 

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

We are subject to federal, state and certain local laws and regulations governing the environmental aspects of our operations. Management believes that our existing facilities are in material compliance with applicable environmental requirements.

Bluff Collapse:   On October 31, 2011, a portion of the bluff at our Oak Creek Power Plant collapsed. The affected area, located south of the new Air Quality Control System (AQCS), was a former ravine that had been filled with coal ash prior to the advent of landfill regulations. Following the receipt of permits and approvals from the WDNR, bluff reconstruction and stabilization were completed in November 2012. We received final spill closure related to our rework of the storm water management infrastructure from the WDNR on December 10, 2012, following submission of environmental studies and reports. In addition, the EPA issued its final incident situation report on November 29, 2012. The final construction documentation report was submitted to the WDNR on December 21, 2012.

In March 2012, the WDNR issued a Notice of Violation (NOV) along with its investigative findings. The NOV involved the north surface water detention basin and a related permit condition. A June 2012 letter from the WDNR rescinded the March 2012 NOV, but alleged non-compliance with certain environmental regulations. In late July 2012, the WDNR referred the matter to the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) for alleged violations of storm water and solid waste statutes and rules. We anticipate the DOJ will seek fines or penalties from us as a result of this incident.

In addition, in November 2011, the Sierra Club provided a Notice of Intent to file a citizens suit under the CAA and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act for alleged violations related to this incident. We have responded that we do not believe there is any basis for a citizen suit. To date, the Sierra Club has not indicated whether they intend to file suit.

Paris Generating Station:   See Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Other Matters for information concerning a NOV issued in connection with the replacement of certain turbine blades as part of maintenance performed on Units 1 and 4 at our Paris Generating Station (PSGS).

Solvay Coke and Gas Site:   We have been identified as a potentially responsible party at the Solvay Coke and Gas Site located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. A predecessor company owned a parcel of property that is within the property boundaries of the site. In 2007, we and several other parties entered into an Administrative Settlement Agreement and Order with the EPA to perform additional investigation and assessment and reimburse the EPA's oversight costs. In-field investigation activities have commenced. Under the Administrative Settlement Agreement, we do not admit to any liability for the site, waive any liability defenses, or commit to perform future site remedial activities. Our share of the costs to perform the required work and reimburse the EPA's oversight costs, as well as potential future remediation cost estimates and reserves, are included in the estimated manufactured gas plant values reported in Note P -- Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.

Edgewater Generating Unit 5:   In December 2009, the EPA issued a NOV concerning several coal-fired power plants owned and operated by WPL, including Edgewater Generating Unit 5, of which we owned 25%. Due to our ownership interest at the time, we were named in the NOV. In March 2011, we sold our interest to WPL. Although we sold our interest, we retained our share of liability, if any, related to the NOV. The NOV alleges that certain maintenance projects at WPL's units, including Edgewater 5, were undertaken without obtaining air permits required by the CAA. We, along with WPL and the co-owners of the other plants identified in the NOV are discussing resolution of this NOV with the EPA. At this time, we cannot predict the outcome of this matter.


 
33
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

In September 2010, the Sierra Club filed a complaint against WPL generally alleging air permitting and opacity violations at the Edgewater Generating Station. We are not a named party to this litigation. WPL, the other co-owner of the Edgewater Generating Station, and us as a former co-owner, are discussing resolution of this matter with the Sierra Club. At this time, we cannot predict the outcome of this matter.

See Environmental Compliance in Item 1 and Environmental Matters, Manufactured Gas Plant Sites, Coal Combustion Product Landfill Sites and EPA - Consent Decree in Note P -- Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements which are incorporated by reference herein, for a discussion of matters related to certain solid waste and coal combustion product landfills, manufactured gas plant sites and air quality.


UTILITY RATE MATTERS

See Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Rates and Regulatory Matters in Item 7 for information concerning rate matters in the jurisdictions where we do business.
 

OTHER MATTERS

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

Cash Balance Pension Plan:   See Note P -- Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding a lawsuit filed against the Wisconsin Energy Corporation Retirement Account Plan (Plan).

For information concerning our PTF strategy, including the Settlement Agreement with Bechtel Power Corporation (Bechtel), see Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Power the Future.

ITEM 4.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not Applicable.

 
34
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K


EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

The names, ages at December 31, 2012 and positions of our executive officers 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.

Gale E. Klappa.   Age 62.
Wisconsin Energy -- Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer since May 2004. President since April 2003.
Wisconsin Electric -- Chairman of the Board since May 2004. President and Chief Executive Officer since August 2003.
Wisconsin Gas -- Chairman of the Board since May 2004. President and Chief Executive Officer since August 2003.
Director of Joy Global, Inc. and Badger Meter, Inc.
Director of Wisconsin Energy, Wisconsin Electric and Wisconsin Gas since 2003.

Stephen P. Dickson.   Age 52.
Wisconsin Energy -- Vice President since 2005. Controller since 2000.
Wisconsin Electric -- Vice President since 2005. Controller since 2000.
Wisconsin Gas -- Vice President since 2005. Controller since 1998.

J. Kevin Fletcher.   Age 54.
Wisconsin Electric -- Senior Vice President since October 2011.
Wisconsin Gas -- Senior Vice President since October 2011.
Georgia Power -- Vice President - Community and Economic Development from 2007 to October 2011. Georgia Power is an affiliate of The Southern Company, a public utility holding company serving the southeastern United States.

Robert M. Garvin.   Age 46.
Wisconsin Energy -- Senior Vice President since April 2011.
Wisconsin Electric -- Senior Vice President since April 2011.
Wisconsin Gas -- Senior Vice President since April 2011.
American Transmission Co. -- Vice President and General Counsel from 2009 to April 2011.
NextEra Energy Resources -- Vice President from 2007 to 2009.

J. Patrick Keyes.   Age 47.
Wisconsin Energy -- Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since September 2012. Treasurer from April 2011 to February 2013. Vice President from April 2011 to August 2012.
Wisconsin Electric -- Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since September 2012. Treasurer from April 2011 to February 2013. Vice President from April 2011 to August 2012.
Wisconsin Gas -- Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since September 2012. Treasurer from April 2011 to February 2013. Vice President from April 2011 to August 2012.
Accenture -- Senior Executive from September 2000 to March 2011.

Frederick D. Kuester.   Age 62.
Wisconsin Energy -- Executive Vice President from May 2004 to January 4, 2013. Chief Financial Officer from March 2011 to August 2012.
Wisconsin Electric -- Executive Vice President from May 2004 to January 4, 2013. Chief Operating Officer from October 2003 until February 2011. Chief Financial Officer from March 2011 to August 2012.
Wisconsin Gas -- Executive Vice President from May 2004 to January 4, 2013. Chief Financial Officer from March 2011 to August 2012.

Mr. Kuester retired effective January 4, 2013.




 
35
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Mirant Corporation, of which Mr. Kuester was Senior Vice President - International from 2001 to October 2003 and Chief Executive Officer of Mirant Asia-Pacific Limited from 1999 to October 2003, and certain of its subsidiaries voluntarily filed for bankruptcy in July 2003. Other than certain Canadian subsidiaries, none of Mirant's international subsidiaries filed for bankruptcy.


Allen L. Leverett.   Age 46.
Wisconsin Energy -- Executive Vice President since May 2004. Chief Financial Officer from July 2003 to February 2011.
Wisconsin Electric -- Executive Vice President since May 2004. Chief Financial Officer from July 2003 to February 2011.
Wisconsin Gas -- Executive Vice President since May 2004. Chief Financial Officer from July 2003 to February 2011.

Susan H. Martin.   Age 60.
Wisconsin Energy -- Executive Vice President and General Counsel since March 2012. Corporate Secretary since December 2007. Vice President and Associate General Counsel from December 2007 to February 2012.
Wisconsin Electric -- Executive Vice President and General Counsel since March 2012. Corporate Secretary since December 2007. Vice President and Associate General Counsel from December 2007 to February 2012.
Wisconsin Gas -- Executive Vice President and General Counsel since March 2012. Corporate Secretary since December 2007. Vice President and Associate General Counsel from December 2007 to February 2012.

Kristine A. Rappé.   Age 56.
Wisconsin Energy -- Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer since May 2004.
Wisconsin Electric -- Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer since May 2004.
Wisconsin Gas -- Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer since May 2004.

Ms. Rappé is concluding her employment effective February 28, 2013.

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



 
36
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

PART II


ITEM 5.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES


DIVIDENDS

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

Quarter
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
First
 
$
44.9

 
$
44.9

Second
 
44.9

 
44.9

Third
 
44.9

 
44.9

Fourth
 
44.9

 
104.9

Total
 
$
179.6

 
$
239.6


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, our earnings, financial condition and other requirements.

Various financing arrangements and regulatory requirements impose certain restrictions on our ability to transfer funds to Wisconsin Energy in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances. Under Wisconsin law, we are prohibited from loaning funds, either directly or indirectly, to Wisconsin Energy. For additional information regarding restrictions on our ability to pay dividends, see Note H -- Common Equity in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.



 
37
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

ITEM 6.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED SELECTED FINANCIAL AND STATISTICAL DATA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
2009
 
2008
Year Ended December 31
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings available for
     common stockholder (Millions)
 
$
366.1

 
$
338.4

 
$
314.2

 
$
287.4

 
$
280.1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Revenues (Millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Electric
 
$
3,193.9

 
$
3,211.3

 
$
2,936.3

 
$
2,685.0

 
$
2,660.6

Gas
 
385.1

 
477.3

 
481.6

 
564.2

 
709.2

Steam
 
34.3

 
39.0

 
38.8

 
39.1

 
40.3

Total operating revenues
 
$
3,613.3

 
$
3,727.6

 
$
3,456.7

 
$
3,288.3

 
$
3,410.1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
At December 31 (Millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total assets
 
$
12,022.6

 
$
11,661.3

 
$
10,170.7

 
$
8,871.2

 
$
8,775.4

Long-term debt and capital lease
     obligations (including current maturities)
 
$
5,276.8

 
$
5,022.0

 
$
4,053.5

 
$
3,092.8

 
$
2,886.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


CONSOLIDATED SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (Unaudited)
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Millions of Dollars) (a)
 
 
 
March
 
June
 
Three Months Ended
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
Total operating revenues
 
$
946.6

 
$
1,006.2

 
$
840.6

 
$
853.3

 
Operating income
 
$
172.3

 
$
155.3

 
$
132.3

 
$
81.2

 
Earnings available for common
     stockholder
 
$
115.6

 
$
107.2

 
$
83.0

 
$
57.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
September
 
December
 
Three Months Ended
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
Total operating revenues
 
$
951.9

 
$
958.3

 
$
874.2

 
$
909.8

 
Operating income
 
$
193.3

 
$
143.1

 
$
85.4

 
$
94.0

 
Earnings available for common
     stockholder
 
$
122.2

 
$
100.8

 
$
45.3

 
$
72.6

 

(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.


 
38
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


CORPORATE DEVELOPMENTS

INTRODUCTION

Wisconsin Electric Power Company, a subsidiary of Wisconsin Energy, is engaged primarily in the business of generating and distributing electricity in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and distributing natural gas in Wisconsin. Unless qualified by their context when used in this document, the terms Wisconsin Electric, the Company, our, us or we refer to Wisconsin Electric Power Company and its subsidiary, Bostco.

Wisconsin Energy is also the parent company of Wisconsin Gas, a natural gas distribution utility, which serves customers throughout Wisconsin; and We Power, an unregulated company that was formed in 2001 to design, construct, own and lease to us the new generating capacity included in Wisconsin Energy's PTF strategy, which is described further in this report. We have combined common functions with Wisconsin Gas and operate under the trade name of "We Energies."

 
CORPORATE STRATEGY

Business Opportunities

We have two primary investment opportunities and earnings streams: our regulated utility business and our investment in ATC.

Our regulated utility business primarily consists of electric generation assets and the electric and gas distribution assets that serve our electric and gas customers. During 2012, our regulated utility earned $583.3 million of operating income. Over the next three years, we expect to invest approximately $1.5 billion in this business to construct renewable generation, to convert the fuel source for VAPP from coal to natural gas, to update the electric and gas distribution infrastructure, and for other utility projects.

We have a $332.6 million investment in ATC, which represents a 23.0% ownership interest. Our 2012 pre-tax earnings from ATC totaled $57.6 million and we received $46.1 million in dividends from ATC. Over the next three years, we expect to make capital contributions of approximately $38 million in ATC as it continues to invest in transmission projects. During the same period, we expect to invest $41 million in ATC through undistributed earnings.


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

EARNINGS

2012 vs. 2011:   Earnings increased to $366.1 million in 2012 compared with $338.4 million in 2011. Operating income increased $109.7 million between the comparative periods. The increase in operating income was primarily caused by decreased other operation and maintenance expense and decreased fuel and purchased power expenses.

2011 vs. 2010:   Earnings increased to $338.4 million in 2011 compared with $314.2 million in 2010. Operating income decreased $15.6 million between the comparative periods. The decrease in operating income was primarily caused by increased other operation and maintenance expense and unfavorable weather during 2011 as compared to 2010, partially offset by wholesale electric pricing increases and electric sales growth.




 
39
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

The following table summarizes our consolidated earnings during 2012, 2011 and 2010:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Utility Gross Margin
 
 
 
 
 
 
Electric (See below)
 
$
2,103.6

 
$
2,052.1

 
$
1,844.8

Gas (See below)
 
157.4

 
171.1

 
165.6

Steam
 
20.8

 
23.7

 
25.6

Total Gross Margin
 
2,281.8

 
2,246.9

 
2,036.0

Other Operating Expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other operation and maintenance
 
1,327.8

 
1,447.6

 
1,432.5

Depreciation and amortization
 
257.6

 
220.3

 
216.2

Property and revenue taxes
 
113.1

 
105.4

 
96.5

Amortization of gain
 

 

 
(198.4
)
Operating Income
 
583.3

 
473.6

 
489.2

Equity in Earnings of Transmission Affiliate
 
57.6

 
54.9

 
52.7

Other Income and Deductions, net
 
32.3

 
62.1

 
39.8

Interest Expense, net
 
113.2

 
94.2

 
101.5

Income Before Income Taxes
 
560.0

 
496.4

 
480.2

Income Tax Expense
 
192.7

 
156.8

 
164.8

Preferred Stock Dividend Requirement
 
1.2

 
1.2

 
1.2

Earnings Available for Common Stockholder
 
$
366.1

 
$
338.4

 
$
314.2




 
40
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Electric Utility Gross Margin

The following table compares our electric utility gross margin during 2012 with similar information for 2011 and 2010, including a summary of electric operating revenues and electric sales by customer class:

 
 
Electric Revenues and Gross Margin
 
MWh Sales
Electric Utility Operations
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
(Thousands)
Customer Class
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
 
$
1,163.9

 
$
1,159.2

 
$
1,114.3

 
8,317.7

 
8,278.5

 
8,426.3

Small Commercial/Industrial
 
1,013.6

 
1,006.9

 
922.2

 
8,860.0

 
8,795.8

 
8,823.3

Large Commercial/Industrial
 
744.3

 
763.7

 
677.1

 
9,710.7

 
9,992.2

 
9,961.5

Other - Retail
 
22.8

 
22.9

 
21.9

 
154.8

 
153.6

 
155.3

Total Retail
 
2,944.6

 
2,952.7

 
2,735.5

 
27,043.2

 
27,220.1

 
27,366.4

Wholesale - Other
 
144.4

 
154.0

 
134.6

 
1,566.6

 
2,024.8

 
2,004.6

Resale - Utilities
 
53.4

 
69.5

 
40.4

 
1,642.4

 
2,065.7

 
1,103.8

Other Operating Revenues
 
51.5

 
35.1

 
25.8

 

 

 

Total
 
3,193.9

 
3,211.3

 
2,936.3

 
30,252.2

 
31,310.6

 
30,474.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fuel and Purchased Power
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fuel
 
541.6

 
644.4

 
570.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
Purchased Power
 
548.7

 
514.8

 
521.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Fuel and Purchased Power
 
1,090.3

 
1,159.2

 
1,091.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Electric Gross Margin
 
$
2,103.6

 
$
2,052.1

 
$
1,844.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weather -- Degree Days (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Heating (6,662 Normal)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5,704

 
6,633

 
6,183

Cooling (696 Normal)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,041

 
793

 
944


(a)
As measured at Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Normal degree days are based upon a 20-year moving average.


Electric Utility Revenues and Sales

2012 vs. 2011:   Our electric utility operating revenues decreased by $17.4 million, or 0.5%, when compared to 2011. The most significant factors that caused a change in revenues were:

Favorable weather as compared to the prior year that increased electric revenues by an estimated $28.5 million.
Other operating revenues increased by approximately $16.4 million, driven by the $25.9 million amortization of a settlement with the DOE. For additional information on the DOE settlement, see Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Nuclear Operations.
A planned outage at an iron ore mine of our largest customer and the conversion to self-generation of two other large customers decreased electric revenues by an estimated $20.4 million.
A $16.2 million reduction in sales for resale due to reduced sales into the MISO Energy Markets.
Lower MWh sales to our wholesale customers, which decreased revenue by an estimated $12.4 million as compared to 2011.

As measured by cooling degree days, 2012 was 49.6% warmer than normal, and 31.3% warmer than 2011. We believe the warmer summer weather was the primary reason for the 0.5% increase in residential sales and the 0.7% increase in small commercial/industrial sales. The increase due to warmer summer weather was partially offset by reduced sales from warmer winter weather in the first quarter of 2012 as compared to the first quarter of 2011.

Sales to our large commercial/industrial customers decreased by 2.8% primarily due to the planned outage at an iron ore mine of our largest customer and the conversion to self-generation of two other large customers. Excluding sales to these three customers, MWh sales to large commercial/industrial customers increased by 1.1%. Wholesale sales decreased primarily due to the low market price of power in 2012 as compared to 2011, which caused some

 
41
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

of these customers to obtain energy from the MISO market rather than through our contracts. The reduction did not impact the majority of revenue received from these customers, which is tied to demand. The lower market price of power also reduced our ability to sell energy into the MISO Energy Markets.

2011 vs. 2010:   Our electric utility operating revenues increased by $275.0 million, or 9.4%, when compared to 2010. The most significant factors that caused a change in revenues were:

2011 increase of approximately $198.4 million, reflecting the reduction of Point Beach bill credits to retail customers. For information on the bill credits, see Amortization of Gain below.
Net pricing increases totaling $48.8 million, which includes rates related to our 2010 fuel recovery request that became effective March 25, 2010, and our request to review 2011 fuel costs that became effective April 29, 2011. For information on these rate orders, see Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Rates and Regulatory Matters.
Unfavorable weather as compared to 2010 that decreased electric revenues by an estimated $40.5 million.
A $20.4 million increase in revenue from energy sold into the MISO Energy Markets, which was driven by increased MWh generation from the Oak Creek expansion units.
Net economic growth that increased electric revenues by an estimated $16.2 million as compared to 2010.
Higher MWh sales to our wholesale customers, which increased revenue by an estimated $10.4 million as compared to 2010.

As measured by cooling degree days, 2011 was 11.8% warmer than normal, but 16.0% cooler than 2010. The 1.8% decrease in residential sales volumes in 2011 is primarily attributable to weather. The estimated 1.8% impact of cooler summer weather on our small commercial/industrial sales volumes was almost entirely offset by an estimated 1.5% increase in sales due to modest economic growth. Increased sales to our largest customers, two iron ore mines, accounted for the increase in sales to our large commercial/industrial customers. If these sales are excluded, sales to our large commercial/industrial customers decreased by approximately 1.2% for 2011 as compared to 2010 primarily because of previously announced plant closings.


Electric Fuel and Purchased Power Expenses

2012 vs. 2011:   Our electric fuel and purchased power costs decreased by $68.9 million, or approximately 5.9%, when compared to 2011. This decrease was primarily caused by a 3.4% decrease in total MWh sales as well as a reduction in our average cost of fuel and purchased power because of lower natural gas prices.

2011 vs. 2010:   Our electric fuel and purchased power costs increased by $67.7 million, or approximately 6.2%, when compared to 2010. This increase was primarily caused by a 2.7% increase in total MWh sales as well as increased coal and related transportation costs, partially offset by lower natural gas prices.


Gas Utility Revenues, Gross Margin and Therm Deliveries

The following table compares our total gas utility operating revenues and gross margin (total gas utility operating revenues less cost of gas sold) during 2012, 2011 and 2010. Operating revenues and cost of gas sold has declined over the last three years due to the decline in the commodity cost of natural gas during this three year period.

Gas Utility Operations
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Revenues
 
$
385.1

 
$
477.3

 
$
481.6

Cost of Gas Sold
 
227.7

 
306.2

 
316.0

Gross Margin
 
$
157.4

 
$
171.1

 
$
165.6



 
42
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

We believe gross margin is a better performance indicator than revenues because changes in the cost of gas sold flow through to revenue under our GCRM. The following table compares our gas utility gross margin and therm deliveries by customer class during 2012, 2011 and 2010:

 
 
Gross Margin
 
Therm Deliveries
Gas Utility Operations
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
(Millions)
Customer Class
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
 
$
106.1

 
$
114.7

 
$
111.2

 
294.3

 
339.4

 
321.8

Commercial/Industrial
 
33.0

 
38.1

 
35.8

 
165.3

 
198.7

 
184.5

Interruptible
 
0.5

 
0.5

 
0.6

 
5.0

 
5.3

 
5.5

Total Retail
 
139.6

 
153.3

 
147.6

 
464.6

 
543.4

 
511.8

Transported Gas
 
16.5

 
16.3

 
15.5

 
344.5

 
294.4

 
300.8

Other
 
1.3

 
1.5

 
2.5

 

 

 

Total
 
$
157.4

 
$
171.1

 
$
165.6

 
809.1

 
837.8

 
812.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weather -- Degree Days (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Heating (6,662 Normal)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5,704

 
6,633

 
6,183


(a)
As measured at Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Normal degree days are based upon a 20-year moving average.

2012 vs. 2011:   Our total retail gas margin decreased by $13.7 million, or approximately 8.9%, when compared to 2011 primarily because of a decrease in sales volumes as a result of warmer winter weather. As measured by heating degree days, 2012 was 14.0% warmer than 2011 and 14.4% warmer than normal.

Transported gas volumes increased by 17.0% when compared to 2011. Virtually all of the volume increase related to gas used in electric generation, which has a small impact on margin.

2011 vs. 2010:   Our gas margin increased by $5.5 million, or approximately 3.3%, when compared to 2010 primarily because of an increase in sales volumes as a result of colder winter weather in 2011 as compared to 2010. As measured by heating degree days, 2011 was 7.3% colder than 2010 and 0.3% colder than normal.


Other Operation and Maintenance Expense

2012 vs. 2011:   Our other operation and maintenance expense decreased by $119.8 million, or approximately 8.3%, when compared to 2011. This decrease is primarily due to the one year suspension of $148 million of amortization expense on certain regulatory assets as authorized under our 2012 Wisconsin Rate Case. For additional information on the 2012 rate case, see Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Rates and Regulatory Matters.

