UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.  20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
xQUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 31,June 30, 2018
or
¨TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission File Number: 001-03140
Northern States Power Company
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Wisconsin 39-0508315
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
   
1414 West Hamilton Avenue  
Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(715) 737-2625
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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.  x Yes  ¨ 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 and 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).  x Yes  ¨ No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ¨
 
Accelerated filer ¨
Non-accelerated filer x
 
Smaller reporting company ¨
(Do not check if smaller reporting company) 
Emerging growth company ¨
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). ¨ Yes  x No

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
Class Outstanding at AprilJuly 27, 2018
Common Stock, $100 par value 933,000 shares
Northern States Power Company (a Wisconsin corporation) meets the conditions set forth in General Instruction H (1)(a) and (b) of Form 10-Q and is therefore filing this Form 10-Q with the reduced disclosure format specified in General Instruction H (2) to such Form 10-Q.
     



TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION 
   
Item l    
Item 2   
Item 4   
   
PART II — OTHER INFORMATION 
   
Item 1    
Item 1A
Item 6    
   
Certifications Pursuant to Section 3021
Certifications Pursuant to Section 9061
Statement Pursuant to Private Litigation1

This Form 10-Q is filed by Northern States Power Company, a Wisconsin corporation (NSP-Wisconsin).  NSP-Wisconsin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Xcel Energy Inc.  Xcel Energy Inc. wholly owns the following subsidiaries: Northern States Power Company, a Minnesota corporation (NSP-Minnesota); Southwestern Public Service Company, a New Mexico corporation (SPS); Public Service Company of Colorado, a Colorado corporation (PSCo); and NSP-Wisconsin.  NSP-Minnesota, NSP-Wisconsin, PSCo and SPS are also referred to collectively as utility subsidiaries.  The electric production and transmission system of NSP-Minnesota and NSP-Wisconsin, which is operated on an integrated basis and is managed by NSP-Minnesota, is referred to collectively as the NSP System. Additional information on Xcel Energy Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, Xcel Energy) is available on various filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).




Table of Contents


PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1 — FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NSP-WISCONSIN AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(amounts in thousands)
Three Months Ended March 31Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30
2018 20172018 2017 2018 2017
Operating revenues          
Electric$216,366
 $216,309
$209,502
 $210,742
 $425,868
 $427,051
Natural gas56,500
 48,347
21,981
 19,027
 78,481
 67,374
Other278
 275
271
 257
 549
 532
Total operating revenues273,144
 264,931
231,754
 230,026
 504,898
 494,957
          
Operating expenses 
  
 
  
  
  
Electric fuel and purchased power, non-affiliates2,898
 2,873
3,562
 3,583
 6,460
 6,456
Purchased power, affiliates101,311
 106,458
101,629
 101,793
 202,940
 208,251
Cost of natural gas sold and transported28,723
 25,987
8,507
 8,563
 37,230
 34,550
Operating and maintenance expenses50,344
 49,184
48,934
 48,532
 99,278
 97,716
Conservation expenses2,978
 3,054
3,144
 3,177
 6,122
 6,231
Depreciation and amortization30,587
 27,049
31,449
 27,628
 62,036
 54,677
Taxes (other than income taxes)7,313
 6,873
7,053
 7,005
 14,366
 13,878
Total operating expenses224,154
 221,478
204,278
 200,281
 428,432
 421,759
          
Operating income48,990
 43,453
27,476
 29,745
 76,466
 73,198
          
Other (expense), net(359) (432)
Other expense, net(509) (595) (869) (1,027)
Allowance for funds used during construction — equity1,855
 1,287
2,246
 1,751
 4,101
 3,038
          
Interest charges and financing costs 
  
 
  
  
  
Interest charges — includes other financing costs of $478 and $456, respectively9,595
 8,682
Interest charges — includes other financing costs of $485 and $461, $963, and $917 respectively9,763
 8,656
 19,358
 17,338
Allowance for funds used during construction — debt(836) (550)(1,009) (749) (1,845) (1,299)
Total interest charges and financing costs8,759
 8,132
8,754
 7,907
 17,513
 16,039
          
Income before income taxes41,727
 36,176
20,459
 22,994
 62,185
 59,170
Income taxes10,310
 13,757
5,270
 8,753
 15,580
 22,510
Net income$31,417
 $22,419
$15,189
 $14,241
 $46,605
 $36,660