Our operation and maintenance expenses are influenced by, among other things, labor costs, employee benefit costs, plant outages and amortization of regulatory assets. We expect our 2013 other operation and maintenance expense to stay fairly flat because we anticipate that the 2013 Wisconsin Rate Case reinstatement of amortization on certain regulatory assets will be offset by an extension of the recovery period for certain regulatory assets and a significant reduction of escrowed bad debt expense.

2011 vs. 2010:   Our other operation and maintenance expense increased by $15.1 million, or approximately 1.1%, when compared to 2010. Higher maintenance costs at one of our natural gas peaking plants, increased spending on forestry work for our electric distribution system and increased costs associated with the amortization of deferred PTF costs related to wholesale and Michigan customers were the primary drivers of the increase.


Depreciation and Amortization Expense

2012 vs. 2011:   Depreciation and Amortization expense increased by $37.3 million, or approximately 16.9%, when compared to 2011. This increase was primarily because of an overall increase in utility plant in service. The Glacier

 
43
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Hills Wind Park went into service in December 2011. In addition, the emission control equipment for units 5 and 6 of the Oak Creek AQCS project went into service in March 2012, and for units 7 and 8 in September 2012. For additional information, see Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Rates and Regulatory Matters -- Oak Creek Air Quality Control System.

We expect depreciation and amortization expense to increase in 2013 primarily as a result of an increase in utility plant in service related to the Oak Creek AQCS project, which will have been in service a full year.

2011 vs. 2010:   Depreciation and Amortization expense increased by $4.1 million, or approximately 1.9%, when compared to 2010. This increase was primarily because of an overall increase in utility plant in service.


Amortization of Gain

In connection with the September 2007 sale of Point Beach, we reached an agreement with our regulators to allow for the net gain on the sale to be used for the benefit of our customers. The majority of the benefits were returned to customers in the form of bill credits. The net gain was originally recorded as a regulatory liability, and it was amortized to the income statement as we issued bill credits to customers. When the bill credits were issued to customers, we transferred cash from the restricted accounts to the unrestricted accounts, adjusted for taxes. All bill credits associated with the sale of Point Beach were applied to customers as of December 31, 2010, and as a result, the Amortization of Gain was zero during 2012 and 2011 as compared to $198.4 million during 2010.


Other Income and Deductions, net

Other Income and Deductions, net
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AFUDC - Equity
 
$
34.9

 
$
59.2

 
$
32.4

Gain on Property Sales
 
1.3

 
2.4

 
4.5

Other, net
 
(3.9
)
 
0.5

 
2.9

Total Other Income and Deductions, net
 
$
32.3

 
$
62.1

 
$
39.8


2012 vs. 2011:   Other income and deductions, net decreased by approximately $29.8 million, or 48.0%, when compared to 2011. This decrease primarily relates to AFUDC - Equity related to the Glacier Hills Wind Park, which went into service in December 2011, as well as the Oak Creek AQCS project which emission control equipment went into service in March 2012 for units 5 and 6 and September 2012 for units 7 and 8.

During 2013, we expect to see a reduction in AFUDC - Equity as we expect to have fewer large construction projects.

2011 vs. 2010:   Other income and deductions, net increased by approximately $22.3 million, or 56.0%, when compared to 2010. This increase primarily relates to increased AFUDC - Equity related to the construction of the Oak Creek AQCS project and the Glacier Hills Wind Park.


Interest Expense, net

Interest Expense, net
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross Interest Costs
 
$
127.7

 
$
118.9

 
$
115.0

Less: Capitalized Interest
 
14.5

 
24.7

 
13.5

Interest Expense, net
 
$
113.2

 
$
94.2

 
$
101.5



 
44
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

2012 vs. 2011:   Our gross interest costs increased by $8.8 million, or 7.4%, during 2012, primarily because of higher average long-term debt balances compared to 2011, including $300 million of long-term debt issued in September 2011. Our capitalized interest decreased by $10.2 million primarily because we stopped capitalizing interest on the Oak Creek AQCS project when the emission control equipment went into service in March 2012 for units 5 and 6 and September 2012 for units 7 and 8, and the Glacier Hills Wind Park which went into service in December 2011. As a result, our net interest expense increased by $19.0 million, or 20.2%, as compared to 2011.

During 2013, we expect to see higher net interest expense because of a reduction in capitalized interest as a result of the Oak Creek AQCS project emission control equipment going into service in 2012, partially offset by the expected increase in capitalized interest associated with the biomass plant which is expected to go into service by the end of 2013.

2011 vs. 2010:   Our gross interest costs increased by $3.9 million, or 3.4%, during 2011, primarily because of higher average long-term debt balances compared to 2010. In September 2011, we issued $300 million of long-term debt and used the net proceeds to repay short-term debt and for other general corporate purposes. Our capitalized interest increased by $11.2 million primarily because of increased capital expenditures related to our Oak Creek AQCS project and the Glacier Hills Wind Park. As a result, our net interest expense decreased by $7.3 million, or 7.2%, as compared to 2010.


Income Tax Expense

2012 vs. 2011:   Our effective tax rate was 34.4% in 2012 compared with 31.6% in 2011. This increase in our effective tax rate was primarily the result of decreased AFUDC - Equity. For further information, see Note G -- Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. We expect our 2013 annual effective tax rate to be between 36% and 37%.

2011 vs. 2010:   Our effective income tax rate was 31.6% in 2011 compared with 34.3% in 2010. This reduction in our effective tax rate was primarily the result of increased AFUDC - Equity.


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

CASH FLOWS

The following table summarizes our cash flows during 2012, 2011 and 2010:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Cash Provided by (Used in)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Activities
 
$
807.0

 
$
543.9

 
$
425.2

Investing Activities
 
$
(605.6
)
 
$
(762.1
)
 
$
(470.8
)
Financing Activities
 
$
(180.0
)
 
$
207.6

 
$
50.6


Operating Activities

2012 vs. 2011:   Cash provided by operating activities was $807.0 million during 2012, which was an increase of $263.1 million over 2011. The largest increases in cash provided by operating activities related to higher net income, higher depreciation expense and lower contributions to our benefit plans. Combined these items increased operating cash flow by $249.9 million as compared to 2011. Partially offsetting these items, our non-cash charges related to the amortization of certain regulatory assets and liabilities was $148.0 million lower during 2012 as compared to 2011 because the PSCW allowed us to suspend these amortizations in 2012.

2011 vs. 2010:   Cash provided by operating activities was $543.9 million during 2011, which was an increase of $118.7 million over 2010. The largest increases in cash provided by operating activities related to higher net income, higher deferred income tax benefits and the elimination of the amortization of the gain on the sale of Point Beach. Combined these items totaled $604.7 million during 2011 as compared to $186.6 million during 2010. The

 
45
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

largest reduction in cash provided by operating activities related to our contributions to our qualified benefit plans. During 2011, we contributed $275.1 million to our qualified benefit plans. We made no contributions to our qualified plans during 2010.

Investing Activities

2012 vs. 2011:   Cash used in investing activities was $605.6 million during 2012, which was $156.5 million lower than 2011. This decrease was primarily caused by a decrease in capital expenditures and a decrease in our restricted cash. Our capital expenditures decreased by $130.8 million in 2012 compared to 2011, primarily because of decreased spending on the Oak Creek AQCS project which went into service in March and September of 2012. In 2011, we received $45.5 million in proceeds from the settlement with the DOE. The proceeds were treated as restricted cash, which was recorded as cash used in investing activities. In 2012, we released $42.8 million of the proceeds through bill credits and the reimbursement of costs. The decrease was offset by a reduction in proceeds from asset sales. In 2011, we received proceeds from asset sales totaling $41.5 million, which primarily relates to the sale of our interest in Edgewater Generating Unit 5, as compared to proceeds of $3.3 million in 2012.

2011 vs. 2010:   Cash used in investing activities was $762.1 million during 2011, which was $291.3 million higher than 2010. This increase in cash used primarily reflects changes in restricted cash and increased capital expenditures. During 2011, our restricted cash increased by $37.2 million primarily because of the nuclear fuel settlement we received from the DOE. During 2010, our restricted cash decreased by $186.2 million due to the release of restricted cash related to the Point Beach bill credits. In addition, capital expenditures increased by approximately $89.3 million during 2011 as compared to 2010 primarily due to increased spending related to the construction of the Oak Creek AQCS project and the Glacier Hills Wind Park in 2011 as compared to 2010.

Financing Activities

The following table summarizes our cash flows from financing activities:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dividends to Wisconsin Energy
 
$
(179.6
)
 
$
(239.6
)
 
$
(179.6
)
Capital Contribution from Wisconsin Energy
 

 

 
100.0

Net Increase in Debt
 
0.1

 
440.7

 
117.9

Other
 
(0.5
)
 
6.5

 
12.3

Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing
 
$
(180.0
)
 
$
207.6

 
$
50.6


2012 vs. 2011:   Cash used in financing activities was $180.0 million during 2011 compared to $207.6 million provided by financing activities during 2011. This change is primarily due to changes in our debt levels. During 2012, we issued $250 million of long-term debt and used the net proceeds to repay short-term debt and for other general corporate purposes compared to $300 million of long-term debt issued in 2011. In addition, short-term debt decreased $249.9 million in 2012 compared to a $140.7 million increase in 2011. For additional information on the debt issuance, see Note I -- Long-Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Dividends to Wisconsin Energy decreased by $60 million in 2012 compared to 2011 due to payment of a special dividend of $60 million to Wisconsin Energy in 2011 in anticipation of the 2012 Wisconsin rate case. The PSCW approved this dividend as part of our 2012 rate case order.

2011 vs. 2010:   Cash provided by financing activities was $207.6 million during 2011 compared to $50.6 million provided by financing activities during 2010. During 2011, we issued $300 million of long-term debt and used the net proceeds to repay short-term debt and for other general corporate purposes. Partially offsetting the increase in debt is the payment of a $60 million special dividend to Wisconsin Energy and not receiving a capital contribution from Wisconsin Energy in 2011 compared to a $100 million capital contribution in 2010.




 
46
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


CAPITAL RESOURCES AND REQUIREMENTS

Working Capital

As of December 31, 2012, our current liabilities exceeded our current assets by approximately $77.7 million. Included in our current liabilities is approximately $357.0 million of long-term debt and capital lease obligations due currently. We do not expect this to have any impact on our liquidity because we believe we have an adequate back-up line of credit in place for on-going operations. We also have access to the capital markets to finance our construction program and to refinance current maturities of long-term debt if necessary.

Liquidity

We anticipate meeting our capital requirements during 2013 and beyond primarily through internally generated funds and short-term borrowings, supplemented by the issuance of intermediate or long-term debt securities, depending on market conditions and other factors, and equity contributions from our parent.

We currently have access to the capital markets and have been able to generate funds internally and externally to meet our capital requirements. Our ability to attract the necessary financial capital at reasonable terms is critical to our overall strategic plan. We currently believe that we have adequate capacity to fund our operations for the foreseeable future through our existing borrowing arrangement, access to capital markets and internally generated cash.

We maintain a bank back-up credit facility that provides liquidity support for our obligations with respect to commercial paper and for general corporate purposes.

As of December 31, 2012, we had approximately $494.1 million of available, undrawn lines under our bank back-up credit facility. As of December 31, 2012, we had approximately $105.5 million of commercial paper outstanding that was supported by the available line of credit. During 2012, our maximum commercial paper outstanding was $382.0 million with a weighted-average interest rate of 0.26%. For additional information regarding our commercial paper balances during 2012, see Note J -- Short-Term Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

We review our bank back-up credit facility needs on an ongoing basis and expect to be able to maintain adequate credit facilities to support our operations. The following table summarizes such facility as of December 31, 2012:

Total Facility
 
Letters of Credit
 
Credit Available
 
Facility
Expiration
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$500.0
 
$
5.9

 
$
494.1

 
December 2017

On December 12, 2012, we entered into an unsecured five-year $500 million bank back-up credit facility to replace a $500 million three-year credit facility with an expiration date of December 2013. This new facility will expire in December 2017 and has a renewal provision for two one-year extensions, subject to lender approval.


 
47
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

The following table shows our consolidated capitalization structure as of December 31:

Capitalization Structure
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common Equity
 
$
3,366.4

 
38.2
%
 
$
3,177.1

 
36.9
%
Preferred Stock
 
30.4

 
0.3
%
 
30.4

 
0.4
%
Long-Term Debt (a)
 
2,516.7

 
28.6
%
 
2,267.6

 
26.3
%
Capital Lease Obligations (a)
 
2,760.1

 
31.4
%
 
2,754.4

 
32.0
%
Short-Term Debt (b)
 
128.9

 
1.5
%
 
378.8

 
4.4
%
Total
 
$
8,802.5

 
100.0
%
 
$
8,608.3

 
100.0
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) Includes current maturities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(b) Includes subsidiary note payable to Wisconsin Energy
 
 
 
 

For a summary of the interest rate, maturity and amount outstanding of each series of our long-term debt on a consolidated basis, see the Consolidated Statements of Capitalization.

We are the obligor under two series of tax exempt pollution control refunding bonds in outstanding principal amounts of $147 million. In August 2009, we terminated letters of credit that provided credit and liquidity support for the bonds, which resulted in a mandatory tender of the bonds. We issued commercial paper to fund the purchase of the bonds. As of December 31, 2012, the repurchased bonds were still outstanding, but were reported as a reduction in our consolidated long-term debt because they are held by us. Depending on market conditions and other factors, we may change the method used to determine the interest rate on the bonds and have them remarketed to third parties.

Bonus Depreciation Provisions

As a result of the enactment of tax legislation extending the bonus depreciation rules, we recognized increased federal tax depreciation through 2012 relating to assets placed into service including the Glacier Hills Wind Park and the Oak Creek AQCS project. As a result of this increased federal tax depreciation we did not make federal income tax payments for 2012 and do not anticipate making federal income tax payments for 2013. The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 was signed into law on January 2, 2013, which extended the 50% bonus depreciation rules to include assets placed in service in 2013.
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 contracts and employee benefit plans that could require collateral or a termination payment in the event of a credit rating change to below BBB- at Standard & Poor's Ratings Services (S&P) and/or Baa3 at Moody's Investor Service (Moody's). As of December 31, 2012, we estimate that the collateral or the termination payments required under these agreements totaled approximately $223.0 million. Generally, collateral may be provided by a guaranty, letter of credit or cash. We also have other commodity contracts that in the event of a credit rating downgrade could result in a reduction of our unsecured credit granted by counterparties.

In addition, access to capital markets at a reasonable cost is determined in large part by credit quality. Any credit ratings downgrade could impact our ability to access capital markets.

In December 2012, Moody's affirmed our ratings (commercial paper, P-1; senior unsecured, A2) and our stable ratings outlook.

In June 2012, S&P affirmed our ratings (commercial paper, A-2; senior unsecured, A-) and revised our ratings outlook from stable to positive.

In June 2012, Fitch Ratings (Fitch) affirmed our ratings (commercial paper, F1; senior unsecured, A+) and our stable ratings outlook.

 
48
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


Subject to other factors affecting the credit markets as a whole, we believe our current 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. Any rating can be revised upward or downward or withdrawn at any time by a rating agency.

Capital Requirements

Capital Expenditures:   Our estimated 2013, 2014 and 2015 capital expenditures are $521.6 million, $461.0 million and $480.3 million, respectively. The majority of spending consists of upgrading our electric and gas distribution systems. Our actual future long-term capital requirements may vary from these estimates because of changing environmental and other regulations such as air quality standards, renewable energy standards and electric reliability initiatives that impact us.

Investments in Outside Trusts:   We use outside trusts to fund our pension and certain other post-retirement obligations. These trusts had investments of approximately $1.3 billion as of December 31, 2012. These trusts hold investments that are subject to the volatility of the stock market and interest rates.

During 2012, we contributed $88.5 million to our qualified pension plans and $4.4 million to our qualified Other Post-Retirement Employee Benefit (OPEB) plans. During 2011, we contributed $234.1 million to our qualified pension plans and $41.0 million to our qualified OPEB plans. Future contributions to the plans will be dependent upon many factors, including the performance of existing plan assets and long-term discount rates. For additional information, see Note M -- Benefits in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements:   We are a party to various financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk as a part of our normal course of business, including financial guarantees and letters of credit which support commodity contracts and other payment obligations. We believe that these agreements do not have, and are not reasonably 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 material to our investors. For additional information, see Note F -- Variable Interest Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this report.

Contractual Obligations/Commercial Commitments:   We have the following contractual obligations and other commercial commitments as of December 31, 2012:

 
 
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)
 
$
4,572.1

 
$
422.4

 
$
754.0

 
$
230.3

 
$
3,165.4

Capital Lease Obligations (c)
 
10,248.5

 
408.8

 
822.2

 
845.1

 
8,172.4

Operating Lease Obligations (d)
 
47.1

 
6.5

 
7.9

 
6.8

 
25.9

Purchase Obligations (e)
 
12,196.4

 
782.0

 
1,186.0

 
933.7

 
9,294.7

Other Long-Term Liabilities
 
861.0

 
89.5

 
174.8

 
173.4

 
423.3

Total Contractual Obligations
 
$
27,925.1

 
$
1,709.2

 
$
2,944.9

 
$
2,189.3

 
$
21,081.7


(a)
The amounts included in the table are calculated using current market prices, forward curves and other estimates.

(b)
Principal and interest payments on Long-Term Debt (excluding capital lease obligations).

(c)
Capital Lease Obligations for power purchase commitments and the PTF leases.

(d)
Operating Lease Obligations for power purchase commitments and rail car leases.

(e)
Purchase Obligations under various contracts for the procurement of fuel, power, gas supply and associated transportation and for construction, information technology and other services for utility operations. This includes the power purchase agreement for Point Beach.

 
49
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K



The table above does not include liabilities related to the accounting treatment for uncertainty in income taxes because we are not able to make a reasonably reliable estimate as to the amount and period of related future payments at this time. For additional information regarding these liabilities, refer to Note G -- Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this report.

Our obligations for utility operations have historically been included as part of the rate-making process and therefore are generally recoverable from customers.



FACTORS AFFECTING RESULTS, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES


MARKET RISKS AND OTHER SIGNIFICANT RISKS

We are exposed to market and other significant risks as a result of the nature of our businesses and the environment in which those businesses operate. These risks, described in further detail below, include but are not limited to:

Regulatory Recovery:   We account for our regulated operations in accordance with accounting guidance for regulated entities. Our rates are determined by regulatory authorities. Our primary regulator is the PSCW. Regulated entities are allowed to defer certain costs that would otherwise be charged to expense, if the regulated entity believes the recovery of these costs is probable. We record regulatory assets pursuant to specific orders or by a generic order issued by our regulators, and recovery of these deferred costs in future rates is subject to the review and approval of those regulators. We assume the risks and benefits of ultimate recovery of these items in future rates. If the recovery of these costs is not approved by our regulators, the costs are charged to income in the current period. In general, regulatory assets are recovered in a period between one to eight years. Regulatory assets associated with pension and OPEB expenses are amortized as a component of pension and OPEB expense. Regulators can impose liabilities on a prospective basis for amounts previously collected from customers and for amounts that are expected to be refunded to customers. We record these items as regulatory liabilities. As of December 31, 2012, our regulatory assets totaled $1,481.2 million and our regulatory liabilities totaled $601.8 million.

Commodity Prices:   In the normal course of providing energy, we are subject to market fluctuations of the costs of coal, natural gas, purchased power and fuel oil used in the delivery of coal. We 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, natural gas and fuel oil. In addition, we manage the risk of price volatility by utilizing gas and electric hedging programs.

Wisconsin's retail electric fuel cost adjustment procedure mitigates some of our risk of electric fuel cost fluctuation. Effective January 1, 2011, the PSCW implemented new fuel rules which allow for a deferral of prudently incurred fuel costs that fall outside of a symmetrical band (plus or minus 2%). Under the rules, any over or under-collection of fuel costs deferred at the end of the year would be incorporated into fuel cost recovery rates in future years. For information regarding the fuel rules, see Rates and Regulatory Matters -- Wisconsin Fuel Rules.

Natural Gas Costs:   Higher natural gas costs could increase our working capital requirements and result in higher gross receipts taxes in the state of Wisconsin. Higher natural gas costs combined with slower economic conditions also expose us to greater risks of accounts receivable write-offs as more customers are unable to pay their bills. Higher natural gas costs may also lead to increased energy efficiency investments by our customers to reduce utility usage and/or fuel substitution.

As part of its December 2012 rate order, the PSCW authorized continued use of the escrow method of accounting for bad debt costs through December 31, 2014. The escrow method of accounting for bad debt costs allows for deferral of Wisconsin residential bad debt expense that exceeds or is less than amounts allowed in rates.

As a result of our GCRM, our gas utility operation receives dollar for dollar recovery on the cost of natural gas.

 
50
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

However, increased natural gas costs increase the risk that customers will switch to alternative fuel sources, which could reduce future gas margins. For information concerning our natural gas utility's GCRM, see Rates and Regulatory Matters.

Weather:   Our Wisconsin utility rates are set by the PSCW based upon estimated temperatures which approximate 20-year averages. Our electric revenues and sales are unfavorably sensitive to below normal temperatures during the summer cooling season, and to some extent, to above normal temperatures during the winter heating season. Our gas revenues and sales are unfavorably sensitive to above normal temperatures during the winter heating season. A summary of actual weather information in our service territory during 2012, 2011 and 2010, as measured by degree days, may be found above in Results of Operations.

Interest Rate:   We have various short-term borrowing arrangements to provide working capital and general corporate funds. We also have variable rate long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, 2012. Borrowing levels under these arrangements vary from period to period depending on capital investments and other factors. Future short-term interest expense and payments will reflect both future short-term interest rates and borrowing levels.

We performed an interest rate sensitivity analysis as of December 31, 2012 of our outstanding portfolio of commercial paper and variable rate long-term debt. As of December 31, 2012, we had $105.5 million of commercial paper outstanding with a weighted-average interest rate of 0.27% and $147.0 million of variable rate long-term debt outstanding with a weighted-average interest rate of 0.50%. A one-percentage point change in interest rates would cause our annual interest expense to increase or decrease by approximately $2.5 million.

Marketable Securities Return:   We use various trusts to fund our pension and OPEB obligations. These trusts invest in debt and equity securities. Changes in the market prices of these assets can affect future pension and OPEB expenses. Additionally, future contributions can also be affected by the investment returns on trust fund assets. We believe that the financial risks associated with investment returns would be partially mitigated through future rate actions by our various utility regulators.

The fair value of our trust fund assets as of December 31, 2012 was approximately:

 
 
Millions of Dollars
 
 
 
Pension trust funds
 
$
1,121.1

Other post-retirement benefits trust funds
 
$
194.8


The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets for 2013 is 7.25% and 7.5%, respectively, for the pension and OPEB plans.