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


3

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NSP-WISCONSIN AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(amounts in thousands)
Three Months Ended March 31Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30
2018 20172018 2017 2018 2017
Net income$31,417
 $22,419
$15,189
 $14,241
 $46,605
 $36,660
Other comprehensive income 
  
 
  
    
Derivative instruments: 
  
 
  
    
Reclassification of losses to net income, net of tax of $8 and $12, respectively23
 19
Reclassification of losses to net income, net of tax of $9, $12, $17 and $24, respectively23
 19
 46
 38
Other comprehensive income23
 19
23
 19
 46
 38
Comprehensive income$31,440
 $22,438
$15,212
 $14,260
 $46,651
 $36,698

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


4

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NSP-WISCONSIN AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
(amounts in thousands)
Three Months Ended March 31Six Months Ended June 30
2018 20172018 2017
Operating activities      
Net income$31,417
 $22,419
$46,605
 $36,660
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities: 
  
 
  
Depreciation and amortization30,987
 27,425
62,840
 55,434
Deferred income taxes1,843
 11,348
2,426
 22,588
Amortization of investment tax credits(131) (131)(261) (262)
Allowance for equity funds used during construction(1,855) (1,287)(4,101) (3,038)
Net derivative losses154
 166
166
 115
Other511
 
Other, net506
 (1,505)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: 
  
 
  
Accounts receivable(9,504) (10,867)2,571
 (295)
Accrued unbilled revenues12,026
 12,986
14,811
 10,846
Inventories6,103
 4,806
3,959
 2,669
Other current assets5,854
 4,305
(129) (58)
Accounts payable(15,873) 19,809
(8,236) 28,882
Net regulatory assets and liabilities10,518
 656
14,584
 (3,112)
Other current liabilities(1,837) (9,158)(331) (9,191)
Pension and other employee benefit obligations(9,200) (8,860)(8,969) (8,735)
Change in other noncurrent assets157
 (294)179
 (359)
Change in other noncurrent liabilities(474) (800)365
 (2,696)
Net cash provided by operating activities60,696
 72,523
126,985
 127,943
      
Investing activities 
  
 
  
Utility capital/construction expenditures(58,488) (47,999)(121,198) (90,735)
Allowance for equity funds used during construction1,855
 1,287
4,101
 3,038
Other, net(197) (159)(104) (33)
Net cash used in investing activities(56,830) (46,871)(117,201) (87,730)
      
Financing activities 
  
 
  
Proceeds from (repayments of) short-term borrowings, net11,000
 (27,000)19,000
 (14,000)
Repayments of long-term debt(6) (13)(10) (27)
Capital contributions from parent3,326
 12,282
3,326
 12,282
Dividends paid to parent(15,481) (10,729)(31,522) (38,800)
Other, net(331) (70)(413) (70)
Net cash used in financing activities(1,492) (25,530)(9,619) (40,615)
      
Net change in cash and cash equivalents2,374
 122
165
 (402)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period1,403
 1,546
1,403
 1,546
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$3,777
 $1,668
$1,568
 $1,144
      
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: 
  
 
  
Cash paid for interest (net of amounts capitalized)$(5,751) $(6,020)$(16,494) $(15,062)
Cash paid for income taxes, net(7,038) (11,489)(12,495) (9,699)
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing transactions: 
  
 
  
Property, plant and equipment additions in accounts payable$21,757
 $15,150
$18,785
 $21,867

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

5

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NSP-WISCONSIN AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
(amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)
March 31, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017June 30, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017
Assets      
Current assets      
Cash and cash equivalents$3,777
 $1,403
$1,568
 $1,403
Accounts receivable, net69,378
 63,200
60,880
 63,200
Accrued unbilled revenues47,982
 60,008
45,197
 60,008
Other receivables15,256
 15,144
15,339
 15,144
Inventories11,655
 17,758
13,798
 17,758
Regulatory assets22,922
 23,113
22,933
 23,113
Prepaid taxes17,768
 23,606
24,670
 23,606
Prepayments and other3,262
 3,450
2,865
 3,450
Total current assets192,000
 207,682
187,250
 207,682
      
Property, plant and equipment, net2,116,095
 2,088,728
2,150,296
 2,088,728
      
Other assets 
  
 
  