Fiduciary oversight of the pension and OPEB trust fund investments is the responsibility of an Investment Trust Policy Committee. The Committee works with external actuaries and investment consultants on an ongoing basis to establish and monitor investment strategies and target asset allocations. Forecasted cash flows for plan liabilities are regularly updated based on annual valuation results. Target asset allocations are determined utilizing projected benefit payment cash flows and risk analyses of appropriate investments. The targeted asset allocations are intended to reduce risk, provide long-term financial stability for the plans and maintain funded levels which meet long-term plan obligations while preserving sufficient liquidity for near-term benefit payments. Investment strategies utilize a wide diversification of asset types and qualified external investment managers.

Wisconsin Energy consults with its investment advisors on an annual basis to help it forecast expected long-term returns on plan assets by reviewing actual historical returns and calculating expected total trust returns using the weighted-average of long-term market returns for each of the major target asset categories utilized in the fund.

Economic Conditions:   Our service territory is within the state of Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We are exposed to market risks in the regional midwest economy.

Inflation:   We continue to monitor the impact of inflation, especially with respect to the costs of medical plans, fuel, transmission access, construction costs, regulatory and environmental compliance and new generation in order to minimize its effects in future years through pricing strategies, productivity improvements and cost reductions. We do

 
51
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

not believe the impact of general inflation will have a material impact on our future results of operations.

For additional information concerning risk factors, including market risks, see the Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information at the beginning of this report and Risk Factors in Item 1A.


POWER THE FUTURE

All of the PTF units have been placed into service and are positioned to provide a significant portion of our future generation needs. The PTF units include PWGS 1, PWGS 2, Oak Creek expansion Unit 1 (OC 1) and OC 2.

As part of our 2013 Wisconsin Rate Case, the PSCW determined that 100% of the construction costs for the Oak Creek expansion units were prudently incurred by We Power, and approved the recovery in rates of more than 99.5% of these costs. In addition, the PSCW deferred the final decision regarding $24 million related to the fuel flexibility project until a future rate proceeding. See Other Matters below for additional information about the fuel flexibility project.

We are leasing the PTF units from We Power under long-term leases. We are recovering the lease payments associated with PWGS 1, PWGS 2, OC 1 and OC 2 in our rates as authorized by the PSCW, the MPSC and FERC.

We operate PWGS 1, PWGS 2, OC 1 and OC 2 and are authorized by the PSCW to fully recover prudently incurred operating and maintenance costs in our Wisconsin electric rates. As the operator of the units, we may request We Power make capital improvements to or further investments in the units. Under the lease terms, we would expect the costs of any capital improvements or further investments to be added to the lease payments, and ultimately to be recovered in our rates.

We Power assigned its warranty rights to us upon turnover of each of the Oak Creek expansion units. Although the warranty periods for both of the units have expired, we continue to work through outstanding warranty claims with Bechtel. Our warranty claim for the costs incurred to repair steam turbine corrosion damage identified on both units is expected to be resolved through a binding arbitration hearing scheduled for October 2013.

In accordance with the contract between We Power and Bechtel, final acceptance of the units cannot occur until, among other things, all disputes have been settled. Pursuant to the settlement agreement entered into with Bechtel in December 2009, a final payment of $2.5 million per unit will be due upon final acceptance.


RATES AND REGULATORY MATTERS

The PSCW regulates our retail electric, natural gas and steam rates in the state of Wisconsin, while FERC regulates our wholesale power and electric transmission service rates. The MPSC regulates our retail electric rates in the state of Michigan. We estimate that approximately 88% of our electric revenues are regulated by the PSCW, 6% are regulated by the MPSC and the balance of our electric revenues is regulated by FERC. In Wisconsin, a general rate case is typically filed every two years. All of our natural gas and steam revenues are regulated by the PSCW. 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/.

2013 Wisconsin Rate Case:   On March 23, 2012, we initiated rate proceedings with the PSCW. On December 20, 2012, the PSCW approved the following rate adjustments:

A net bill increase related to non-fuel costs for our Wisconsin retail electric customers of approximately $70 million (2.6%) for 2013. This amount reflects an offset of approximately $63 million (2.3%) related to the proceeds of a renewable energy cash grant we expect to receive under the NDAA upon completion of our biomass facility currently under construction. Absent this offset, the retail electric rate increase for non-fuel costs is approximately $133 million (4.8%) for 2013.
Absent an adjustment for any remaining energy cash credits, an electric rate increase for our Wisconsin electric customers of approximately $28 million (1.0%) for 2014.
Recovery of a forecasted increase in fuel costs of approximately $44 million (1.6%) for 2013. We will make an annual fuel cost filing, as required, for 2014.

 
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Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

A rate decrease of approximately $8 million (1.9%) for our natural gas customers for 2013, with no rate adjustment in 2014.
An increase of approximately $1.3 million (6.0%) for our Downtown Milwaukee (Valley) steam utility customers for 2013 and another $1.3 million (6.0%) in 2014.
An increase of approximately $1 million (7.0%) in 2013 and $1 million (6.0%) in 2014, respectively, for our Milwaukee County steam utility customers.

These rate adjustments were effective January 1, 2013. In addition, the PSCW indicated that our allowed return on equity would remain at 10.4%. The PSCW also approved escrow accounting treatment for the energy cash grant.

2012 Wisconsin Rate Case:   On May 26, 2011, we filed an application with the PSCW to initiate rate proceedings. In lieu of a traditional rate proceeding, we requested an alternative approach, which resulted in no increase in 2012 base rates for our customers. In order for us to proceed under this alternative approach, we requested that the PSCW issue an order that:
 
Authorizes us to suspend the amortization of $148 million of regulatory costs during 2012, with amortization to begin again in 2013.
Authorizes $148 million of carrying costs and depreciation on previously authorized air quality and renewable energy projects, effective January 1, 2012.
Authorizes the refund of $26 million of net proceeds from our settlement of the spent nuclear fuel litigation with the DOE.
Authorizes us to reopen the rate proceeding in 2012 to address, for rates effective in 2013, all issues set aside during 2012.
Schedules a proceeding to establish a 2012 fuel cost plan.

We received a final written order from the PSCW on November 3, 2011. For information related to the proceeding to establish a 2012 fuel cost plan, see 2012 Fuel Recovery Request below.

2012 Michigan Rate Case:   On July 5, 2011, we filed a $17.5 million rate increase request with the MPSC, primarily to recover the costs of environmental upgrades and OC 2. Pursuant to Michigan law, we self-implemented a $5.7 million interim electric base rate increase in January 2012. This increase was partially offset by a refund of $2.7 million of net proceeds from our settlement of the spent nuclear fuel litigation with the DOE, resulting in a net $3.0 million rate increase. In addition, approximately $2.0 million of renewable costs were included in our Michigan fuel recovery rate effective January 1, 2012. The MPSC approved a total increase in electric base rates of $9.2 million annually, effective June 27, 2012, and authorized a 10.1% return on equity.

2010 Wisconsin Rate Case:   In March 2009, we initiated rate proceedings with the PSCW. In December 2009, the PSCW approved the following rate adjustments:

An increase of approximately $85.8 million (3.35%) in our retail electric rates, which was partially offset by bill credits in 2010;
A decrease of approximately $2.0 million (0.35%) for natural gas service; and
A decrease of approximately $0.4 million (1.65%) for our Valley steam utility customers and a decrease of approximately $0.1 million (0.47%) for our Milwaukee County steam utility customers.

These rate adjustments became effective January 1, 2010. In addition, the PSCW lowered our authorized return on equity from 10.75% to 10.4%.

As part of its final decision in the 2010 rate case, the PSCW authorized us to reopen the docket in 2010 to review updated 2011 fuel costs. In September 2010, we filed an application with the PSCW to reopen the docket to review updated 2011 fuel costs and to set rates for 2011 that reflect those costs. We requested an increase in 2011 Wisconsin retail electric rates of $38.4 million, or 1.4%, related to the increase in 2011 monitored fuel costs as compared to the level of monitored fuel costs then embedded in rates. In December 2010, we reduced our request by approximately $5.2 million. Adjustments by the PSCW reduced the request by an additional $7.8 million. The PSCW issued its final decision, which increased annual Wisconsin retail rates by $25.4 million effective April 29, 2011. The net increase was being driven primarily by an increase in the delivered cost of coal.

2010 Michigan Rate Increase Request:   In July 2009, we filed a $42 million rate increase request with the MPSC,

 
53
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

primarily to recover the costs of PTF projects. In December 2009, the MPSC approved our modified self-implementation plan to increase electric rates in Michigan by approximately $12 million effective upon commercial operation of OC 1, which occurred on February 2, 2010. On July 1, 2010, the MPSC issued the final order, approving an additional increase of $11.5 million effective July 2, 2010. The combined total increase was $23.5 million annually, or 14.2%. In August 2010, our largest customers, two iron ore mines, filed an appeal with the MPSC regarding this rate order. In October 2010, the MPSC ruled on the mines' appeal and reduced the rate increase by approximately $0.3 million annually, effective November 1, 2010. In November 2010, the mines filed a Claim of Appeal of the October 2010 order with the Michigan Court of Appeals. In December 2010, the MPSC filed a Motion for Remand with the Court of Appeals. In March 2011, the Court of Appeals denied the Motion for Remand. All briefs have been filed and the case is awaiting scheduling of oral argument.

Limited Rate Adjustment Requests

2012 Fuel Recovery Request:   In August 2011, we filed a $50 million rate increase request with the PSCW to recover forecasted increases in fuel and purchased power costs. The primary reasons for the increase were projected higher coal, coal transportation and purchased power costs. This filing was made under the new Wisconsin fuel rules which require annual fuel cost filings. In January 2012, the PSCW issued an order which provided for an increase in fuel costs of approximately $26 million, offset by approximately $26 million from the settlement with the DOE regarding the storage of spent nuclear fuel, resulting in no change in customer bills.

2010 Fuel Recovery Request:   In February 2010, we filed a $60.5 million rate increase request with the PSCW to recover forecasted increases in fuel and purchased power costs. The increase in fuel and purchased power costs was driven primarily by increases in the price of natural gas compared to the forecasted prices included in the 2010 PSCW rate case order, changes in the timing of plant outages and increased MISO costs. Effective March 25, 2010, the PSCW approved an annual increase of $60.5 million in Wisconsin retail electric rates on an interim basis. On April 28, 2011, the PSCW approved the final increase with no changes.

Other Rate Matters

Oak Creek Air Quality Control System:   In July 2008, we received approval from the PSCW granting us authority to construct wet flue gas desulfurization and selective catalytic reduction facilities at Oak Creek Power Plant units 5-8. Construction of these emission controls began in late July 2008. In March 2012, the wet flue gas desulfurization and selective catalytic reduction equipment for units 5 and 6 was placed into commercial operation. In September 2012, the equipment for units 7 and 8 was placed into commercial operation. The final cost of completing this project was approximately $740 million ($900 million including AFUDC). The cost of constructing these facilities has been included in our previous estimates of the costs to implement the Consent Decree with the EPA.

Wisconsin Fuel Rules:   Embedded within our base rates is an amount to recover fuel costs. New fuel rules adopted in December 2010 require the company to defer, for subsequent rate recovery or refund, any under-collection or over-collection of fuel costs that are outside of the utility's symmetrical fuel cost tolerance, which the PSCW set at plus or minus 2% of the utility's approved fuel cost plan. Fuel cost plans approved by the PSCW after January 1, 2011 are subject to the new rules. The deferred fuel costs are subject to an excess revenues test.

Electric Transmission Cost Recovery:   We divested our transmission assets with the formation of ATC in January 2001. We now procure transmission service from ATC at FERC approved tariff rates. In connection with the formation of ATC, our transmission costs have escalated due to the socialization of costs within ATC and increased transmission infrastructure requirements in the state. In 2002, in connection with the increased costs experienced by our customers, the PSCW issued an order which allowed us to use escrow accounting whereby we deferred transmission costs that exceeded amounts embedded in our rates. We were allowed to earn a return on the unrecovered transmission costs we deferred at our weighted-average cost of capital. As of December 31, 2012, we had $114.1 million of unrecovered transmission costs related to prior deferrals that are not subject to escrow accounting because our 2008 and 2010 PSCW rate orders provided for recovery of these costs. In the 2013 Wisconsin Rate Case, the PSCW reauthorized escrow accounting for future transmission costs and we are allowed to accrue these costs on a net of tax basis at the short-term debt rate.

Gas Cost Recovery Mechanism:   Our natural gas operations operate under a GCRM as approved by the PSCW. Generally, the GCRM allows for a dollar for dollar recovery of gas costs. The GCRM uses a modified one for one method that measures commodity purchase costs against a monthly benchmark which includes a 2% tolerance.

 
54
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Costs in excess of this monthly benchmark are subject to additional review by the PSCW before they can be passed through to our customers. The modified one for one is the same method used by the other utilities in Wisconsin.

Renewables, Efficiency and Conservation:   In March 2006, Wisconsin revised the requirements for renewable energy generation by enacting Act 141. Act 141 defines "baseline renewable percentage" as the average of an energy provider's renewable energy percentage for 2001, 2002 and 2003. A utility's renewable energy percentage is equal to the amount of its total retail energy sales that are provided by renewable sources. Our baseline renewable energy percentage is 2.27%. Under Act 141, we could not decrease our renewable energy percentage for the years 2006-2009, and for the years 2010-2014, we must increase our renewable energy percentage at least two percentage points to a level of 4.27%. As of December 31, 2012, we are in compliance with the Wisconsin renewable energy percentage of 4.27%. Act 141 further requires that for the year 2015 and beyond, the renewable energy percentage must increase at least six percentage points above the baseline to a level of 8.27%. Act 141 established a goal that 10% of all electricity consumed in Wisconsin be generated by renewable resources by December 31, 2015. To comply with increasing requirements, we have constructed and contracted for several hundred megawatts of wind generation and are in the process of constructing approximately 50 MW of biomass fueled generation. With the commercial operation of the Glacier Hills Wind Park in December 2011, and assuming the biomass project is completed on schedule, we expect to be in compliance with Act 141's 2015 standard. We have entered into agreements for renewable energy credits which should allow us to remain in compliance with Act 141 through 2019. If market conditions are favorable, we may purchase more renewable energy credits. See Renewable Energy Portfolio discussion below for additional information regarding the development of renewable energy generation.

Act 141 allows the PSCW to delay a utility's implementation of the renewable portfolio standard if it finds that achieving the renewable requirement would result in unreasonable rate increases or would lessen reliability, or that new renewable projects could not be permitted on a timely basis or could not be served by adequate transmission facilities. Act 141 provides that if a utility is in compliance with the renewable energy and energy efficiency requirements as determined by the PSCW, then the utility may not be ordered to achieve additional energy conservation or efficiency.

Act 141 also redirects the administration of energy efficiency, conservation and renewable programs from the Wisconsin Department of Administration back to the PSCW and/or contracted third parties. In addition, Act 141 required that 1.2% of utilities' annual operating revenues be used to fund these programs in 2012. The funding required by Act 141 for 2013 is also 1.2% of annual operating revenues.

Public Act 295 enacted in Michigan requires 10% of the state's energy to come from renewables by 2015 and energy optimization (efficiency) targets up to 1% annually by 2015. Public Act 295 specifically calls for current recovery of costs incurred to meet the standards and provides for ongoing review and revision to assure the measures taken are cost-effective.

Renewable Energy Portfolio:   The Blue Sky Green Field wind farm project, which has 88 turbines with an installed capacity of 145 MW, commenced commercial operation in May 2008. The Glacier Hills Wind Park, which has 90 turbines with an installed capacity of 162 MW, commenced commercial operation in December 2011. The final cost of the Glacier Hills Wind Park is approximately $347 million, excluding AFUDC.

We are constructing a biomass-fueled power plant at Domtar Corporation's Rothschild, Wisconsin paper mill site. Wood waste and wood shavings will be used to produce approximately 50 MW of renewable electricity and will also support Domtar's sustainable papermaking operations. Construction commenced in June 2011. We currently expect to invest between $245 million and $255 million, excluding AFUDC, in the plant. We are targeting completion of the facility by the end of 2013.

On December 21, 2012, we purchased Montfort from NextEra Energy Resources for $27 million. Montfort has 20 turbines with an installed capacity of 30 MW.


ELECTRIC SYSTEM RELIABILITY

We continue to upgrade our electric distribution system, including substations, transformers and lines. We had

 
55
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

adequate capacity to meet all of our firm electric load obligations during 2012 and 2011. All of our generating plants performed as expected during the warmest periods of the summer and all power purchase commitments under firm contract were received. During this period, public appeals for conservation were not required and we did not interrupt or curtail service to non-firm customers who participate in load management programs. We expect to have adequate capacity to meet all of our firm load obligations during 2013. However, extremely hot weather, unexpected equipment failure or unavailability could require us to call upon load management procedures.


ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

Overview

Consistent with other companies in the energy industry, we face significant ongoing environmental compliance and remediation obligations related to current and past operations. Specific environmental issues affecting us include but are not limited to current and future regulation of: (1) air emissions such as SO2, NOx, fine particulates, mercury and greenhouse gas emissions; (2) water discharges; (3) disposal of coal combustion by-products such as fly ash; and (4) remediation of impacted properties, including former manufactured gas plant sites.

We are continuing to pursue a proactive strategy to manage our environmental compliance obligations, including: (1) developing additional sources of renewable electric energy supply; (2) reviewing water quality matters such as discharge limits and cooling water requirements and implementing improvements to our cooling water intake systems as needed; (3) adding emission control equipment to existing facilities to comply with new ambient air quality standards and federal clean air rules; (4) implementing a Consent Decree with the EPA to reduce emissions of SO2 and NOx by more than 65% by 2013; (5) converting the fuel source for VAPP from coal to natural gas; (6) continuing the beneficial use of ash and other solid products from coal-fired generating units; and (7) conducting the clean-up of former manufactured gas plant sites.

Air Quality

EPA Consent Decree:   In April 2003, we reached a Consent Decree with the EPA, in which we agreed to significantly reduce air emissions from certain of our coal-fired generating facilities. The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin approved the amended Consent Decree and entered it in October 2007. For further information, see Note P -- Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS)

8-hour Ozone Standards:   In April 2004, the EPA designated 10 counties in southeastern Wisconsin as non-attainment areas for the 1997 8-hour ozone ambient air quality standard. The EPA has since redesignated all of these counties to attainment. In 2008, the EPA issued an additional, more stringent 8-hour ozone standard, and made final attainment designations for this revised standard in 2012. In April 2012 and May 2012, the EPA designated Sheboygan County and the eastern portion of Kenosha County, respectively, as 2008 8-hour ozone standard non-attainment areas.  The net result of all of these actions is that construction permitting for all of our Wisconsin power plants, except the Pleasant Prairie Power Plant, is expected to be subject to less stringent permitting requirements. In addition, modifications to these facilities should no longer be required to obtain emission offsets.  The Pleasant Prairie Power Plant will continue to be subject to more stringent permitting requirements and offset provisions.

In January 2010, the EPA announced its decision to further lower the 2008 8-hour ozone standard. However, in September 2011, President Obama requested the EPA to delay the reconsideration of the 8-hour ozone standard until 2013.

Fine Particulate Standard:    In 2009, the EPA designated three counties in southeast Wisconsin (Milwaukee, Waukesha and Racine) as not meeting the daily standard for PM2.5. In April 2012, the EPA proposed to determine that these three counties meet the PM2.5 standard, and proposed to suspend the requirement that the state submit a State Implementation Plan (SIP) including reasonably available control technology (RACT) regulations. On December 28 2012, the EPA re-proposed this determination along with further clarification of its authority to suspend RACT and other SIP requirements. Until the EPA finalizes this action and redesignates the three counties to attainment, our generating facilities in the non-attainment counties will continue to be subject to more stringent

 
56
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

construction permitting requirements and emission offset provisions. On December 14, 2012, the EPA issued a revised and more stringent annual PM2.5 standard. Current monitored air quality data indicates that all areas of Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula meet the revised standard. Although we do not expect the lower standard to impose any additional requirements on our operations, until the EPA develops a rule or guidance that dictates implementation of the new standard, we are unable to predict how these actions may affect any future construction permitting activities.

Sulfur Dioxide Standard:   In June 2010, the EPA issued new hourly SO2 NAAQS that became effective in August 2010. These standards, as modified, represent a significant change from the previous SO2 standards. The implementation guidance for the new standards, among other things, required attainment designations to be based on modeling rather than monitoring. Traditionally, attainment designations were based on monitored data. The EPA has since withdrawn this implementation guidance, and has indicated it is going to propose new implementation guidance through a rulemaking in 2013.

Various parties have submitted judicial and administrative challenges to this rule, and litigation is pending in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit challenging, among other things, the stringency of the standards and the EPA's plans to require attainment designations to be based on modeling.

If the new standards remain in place, we believe that we would not need to make significant capital expenditures at the majority of our generation units because of prior investments in pollution control equipment and technology. However, we believe that the new standards will require us to retrofit PIPP in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan with additional environmental controls. In November 2012, we entered into a joint ownership agreement with Wolverine whereby Wolverine will pay for the installation of air quality control systems at PIPP and will receive a minority ownership interest in the plant in return. This transaction is subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals from various state and federal regulatory agencies, including the MPSC, PSCW and FERC. We began submitting applications for these regulatory approvals in February 2013.

The new standards may also require us to make modifications at some of our smaller generation units

Nitrogen Dioxide Standard:   In January 2010, the EPA announced a new hourly Nitrogen Dioxide standard, which became effective in April 2010. We are unable to predict the impact on the operation of our generation facilities until final attainment designations are made and until any potential additional rules are adopted.

Mercury and Other Hazardous Air Pollutants:   In December 2011, the EPA issued the final MATS rule, which imposes stringent limitations on numerous hazardous air pollutants, including mercury, from coal and oil-fired electric generating units. While we are continuing to evaluate the impact of the rule on the operation of our existing coal-fired generation facilities, as well as alternatives for complying with the rule, we currently estimate our capital cost to comply with this rule will be approximately $8.0 million to $12.5 million. Based upon our review of the rules and plans to convert the VAPP from coal to natural gas fuel, we currently anticipate that only the PIPP will require modifications, which we expect will be funded by Wolverine under the joint ownership agreement. We believe that our clean air strategy, including the environmental upgrades that have been constructed and that are currently under construction at our other coal-fired plants, positions those other plants well to meet the rule's requirements.

Cross-State Air Pollution Rule:   In August 2011, the EPA issued the CSAPR, formerly known as the Clean Air Transport Rule. This rule was proposed in 2010 to replace the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR), which had been remanded to the EPA in 2008. The stated purpose of the CSAPR is to limit the interstate transport of emissions of NOx and SO2 that contribute to fine particulate matter and ozone non-attainment in downwind states through a proposed allocation scheme. In February 2012, the EPA issued final technical revisions to the rule and issued a draft final rule which together delay the implementation date for certain penalty provisions that could potentially impact the PIPP and increase the number of allowances issued to the states of Michigan and Wisconsin. Even with these proposed revisions, however, the PIPP may not have been allocated sufficient allowances to meet its obligations to operate and provide stability to the transmission system in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This situation could then put the plant at risk for certain penalties under the rule.

The rule was scheduled to become effective January 1, 2012. However, we and a number of other parties sought judicial review of the rule, and in August 2012, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit vacated the CSAPR, keeping the CAIR in effect. The EPA had requested the court to re-hear the case; however, on January

 
57
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

24, 2013, the court denied the EPA's request. The EPA has 90 days from the date of the D.C. Circuit Court's decision to appeal to the United States Supreme Court.

Wisconsin and Michigan Mercury Rules:   Both Wisconsin and Michigan have mercury rules that require a 90% reduction of mercury. We have plans in place to comply with those requirements and the costs of these plans are incorporated in our capital and operation and maintenance costs.

Clean Air Visibility Rule:   The EPA issued the Clean Air Visibility Rule in June 2005 to address Regional Haze, or regionally-impaired visibility caused by multiple sources over a wide area. The rule defines Best Available Retrofit Technology (BART) requirements for electric generating units and how BART will be addressed in the 28 states subject to the EPA's CAIR. The pollutants from power plants that reduce visibility include PM2.5 or compounds that contribute to fine particulate formation, NOx, SO2 and ammonia.

In June 2012, the EPA promulgated a Federal Implementation Plan that approves reliance on the CSAPR to satisfy electric generating unit BART requirements for NOx and SO2. In December 2012, the EPA approved the remainder of Michigan's regional haze SIP.
In August 2012, the EPA approved Wisconsin's regional haze SIP, which also relies on the CSAPR to satisfy electric generating unit BART requirements for NOx and SO2.

Because of the court decision to vacate CSAPR and potential continuing litigation on that decision, we will not be able to determine final regional haze requirements for NOx and SO2 at our facilities until judicial review of CSAPR is completed and any subsequent rulemaking activities required as a result of that review have been finalized.

Climate Change:   We continue to take measures to reduce our emissions of greenhouse gases. We support flexible, market-based strategies to curb greenhouse gas emissions, including emissions trading, joint implementation projects and credit for early actions. We support an approach that encourages technology development and transfer and includes all sectors of the economy and all significant global emitters. We have taken, and continue to take, several steps to reduce our emissions of greenhouse gases, including:

Working with We Power to repower the Port Washington Power Plant from coal to natural gas-fired combined cycle units.
Adding coal-fired units to our generating fleet as part of the Oak Creek expansion that are the most thermally efficient coal units in our system.
Increasing investment in energy efficiency and conservation.
Adding renewable capacity and continuing to offer the Energy for Tomorrow® renewable energy program.
Planning to convert the fuel source at the VAPP from coal to natural gas.
Retirement of coal units 1-4 at the Presque Isle Power Plant.

Federal, state, regional and international authorities have undertaken efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions. The President's administration recently reaffirmed that regulation of greenhouse gas emissions continues to be a top priority. Although legislation that would impose mandatory requirements related to greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy standards and/or energy efficiency standards failed to pass in the U.S. Congress, we expect such legislation to be considered in the future. Any mandatory restrictions on our CO2 emissions that may be adopted by Congress or Wisconsin's or Michigan's legislature could result in significant compliance costs that could affect future results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

While climate change legislation has yet to be adopted, the EPA is pursuing regulation of greenhouse gas emissions using its existing authority under the CAA. In March 2012, the EPA proposed new source performance standards pertaining to greenhouse gas emissions from certain new power plants, including coal-fired plants, based on the performance of combined cycle natural gas-fueled generating plants.

We expect the EPA to attempt to address performance standards for existing generating units in 2013. Any such regulations may impact how we operate our existing facilities. Depending on the extent of rate recovery and other factors, these anticipated future rules could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition. For additional information, see the caption "We may face significant costs to comply with the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions." under Item 1A Risk Factors in this report.


 
58
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

We are required to report our CO2 equivalent emissions from our electric generating facilities to the EPA under its Mandatory Reporting of Greenhouse Gases rule. For 2011, we reported CO2 equivalent emissions of approximately 22.4 million metric tonnes to the EPA, compared with approximately 20.9 million metric tonnes for 2010. Based upon our preliminary analysis of the monitoring data, we estimate that we will report CO2 equivalent emissions of approximately 18.1 million metric tonnes to the EPA for 2012. The level of CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions vary from year to year and are dependent on the level of electric generation and mix of fuel sources, which is determined primarily by demand, the availability of the generating units, the unit cost of fuel consumed and how our units are dispatched by MISO.

We are also required to report CO2 amounts related to the natural gas our gas utility distributes and sells. For 2011, we reported approximately 3.8 million metric tonnes of CO2 to the EPA related to our distribution and sale of natural gas, compared with approximately 3.6 million metric tonnes for 2010. Based upon our preliminary analysis of the monitoring data, we estimate that we will report CO2 emissions of approximately 3.3 million metric tonnes to the EPA for 2012.

Valley Power Plant Conversion:   In August 2012, we announced plans to convert the fuel source for VAPP from coal to natural gas. We currently expect the cost of this conversion to be between $60 million and $65 million and, subject to receipt of PSCW approval and a construction air permit from the WDNR, anticipate that the conversion will be completed by the end of 2015 or early 2016. We expect to file for a Certificate of Authority from the PSCW during the second quarter of 2013.

In June 2012, we received approval from the PSCW to replace and upgrade the Lincoln Arthur natural gas main, which has the capability to accommodate the increased natural gas required for the conversion of VAPP to natural gas. For further information, see Note P -- Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Water Quality

Clean Water Act:   Section 316(b) of the Clean Water Act requires that the location, design, construction and capacity of cooling water intake structures reflect the Best Technology Available (BTA) for minimizing adverse environmental impacts. The EPA finalized rules for new facilities (Phase I) in 2001. Final rules for cooling water intake systems at existing facilities (Phase II) were promulgated in 2004. However, as a result of litigation, the EPA withdrew the Phase II rule in July 2007 and advised states to use their best professional judgment in making BTA decisions while the rule remains suspended.

The EPA proposed a new Phase II rule in 2011, which must be finalized by June 27, 2013. Once the rule is final, it will apply to all of our existing generating facilities with cooling water intake structures other than the Oak Creek expansion, which was permitted under the Phase I rules.

The proposed rule would create an impingement mortality reduction standard for all existing facilities. One proposed approach would allow a facility owner to satisfy the BTA requirement with respect to impingement mortality reduction if it demonstrates that its cooling water intake system has a maximum intake velocity of no more than 0.5 feet per second. Oak Creek Power Plant Units 5-8, Pleasant Prairie and Port Washington Generating Station all employ technologies that have a cooling water intake withdrawal velocity of less than 0.5 feet per second. We are still evaluating impingement mortality reduction compliance options for the PIPP and VAPP.

The EPA has proposed that the BTA for entrainment mortality reduction be determined on a case-by-case basis. Therefore, permitting agencies would be required to determine BTA with respect to entrainment on a site-specific basis taking into consideration several factors. Because the entrainment reduction standard is a site-specific determination, we cannot yet determine what, if any, intake structure or operational modifications will be required to meet this proposed requirement.

Depending on the final requirements of the Phase II rule, we may need to modify the cooling water intake systems at some of our facilities. However, we are not able to make a determination until after the Phase II rule is final.

On December 27, 2012, the WDNR issued a new Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) permit for VAPP that became effective on January 1, 2013. The new permit includes significant new immediate and long-term permit requirements. Effluent toxicity testing and monitoring for additional parameters (phosphorous,

 
59
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

mercury and ammonia-nitrogen), and a new heat addition limit from the cooling water discharges all took effect immediately. Longer term compliance requirements include thermal discharge studies, phosphorous evaluation and feasibility for reduction, mercury minimization planning, and redesign of the cooling water intakes to minimize impingement impacts to aquatic organisms.

Steam Electric Effluent Guidelines:   These federal guidelines regulate waste water discharges from our power plant processes, and are under review by the EPA. The EPA rules are currently expected to be proposed by the end of April 2013, and finalized by the end of May 2014. After the promulgation of final rules, it is expected that the WDNR will need to modify Wisconsin's rules. The existing Wisconsin state rules for waste water discharge are very stringent, and therefore, the systems that have been installed at the Pleasant Prairie Power Plant and the Oak Creek Power Plant use advanced technology. We are unable to determine the impact, if any, of these rules on our facilities at this time.

Land Quality

Proposed New Coal Combustion Products Regulation:   We currently have a program of beneficial utilization for substantially all of our coal combustion products, including fly ash, bottom ash and gypsum, which minimizes the need for disposal in specially-designed landfills. Both Wisconsin and Michigan have regulations governing the use and disposal of these materials. In 2010, the EPA issued draft rules for public comment proposing two alternative rules for regulating coal combustion products, one of which would classify the materials as hazardous waste. We anticipate the earliest the EPA will take action on a final rule is the first quarter of 2014. If coal combustion products are classified as hazardous waste, it could have a material adverse effect on our ability to continue our current program.

If coal combustion products are classified as hazardous waste and we terminate our coal combustion products utilization program, we could be required to dispose of the coal combustion products at a significant cost to the Company, which could adversely impact our results of operations and financial condition.

In addition, the EPA finalized the Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units rule under the CAA, as well as the Non-Hazardous Secondary Materials Rule. We are continuing to pursue an EPA determination on acceptable use for coal ash as a non-hazardous secondary material based on our processing of the materials prior to reburning as currently allowed under the Secondary Materials Rule. Both of these rules have the potential to negatively affect our ability to reburn coal ash from power plants and landfills.

Manufactured Gas Plant Sites:   We continue to voluntarily review and address environmental conditions at a number of former manufactured gas plant sites. For further information, see Note P -- Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Ash Landfill Sites:   We aggressively seek environmentally acceptable, beneficial uses for our combustion byproducts. For further information, see Note P -- Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


LEGAL MATTERS

Cash Balance Pension Plan:   See Note P -- Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding a lawsuit filed against the Plan.

Stray Voltage: On July 11, 1996, the PSCW issued a 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 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.

Dairy farmers continue to make claims against us for loss of milk production and other damages to livestock allegedly caused by stray voltage and ground currents resulting from the operation of our electrical system, even though that electrical system has been operated within the parameters of the PSCW's order. The Wisconsin Supreme Court has rejected the arguments that, if a utility company's measurement of stray voltage is below the

 
60
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

PSCW "level of concern," that utility could not be found negligent in stray voltage cases. Additionally, the Court has held that the PSCW regulations regarding stray voltage were only minimum standards to be considered by a jury in stray voltage litigation. As a result of these rulings, claims by dairy farmers for livestock damage have been based upon ground currents with levels measuring less than the PSCW "level of concern." We continue to evaluate various options and strategies to mitigate this risk.


NUCLEAR OPERATIONS

Used Nuclear Fuel Storage and Disposal:   During our ownership of Point Beach, we were authorized by the PSCW to load and store sufficient dry fuel storage containers to allow Point Beach Units 1 and 2 to operate to the end of their original operating licenses, but not to exceed the original 48-canister capacity of the dry fuel storage facility. The original operating licenses were set to expire in October 2010 for Unit 1 and in March 2013 for Unit 2 before they were renewed and extended by the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission in December 2005.

Temporary storage alternatives at Point Beach are necessary until the DOE takes ownership of and permanently removes the used fuel as mandated by the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982, as amended in 1987. The Nuclear Waste Policy Act established the Nuclear Waste Fund which is composed of payments made by the generators and owners of such waste and fuel. Effective January 31, 1998, the DOE failed to meet its contractual obligation to begin removing used fuel from Point Beach, a responsibility for which we paid a total of $215.2 million into the Nuclear Waste Fund over the life of our ownership of Point Beach.

In August 2000, the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ruled in a lawsuit brought by Maine Yankee and Northern States Power Company that the DOE's failure to begin performance by January 31, 1998 constituted a breach of the Standard Contract, providing clear grounds for filing complaints in the Court of Federal Claims. Consequently, we filed a complaint in November 2000 against the DOE in the Court of Federal Claims. In October 2004, the Court of Federal Claims granted our motion for summary judgment on liability. The Court held a trial during September and October 2007 to determine damages. In December 2009, the Court ruled in our favor, granting us more than $50 million in damages. In February 2010, the DOE filed an appeal. We negotiated a settlement with the DOE for $45.5 million, which we received in the first quarter of 2011. This amount, net of costs incurred, was returned to customers as part of the PSCW's approval of our 2012 fuel recovery request and the MPSC's approval of our interim order for the 2012 Michigan rate case.


INDUSTRY RESTRUCTURING AND COMPETITION

Electric Utility Industry

The regulated energy industry continues to experience significant changes. FERC continues to support large RTOs, which affect the structure of the wholesale market. To this end, the MISO implemented bid-based markets, the MISO Energy Markets, including the use of LMP to value electric transmission congestion and losses. The MISO Energy Markets commenced operation in April 2005 for energy distribution and in January 2009 for operating reserves. Increased competition in the retail and wholesale markets, which may result from restructuring efforts, could have a significant and adverse financial impact on us. It is uncertain when retail access might be implemented, if at all, in Wisconsin; however, Michigan has adopted retail choice which potentially affects our Michigan operations.

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, the PSCW has been focused on electric reliability infrastructure issues for the state of Wisconsin in recent years.

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. No such legislation has been introduced in Wisconsin to date.

Restructuring in Michigan:   Our Michigan retail customers are allowed to remain with their regulated utility at regulated rates or choose an alternative electric supplier to provide power supply service. We have maintained our generation capacity and distribution assets and provide regulated service as we have in the past. We continue providing distribution and customer service functions regardless of the customer's power supplier.

 
61
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


Competition and customer switching to alternative suppliers in our service territories in Michigan has been limited. However, the additional competitive pressures resulting from retail access could lead to a loss of customers and our incurring stranded costs. A loss of customers could also have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and cash flows.

Electric Transmission and Energy Markets

In connection with its status as a FERC approved RTO, MISO developed bid-based energy markets, which were implemented on April 1, 2005. In January 2009, MISO commenced the Energy and Operating Reserves Markets, which includes the bid-based energy markets and an ancillary services market. We previously self-provided both regulation reserves and contingency reserves. In the MISO ancillary services market, we buy/sell regulation and contingency reserves from/to the market. The MISO ancillary services market has been able to reduce overall ancillary services costs in the MISO footprint. The MISO ancillary services market has enabled MISO to assume significant balancing area responsibilities such as frequency control and disturbance control.

In MISO, base transmission costs are currently being paid by Load Serving Entities located in the service territories of each MISO transmission owner. FERC has previously confirmed the use of the current transmission cost allocation methodology. Certain additional costs for new transmission projects are allocated throughout the MISO footprint.

We, along with others, have sought rehearing and/or appeal of the FERC's various Revenue Sufficiency Guarantee orders related to the determination that MISO had applied its energy markets tariff correctly in the assessment of the charges. The net effects of any final determination by FERC or the courts are uncertain at this time.

As part of MISO, a market-based platform was developed for valuing transmission congestion premised upon the LMP system that has been implemented in certain northeastern and mid-Atlantic states. The LMP system includes the ability to mitigate or eliminate congestion costs through Auction Revenue Rights (ARRs) and Financial Transmission Rights (FTRs). ARRs are allocated to market participants by MISO and FTRs are purchased through auctions. A new allocation and auction were completed for the period of June 1, 2012 through May 31, 2013. The resulting ARR valuation and the secured FTRs are expected to mitigate our transmission congestion risk for that period.

Natural Gas Utility Industry

Restructuring in Wisconsin:   The PSCW previously 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 continues to be on hold. Currently, we are unable to predict the impact of potential future deregulation on our results of operations or financial position.


OTHER MATTERS

Oak Creek Expansion Fuel Flexibility Project:   The Oak Creek expansion units were designed and permitted to use bituminous coal from the Eastern United States. Market forces have resulted in a significant price differential between bituminous and sub-bituminous coals. We recently received a new air construction permit from the WDNR to modify the Oak Creek expansion units for potential future use of sub-bituminous coal. We are scheduled to begin testing sub-bituminous coal in various combinations with bituminous coal in 2013 to identify any equipment limitations that should be considered prior to filing with the PSCW for a Certificate of Authority to make the fuel flexibility modifications. In February 2013, the Sierra Club and the Midwest Environmental Defense Center filed for a contested case hearing with the WDNR to challenge the issuance of the air construction permit.

Paris Generating Station Units 1 and 4 Temporary Outage: Between 2000 and 2002, we replaced the blades on the four PSGS combustion turbine generators with blades that were approximately 7% more efficient. Although the work was performed as routine maintenance that we did not believe required a construction permit at the time and

 
62
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

the plant has not been operated to use the potential additional capacity, the WDNR has indicated that it now considers this maintenance to be a modification requiring a construction permit. The WDNR issued a NOV to us on January 7, 2013 alleging violations of the new source review rules and certain Wisconsin environmental rules. At the same time, the WDNR also issued an administrative order that prohibits us from operating PSGS Units 1 and 4 until the earlier of: (1) Units 1 and 4 achieve the applicable NOx emission rates; (2) the Wisconsin regulations are revised so that Units 1 and 4 can achieve the emission limits or are no longer subject to the limits; (3) the alleged modification is resolved through a consent decree; or (4) until a court decides that the blade replacement project was not a major modification. We are presently evaluating alternative approaches to return these peaking units to service, and expect that Units 1 and 4 will remain out of service until at least 2014. In addition, we may be subject to fines and penalties. In February 2013, the Sierra Club filed for a contested case hearing with the WDNR in connection with the administrative order.
We continue to evaluate the impact, if any, that this outage may have on network reliability, and to determine whether we will need to find alternative sources of generation in the short-term to replace the generation from these units during the temporary outage.
PSGS Units 2 and 3 remain available for operation, because the turbine blade maintenance on these units occurred prior to a rule change in 2001.


ACCOUNTING DEVELOPMENTS

New Pronouncements:   See Note B -- Recent Accounting Pronouncements in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this report for information on new accounting pronouncements.

Section 1603 Renewable Energy Treasury Grant:   We expect to receive a treasury grant of approximately $72 million related to the construction of our biomass facility in Rothschild, Wisconsin. We expect to recognize the treasury grant when the plant is placed into service, which is when we expect to conclude it is probable we will receive the grant and when we can reasonably estimate the grant amount. The expected receipt of the treasury grant has been taken into consideration by the PSCW in connection with our electric rates that became effective January 1, 2013. Our Wisconsin retail electric customers will receive bill credits in 2013 and 2014. When we recognize the treasury grant as income, we will also defer a portion of the grant associated with the future bill credits and the deferred grant will be amortized to income to match the bill credits to the customers.

International Financial Reporting Standards:   During 2009, the SEC announced a "roadmap" for the potential use by U.S. registrants of IFRS instead of GAAP. The SEC issued a Work Plan to consider specific areas and factors relevant to a determination of whether, when and how the current financial reporting system for U.S. registrants should be transitioned to a system incorporating IFRS. In July 2012, the SEC Staff issued its final report on the Work Plan. The report does not include a final policy or decision as to whether IFRS might be incorporated into the financial reporting system for U.S. registrants, or how such incorporation should occur. The Staff report indicates that additional analysis is necessary before any SEC decision is made about incorporating IFRS into the U.S. financial reporting system. The timing of this additional activity is currently unknown. To the extent the SEC determines to adopt IFRS, if at all, we are currently unable to determine when we would be required to begin using IFRS.

 
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

Preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in compliance with 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 may also have a significant effect, not only on the operation of our business, but on our 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 our financial condition and

 
63
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

results of operations and that require management's most difficult, subjective or complex judgments:

Regulatory Accounting:   We 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. The actions of our regulators may allow us to defer costs that non-regulated companies would expense and accrue liabilities that non-regulated companies would not. As of December 31, 2012, we had $1,481.2 million in regulatory assets and $601.8 million in regulatory liabilities. In the future, if we move to market based rates, or if the actions of our regulators change, we may conclude that we are unable to follow regulatory accounting. In this situation, we would record the regulatory assets related to unrecognized pension and OPEB costs as a reduction of equity, after tax. The balance of our regulatory assets net of regulatory liabilities would be recorded as an extraordinary after-tax non-cash charge to earnings. We continually review the applicability of regulatory accounting and have determined that it is currently appropriate to continue following it. In addition, each quarter we perform a review of our regulatory assets and our regulatory environment and we evaluate whether we believe that it is probable that we will recover the regulatory assets in future rates. See Note C -- Regulatory Assets and Liabilities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Pension and OPEB:   Our reported costs of providing non-contributory defined pension benefits (described in Note M -- Benefits in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements) are dependent upon numerous factors resulting from actual plan experience and assumptions 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 may also be significantly affected by changes in key actuarial assumptions, including anticipated rates of return on plan assets and the discount rates used in determining the projected benefit obligation and pension costs.

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.

The following table 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.

Pension Plan
 
Impact on
Actuarial Assumption
 
Annual Cost
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
0.5% decrease in discount rate and lump sum conversion rate
 
$
4.2

0.5% decrease in expected rate of return on plan assets
 
$
4.9


In addition to pension plans, we maintain OPEB plans which provide health and life insurance benefits for retired employees (described in Note M -- Benefits in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements). 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 OPEB costs. OPEB costs may also be significantly affected by changes in key actuarial assumptions, including anticipated rates of return on plan assets and the discount rates used in determining the OPEB and post-retirement costs. Our OPEB plan assets are primarily 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, our regulators have adopted accounting guidance for compensation related to retirement benefits for rate-making purposes.

The following table reflects OPEB 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.

 
64
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


OPEB Plan
 
Impact on
Actuarial Assumption
 
Annual Cost
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
0.5% decrease in discount rate
 
$
2.5

0.5% decrease in health care cost trend rate in all future years
 
$
(3.2
)
0.5% decrease in expected rate of return on plan assets
 
$
0.9


Unbilled Revenues:   We record utility operating revenues when energy is delivered to our 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 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 operating revenues during 2012 of approximately $3.6 billion included accrued revenues of $213.8 million as of December 31, 2012.


ITEM 7A.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

See Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Factors Affecting Results, Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Market Risks and Other Significant Risks in Item 7 of this report, as well as Note K -- Derivative Instruments and Note L -- Fair Value Measurements in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, for information concerning potential market risks to which we are exposed.