Regulatory assets281,875
 282,217
279,753
 282,217
Other investments3,089
 2,892
3,001
 2,892
Other147
 201
81
 201
Total other assets285,111
 285,310
282,835
 285,310
Total assets$2,593,206
 $2,581,720
$2,620,381
 $2,581,720
      
Liabilities and Equity 
  
 
  
Current liabilities 
  
 
  
Current portion of long-term debt$151,074
 $151,080
$151,067
 $151,080
Short-term debt22,000
 11,000
30,000
 11,000
Notes payable to affiliates500
 500
500
 500
Accounts payable40,301
 58,365
44,930
 58,365
Accounts payable to affiliates25,823
 29,628
25,859
 29,628
Dividends payable to parent16,042
 15,481
16,463
 15,481
Regulatory liabilities25,032
 20,712
41,243
 20,712
Environmental liabilities12,386
 10,469
10,960
 10,469
Accrued interest10,682
 8,025
8,226
 8,025
Other29,239
 34,474
32,955
 34,474
Total current liabilities333,079
 339,734
362,203
 339,734
      
Deferred credits and other liabilities 
  
 
  
Deferred income taxes258,599
 256,687
260,506
 256,687
Deferred investment tax credits7,383
 7,514
7,252
 7,514
Regulatory liabilities396,304
 386,807
391,151
 386,807
Environmental liabilities20,378
 19,190
18,258
 19,190
Customer advances16,448
 16,325
17,553
 16,325
Pension and employee benefit obligations40,668
 50,027
40,899
 50,027
Other18,322
 18,747
18,085
 18,747
Total deferred credits and other liabilities758,102
 755,297
753,704
 755,297
      
Commitments and contingencies

 



 

Capitalization 
  
 
  
Long-term debt610,038
 610,100
610,161
 610,100
Common stock — 1,000,000 shares authorized of $100 par value; 933,000 shares
outstanding at March 31, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017, respectively
93,300
 93,300
Common stock — 1,000,000 shares authorized of $100 par value; 933,000 shares
outstanding at June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017, respectively
93,300
 93,300
Additional paid in capital449,350
 449,350
452,929
 449,350
Retained earnings349,383
 334,008
348,107
 334,008
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(46) (69)(23) (69)
Total common stockholder’s equity891,987
 876,589
894,313
 876,589
Total liabilities and equity$2,593,206
 $2,581,720
$2,620,381
 $2,581,720

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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NSP-WISCONSIN AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (UNAUDITED)

In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments necessary to present fairly, in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP), the financial position of NSP-Wisconsin and its subsidiaries as of March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017; the results of its operations, including the components of net income and comprehensive income, for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2018 and 2017; and its cash flows for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2018 and 2017. All adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature, except as otherwise disclosed. Management has also evaluated the impact of events occurring after March 31,June 30, 2018 up to the date of issuance of these consolidated financial statements. These statements contain all necessary adjustments and disclosures resulting from that evaluation. The Dec. 31, 2017 balance sheet information has been derived from the audited 2017 consolidated financial statements included in the NSP-Wisconsin Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017.2017, as amended by the NSP-Wisconsin Amendment No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on July 27, 2018. These notes to the consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC for Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Certain information and note disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP on an annual basis have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, included in the NSP-Wisconsin Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017, filed with the SEC on Feb. 26, 2018, as amended by the NSP-Wisconsin Amendment No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on July 27, 2018. Due to the seasonality of NSP-Wisconsin’s electric and natural gas sales, interim results are not necessarily an appropriate base from which to project annual results.

1.Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The significant accounting policies set forth in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements in the NSP-Wisconsin Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017, as amended by the NSP-Wisconsin Amendment No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on July 27, 2018, appropriately represent, in all material respects, the current status of accounting policies and are incorporated herein by reference.

2.Accounting Pronouncements

Recently Issued

Leases — In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Leases, Topic 842 (Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2016-02), which for lessees requires balance sheet recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for most leases. This guidance will be effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after Dec. 15, 2018. NSP-Wisconsin has not yet fully determined the impacts of implementation. However, adoption is expected to occur on Jan. 1, 2019 utilizing the practical expedients provided by the standard and proposed in Targeted Improvements, Topic 842 (Proposed ASU 2018-200). As such, agreements entered into prior toOn Jan. 1, 2019 that are currentlyagreements considered leases are expected to be recognized onfor the consolidated balance sheet, including contracts for use of office space, equipment and natural gas storage assets, as well as certain purchased power agreements (PPAs) for natural gas-fueledfossil-fueled generating facilities. NSP-Wisconsin expects that similar agreements entered into after Dec. 31, 2018 will generally qualify as leases underfacilities are expected to be recognized on the new standard.consolidated balance sheet.