 
65
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS
Year Ended December 31
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Revenues
$
3,613.3

 
$
3,727.6

 
$
3,456.7

 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Expenses
 
 
 
 
 
Fuel and purchased power
1,103.8

 
1,174.5

 
1,104.7

Cost of gas sold
227.7

 
306.2

 
316.0

Other operation and maintenance
1,327.8

 
1,447.6

 
1,432.5

Depreciation and amortization
257.6

 
220.3

 
216.2

Property and revenue taxes
113.1

 
105.4

 
96.5

Total Operating Expenses
3,030.0

 
3,254.0

 
3,165.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization of Gain

 

 
198.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Income
583.3

 
473.6

 
489.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity in Earnings of Transmission Affiliate
57.6

 
54.9

 
52.7

Other Income and Deductions, net
32.3

 
62.1

 
39.8

Interest Expense, net
113.2

 
94.2

 
101.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
Income Before Income Taxes
560.0

 
496.4

 
480.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
Income Tax Expense
192.7

 
156.8

 
164.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Income
367.3

 
339.6

 
315.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred Stock Dividend Requirement
1.2

 
1.2

 
1.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings Available for Common Stockholder
$
366.1

 
$
338.4

 
$
314.2

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



 
66
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31
 
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Property, Plant and Equipment
 
 
 
Electric
$
8,171.0

 
$
7,088.7

Gas
950.3

 
910.0

Steam
95.5

 
93.4

Common
295.3

 
264.0

Other
56.8

 
60.1

 
9,568.9

 
8,416.2

Accumulated depreciation
(3,117.0
)
 
(2,964.7
)
 
6,451.9

 
5,451.5

Construction work in progress
289.1

 
902.4

Leased facilities, net
2,340.2

 
2,428.2

Net Property, Plant and Equipment
9,081.2

 
8,782.1

 
 
 
 
Investments
 
 
 
Equity investment in transmission affiliate
332.6

 
307.5

Other
0.3

 
0.2

Total Investments
332.9

 
307.7

 
 
 
 
Current Assets
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
34.1

 
12.7

Restricted cash
2.7

 
45.5

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for
 
 
 
doubtful accounts of $36.7 and $36.9
226.3

 
274.2

Accounts receivable from related parties
6.1

 
36.5

Income taxes receivable
11.0

 
99.4

Accrued revenues
213.8

 
200.5

Materials, supplies and inventories
312.2

 
319.2

Prepayments
136.3

 
130.7

Other
51.5

 
51.3

Total Current Assets
994.0

 
1,170.0

 
 
 
 
Deferred Charges and Other Assets
 
 
 
Regulatory assets
1,452.2

 
1,236.2

Other
162.3

 
165.3

Total Deferred Charges and Other Assets
1,614.5

 
1,401.5

 
 
 
 
Total Assets
$
12,022.6

 
$
11,661.3

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


 
67
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31
 
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
 
 
 
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Capitalization
 
 
 
Common equity
$
3,366.4

 
$
3,177.1

Preferred stock
30.4

 
30.4

Long-term debt
2,216.7

 
2,267.6

Capital lease obligations
2,703.1

 
2,716.5

Total Capitalization
8,316.6

 
8,191.6

 
 
 
 
Current Liabilities
 
 
 
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations due currently
357.0

 
37.9

Short-term debt
105.5

 
352.0

Subsidiary note payable to Wisconsin Energy
23.4

 
26.8

Accounts payable
306.8

 
265.2

Accounts payable to related parties
93.4

 
94.6

Accrued payroll and benefits
75.4

 
73.2

Other
110.2

 
173.4

Total Current Liabilities
1,071.7

 
1,023.1

 
 
 
 
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities
 
 
 
Regulatory liabilities
600.3

 
658.1

Deferred income taxes - long-term
1,533.6

 
1,284.0

Pension and other benefit obligations
189.2

 
278.8

Other
311.2

 
225.7

Total Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities
2,634.3

 
2,446.6

 
 
 
 
Commitments and Contingencies (Note P)

 

 
 
 
 
Total Capitalization and Liabilities
$
12,022.6

 
$
11,661.3

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



 
68
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year Ended December 31
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Operating Activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
$
367.3

 
$
339.6

 
$
315.4

Reconciliation to cash
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
263.6

 
223.6

 
224.2

Amortization of gain
 

 

 
(198.4
)
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net
 
194.1

 
265.1

 
69.6

Contributions to qualified benefit plans
 
(92.9
)
 
(275.1
)
 

Change in - Accounts receivable and accrued revenues
 
64.3

 
(9.0
)
 
(44.0
)
Inventories
 
7.0

 
2.6

 
(0.3
)
Other current assets
 
6.9

 
(23.5
)
 
17.0

Accounts payable
 
41.4

 
41.4

 
23.0

Accrued income taxes, net
 
89.4

 
(85.4
)
 
(65.5
)
Deferred costs, net
 
9.2

 
25.9

 
25.9

Other current liabilities
 
(2.4
)
 
23.9

 
6.6

Other, net
 
(140.9
)
 
14.8

 
51.7

Cash Provided by Operating Activities
 
807.0

 
543.9

 
425.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investing Activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital expenditures
 
(575.8
)
 
(706.6
)
 
(617.3
)
Investment in transmission affiliate
 
(13.8
)
 
(5.8
)
 
(4.6
)
Proceeds from asset sales
 
3.3

 
41.5

 
5.5

Change in restricted cash
 
42.8

 
(37.2
)
 
186.2

Other, net
 
(62.1
)
 
(54.0
)
 
(40.6
)
Cash Used in Investing Activities
 
(605.6
)
 
(762.1
)
 
(470.8
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financing Activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dividends paid on common stock
 
(179.6
)
 
(239.6
)
 
(179.6
)
Dividends paid on preferred stock
 
(1.2
)
 
(1.2
)
 
(1.2
)
Issuance of long-term debt
 
250.0

 
300.0

 

Change in total short-term debt
 
(249.9
)
 
140.7

 
117.9

Capital contribution from parent
 

 

 
100.0

Other, net
 
0.7

 
7.7

 
13.5

Cash (Used In) Provided by Financing Activities
 
(180.0
)
 
207.6

 
50.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
21.4

 
(10.6
)
 
5.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year
 
12.7

 
23.3

 
18.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year
 
$
34.1

 
$
12.7

 
$
23.3

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


 
69
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CAPITALIZATION
December 31
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(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
944.7

 
941.9

Retained earnings
2,088.8

 
1,902.3

Total Common Equity
3,366.4

 
3,177.1

 
 
 
 
 
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
 
 
 
 
Debentures (unsecured)
4.50% due 2013
300.0

 
300.0

 
6.00% due 2014
300.0

 
300.0

 
6.25% due 2015
250.0

 
250.0

 
4.25% due 2019
250.0

 
250.0

 
2.95% due 2021
300.0

 
300.0

 
6-1/2% due 2028
150.0

 
150.0

 
5.625% due 2033
335.0

 
335.0

 
5.70% due 2036
300.0

 
300.0

 
3.65% due 2042
250.0

 

 
6-7/8% due 2095
100.0

 
100.0

 
 
 
 
 
Notes (secured, nonrecourse)
4.81% effective rate due 2030
2.0

 
2.0

 
 
 
 
 
Notes (unsecured)
0.504% variable rate due 2016 (a)
67.0

 
67.0

 
0.504% variable rate due 2030 (a)
80.0

 
80.0

 
Variable rate notes held by us (see Note I)
(147.0
)
 
(147.0
)
Unamortized discount, net
 
(20.3
)
 
(19.4
)
Long-term debt due currently
 
(300.0
)
 

Total Long-Term Debt
 
2,216.7

 
2,267.6

 
 
 
 
 
Obligations Under Capital Leases (see Note I)
2,703.1

 
2,716.5

 
 
 
 
 
Total Capitalization
 
$
8,316.6

 
$
8,191.6

 
 
 
 
 

(a)     Variable interest rate as of December 31, 2012.

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

 
70
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMMON EQUITY
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common
 
Other Paid
 
Retained
 
 
 
Stock
 
In Capital
 
Earnings
 
Total
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance - December 31, 2009
$
332.9

 
$
802.4

 
$
1,668.9

 
$
2,804.2

Net income
 
 
 
 
315.4

 
315.4

Cash dividends
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock
 
 
 
 
(179.6
)
 
(179.6
)
Preferred stock
 
 
 
 
(1.2
)
 
(1.2
)
Capital contribution from parent
 
 
100.0

 
 
 
100.0

Stock-based compensation
 
 
7.0

 
 
 
7.0

Tax benefit of exercised stock options allocated from Parent
 
 
19.3

 
 
 
19.3

Balance - December 31, 2010
332.9

 
928.7

 
1,803.5

 
3,065.1

Net income
 
 
 
 
339.6

 
339.6

Cash dividends
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock
 
 
 
 
(239.6
)
 
(239.6
)
Preferred stock
 
 
 
 
(1.2
)
 
(1.2
)
Stock-based compensation
 
 
2.6

 
 
 
2.6

Tax benefit of exercised stock options allocated from Parent
 
 
10.6

 
 
 
10.6

Balance - December 31, 2011
332.9

 
941.9

 
1,902.3

 
3,177.1

Net income
 
 
 
 
367.3

 
367.3

Cash dividends
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock
 
 
 
 
(179.6
)
 
(179.6
)
Preferred stock
 
 
 
 
(1.2
)
 
(1.2
)
Stock-based compensation
 
 
2.8

 
 
 
2.8

Balance - December 31, 2012
$
332.9

 
$
944.7

 
$
2,088.8

 
$
3,366.4

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



 
71
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


A -- SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

General:   Wisconsin Electric Power Company (Wisconsin Electric, the Company, our, us or we), a subsidiary of 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 metropolitan Milwaukee, Wisconsin. We consolidate our wholly-owned subsidiary, Bostco. Bostco had total assets of $30.2 million and $33.9 million as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

All 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:   Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified on a basis consistent with the current period financial statement presentation.

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

Our retail electric rates in Wisconsin are established by the PSCW and include base amounts for fuel and purchased power costs. Beginning in January 2011, the electric fuel rules in Wisconsin allow us to defer, for subsequent rate recovery or refund, any under-collection or over-collection of fuel costs that are outside of the symmetrical fuel cost tolerance, which the PSCW set at plus or minus 2% of the approved fuel cost plan. The deferred under-collected amounts are subject to an excess revenues test.

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.

Accounting for MISO Energy Transactions:    The MISO Energy Markets operate under both day-ahead and real-time markets. We record energy transactions in the MISO Energy Markets on a net basis for each hour.

Other Income and Deductions, Net:   We recorded the following items in Other Income and Deductions, net for the years ended December 31:

Other Income and Deductions, net
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AFUDC - Equity
 
$
34.9

 
$
59.2

 
$
32.4

Gain on Property Sales
 
1.3

 
2.4

 
4.5

Other, net
 
(3.9
)
 
0.5

 
2.9

Total Other Income and Deductions, net
 
$
32.3

 
$
62.1

 
$
39.8


Property and Depreciation:   We record property, plant and equipment at cost. Cost includes material, labor, overheads and capitalized interest. Utility property also includes AFUDC - Equity. 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 less salvage value is charged to accumulated depreciation when property is retired.

 
72
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


Our utility depreciation rates are certified by the PSCW and MPSC and include estimates for salvage value and removal costs. Depreciation as a percent of average depreciable utility plant was 2.9% in 2012, 2011 and 2010.

For assets other than our regulated assets and leased equipment, we accrue depreciation expense at straight-line rates over the estimated useful lives of the assets, or over the non-cancellable lease term for leased equipment.

We collect in our rates amounts representing future removal costs for many assets that do not have an associated Asset Retirement Obligation (ARO). We record a regulatory 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 regulatory liability was $561.3 million as of December 31, 2012 and $566.2 million as of December 31, 2011.

Allowance For Funds Used During Construction:   AFUDC is included in utility plant accounts and represents the cost of borrowed funds (AFUDC - Debt) used during plant construction, and a return on stockholders' capital (AFUDC - Equity) used for construction purposes. AFUDC - Debt is recorded as a reduction of interest expense and AFUDC - Equity is recorded in Other Income and Deductions, net.

We recorded the following AFUDC for the years ended December 31:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AFUDC - Debt
 
$
14.5

 
$
24.7

 
$
13.5

AFUDC - Equity
 
$
34.9

 
$
59.2

 
$
32.4


Materials, Supplies and Inventories:   Our inventory as of December 31 consists of:

Materials, Supplies and Inventories
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
Fossil Fuel
 
$
165.3

 
$
169.0

Materials and Supplies
 
118.6

 
110.0

Natural Gas in Storage
 
28.3

 
40.2

Total
 
$
312.2

 
$
319.2


Substantially all fossil fuel, materials and supplies and natural gas in storage inventories are recorded using the weighted-average cost method of accounting.

Regulatory Accounting:   The economic effects of regulation can result in regulated companies recording costs that have been or are expected to be allowed in the rate-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 regulatory assets on the balance sheet and expensed in the periods when they are reflected in rates. We defer regulatory assets pursuant to specific or generic orders issued by our regulators. Additionally, regulators can impose regulatory liabilities upon a regulated company for amounts previously collected from customers and for amounts that are expected to be refunded to customers. In general, regulatory assets are recovered in a period between one to eight years. Regulatory assets associated with pension and OPEB expenses are amortized as a component of pension and OPEB expense. Regulatory assets and liabilities that are expected to be amortized within 1 year are recorded as current on the balance sheet. For further information, see Note C.

Asset Retirement Obligations:   We record a liability for a legal ARO 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 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 regulatory accounting guidance and recognize regulatory assets or liabilities for the timing differences between when we recover legal AROs in rates and when we would recognize these costs. For further information, see Note E.

 
73
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


Derivative Financial Instruments:   We have derivative physical and financial instruments which we report at fair value. For further information, see Note K.

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

Restricted Cash:   As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, restricted cash consists of the settlement we received from the DOE during the first quarter of 2011, which is being returned, net of costs incurred, to customers. As of December 31, 2012, all restricted cash is classified as current.

Margin Accounts:   Cash deposited in brokerage accounts for margin requirements is recorded in Other Current Assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Restrictions:   Various financing arrangements and regulatory requirements impose certain restrictions on our ability to transfer funds to Wisconsin Energy in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances. In addition, under Wisconsin law, we are prohibited from loaning funds, either directly or indirectly, to Wisconsin Energy. We do not believe that these restrictions will materially affect our operations. For further information, see Note H.

Investments:   We account for investments in other affiliated companies in which we do not maintain control using the equity method of accounting. We had a total ownership interest of approximately 23.0% in ATC as of December 31, 2012 and 2011. We are represented by one out of ten ATC board members, each of whom has one vote. Due to the voting requirements, no individual member has more than 10% of the voting control. For further information regarding such investments, see Note O.

Income Taxes:   We follow the liability method in accounting for income taxes. Accounting guidance for income taxes requires the recording of deferred assets and liabilities to recognize the expected future tax consequences of events that have been reflected in our financial statements or tax returns and the adjustment of deferred tax balances to reflect tax rate changes. We are required to assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets would expire before being realized.

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.

We are included in Wisconsin Energy's consolidated Federal and state income tax returns. In accordance with our tax allocation agreement with Wisconsin Energy, we are allocated income tax payments and refunds based upon our separate tax computation. For further information on income taxes, see Note G.

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

We recognize interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in Income Taxes in our Consolidated Income Statements, as well as Regulatory Assets or Regulatory Liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

We collect sales and use taxes from our customers and remit these taxes to governmental authorities. These taxes are recorded in our Consolidated Income Statements on a net basis.

Stock Options:   Our employees participate in the Wisconsin Energy stock-based compensation plan. The amounts reported represent the allocated costs related to options held by our employees.

Wisconsin Energy estimates the fair value of stock options using the binomial pricing model. Historically, all stock options have been granted with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant and expire no later than 10 years from the grant date. Excess tax benefits are reported as a financing cash inflow. In addition, Wisconsin Energy reports unearned stock-based compensation associated with non-vested restricted stock and performance awards within other paid in capital in its Consolidated Statements of Common Equity. For a discussion of the impacts to our Consolidated Financial Statements, see Note H.


 
74
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

The fair value of each Wisconsin Energy option was calculated using a binomial option pricing model using the following weighted-average assumptions:

 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Risk-free interest rate
0.1% - 2.0%
 
0.2% - 3.4%
 
0.2% - 3.9%
Dividend yield
3.9%
 
3.9%
 
3.7%
Expected volatility
19.0%
 
19.0%
 
20.3%
Expected life (years)
5.9
 
5.5
 
5.9
Expected forfeiture rate
2.0%
 
2.0%
 
2.0%
Weighted-average fair value
 
 
 
 
 
of stock options granted
$3.34
 
$3.17
 
$3.36


B -- RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Offsetting Assets and Liabilities: In December 2011, The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2011-11, Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities. The guidance requires enhanced disclosures about derivatives. Both gross and net information related to eligible transactions will be required under the guidance. This guidance is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013 and must be applied retrospectively. Adoption of this guidance may result in additional disclosures related to derivatives beginning in the first quarter of 2013.


C -- REGULATORY ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Our primary regulator, the PSCW, considers our regulatory assets and liabilities in two categories, escrowed and deferred. In escrow accounting we expense amounts that are included in rates. If actual costs exceed or are less than the amounts that are allowed in rates, the difference in cost is escrowed on the balance sheet as a regulatory asset or regulatory liability and the escrowed balance is considered in setting future rates. Under deferred cost accounting, we defer amounts to our balance sheet based upon orders or correspondence with our regulators. These deferred costs will be considered in future rate setting proceedings. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we had approximately $4.8 million and $8.0 million, respectively, of net regulatory assets that were not earning a return.

In December 2012, the PSCW issued a rate order effective January 1, 2013 that, among other things, reaffirmed our accounting for the regulatory assets and liabilities identified below.

Our regulatory assets and liabilities as of December 31 consist of:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Regulatory Assets
 
 
 
 
Deferred unrecognized pension costs
 
$
555.0

 
$
476.0

Deferred plant related -- capital leases
 
419.8

 
326.3

Escrowed electric transmission costs
 
114.1

 
118.3

Deferred income tax related
 
173.1

 
118.0

Deferred unrecognized OPEB costs
 
29.2

 
68.0

Other, net
 
190.0

 
149.5

Total regulatory assets
 
$
1,481.2

 
$
1,256.1

 
 
 
 
 
Regulatory Liabilities
 
 
 
 
Deferred cost of removal obligations
 
$
561.3

 
$
566.2

Other, net
 
40.5

 
105.0

Total regulatory liabilities
 
$
601.8

 
$
671.2


Our rates allow us to recover and expense capital lease payments as they are due. We defer as a regulatory asset the difference between the capital lease expense recovered in rates and the expense that would result from the

 
75
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

amortization of the leased asset and the imputed interest expense.

Regulatory assets and liabilities that are expected to be amortized within one year are recorded as current on the balance sheet.


D -- DIVESTITURES

Edgewater Generating Unit 5:   On March 1, 2011, we sold our 25% interest in Edgewater Generating Unit 5 to WPL for our net book value, including working capital, of approximately $38 million. This transaction was treated as a sale of an asset.


E -- ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS

The following table presents the change in our AROs during 2012 and 2011:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
Balance as of January 1
 
$
52.9

 
$
50.8

Liabilities Incurred
 

 

Liabilities Settled
 
(14.0
)
 
(2.2
)
Accretion
 
2.6

 
2.8

Cash Flow Revisions
 

 
1.5

Balance as of December 31
 
$
41.5

 
$
52.9



F -- VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES

The primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity must consolidate the related assets and liabilities. Certain disclosures are required by sponsors, significant interest holders in variable interest entities and potential variable interest entities.

We assess our relationships with potential variable interest entities such as our coal suppliers, natural gas suppliers, coal and gas transporters, and other counterparties in power purchase agreements and joint ventures. In making this assessment, we consider the potential that our contracts or other arrangements provide subordinated financial support, the potential for us to absorb losses or rights to residual returns of the entity, the ability to directly or indirectly make decisions about the entities' activities and other factors.

We have identified a purchased power agreement which represents a variable interest. This agreement is for 236 MW of firm capacity from a gas-fired cogeneration facility and we account for it as a capital lease. The agreement includes no minimum energy requirements over the remaining term of approximately 10 years. We have examined the risks of the entity including operations and maintenance, dispatch, financing, fuel costs and other factors, and have determined that we are not the primary beneficiary of the entity. We do not hold an equity or debt interest in the entity and there is no residual guarantee associated with the purchased power agreement.

We have approximately $256.3 million of required payments over the remaining term of this agreement. We believe that the required lease payments under this contract will continue to be recoverable in rates. Total capacity and lease payments under contracts considered variable interests in 2012, 2011 and 2010 were $45.8 million, $65.9 million and $64.2 million, respectively. Our maximum exposure to loss is limited to the capacity payments under the contract.


G -- INCOME TAXES


 
76
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

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

Income Taxes
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current tax expense (benefit)
 
$
(1.4
)
 
$
(108.3
)
 
$
95.2

Deferred income taxes, net
 
195.2

 
269.0

 
72.9

Investment tax credit, net
 
(1.1
)
 
(3.9
)
 
(3.3
)
Total Income Tax Expense
 
$
192.7

 
$
156.8

 
$
164.8


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:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
 
Effective
 
 
 
Effective
 
 
 
Effective
Income Tax Expense
 
Amount
 
Tax Rate
 
Amount
 
Tax Rate
 
Amount
 
Tax Rate
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Expected tax at statutory federal tax rates
 
$
195.6

 
35.0
 %
 
$
173.3

 
35.0
 %
 
$
167.6

 
35.0
 %
State income taxes net of federal tax benefit
 
28.8

 
5.1
 %
 
25.9

 
5.2
 %
 
24.5

 
5.1
 %
Production tax credits - wind
 
(15.9
)
 
(2.8
)%
 
(8.7
)
 
(1.8
)%
 
(7.2
)
 
(1.5
)%
Domestic production activities deduction
 
(12.6
)
 
(2.3
)%
 
(12.6
)
 
(2.5
)%
 
(12.6
)
 
(2.6
)%
AFUDC - Equity
 
(12.2
)
 
(2.2
)%
 
(20.7
)
 
(4.2
)%
 
(11.3
)
 
(2.4
)%
Investment tax credit restored
 
(1.1
)
 
(0.2
)%
 
(3.9
)
 
(0.8
)%
 
(3.3
)
 
(0.7
)%
Other, net
 
10.1

 
1.8
 %
 
3.5

 
0.7
 %
 
7.1

 
1.4
 %
Total Income Tax Expense
 
$
192.7

 
34.4
 %
 
$
156.8

 
31.6
 %
 
$
164.8

 
34.3
 %

 
77
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


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

Deferred Tax Assets
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Current
 
 
 
 
Uncollectible account expense
 
$
17.4

 
$
25.5

Employee benefits and compensation
 
12.6

 
11.9

Recoverable gas costs
 
0.4

 
0.8

Other
 
22.4

 

Total Current Deferred Tax Assets
 
52.8

 
38.2

 
 
 
 
 
Non-current
 
 
 
 
Deferred revenues
 
250.0

 
279.7

Future federal tax benefits
 
118.1

 
8.5

Employee benefits and compensation
 
92.3

 
95.0

Construction advances
 
19.1

 
22.9

Other
 
3.8

 
10.6

Total Non-Current Deferred Tax Assets
 
483.3

 
416.7

Total Deferred Tax Assets
 
$
536.1

 
$
454.9

Deferred Tax Liabilities
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Current
 
 
 
 
Prepaid items
 
$
48.7

 
$
49.1

Total Current Deferred Tax Liabilities
 
48.7

 
49.1

 
 
 
 
 
Non-current
 
 
 
 
Property-related
 
1,639.5

 
1,373.2

Employee benefits and compensation
 
145.0

 
135.3

Investment in transmission affiliate
 
125.9

 
112.3

Deferred transmission costs
 
45.7

 
47.4

Other
 
60.8

 
32.5

Total Non-current Deferred Tax Liabilities
 
2,016.9

 
1,700.7

Total Deferred Tax Liabilities
 
$
2,065.6

 
$
1,749.8

 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Balance Sheet Presentation
 
2012
 
2011
Current Deferred Tax Asset (Liability)
 
$
4.1

 
$
(10.9
)
Non-Current Deferred Tax Asset (Liability)
 
$
(1,533.6
)
 
$
(1,284.0
)

Consistent with rate-making treatment, deferred taxes are offset in the above table for temporary differences which have related regulatory assets or liabilities.

As of December 31, 2012, we had approximately $281.0 million and $19.8 million of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards resulting in deferred tax assets of approximately $98.3 million and $19.8 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2011, we had approximately $24.3 million of net operating loss carryforwards resulting in deferred tax assets of approximately $8.5 million. These net operating loss carryforwards begin to expire in 2030. We anticipate that we will have future taxable income sufficient to utilize these deferred tax assets.
 

 
78
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

We adopted accounting guidance related to uncertainty in income taxes. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

 
2012
 
2011
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
Balance as of January 1
$
10.6

 
$
15.8

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

 

Additions for tax positions of prior years
10.8

 

Reductions for tax positions of prior years
(10.6
)
 
(3.2
)
Reductions due to statute of limitations

 

Settlements during the period

 
(2.0
)
Balance as of December 31
$
10.8

 
$
10.6


The amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 excludes deferred tax assets related to uncertainty in income taxes of $9.8 million and $10.6 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the net amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate for continuing operations was approximately $0.9 million and zero, respectively.

We recognize interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we recognized approximately $0.2 million, $0.6 million and $3.6 million, respectively, of accrued interest in the Consolidated Income Statements. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we recognized no penalties in the Consolidated Income Statements. We had approximately $0.2 million and $2.0 million of interest accrued in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Within the next twelve months, it is reasonably possible that our unrecognized tax benefits may decrease by $1.0 million as a result of further IRS guidance relating to an uncertain tax position.

Our primary tax jurisdictions include Federal and the state of Wisconsin. Currently, the tax years of 2007 through 2012 are subject to Federal and Wisconsin examination.


H -- COMMON EQUITY

Share-Based Compensation Plans:   Our employees participate in a plan approved by Wisconsin Energy stockholders that provides a long-term incentive through equity interests in Wisconsin Energy to outside directors, selected officers and key employees of Wisconsin Energy and its subsidiaries. The plan provides for the granting of Wisconsin Energy stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards and performance shares. Awards may be paid in Wisconsin Energy common stock, cash or a combination thereof. We utilize the straight-line attribution method for recognizing share-based compensation expense. Accordingly, for employee awards, equity classified share-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized as expense over the requisite service period. There were no modifications to the terms of outstanding Wisconsin Energy stock options held by our employees during the period other than necessary adjustments as a result of Wisconsin Energy's two-for-one stock split on March 1, 2011.


 
79
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

The following table summarizes recorded pre-tax share-based compensation expense and the related tax benefit for Wisconsin Energy share-based awards made to our employees during the years ended December 31:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance units
 
$
14.2


$
20.3


$
24.6

Stock options
 
2.6


2.5


7.0

Restricted stock
 
2.0

 
1.1

 
0.8

Share-based compensation expense
 
$
18.8

 
$
23.9

 
$
32.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Related Tax Benefit
 
$
7.5

 
$
9.6

 
$
13.0


Stock Options:   The exercise price of a Wisconsin Energy stock option under the plan is to be no less than 100% of the common stock's fair market value on the grant date and options may not be exercised within six months of the grant date except in the event of a change in control. Option grants consist of non-qualified stock options and vest on a cliff-basis after a three year period. Options expire no later than 10 years from the date of grant. For further information regarding stock-based compensation and the valuation of Wisconsin Energy stock options, see Note A.

The following is a summary of Wisconsin Energy stock option activity by our employees during 2012:

 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-Average
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-
 
Remaining
 
Aggregate
 
 
Number of
 
Average
 
Contractual Life
 
Intrinsic Value
Stock Options
 
Options
 
Exercise Price
 
(Years)
 
(Millions)
Outstanding as of January 1, 2012
 
9,907,526

 
$
21.76

 
 
 
 
Granted
 
903,865

 
$
34.88

 
 
 
 
Exercised
 
(2,394,515
)
 
$
18.98

 
 
 
 
Forfeited
 

 
$

 
 
 
 
Outstanding as of December 31, 2012
 
8,416,876

 
$
23.96

 
5.3
 
$
108.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercisable as of December 31, 2012
 
6,779,306

 
$
22.27

 
4.6
 
$
98.8


We expect that substantially all of the outstanding options as of December 31, 2012 will be exercised.

In January 2013, the Compensation Committee awarded 1,365,970 Wisconsin Energy non-qualified stock options at an exercise price of $37.46 to our officers and other key employees under its normal schedule of awarding long-term incentive compensation.

The intrinsic value of Wisconsin Energy options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 was $42.9 million, $31.8 million and $53.2 million, respectively. Cash received by Wisconsin Energy from exercises of its options by our employees was $45.4 million, $49.3 million and $81.1 million during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The actual tax benefit realized for the tax deductions from option exercises for the same periods was approximately zero, $9.7 million and $21.0 million, respectively.

 
80
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


The following table summarizes information about Wisconsin Energy stock options held by our employees and outstanding as of December 31, 2012:

 
 
Options Outstanding
 
Options Exercisable
 
 
 
 
Weighted-Average
 
 
 
Weighted-Average
 
 
 
 
 
 
Remaining
 
 
 
 
 
Remaining
 
 
Number of
 
Exercise
 
Contractual
 
Number of
 
Exercise
 
Contractual
Range of Exercise Prices
 
Options
 
Price
 
 Life (Years)
 
Options
 
Price
 
 Life (Years)
$16.72  to  $19.74
 
1,506,079

 
$18.92
 
2.6
 
1,506,079

 
$18.92
 
2.6
$21.11  to  $24.92
 
5,579,532

 
$23.15
 
5.2
 
5,149,522

 
$23.00
 
5.1
$29.35  to  $34.88
 
1,331,265

 
$33.10
 
8.7
 
123,705

 
$32.77
 
8.6
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
8,416,876

 
$23.96
 
5.3
 
6,779,306

 
$22.27
 
4.6

The following table summarizes information about non-vested Wisconsin Energy options held by our employees during 2012:

 
 
Number of
 
Weighted-
Average
Non-Vested Stock Options
 
Options 
 
Fair Value
 
 
 
 
 
Non-Vested as of January 1, 2012
 
2,953,580

 
$3.78
Granted
 
903,865

 
$3.34
Vested
 
(2,219,875
)
 
$3.95
Forfeited
 

 
$—
Non-Vested as of December 31, 2012
 
1,637,570

 
$3.31

As of December 31, 2012, total compensation costs related to non-vested Wisconsin Energy stock options held by our employees and not yet recognized was approximately $1.0 million, which is expected to be recognized over the next 21 months on a weighted-average basis.

Restricted Shares:   The Compensation Committee has also approved grants of Wisconsin Energy restricted stock to certain of our key employees. The following restricted stock activity related to our employees occurred during 2012:

 
 
Number of
 
Weighted-
Average
Market
Restricted Shares
 
Shares
 
Price
Outstanding as of January 1, 2012
 
115,946

 
 
Granted
 
71,496

 
$34.46
Released
 
(55,160
)
 
$24.19
Forfeited
 
(5,890
)
 
$27.35
Outstanding as of December 31, 2012
 
126,392

 
 
 
Recipients of previously issued Wisconsin Energy restricted shares have the right to vote the shares and receive dividends, and the shares have vesting periods ranging up to 10 years.

In January 2013, the Compensation Committee awarded 53,055 restricted shares to our officers and other key employees under its normal schedule of awarding long-term incentive compensation. These awards have a three-year vesting period, and generally, one-third of the award vests on each anniversary of the grant date. During the vesting period, restricted share recipients also have voting rights and are entitled to dividends in the same manner as other shareholders.

Wisconsin Energy records the market value of the restricted stock awards on the date of grant. We then amortize

 
81
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

our share of allocated expense over the vesting period of the awards. The intrinsic value of Wisconsin Energy restricted stock vesting and held by our employees was $2.2 million, $1.7 million and $1.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The actual tax benefit realized for the tax deductions from released restricted shares for the same years was zero, $0.6 million and $0.6 million, respectively.

As of December 31, 2012, total compensation cost related to our share of Wisconsin Energy restricted stock not yet recognized was approximately $2.0 million, which is expected to be recognized over the next 21 months on a weighted-average basis.

Performance Units:   In January 2012, 2011 and 2010, the Compensation Committee awarded 333,685, 413,990 and 520,620 Wisconsin Energy performance units, respectively, to our officers and other key employees under the Wisconsin Energy Performance Unit Plan. Under the grants, the ultimate number of units that will be awarded is dependent upon the achievement of certain financial performance of Wisconsin Energy's common stock over a three-year period. Under the terms of the award, participants may earn between 0% and 175% of the base performance unit award. All grants are settled in cash. We are accruing our share of compensation costs over the three-year performance period based on our estimate of the final expected value of the awards. Performance units earned as of December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 had a total intrinsic value of $17.1 million, $23.8 million and $12.1 million, respectively. The awards were subsequently distributed to our officers and key employees in January 2013, 2012 and 2011. The actual tax benefit realized for the tax deductions from the distribution of performance units was approximately $6.2 million, $9.6 million and $4.2 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2012, total compensation cost related to performance units not yet recognized was approximately $11.9 million, which is expected to be recognized over the next 19 months on a weighted-average basis.

In January 2013, the Compensation Committee awarded 230,245 performance units to our officers and other key employees under its normal schedule of awarding long-term incentive compensation.

Equity Contribution:   Our capitalization reflects the impact of a $100.0 million equity contribution from Wisconsin Energy during 2010.

Restrictions:   Various financing arrangements and regulatory requirements impose certain restrictions on our ability to transfer funds to Wisconsin Energy in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances. In addition, under Wisconsin law, we are prohibited from loaning funds, either directly or indirectly, to Wisconsin Energy.

We are required to maintain a capital structure that differs from GAAP as it reflects regulatory adjustments. Consistent with the 2010 rate case order, the 2013 PSCW rate case order requires us to maintain a common equity ratio range of between 48.5% and 53.5%. We are in compliance with the common equity ratio range. We must obtain PSCW approval to pay dividends above the test year levels that would cause us to fall below the authorized level of common equity.

We may not pay common dividends to Wisconsin Energy under our Restated Articles of Incorporation if any dividends on our outstanding preferred stock have not been paid. In addition, pursuant to the terms of our 3.60% Serial Preferred Stock, our ability to declare common dividends would be limited to 75% or 50% of net income during a twelve month period if our common stock equity to total capitalization, as defined in the preferred stock designation, is less than 25% and 20%, respectively.

See Note J for discussion of certain financial covenants related to our bank back-up credit facility.

We do not believe that these restrictions will materially affect our operations or limit any dividend payments in the foreseeable future.


 
82
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

I -- LONG-TERM DEBT AND CAPITAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS

Debentures and Notes:   As of December 31, 2012, the maturities and sinking fund requirements of our long-term debt outstanding (excluding obligations under capital leases) were as follows:

 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
2013
$
300.0

2014
300.0

2015
250.0

2016

2017

Thereafter
1,687.0

Total
$
2,537.0


We amortize debt premiums, discounts and debt issuance costs over the lives of the debt and we include the costs in interest expense.

In December 2012, we issued $250 million of 3.65% Debentures due December 15, 2042. The debentures were issued under an existing shelf registration statement filed with the SEC in February 2011. The net proceeds were used to repay short-term debt and for other general corporate purposes.

In September 2011, we issued $300 million of 2.95% Debentures due September 15, 2021. The debentures were issued under an existing shelf registration statement filed with the SEC in February 2011. The net proceeds were used to repay short-term debt and for other general corporate purposes.

We are the obligor under two series of tax-exempt pollution control refunding bonds in outstanding principal amount of $147.0 million. In August 2009, we terminated letters of credit that provided credit and liquidity support for the bonds, which resulted in a mandatory tender of the bonds. We purchased the bonds at par plus accrued interest to the date of purchase. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the repurchased bonds were still outstanding, but were reported as a reduction in our consolidated long-term debt because they are held by us. Depending on market conditions and other factors, we may change the method used to determine the interest rate on the bonds and have them remarketed to third parties.

Obligations Under Capital Leases

We are the obligor under a power purchase contract with an unaffiliated third party and we lease power plants from We Power under Wisconsin Energy's PTF strategy. Under capital lease accounting, we have recorded the leased plants and corresponding obligations under the capital leases on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We treat these agreements as operating leases for rate-making purposes. We record our minimum lease payments under the power purchase contract as purchased power expense on the Consolidated Income Statements. We record the lease payments under our PTF leases as rent expense in other operation and maintenance in the Consolidated Income Statements. We record the difference between the minimum lease payments and the sum of imputed interest and amortization costs calculated under capital lease accounting as a deferred regulatory asset on our Consolidated Balance Sheets (see Regulatory Assets - Deferred plant related -- capital leases in Note C).

Power Purchase Commitment:   In 1997, we entered into a 25 -year power purchase contract with an unaffiliated independent power producer. The contract, for 236 MW of firm capacity from a gas-fired cogeneration facility, includes no minimum energy requirements. When the contract expires in 2022, we may, at our option and with proper notice, renew for another ten years or purchase the generating facility at fair value or allow the contract to expire. We recorded the leased facility and corresponding obligation under the capital lease at the estimated fair value of the plant's electric generating facilities. We are amortizing the leased facility on a straight-line basis over the original 25-year term of the contract.

PWGS:   We are leasing PWGS 1 and PWGS 2, two 545 MW natural gas-fired generation units which were placed in service in July 2005 and May 2008, respectively, from We Power under PSCW approved leases. The leased plants and corresponding obligations for the plants have been recorded at the estimated fair value of $681.0 million.

 
83
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

We are amortizing the leased plants on a straight-line basis over the original 25-year term of the leases. The lease payments are expected to be recovered through our rates, as supported by the 2001 leased generation law. Due to the timing and the amounts of the minimum lease payments, we expect the regulatory asset to increase to approximately $128.9 million in the year 2021 for PWGS 1 and to approximately $127.9 million in the year 2024 for PWGS 2, at which time the regulatory assets will be reduced to zero over the remaining lives of the contracts. The total obligation under the capital leases for the plants was $651.9 million as of December 31, 2012 and will decrease to zero over the remaining lives of the contracts.

Oak Creek Expansion:   We are leasing OC 1, OC 2 and the common facilities, which are also utilized by our Oak Creek Units 5-8, from We Power under PSCW approved leases. We are amortizing the leased plants on a straight-line basis over the 30-year term of the leases. The common coal handling system was placed in service in November 2007 and the water intake system was placed in service in January 2009. OC 1 and the remaining common facilities were placed in service in February 2010. OC 2 was placed in service in January 2011. The leased plants and corresponding capital lease obligations have been recorded at the estimated fair value of $1,954.0 million. The lease payments are expected to be recovered through our rates, as supported by the 2001 leased generation law. The total obligation under the capital leases was $1,988.2 million as of December 31, 2012, and will decrease to zero over the remaining life of the contracts.

We paid the following lease payments during 2012, 2011 and 2010:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term power purchase commitment
 
$
32.5

 
$
31.3

 
$
30.2

PWGS 
 
99.0

 
97.5

 
97.4

Oak Creek Expansion
 
269.3

 
266.1

 
178.6

Total
 
$
400.8

 
$
394.9

 
$
306.2


The following table summarizes our capitalized leased facilities as of December 31:
Capital Lease Assets
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term Power Purchase Commitment
 
 
 
 
Under capital lease
 
$
140.3

 
$
140.3

Accumulated amortization
 
(86.8
)
 
(81.1
)
Total Long-term Power Purchase Commitment
 
$
53.5

 
$
59.2

 
 
 
 
 
PWGS 
 
 
 
 
Under capital lease
 
$
681.0

 
$
670.9

Accumulated amortization
 
(162.6
)
 
(135.1
)
Total PWGS 
 
$
518.4

 
$
535.8

 
 
 
 
 
Oak Creek Expansion
 
 
 
 
Under capital lease
 
$
1,954.0

 
$
1,954.0

Accumulated amortization
 
(185.7
)
 
(120.8
)
Total Oak Creek
 
$
1,768.3

 
$
1,833.2

 
 
 
 
 
Total Leased Facilities
 
$
2,340.2

 
$
2,428.2

 

 
84
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Future minimum lease payments under our capital leases and the present value of our net minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2012 are as follows:

 
 
Power
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Purchase
 
 
 
Oak Creek
 
 
Capital Lease Obligations
 
Commitment
 
PWGS
 
Expansion
 
Total
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2013
 
$
40.4

 
$
99.0

 
$
269.4

 
$
408.8

2014
 
41.9

 
99.0

 
269.4

 
410.3

2015
 
43.5

 
99.0

 
288.2

 
430.7

2016
 
45.1

 
99.0

 
299.8

 
443.9

2017
 
13.9

 
99.0

 
299.8

 
412.7

Thereafter
 
71.5

 
1,380.8

 
6,720.4

 
8,172.7

Total Minimum Lease Payments
 
256.3

 
1,875.8

 
8,147.0

 
10,279.1

Less:  Estimated Executory Costs
 
(68.4
)
 

 

 
(68.4
)
Net Minimum Lease Payments
 
187.9

 
1,875.8

 
8,147.0

 
10,210.7

Less:  Interest
 
(67.9
)
 
(1,223.9
)
 
(6,158.8
)
 
(7,450.6
)
Present Value of Net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Minimum Lease Payments
 
120.0

 
651.9

 
1,988.2

 
2,760.1

Less:  Due Currently
 
(15.8
)
 
(7.7
)
 
(33.5
)
 
(57.0
)
Total Capital Lease Obligations
 
$
104.2

 
$
644.2

 
$
1,954.7

 
$
2,703.1



J -- SHORT-TERM DEBT

Our commercial paper balance and the corresponding weighted-average interest rate as of December 31 are shown in the following table:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
 
 
Interest
 
 
 
Interest
 
 
Balance
 
Rate
 
Balance
 
Rate
 
 
(Millions of Dollars, except for percentages)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial paper
 
$105.5
 
0.27%
 
$352.0
 
0.24%

The following information relates to commercial paper outstanding for the years ended December 31:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars, except for percentages)
 
 
 
 
 
Maximum Commercial Paper Outstanding
 
$
382.0

 
$
370.5

Average Commercial Paper Outstanding
 
$
251.6

 
$
217.4

Weighted-Average Interest Rate
 
0.26
%
 
0.21
%

In December 2012, we entered into a new bank back-up credit facility to maintain short-term credit liquidity which, among other terms, requires us to maintain, subject to certain exclusions, a minimum total funded debt to capitalization ratio of less than 65%.

As of December 31, 2012, we had approximately $494.1 million of available, undrawn lines under our bank back-up credit facility and approximately $105.5 million of commercial paper outstanding that was supported by the available lines of credit. Our bank back-up credit facility expires in December 2017. As of December 31, 2012, our subsidiary had a $23.4 million note payable to Wisconsin Energy with a weighted-average interest rate of 6.25%.

Our bank back-up credit facility contains customary covenants, including certain limitations on our ability to sell

 
85
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

assets. The credit facility also contains customary events of default, including payment defaults, material inaccuracy of representations and warranties, covenant defaults, bankruptcy proceedings, certain judgments, ERISA defaults and change of control.

As of December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with all financial covenants.


K -- DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

We utilize derivatives as part of our risk management program to manage the volatility and costs of purchased power, generation and natural gas purchases for the benefit of our customers. Our approach is non-speculative and designed to mitigate risk and protect against price volatility. Regulated hedging programs require prior approval by the PSCW.

We record derivative instruments on the balance sheet as an asset or liability measured at its fair value, and changes in the derivative's fair value are recognized currently in earnings unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met or we receive regulatory treatment for the derivative. For most energy related physical and financial contracts in our regulated operations that qualify as derivatives, the PSCW allows the effects of the fair market value accounting to be offset to regulatory assets and liabilities. We do not offset fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral or the obligation to return cash collateral against fair value amounts recognized for derivatives executed with the same counterparty under the same master netting arrangement. As of December 31, 2012, we recognized $3.7 million in regulatory assets and $16.7 million in regulatory liabilities related to derivatives in comparison to $14.1 million in regulatory assets and $20.3 million in regulatory liabilities as of December 31, 2011.

We record our current derivative assets on the balance sheet in other current assets and the current portion of the liabilities in other current liabilities. The long-term portion of our derivative assets of $0.6 million is recorded in other deferred charges and other assets, and we had no long-term portion of derivative liabilities. Our Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 include:

 
 
December 31, 2012
 
December 31, 2011
 
 
Derivative
Asset
 
Derivative
Liability
 
Derivative
Asset
 
Derivative
Liability
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Natural Gas
 
$
0.6

 
$
0.5

 
$
0.7

 
$
4.6

Fuel Oil
 
0.4

 

 
0.3

 
0.1

FTRs
 
4.7

 

 
5.7

 

Coal
 
11.1

 

 
12.5

 

Total
 
$
16.8

 
$
0.5

 
$
19.2

 
$
4.7



 
86
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Our Consolidated Income Statements include gains (losses) on derivative instruments used in our risk management strategies under fuel and purchased power for those commodities supporting our electric operations and under cost of gas sold for the natural gas sold to our customers. Our estimated notional volumes and gains (losses) for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 were as follows:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
Volume
 
Gains (Losses)
 
Volume
 
Gains (Losses)
 
 
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Natural Gas
 
38.9 million Dth
 
$
(16.4
)
 
32.2 million Dth
 
$
(15.5
)
Fuel Oil
 
7.0 million gallons
 
1.8

 
13.0 million gallons
 
6.9

FTRs
 
20,616 MW
 
6.1

 
23,718 MW
 
12.5

Total
 
 
 
$
(8.5
)
 
 
 
$
3.9


As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we posted collateral of $2.1 million and $6.4 million, respectively, in our margin accounts. These amounts are recorded on the balance sheets in other current assets.