Recently Adopted

Revenue Recognition In May 2014, the FASB issued Revenue from Contracts with Customers, Topic 606 (ASU No. 2014-09), which provides a new framework for the recognition of revenue. NSP-Wisconsin implemented the guidance on a modified retrospective basis on Jan. 1, 2018. Results for reporting periods beginning after Dec. 31, 2017 are presented in accordance with Topic 606, while prior period results have not been adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with prior accounting guidance. Other than increased disclosures regarding revenues related to contracts with customers, the implementation did not have a significant impact on NSP-Wisconsin’s consolidated financial statements. For related disclosures, see Note 13.13 to the consolidated financial statements.

Classification and Measurement of Financial Instruments — In January 2016, the FASB issued Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, Subtopic 825-10 (ASU No. 2016-01), which eliminated the available-for-sale classification for marketable equity securities and also replaced the cost method of accounting for non-marketable equity securities with a model for recognizing impairments and observable price changes. Under the new standard, other than when the consolidation or equity method of accounting is utilized, changes in the fair value of equity securities are recognized in earnings. NSP-Wisconsin implemented the guidance on Jan. 1, 2018 and the implementation did not have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

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Presentation of Net Periodic Benefit Cost — In March 2017, the FASB issued Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost, Topic 715 (ASU No. 2017-07), which establishes that only the service cost element of pension cost may be presented as a component of operating income in the income statement. Also under the guidance, only the service cost component of pension cost is eligible for capitalization. As a result of the application of accounting principles for rate regulated entities, a similar amount of pension cost, including non-service components, will be recognized consistent with the historical ratemaking treatment, and the impacts of adoption will be limited to changes in classification of non-service costs in the consolidated statement of income. NSP-Wisconsin implemented the new guidance on Jan. 1, 2018, and as a result, $0.7$1.4 million of pension costs were retrospectively reclassified from operating and maintenance expenses to other income, net on the consolidated income statement for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2017. Under a practical expedient permitted by the standard, NSP-Wisconsin used benefit cost amounts disclosed for prior periods as the basis for retrospective application.

3.Selected Balance Sheet Data
(Thousands of Dollars) March 31, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017 June 30, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017
Accounts receivable, net (a)
        
Accounts receivable $74,732
 $68,073
 $65,606
 $68,073
Less allowance for bad debts (5,354) (4,873) (4,726) (4,873)
 $69,378
 $63,200
 $60,880
 $63,200

(a) 
Accounts receivable, net includes an immaterial amount$3.8 million and $3.4 million due from affiliates as of March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017, respectively.

(Thousands of Dollars) March 31, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017 June 30, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017
Inventories        
Materials and supplies $7,015
 $6,916
 $6,879
 $6,916
Fuel 3,842
 3,866
 3,780
 3,866
Natural gas 798
 6,976
 3,139
 6,976
 $11,655
 $17,758
 $13,798
 $17,758
(Thousands of Dollars) March 31, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017 June 30, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017
Property, plant and equipment, net        
Electric plant $2,619,336
 $2,602,671
 $2,632,764
 $2,602,671
Natural gas plant 330,055
 326,723
 334,329
 326,723
Common and other property 182,685
 181,105
 187,120
 181,105
Construction work in progress 178,000
 148,770
 205,502
 148,770
Total property, plant and equipment 3,310,076
 3,259,269
 3,359,715
 3,259,269
Less accumulated depreciation (1,193,981) (1,170,541) (1,209,419) (1,170,541)
 $2,116,095
 $2,088,728
 $2,150,296
 $2,088,728

4.Income Taxes

Except to the extent noted below, Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements included in NSP-Wisconsin’sthe NSP-Wisconsin Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017, as amended by the NSP-Wisconsin Amendment No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on July 27, 2018, appropriately represents, in all material respects, the current status of other income tax matters, and are incorporated herein by reference.


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Total income tax expense from operations differs from the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate to income before income tax expense. The following reconciles such differences:
Three Months ended March 31 Six Months Ended June 30
 2018 2017 2018 2017
Federal statutory rate 21.0 % 35.0 % 21.0 % 35.0 %
State tax, net of federal tax effect 6.2
 5.1
 6.2
 5.1
Increases (decreases) in tax from:     
 
Regulatory differences - ARAM (a)
Regulatory differences - ARAM (a)
(4.7) (0.2) (4.7) (0.1)
Regulatory differences - ARAM deferral (b)
Regulatory differences - ARAM deferral (b)
4.6
 
 4.6
 
Regulatory differences - other utility plant itemsRegulatory differences - other utility plant items(1.7) (1.3) (1.6) (1.2)
Other tax credits, net of federal income tax expense(0.8) (0.7)
Tax credits, net of federal income tax expense (0.9) (0.7)
Other, netOther, net0.1
 0.1
 0.5
 (0.1)
Effective income tax rate 24.7 % 38.0 % 25.1 % 38.0 %

(a)  
The average rate assumption method (ARAM); a method to flow back excess deferred taxes to customers.
(b)
As we receive further clarity or direction from our regulatory commissions regarding the flow back to customersreturn of excess deferred taxes (to our customers resulting from the TCJA, the ARAM deferral may decrease during the year, which would result in a reduction to tax expense with a correlating reduction to revenue.Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
(TCJA)), the ARAM deferral may decrease during the year, which would result in a reduction to tax expense with a corresponding reduction to revenue.

Federal Audits NSP-Wisconsin is a member of the Xcel Energy affiliated group that files a consolidated federal income tax return. The statute of limitations applicable to Xcel Energy’s federal income tax returns expire as follows:

Tax Year(s) Expiration
2009 - 2011 December 2018
2012 - 20132014 October 2018
2014September 20182019
2015 September 2019
2016 September 2020


In 2012, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) commenced an examination of tax years 2010 and 2011, including the 2009 carryback claim. The IRS proposed an adjustment to the federal tax loss carryback claims and in 2015 the IRS forwarded the issue to the Office of Appeals (“Appeals”)(Appeals). In 2017 Xcel Energy and Appeals reached an agreement and the benefit related to the agreed upon portions was recognized. NSP-Wisconsin did not accrue any income tax benefit related to this adjustment. AsIn the second quarter of March 31, 2018, the case has been forwarded to the Joint Committee on Taxation.Taxation completed its review and took no exception to the agreement. As a result, the remaining unrecognized tax benefit was released and recorded as a payable to the IRS.

In the third quarter of 2015, the IRS commenced an examination of tax years 2012 and 2013. In the third quarter of 2017, the IRS concluded the audit of tax years 2012 and 2013 and proposed an adjustment that would impact Xcel Energy’s net operating loss (NOL) and effective tax rate (ETR). After evaluating the proposed adjustment Xcel Energy filed a protest with the IRS. Xcel Energy anticipatesAs of June 30, 2018, the issue will becase has been forwarded to Appeals. As of March 31, 2018,Appeals and Xcel Energy has recognized its best estimate of income tax expense that will result from a final resolution of this issue; however, the outcome and timing of a resolution is uncertain.unknown.

State Audits NSP-Wisconsin is a member of the Xcel Energy affiliated group that files consolidated state income tax returns. As of March 31,June 30, 2018, NSP-Wisconsin’s earliest open tax year that is subject to examination by state taxing authorities under applicable statutes of limitations is 2012. In 2016, the state of Wisconsin began an audit of years 2012 and 2013. As of March 31,June 30, 2018, Wisconsin had notNSP-Wisconsin is evaluating the state’s proposed anyaudit adjustments. No material adjustments, and thereaccruals are expected. There were no other state income tax audits in progress.

Unrecognized Benefits The unrecognized tax benefit balance includes permanent tax positions, which if recognized would affect the annual ETR. In addition, the unrecognized tax benefit balance includes temporary tax positions for which the ultimate deductibility is highly certain but for which there is uncertainty about the timing of such deductibility. A change in the period of deductibility would not affect the ETR but would accelerate the payment of cash to the taxing authority to an earlier period.