L -- FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Fair value measurements require enhanced disclosures about assets and liabilities that are measured and reported at fair value and establish a hierarchal disclosure framework which prioritizes and ranks the level of observable inputs used in measuring fair value.

Fair value is the price that would be received upon the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). We primarily apply the market approach for recurring fair value measurements and attempt to utilize the best available information. Accordingly, we also utilize valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. We are able to classify fair value balances based on the observability of those inputs. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3).

Assets and liabilities measured and reported at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of the following categories:

Level 1 -- Pricing inputs are unadjusted quoted prices available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reporting date. Active markets are those in which transactions for the asset or liability occur in sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. Instruments in this category consist of financial instruments such as exchange-traded derivatives, cash equivalents and restricted cash investments.

Level 2 -- Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets, which are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reporting date, and fair value is determined through the use of models or other valuation methodologies. Instruments in this category include non-exchange-traded derivatives such as OTC forwards and options.

Level 3 -- Pricing inputs include significant inputs that are generally less observable from objective sources. The inputs in the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation. At each balance sheet date, we perform an analysis of all instruments subject to fair value reporting and include in Level 3 all instruments whose fair value is based on significant unobservable inputs.

In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the instrument.


 
87
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

The following tables summarize our financial assets and liabilities by level within the fair value hierarchy:

Recurring Fair Value Measures
 
As of December 31, 2012
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restricted Cash
 
$
2.7

 
$

 
$

 
$
2.7

Derivatives
 
0.6

 
11.5

 
4.7

 
16.8

Total
 
$
3.3

 
$
11.5

 
$
4.7

 
$
19.5

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives
 
$
0.5

 
$

 
$

 
$
0.5

Total
 
$
0.5

 
$

 
$

 
$
0.5


Recurring Fair Value Measures
 
As of December 31, 2011
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restricted Cash
 
$
45.5

 
$

 
$

 
$
45.5

Derivatives
 
0.3

 
13.2

 
5.7

 
19.2

Total
 
$
45.8

 
$
13.2

 
$
5.7

 
$
64.7

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives
 
$
4.3

 
$
0.4

 
$

 
$
4.7

Total
 
$
4.3

 
$
0.4

 
$

 
$
4.7


Restricted cash consists of certificates of deposit and government backed interest bearing securities and represents the settlement we received from the DOE during the first quarter of 2011, which is being returned, net of costs incurred, to customers. Derivatives reflect positions we hold in exchange-traded derivative contracts and OTC derivative contracts. Exchange-traded derivative contracts, which include futures and exchange-traded options, are generally based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified within Level 1. Some OTC derivative contracts are valued using broker or dealer quotations, or market transactions in either the listed or OTC markets utilizing a mid-market pricing convention (the mid-point between bid and ask prices), as appropriate. In such cases, these derivatives are classified within Level 2. Certain OTC derivatives may utilize models to measure fair value. Generally, we use a similar model to value similar instruments. Valuation models utilize various inputs which include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, other observable inputs for the asset or liability, and market-corroborated inputs (i.e., inputs derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means). Where observable inputs are available for substantially the full term of the asset or liability, the instrument is categorized in Level 2. Certain OTC derivatives are in less active markets with a lower availability of pricing information which might not be observable in or corroborated by the market. When such inputs have a significant impact on the measurement of fair value, the instrument is categorized in Level 3.


 
88
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

The following table summarizes the changes to derivatives classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
Balance as of January 1
 
$
5.7

 
$
5.9

Realized and unrealized gains (losses)
 

 

Purchases
 
11.0

 
16.1

Issuances
 

 

Settlements
 
(12.0
)
 
(16.3
)
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3
 

 

Balance as of December 31
 
$
4.7

 
$
5.7

 
 
 
 
 
Change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to instruments still held as of December 31
 
$

 
$


Derivative instruments reflected in Level 3 of the hierarchy include MISO FTRs that are measured at fair value each reporting period using monthly or annual auction shadow prices from relevant auctions. Changes in fair value for Level 3 recurring items are recorded on our balance sheet. See Note K -- Derivative Instruments for further information on the offset to regulatory assets and liabilities.

The carrying amount and estimated fair value of certain of our recorded financial instruments as of December 31 are as follows:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
Carrying
 
Fair
 
Carrying
 
Fair
Financial Instruments
 
Amount
 
Value
 
Amount
 
Value
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock, no redemption required
 
$
30.4

 
$
26.0

 
$
30.4

 
$
25.1

Long-term debt including current portion
 
$
2,537.0

 
$
2,900.8

 
$
2,287.0

 
$
2,669.0


The carrying value of net accounts receivable, accounts payable and short-term borrowings approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments. The fair value of our preferred stock is estimated based upon the quoted market value for the same or similar issues. The fair value of our long-term debt, including the current portion of long-term debt, but excluding capitalized leases and unamortized discount on debt, 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.


M -- BENEFITS

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits:   We participate in Wisconsin Energy's defined benefit pension plans that cover substantially all of our employees. Generally, employees who started with the company after 1995 receive a benefit based on a percentage of their annual salary plus an interest credit, while employees who started before 1996 receive a benefit based upon years of service and final average salary. Approximately half of our projected benefit obligation relates to benefits based upon years of service and final average salary.

We also participate in Wisconsin Energy's OPEB plans that cover 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 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.

The assets, obligations and the components of our pension costs are allocated by Wisconsin Energy's actuary to

 
89
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

each of the participating companies as if each participating company had its own plan. The disclosures below are based on an allocation to us of the amounts for Wisconsin Energy's pension plans.

We use a year-end measurement date to measure the funded status of all of the pension and OPEB plans. Due to the regulated nature of our business, we have concluded that substantially all of the unrecognized costs resulting from the recognition of the funded status of the pension and OPEB plans qualify as a regulatory asset.

The following table presents details about the pension and OPEB plans:

 
 
Pension
 
OPEB
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Change in Benefit Obligation
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Benefit Obligation at January 1
 
$
1,153.3

 
$
1,056.0

 
$
317.3

 
$
297.1

Service cost
 
19.8

 
14.5

 
9.8

 
9.9

Interest cost
 
56.8

 
58.4

 
16.7

 
17.0

Participants' contributions
 

 

 
9.1

 
10.8

Inter Plan transfer
 
(0.1
)
 
1.9

 

 

Actuarial loss (gain)
 
144.3

 
84.2

 
(26.9
)
 
6.5

Other accrued benefits
 
30.3

 

 

 

Gross benefits paid
 
(94.1
)
 
(61.7
)
 
(21.4
)
 
(24.7
)
Federal subsidy on benefits paid
 
N/A

 
N/A

 
0.8

 
0.7

Benefit Obligation at December 31
 
$
1,310.3

 
$
1,153.3

 
$
305.4

 
$
317.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in Plan Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value at January 1
 
$
1,018.1

 
$
813.7

 
$
173.9

 
$
135.9

Actual earnings on plan assets
 
102.6

 
26.8

 
19.6

 
6.3

Employer contributions
 
94.5

 
239.3

 
13.6

 
45.6

Participants' contributions
 

 

 
9.1

 
10.8

Gross benefits paid
 
(94.1
)
 
(61.7
)
 
(21.4
)
 
(24.7
)
Fair Value at December 31
 
$
1,121.1

 
$
1,018.1

 
$
194.8

 
$
173.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Liability
 
$
189.2

 
$
135.2

 
$
110.6

 
$
143.4


As of December 31, 2012, our qualified and non-qualified pension plans were under-funded by $98.5 million and $90.7 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2011, our qualified and non-qualified pension plans were under-funded by $53.0 million and $82.2 million, respectively.

Amounts recognized in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31 related to the funded status of the benefit plans consisted of:

 
 
Pension
 
OPEB
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other deferred charges
 
$

 
$

 
$
0.3

 
$
0.2

Other long-term liabilities
 
189.2

 
135.2

 
110.9

 
143.6

Net liability
 
$
189.2

 
$
135.2

 
$
110.6

 
$
143.4


The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit plans was $1,309.0 million and $1,152.2 million as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.


 
90
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

The following table shows the amounts that have not yet been recognized in our net periodic benefit cost as of December 31 and are recorded as a regulatory asset on our balance sheet:

 
 
Pension
 
OPEB
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net actuarial loss
 
$
543.6

 
$
462.5

 
$
32.7

 
$
73.1

Prior service costs (credits)
 
11.4

 
13.5

 
(3.5
)
 
(5.4
)
Transition obligation
 

 

 

 
0.3

Total
 
$
555.0

 
$
476.0

 
$
29.2

 
$
68.0


We estimate that 2013 periodic pension costs will include the amortization of previously unrecognized benefit costs referred to above of $43.4 million and OPEB credits of $0.5 million.

The components of net periodic pension and OPEB costs for the years ended December 31 are as follows:

 
 
Pension
 
OPEB
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
 
$
19.8

 
$
14.5

 
$
22.1

 
$
9.8

 
$
9.9

 
$
10.6

Interest cost
 
56.8

 
58.4

 
59.0

 
16.7

 
17.0

 
17.4

Expected return on plan assets
 
(71.8
)
 
(63.8
)
 
(59.5
)
 
(13.0
)
 
(11.2
)
 
(9.1
)
Amortization of:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Transition obligation
 

 

 

 
0.3

 
0.3

 
0.3

Prior service cost (credit)
 
2.1

 
2.1

 
2.1

 
(1.9
)
 
(1.9
)
 
(11.9
)
Actuarial loss
 
30.6

 
24.3

 
18.8

 
5.0

 
4.2

 
8.2

Other
 
0.4

 

 

 

 

 

Net Periodic Benefit Cost
 
$
37.9

 
$
35.5

 
$
42.5

 
$
16.9

 
$
18.3

 
$
15.5


In addition to the costs above, in 2011 we recorded net pension costs of less than $13 million relating to the settlement of pension litigation. See Note P --Commitments and Contingencies in this report.
The charges were after considering insurance and reserves established in 2010.

 
 
Pension
 
OPEB
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Weighted-Average assumptions used to
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
determine benefit obligations as of Dec. 31
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Discount rate
 
4.10%
 
5.05%
 
5.60%
 
4.15%
 
5.20%
 
5.70%
Rate of compensation increase
 
4.00%
 
4.00%
 
4.00%
 
N/A
 
N/A
 
N/A
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-Average assumptions used to
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
determine net cost for year ended Dec. 31
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Discount rate
 
5.05%
 
5.60%
 
6.05%
 
5.20%
 
5.70%
 
5.75%
Expected return on plan assets
 
7.25%
 
7.25%
 
7.25%
 
7.50%
 
7.50%
 
7.50%
Rate of compensation increase
 
4.00%
 
4.00%
 
4.00%
 
N/A
 
N/A
 
N/A
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assumed health care cost trend rates as of Dec. 31
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year (Pre 65 / Post 65)
 
 
 
7.5%/7.5%
 
8.0%/12.0%
 
7.5%/16.0%
Rate that the cost trend rate gradually adjusts to
 
 
 
5.00%
 
5.00%
 
5.00%
Year that the rate reaches the rate it is assumed to remain at (Pre 65 / Post 65)
 
2017/2017
 
2017/2017
 
2015/2016

The expected long-term rate of return on pension and OPEB plan assets was 7.25% and 7.50%, respectively, in

 
91
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

2012, 2011 and 2010. Wisconsin Energy consults with its investment advisors on an annual basis to help forecast expected long-term returns on plan assets by reviewing historical returns as well as calculating expected total trust returns using the weighted-average of long-term market returns for each of the major target asset categories utilized in the fund.

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

 
 
1% Increase
 
1% Decrease
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Effect on
 
 
 
 
Post-retirement benefit obligation
 
$
26.7

 
$
(22.4
)
Total of service and interest cost components
 
$
3.9

 
$
(3.2
)

We use various Employees' Benefit Trusts to fund a major portion of OPEB. The majority of the trusts' assets are mutual funds.

Plan Assets:   Current pension trust assets and amounts which are expected to be contributed to the trusts in the future are expected to be adequate to meet pension payment obligations to current and future retirees.

The Investment Trust Policy Committee oversees investment matters related to all of our funded benefit plans. The Committee works with external actuaries and investment consultants on an on-going basis to establish and monitor investment strategies and target asset allocations. Forecasted cash flows for plan liabilities are regularly updated based on annual valuation results. Target allocations are determined utilizing projected benefit payment cash flows and risk analyses of appropriate investments. They are intended to reduce risk, provide long-term financial stability for the plans and maintain funded levels which meet long-term plan obligations while preserving sufficient liquidity for near-term benefit payments.

Our current pension plan target asset allocation is 45% equity investments and 55% fixed income investments. The current OPEB target asset allocation is 60% equity investments and 40% fixed income investments. Equity securities include investments in large-cap, mid-cap and small-cap companies primarily located in the United States. Fixed income securities include corporate bonds of companies from diversified industries, mortgage and other asset backed securities, commercial paper, and U.S. Treasuries.

The following table summarizes the fair value of our share of plan assets by asset category within the fair value hierarchy (for further level information, see Note L):

 
 
As of December 31, 2012
Asset Category - Pension
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
$
11.1

 
$

 
$

 
$
11.1

Equities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Equity
 
377.3

 

 

 
377.3

International Equity
 
109.0

 
24.6

 

 
133.6

Fixed Income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   Short, Intermediate and Long-term Bonds (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Bonds
 
54.8

 
442.3

 

 
497.1

International Bonds
 
65.3

 
36.7

 

 
102.0

Total
 
$
617.5

 
$
503.6

 
$

 
$
1,121.1


 
92
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

 
 
As of December 31, 2011
Asset Category - Pension
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
$
6.9

 
$

 
$

 
$
6.9

Equities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Equity
 
367.0

 

 

 
367.0

International Equity
 
81.0

 
27.3

 

 
108.3

Fixed Income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   Short, Intermediate and Long-term Bonds (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Bonds
 
61.9

 
405.5

 

 
467.4

International Bonds
 
33.0

 
35.5

 

 
68.5

Total
 
$
549.8

 
$
468.3

 

 
$
1,018.1


(a)
This category represents investment grade bonds of U.S. and foreign issuers denominated in U.S. dollars from diverse industries.
 
The following table summarizes the fair value of our share of OPEB plan assets by asset category within the fair value hierarchy:

 
 
As of December 31, 2012
Asset Category - OPEB
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
$
1.2

 
$

 
$

 
$
1.2

Equities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Equity
 
86.0

 

 

 
86.0

International Equity
 
27.2

 
1.5

 

 
28.7

Fixed Income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   Short, Intermediate and Long-term Bonds (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Bonds
 
3.4

 
61.3

 

 
64.7

International Bonds
 
10.5

 
3.7

 

 
14.2

Total
 
$
128.3

 
$
66.5

 

 
$
194.8


 
 
As of December 31, 2011
Asset Category - OPEB
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
$
1.6

 

 

 
$
1.6

Equities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Equity
 
77.3

 

 

 
77.3

International Equity
 
21.9

 
1.6

 

 
23.5

Fixed Income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   Short, Intermediate and Long-term Bonds (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Bonds
 
5.6

 
56.5

 

 
62.1

International Bonds
 
5.9

 
3.5

 

 
9.4

Total
 
$
112.3

 
$
61.6

 

 
$
173.9


(a)
This category represents investment grade bonds of U.S. and foreign issuers denominated in U.S. dollars from diverse industries.


 
93
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Cash Flows:   

 
 
Pension
 
 
Employer Contributions
 
Qualified
 
Non-Qualified
 
OPEB
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2010
 
$

 
$
5.6

 
$
2.7

2011
 
$
234.1

 
$
5.2

 
$
45.6

2012
 
$
88.5

 
$
6.0

 
$
13.6


The following table identifies our expected benefit payments over the next 10 years:

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year
 
Pension
 
Gross OPEB
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
2013
 
$
89.2

 
$
13.1

2014
 
$
87.6

 
$
13.8

2015
 
$
86.4

 
$
14.7

2016
 
$
86.5

 
$
15.5

2017
 
$
86.9

 
$
16.4

2018-2022
 
$
423.3

 
$
89.9


Savings Plans:   We sponsor savings plans which allow employees to contribute a portion of their pre-tax and/or after-tax income in accordance with plan-specified guidelines. Under these plans, we expensed matching contributions of $12.5 million, $12.9 million and $12.5 million during 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Postemployment Benefits:   Postemployment benefits provided to former or inactive employees are recognized when an event occurs. The estimated liability for such benefits was $2.4 million as of December 31, 2012.


N -- SEGMENT REPORTING

We are a subsidiary of Wisconsin Energy and have organized our reportable segments according to how we are currently regulated. Our 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.

Our 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. Our natural gas utility is engaged 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. Our steam utility produces, distributes and sells steam to space heating and processing customers in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area.


 
94
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

Summarized financial information concerning our reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 is shown in the following table:

 
 
Reportable Segments
 
 
 
 
Year Ended
 
Electric
 
Gas
 
Steam
 
Other (a)
 
Total
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
December 31, 2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Revenues (b)
 
$
3,193.9

 
$
385.1

 
$
34.3

 
$

 
$
3,613.3

Depreciation and Amortization
 
$
230.3

 
$
23.9

 
$
3.4

 
$

 
$
257.6

Operating Income (Loss) (c)
 
$
536.5

 
$
50.0

 
$
(3.2
)
 
$

 
$
583.3

Equity in Earnings
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
of Transmission Affiliate
 
$
57.6

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
57.6

Capital Expenditures
 
$
524.9

 
$
50.8

 
$

 
$
0.1

 
$
575.8

Total Assets (d)
 
$
11,209.4

 
$
641.7

 
$
66.3

 
$
105.2

 
$
12,022.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2011
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Revenues (b)
 
$
3,211.3

 
$
477.3

 
$
39.0

 
$

 
$
3,727.6

Depreciation and Amortization
 
$
190.2

 
$
26.8

 
$
3.3

 
$

 
$
220.3

Operating Income (c)
 
$
425.6

 
$
46.7

 
$
1.3

 
$

 
$
473.6

Equity in Earnings
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
of Transmission Affiliate
 
$
54.9

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
54.9

Capital Expenditures
 
$
665.0

 
$
39.0

 
$
2.6

 
$

 
$
706.6

Total Assets (d)
 
$
10,816.1

 
$
654.9

 
$
67.8

 
$
122.5

 
$
11,661.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2010
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Revenues (b)
 
$
2,936.3

 
$
481.6

 
$
38.8

 
$

 
$
3,456.7

Depreciation and Amortization
 
$
187.0

 
$
25.9

 
$
3.3

 
$

 
$
216.2

Operating Income (c)
 
$
448.1

 
$
38.9

 
$
2.2

 
$

 
$
489.2

Equity in Earnings
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
of Transmission Affiliate
 
$
52.7

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
52.7

Capital Expenditures
 
$
574.9

 
$
38.8

 
$
2.5

 
$
1.1

 
$
617.3

Total Assets (d)
 
$
9,356.8

 
$
638.1

 
$
65.3

 
$
110.5

 
$
10,170.7


(a)
Other includes primarily non-utility property and investments, materials and supplies, deferred charges and other corporate items.

(b)
We account for intersegment revenues at a tariff rate established by the PSCW. Intersegment revenues were not material.

(c)
We evaluate operating income to manage our utility business. Equity in Earnings of Transmission Affiliate, Interest Expense and Income Taxes are not included in segment operating income.

(d)
Common utility plant is allocated to electric, gas and steam utility operations to determine segment assets.


O -- RELATED PARTIES

We provide to and receive from certain of our Wisconsin Energy affiliates managerial, financial, accounting, legal, data processing and other services in accordance with service agreements approved by the PSCW. In addition, we make lease payments to We Power for PWGS 1, PWGS 2, OC 1 and OC 2. We also receive and/or provide certain services to other associated companies in which we have, or Wisconsin Energy has, an equity investment.

American Transmission Company LLC:   As of December 31, 2012, we have a 23.0% interest in ATC. We pay ATC for transmission and other related services it provides. In addition, we provide a variety of operational, maintenance and project management work for ATC, which are reimbursed to us by ATC. We are required to pay the cost of needed transmission infrastructure upgrades for new generation projects while projects are under construction, including the new generating units constructed as part of Wisconsin Energy's PTF strategy. ATC reimburses us for these costs when new generation is placed in service. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we

 
95
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

had a receivable of zero and $5.4 million, respectively, for these items. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, our equity in earnings from ATC was $57.6 million, $54.9 million and $52.7 million, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, distributions received from ATC were $46.1 million, $43.7 million and $43.3 million, respectively.

Summary financial information as of December 31 from the financial statements of ATC is as follows:

 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Revenues
 
$
603.3

 
$
567.2

 
$
556.7

Operating Income
 
$
322.2

 
$
305.6

 
$
305.6

Net Income
 
$
237.4

 
$
223.9

 
$
219.7

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current Assets
 
$
63.1

 
$
58.7

 
$
59.9

Non-Current Assets
 
$
3,274.7

 
$
3,053.7

 
$
2,888.4

Current Liabilities
 
$
251.5

 
$
298.5

 
$
428.4

Non-Current Liabilities
 
$
1,645.8

 
$
1,482.7

 
$
1,260.0


We provided and received services from the following associated companies during 2012, 2011 and 2010:

Company
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Affiliate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Services Provided
 
 
 
 
 
 
We Power (excluding lease payments)
 
$
2.1

 
$
5.3

 
$
0.6

Wisconsin Gas
 
$
62.1

 
$
67.4

 
$
64.8

Other
 
$
1.2

 
$
1.1

 
$
0.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Services Received
 
 
 
 
 
 
We Power (lease payments)
 
$
375.1

 
$
370.5

 
$
367.8

Wisconsin Energy
 
$
18.3

 
$
23.7

 
$
26.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity Investee - ATC
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Services Provided
 
$
8.2

 
$
10.8

 
$
16.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Services Received
 
$
222.7

 
$
219.2

 
$
220.8



 
96
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, our Consolidated Balance Sheets included receivable and payable balances with ATC as follows:

Equity Investee - ATC
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
Services Provided
 
$
0.5

 
$
0.7

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Services Received
 
$
18.6

 
$
18.1



P -- COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Capital Expenditures:   We have made certain commitments in connection with 2013 capital expenditures. During 2013, we estimate that total capital expenditures will be approximately $521.6 million.

Operating Leases:   We enter into long-term purchase power contracts to meet a portion of our anticipated increase in future electric energy supply needs. These contracts expire at various times through 2018. Certain of these contracts were deemed to qualify as operating leases. In addition, we have various other operating leases, including leases for coal cars.

Future minimum payments for the next five years and thereafter for our operating lease contracts are as follows:

 
(Millions of Dollars)
 
 
2013
$
6.5

2014
3.9

2015
3.9

2016
3.7

2017
3.2

Thereafter
25.9

Total
$
47.1


Divested Assets:   Pursuant to the sale of Point Beach, we have agreed to indemnification provisions customary to transactions involving the sale of nuclear assets. We also provided customary indemnifications to WPL in connection with the sale of our interest in Edgewater Generating Unit 5.

Environmental Matters:   We periodically review our exposure for environmental remediation costs as evidence becomes available indicating that our liability has changed. Given current information, including the following, we believe 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 our financial position or results of operations.

We have a program of comprehensive environmental remediation planning for former manufactured gas plant sites and coal combustion product disposal sites. We perform ongoing assessments of our manufactured gas plant sites and related disposal sites, as well as our coal combustion product disposal/landfill sites, as discussed below. We are working with the WDNR in our investigation and remediation planning. At this time, we cannot estimate future remediation costs associated with these sites beyond those described below.

Manufactured Gas Plant Sites:   We have identified several sites at which we or a predecessor company historically owned or operated a manufactured gas plant. These sites have been substantially remediated or are at various stages of investigation, monitoring and remediation. We have also identified other sites that may have been impacted by historical manufactured gas plant activities. Based upon on-going analysis, we estimate that the future costs for detailed site investigation and future remediation costs may range from $6 million to $18 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, 2012 and 2011, we established reserves of $7.2 million and $6.4 million, respectively, related to future remediation costs.

 
97
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K


Historically, the PSCW has allowed Wisconsin utilities, including us, to defer the costs spent on the remediation of manufactured gas plant sites, and has allowed for these costs to be recovered in rates over five years. Accordingly, we have recorded a regulatory asset for remediation costs.

Coal Combustion Product Landfill Sites:   We aggressively seek environmentally acceptable, beneficial uses for our coal combustion products. However, some coal combustion products have been, and to a small degree continue to be, managed in company-owned, licensed landfills. Some early designed and constructed landfills have at times required various levels of monitoring or remediation. Where we have become aware of these conditions, efforts have been made to define the nature and extent of any release, and work has been performed to address these conditions. During 2012, 2011 and 2010, we incurred $0.3 million, $0.2 million and $0.4 million, respectively, in landfill remediation expenses. As of December 31, 2012, we have no reserves established related to coal combustion product landfill sites.

EPA - Consent Decree:   In April 2003, we reached a Consent Decree with the EPA in which we agreed to significantly reduce air emissions from our coal-fired generating facilities. In July 2003, the Consent Decree was amended to include the state of Michigan, and in October 2007, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin approved and entered the amended Consent Decree. The Consent Decree was further amended in January 2012 to change the point of air monitoring at the Oak Creek Power Plant to accommodate the AQCS that began service in 2012. In order to achieve the reductions agreed to in the Consent Decree, over the past almost 10 years we have installed new pollution control equipment, including the Oak Creek AQCS, upgraded existing equipment and retired certain older coal units at a cost of approximately $1.2 billion. We estimate we will spend an additional $22 million in 2013 for final implementation costs.

Valley Power Plant Title V Air Permit:   The WDNR renewed VAPP's Title V operating permit in February 2011. The term of the permit is five years. Sierra Club and Clean Wisconsin requested and were granted an administrative hearing before the WDNR on certain conditions of the permit; however, the case has been stayed. In addition, in March 2011, the Sierra Club petitioned the EPA for additional reductions and monitoring for particulate matter, and revisions to certain applicable requirements. No timeline has been set by the EPA to respond to that petition. In May 2012, the Sierra Club filed a notice of intent to bring suit to force the EPA to issue a response to that petition. We believe that the permit was properly issued and that the plant is in compliance with all applicable regulations and standards. However, if as a result of either proceeding the permit is remanded to the WDNR, the plant will continue to operate under the previous operating permit.

In August 2012, we announced plans to convert the fuel source for VAPP from coal to natural gas and anticipate that the conversion will be completed by the end of 2015 or early 2016. We currently expect the cost of this conversion to be between $60 million and $65 million subject to PSCW approval, and receiving a construction permit from the WDNR. We expect to file for a Certificate of Authority from the PSCW and an air permit from the WDNR during the second quarter of 2013.

We have made significant progress on the four voluntary goals that we submitted in a December 2011 letter to the EPA: (1) we achieved the reductions in annual SO2 emissions from the plant to no more than 4,500 tons (a 65% decrease from 2001 emission levels); (2) the planned conversion of the plant from coal to natural gas eliminates the requirement to meet the MATS rules and, therefore, the need for a dry sorbent injection system; (3) we held open houses and tours of VAPP to help inform the community on the plant, the unique role that it plays in the community, and to share environmental successes and future plans; and (4) we announced plans for converting VAPP to natural gas fuel by 2015-2016, provided that we can obtain authorization from the PSCW to do so.

Cash Balance Pension Plan:   In June 2009, a lawsuit was filed by Alan M. Downes, a former employee, against the Plan in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. The complaint alleged that Plan participants who received a lump sum distribution under the Plan prior to their normal retirement age did not receive the full benefit to which they were entitled in violation of ERISA and were owed additional benefits, because the Plan failed to apply the correct interest crediting rate to project the cash balance account to their normal retirement age. In September 2010, the plaintiff filed a First Amended Class Action Complaint alleging additional claims under ERISA and adding Wisconsin Energy as a defendant.
 
In November 2011, the Plan entered into a settlement agreement with the plaintiffs for $45.0 million, and the court promptly issued an order preliminarily approving the settlement. As part of the settlement agreement, the Plan

 
98
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Cont'd)
2012 Form 10-K

agreed to class certification for all similarly situated plaintiffs. The resolution of this matter resulted in a cost of less than $13 million for 2011 after considering insurance and reserves established in 2010. The court approved the settlement and issued its written order in April 2012. Substantially all payments to class members have been made pursuant to the settlement. We do not anticipate further charges as a result of the settlement.

Q -- SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

During the year ended December 31, 2012, we paid $109.0 million in interest, net of amounts capitalized, and received $91.2 million in net refunds from income taxes. During the year ended December 31, 2011, we paid $89.5 million in interest, net of amounts capitalized, and $1.1 million in income taxes, net of refunds. During the year ended December 31, 2010, we paid $99.7 million in interest, net of amounts capitalized, and $112.0 million in income taxes, net of refunds.

As of December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the amount of accounts payable related to capital expenditures was $15.7 million, $16.7 million and $16.8 million, respectively.

 
99
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

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

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of capitalization of Wisconsin Electric Power Company and subsidiary (the "Company") as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of income, common equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a)(2). These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (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. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits 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 as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.

/s/DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Milwaukee, Wisconsin
February 27, 2013



 
100
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

ITEM 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.


ITEM 9A.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, has 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 Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon such evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that, as of the end of such period, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective (i) 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 and (ii) to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f). Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of Wisconsin Electric Power Company's internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on its evaluation, our management concluded that Wisconsin Electric Power Company's internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2012.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company's independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management's report was not subject to attestation by the Company's independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the SEC that permit the Company to provide only management's report in this annual report.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of 2012 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


ITEM 9B.
 OTHER INFORMATION

None




 
101
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

PART III


ITEM 10.
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE OF THE REGISTRANT

The information under "Election of Directors", "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance", "Corporate Governance -- Frequently Asked Questions: What is the process used to identify director nominees and how do I recommend a nominee to WEC's Corporate Governance Committee?", "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'?", "Corporate Governance -- Frequently Asked Questions: Does the Board have a nominating committee?" and "Committees of the Board of Directors -- Audit and Oversight" in our Definitive Information Statement on Schedule 14C to be filed with the SEC for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held April 25, 2013 (the "2013 Annual Meeting Information Statement") is incorporated herein by reference. Also see "Executive Officers of the Registrant" in Part I of this report.

Wisconsin Energy has adopted a written code of ethics, referred to as its Code of Business Conduct. We are a subsidiary of Wisconsin Energy, and as such, all of our directors, executive officers and employees, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer, have a responsibility to comply with Wisconsin Energy's Code of Business Conduct. Wisconsin Energy has posted its Code of Business Conduct in the "Governance" section on its website, www.wisconsinenergy.com. Wisconsin Energy has not provided any waiver to the Code for any director, executive officer or other employee. Any amendments to, or waivers for directors and executive officers from, the Code of Business Conduct will be disclosed on Wisconsin Energy's website or in a current report on Form 8-K.
 

ITEM 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information under "Compensation Discussion and Analysis", "Executive Compensation", "Director Compensation", "Committees of the Board of Directors -- Compensation", "Compensation Committee Report", "Risk Analysis of Compensation Policies and Practices" and "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions -- Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation" in the 2013 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 our Common Stock is owned by our parent company, Wisconsin Energy Corporation, 231 West Michigan Street, P.O. Box 1331, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201. Our directors, director nominees and executive officers do not own any of our voting securities. The information concerning their beneficial ownership in Wisconsin Energy common stock set forth under "Stock Ownership of Directors, Nominees and Executive Officers" in the 2013 Annual Meeting Information Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

We do not have any equity compensation plans under which our equity securities may be issued. Our directors, officers and certain employees participate in the compensation plans of Wisconsin Energy Corporation.



 
102
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

ITEM 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information under "Corporate Governance -- Frequently Asked Questions: Who are the independent directors?", "Corporate Governance -- Frequently Asked Questions: What are the Board's standards of independence?", "Corporate Governance -- Frequently Asked Questions: Are the Audit and Oversight and Compensation Committees comprised solely of independent directors?", "Corporate Governance -- Frequently Asked Questions: Does the Company have policies and procedures in place to review and approve related party transactions?" and "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" in the 2013 Annual Meeting Information Statement is incorporated herein by reference. A full description of the guidelines our Board uses to determine director independence is located in Appendix A of Wisconsin Energy's Corporate Governance Guidelines, which can be found on its website, www.wisconsinenergy.com.


ITEM 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information regarding the fees paid to, and services performed by, our independent auditors and the pre-approval policy of our audit and oversight committee under "Independent Auditors' Fees and Services" in the 2013 Annual Meeting Information Statement is incorporated herein by reference.


PART IV


ITEM 15.
EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a) 1.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND REPORTS OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM INCLUDED IN PART II OF THIS REPORT

 
Description
 
Page in 10-K
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Income Statements for the three years ended December 31, 2012.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2012 and 2011.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three years ended December 31, 2012.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Capitalization at December 31, 2012 and 2011.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Common Equity for the three years ended December 31, 2012.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
 

2

FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES INCLUDED IN PART IV OF THIS REPORT
 
 
 
Schedule II, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts, for the three years ended December 31, 2012.
 
 
 
Other 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.


 
103
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

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.



 
104
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

SCHEDULE II
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
 
Balance at Beginning of the Period
 
Expense
 
Deferral
 
Net Write-offs
 
Balance at End of the Period
 
 
(Millions of Dollars)
December 31, 2012
 
$
36.9

 
$
8.7

 
$
20.7

 
$
(29.6
)
 
$
36.7

December 31, 2011
 
$
34.2

 
$
46.2

 
$
(14.6
)
 
$
(28.9
)
 
$
36.9

December 31, 2010
 
$
31.5

 
$
46.9

 
$
(14.0
)
 
$
(30.2
)
 
$
34.2




 
105
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

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/GALE E. KLAPPA                                            
Date:
February 27, 2013
Gale E. Klappa, Chairman of the Board, 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 dates indicated.

/s/GALE E. KLAPPA                                                                  
 
February 27, 2013
Gale E. Klappa, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief
 
 
Executive Officer and Director -- Principal Executive Officer
 
 
 
 
 
/s/J. PATRICK KEYES
 
February 27, 2013
J. Patrick Keyes, Executive Vice President and Chief
 
 
Financial Officer -- Principal Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
 
/s/STEPHEN P. DICKSON                                                         
 
February 27, 2013
Stephen P. Dickson, Vice President and
 
 
Controller -- Principal Accounting Officer
 
 
 
 
 
/s/JOHN F. BERGSTROM                                                          
 
February 27, 2013
John F. Bergstrom, Director
 
 
 
 
 
/s/BARBARA L. BOWLES                                                         
 
February 27, 2013
Barbara L. Bowles, Director
 
 
 
 
 
/s/PATRICIA W. CHADWICK                                                   
 
February 27, 2013
Patricia W. Chadwick, Director
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ROBERT A. CORNOG                                                            
 
February 27, 2013
Robert A. Cornog, Director
 
 
 
 
 
/s/CURT S. CULVER                                                                   
 
February 27, 2013
Curt S. Culver, Director
 
 
 
 
 
/s/THOMAS J. FISCHER                                                             
 
February 27, 2013
Thomas J. Fischer, Director
 
 
 
 
 
/s/HENRY W. KNUEPPEL
 
February 27, 2013
Henry W. Knueppel, Director
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ULICE PAYNE, JR.                                                                 
 
February 27, 2013
Ulice Payne, Jr., Director
 
 
 
 
 
/s/MARY ELLEN STANEK
 
February 27, 2013
Mary Ellen Stanek, Director
 
 

 
106
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

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

EXHIBIT INDEX
to
Annual Report on Form 10-K
For the year ended December 31, 2012
 
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*
Bylaws of Wisconsin Electric Power Company, as amended to May 1, 2000. (Exhibit 3.1 to Wisconsin Electric Power Company's 03/31/00 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.)


 
 
 
 
 
 
Indenture and Securities Resolutions:
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.2*
Indenture for Debt Securities of Wisconsin Electric Power Company (the "Wisconsin Electric Indenture"), dated December 1, 1995. (Exhibit (4)-1 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/31/95 Form 10-K.)

 
 
 
 
 
 
4.3*
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.)


 
 
 
 
 
 
4.4*
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).)

 
 
 
 
 
 
4.5*
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.)


 
 
 
 
 
 
4.6*
Securities Resolution No. 7 of Wisconsin Electric under the Wisconsin Electric Indenture, dated as of November 2, 2006. (Exhibit 4.1 to Wisconsin Electric's Form 8-K, dated November 2, 2006.)


 
 
 
 
 
 
4.7*
Securities Resolution No. 8 of Wisconsin Electric under the Wisconsin Electric Indenture, dated as of September 25, 2008. (Exhibit 4.1 to Wisconsin Electric's 09/25/08 Form 8-K.)



 
E-1
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

Number
 
Exhibit
 
 
 
 
 
4.8*
Securities Resolution No. 9 of Wisconsin Electric under the Wisconsin Electric Indenture, dated as of December 8, 2008. (Exhibit 4.1 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/08/08 Form 8-K.)



 
 
 
 
 
 
4.9*
Securities Resolution No. 10 of Wisconsin Electric under the Wisconsin Electric Indenture, dated as of December 8, 2009. (Exhibit 4.1 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/08/09 Form 8-K.)


 
 
 
 
 
 
4.10*
Securities Resolution No. 11 of Wisconsin Electric under the Wisconsin Electric Indenture, dated as of September 7, 2011. (Exhibit 4.1 to Wisconsin Electric's 09/07/11 Form 8-K.)


 
 
 
 
 
 
4.11*
Securities Resolution No. 12 of Wisconsin Electric Under the Wisconsin Electric Indenture, dated as of December 5, 2012. (Exhibit 4.1 to Wisconsin Electric's 12/05/12 Form 8-K.)


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Certain agreements and instruments with respect to unregistered long-term debt not exceeding 10 percent of the total assets of the Registrant and its subsidiary 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*
Wisconsin Energy Corporation Supplemental Pension Plan, effective as of January 1, 2005. (Exhibit 10.9 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 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 (n/k/a Wisconsin Gas LLC). (Exhibit 10.32 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/00 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)








 
 
 
 
 
 
10.3*
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).)


 
 
 
 
 
 
10.4*
Executive Deferred Compensation Plan of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, as amended and restated as of July 23, 2004 (including amendments approved effective as of November 2, 2005) (the "Legacy EDCP") (Exhibit 10.2 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 09/30/05 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note


 
 
 
 
 
 
10.5*
First Amendment to the Legacy EDCP, effective as of January 1, 2005. (Exhibit 10.12 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.


 
 
 
 
 
 
10.6*
Wisconsin Energy Corporation Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, amended and restated effective as of September 8, 2009. (Exhibit 10.9 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/11 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.


 
 
 
 
 
 
10.7*
Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan of Wisconsin Energy Corporation, as amended and restated as of May 1, 2004 (the "Legacy DDCP"). (Exhibit 10.3 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 06/30/04 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.


 
 
 
 
 
 
10.8*
First Amendment to the Legacy DDCP, effective as of January 1, 2005. (Exhibit 10.15 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.



 
E-2
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

Number
 
Exhibit
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.9*
Wisconsin Energy Corporation Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan, effective as of January 1, 2005. (Exhibit 10.16 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 Form 10-K (File No.001-09057).)** See Note.


 
 
 
 
 
 
10.10*
Wisconsin Energy Corporation Death Benefit Only Plan, as amended and restated as of July 22, 2010. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 09/30/10 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.


 
 
 
 
 
 
10.11*
Wisconsin Energy Corporation Short-Term Performance Plan, as amended and restated effective as of January 1, 2010. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/03/09 Form 8-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.


 
 
 
 
 
 
10.12*
Wisconsin Energy Corporation Amended and Restated Executive Severance Policy, effective as of January 1, 2008. (Exhibit 10.18 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.


 
 
 
 
 
 
10.13*
Restated Non-Qualified Trust Agreement by and between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and The Northern Trust Company dated February 11, 2004, 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 10.16 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/07 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** 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 and Non-Compete Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Gale E. Klappa, dated as of December 29, 2008. (Exhibit 10.25 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.16*
Amended and Restated Senior Officer Employment and Non-Compete Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Allen L. Leverett, dated as of December 30, 2008. (Exhibit 10.26 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.17*
Amended and Restated Senior Officer Employment and Non-Compete Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Frederick D. Kuester, dated as of December 30, 2008. (Exhibit 10.27 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.18*
Consulting Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Frederick D. Kuester, dated as of January 7, 2013. (Exhibit 10.18 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/12 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)**See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.19*
Terms of Employment for J. Patrick Keyes. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 09/30/2012 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.20*
Letter Agreement by and between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and J. Patrick Keyes, dated as of December 20, 2010. (Exhibit 10.20 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/12 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
E-3
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

Number
 
Exhibit
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.21*
Amendment to the Letter Agreement by and between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and J. Patrick Keyes, dated as of August 15, 2011. (Exhibit 10.21 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/12 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.22*
Terms of Employment for Susan H. Martin. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 03/31/12 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)**See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.23*
Letter Agreement by and between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and James C. Fleming, dated as of November 23, 2005, which became effective January 3, 2006. (Exhibit 10.31 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/05 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.24*
Amendment to the Letter Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and James C. Fleming, dated December 23, 2008. (Exhibit 10.29 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.25*
Amended and Restated Senior Officer, Change in Control, Severance and Non-Compete Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Kristine A. Rappé, dated as of December 30, 2008. (Exhibit 10.30 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.26*
Separation Agreement and General Release between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Kristine A. Rappé, effective December 28, 2012. (Exhibit 10.26 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/12 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)**See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.27*
Supplemental Pension Benefit agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Stephen Dickson, effective May 23, 2001. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 06/30/01 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.28*
Amendment to the Supplemental Pension Benefit Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Stephen P. Dickson, dated December 29, 2008. (Exhibit 10.32 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.29*
Amended and Restated Non-Compete and Special Severance Tax Protection Agreement between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Stephen P. Dickson, effective as of January 1, 2008. (Exhibit 10.33 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/08 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.30*
Letter Agreement by and between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Robert Garvin, dated January 31, 2011. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 03/31/11 Form 10-Q
(File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.31*
Letter Agreement by between Wisconsin Energy Corporation and Joseph Kevin Fletcher, dated as of August 17, 2011. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 09/30/11 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.32*
2001 Revised forms of award agreements under 1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan for restricted stock awards, incentive stock option awards and non-qualified stock option awards. (Exhibit 10.3 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 03/31/01 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 

 
E-4
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

Number
 
Exhibit
 
 
 
 
 
10.33*
1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan, amended and restated effective as of May 5, 2011, as approved by Wisconsin Energy Corporation's stockholders at its 2011 annual meeting of stockholders. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 06/30/11 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.34*
2005 Terms and Conditions Governing Non-Qualified Stock Option Award under 1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/28/04 Form 8-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.35*
Terms and Conditions Governing Non-Qualified Stock Option Award under the 1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 09/30/07 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.36*
Terms and Conditions Governing Restricted Stock Awards under the 1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan, approved December 3, 2009. (Exhibit 10.3 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/03/09 Form 8-K (File No. 001-09057).) ** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.37*
Terms and Conditions Governing Restricted Stock Awards under the 1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan, approved December 1, 2010. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/01/10 Form 8-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.38*
Wisconsin Energy Corporation Terms and Conditions Governing Director Restricted Stock Award under the 1993 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan, amended and restated effective May 5, 2011. (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 01/19/12 Form 8-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.39*
Wisconsin Energy Corporation Performance Unit Plan, amended and restated effective as of January 1, 2010. (Exhibit 10.2 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/03/09 Form 8-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.40*
Form of Award of Performance Units under the Wisconsin Energy Corporation Performance Unit Plan. (Exhibit 10.2 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/06/04 Form 8-K (File No. 001-09057).)** See Note.

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.41*
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 06/30/03 Form 10-Q.)

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.42*
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 06/30/03 Form 10-Q.)

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.43*
Elm Road I Facility Lease Agreement between Elm Road Generating Station Supercritical, LLC, as Lessor, and Wisconsin Electric Power Company, as Lessee, dated as of November 9, 2004. (Exhibit 10.56 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/04 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.44*
Elm Road II Facility Lease Agreement between Elm Road Generating Station Supercritical, LLC, as Lessor, and Wisconsin Electric Power Company, as Lessee, dated as of November 9, 2004. (Exhibit 10.57 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/04 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)

 
 
 
 

 
E-5
Wisconsin Electric Power Company

 
2012 Form 10-K

Number
 
Exhibit
 
 
 
 
 
10.45*
Point Beach Nuclear Plant Power Purchase Agreement between FPL Energy Point Beach, LLC and Wisconsin Electric Power Company, dated as of December 19, 2006 (the "PPA"). (Exhibit 10.1 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 03/31/08 Form 10-Q (File No. 001-09057).)

 
 
 
 
 
 
10.46*
Letter Agreement between Wisconsin Electric Power Company and FPL Energy Point Beach, LLC, dated October 31, 2007, which amends the PPA. (Exhibit 10.45 to Wisconsin Energy Corporation's 12/31/07 Form 10-K (File No. 001-09057).)

 
 
 
 
 
 
Note:  Two asterisks (**) identify management contracts and executive compensation plans or arrangements required to be filed as exhibits pursuant to Item 15(b) of Form 10-K.
 
 
 
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, Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
 
 
 
 
31

 
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications
 
 
 
 
 
 
31.1
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.
 
 
 
 
 
 
32.2
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
 
 
101

 
Interactive Data File
 
 
 
 
 

 
E-6
Wisconsin Electric Power Company