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A reconciliation of the amount of unrecognized tax benefit is as follows:
(Millions of Dollars) March 31, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017 June 30, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017
Unrecognized tax benefit — Permanent tax positions $1.5
 $1.4
 $1.8
 $1.4
Unrecognized tax benefit — Temporary tax positions 1.0
 1.0
 0.9
 1.0
Total unrecognized tax benefit $2.5
 $2.4
 $2.7
 $2.4

The unrecognized tax benefit amounts were reduced by the tax benefits associated with NOL and tax credit carryforwards. The amounts of tax benefits associated with NOL and tax credit carryforwards are as follows:
(Millions of Dollars) March 31, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017 June 30, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017
NOL and tax credit carryforwards $(1.9) $(1.9) $(2.1) $(1.9)

It is reasonably possible that NSP-Wisconsin’s amount of unrecognized tax benefits could significantly change in the next 12 months as the IRS Appeals progresses and audit resumes, the Wisconsin audit progresses, and other state audits resume. As the IRS Appeals and Wisconsin auditsaudit progress and the IRS audit resumes, it is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefit could decrease up to approximately $1$2 million.

The payable for interest related to unrecognized tax benefits is partially offset by the interest benefit associated with NOL and tax credit carryforwards. The payables for interest related to unrecognized tax benefits at March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017 were not material. No amounts were accrued for penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as of March 31,June 30, 2018 or Dec. 31, 2017.

5.Rate Matters

Except to the extent noted below, the circumstances set forth in Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements included in NSP-Wisconsin’sthe NSP-Wisconsin Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017, as amended by the NSP-Wisconsin Amendment No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on July 27, 2018, and in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements to NSP-Wisconsin's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2018, appropriately represent, in all material respects, the current status of other rate matters, and are incorporated herein by reference.

Tax Reform Regulatory Proceedings

The specific impacts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) on customer rates are subject to regulatory approval. Each of the states in NSP-Wisconsin’s service areas have opened dockets to address the impacts of the TCJA. NSP-Wisconsin has made filings and is working with various stakeholders in its jurisdictions to determine the appropriate treatment for the TCJA.

In JanuaryMay 2018, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) issued anits final order requiring public utilities to apply deferred accounting for the impactswhich requires customer refunds of the TCJA. In March 2018, NSP-Wisconsin filed recommended plans for Wisconsin, which for electric operations included an option for an immediate bill credit for a portion of the tax savings in 2018$27 million and 2019, while deferring the remainderdefers approximately $5 million until NSP-Wisconsin’s 2020 electric rate case. For the natural gas operations, NSP-Wisconsin proposed using the TCJA to reduce the unamortized regulatory asset for the Ashland/Northern States Power Lakefront Superfund Site (the Site) clean-up. A PSCW decision on the regulatory treatment of the TCJA is anticipated later in 2018.

For Michigan, NSP-Wisconsin has reached settlement in its electricnext rate case which reflects the impacts of the TCJA, and has proposed customer refunds for natural gas operations.proceeding.

Federal Energy RegulatoryNSP-Wisconsin MichiganIn May 2018, the Michigan Public Service Commission (FERC) Formula Rates — The FERC has not yet issued guidance on how or when(MPSC) approved electric utilities should reflect the impactsand natural gas tax reform settlement agreements. Most of the electric TCJA benefits were included in FERC jurisdictional wholesale rates. The FERC issued a Notice of Inquiry (NOI)NSP-Wisconsin’s recently approved Michigan 2018 electric base rate case. Natural gas TCJA benefits are to be returned to customers commencing in March 2018 seeking comments on how to reflect TCJA impacts in wholesale rates, in particular changes to accumulated deferred income taxes and bonus depreciation. Comments for the NOI are due in MayJuly 2018. However, FERC-approved formula rates for wholesale customers are generally adjusted on an annual basis for certain changes in rate base and actual operating expenses, including income taxes. As a result, these revenues would be subject to an automatic reduction for the effect of the TCJA corporate tax rate change through the annual true-up process, absent specific FERC action.

NSP-Wisconsin was a party to a February 2018 FERC filing by certain transmission owner (TO) members of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, Inc. (MISO) proposing to commence early reductions to transmission formula rates in 2018 for corporate tax rate impacts of the TCJA. In March 2018, the FERC issued orders granting MISO TO waiver requests so that 2018 rates will reflect the lower federal corporate tax rate.

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Recently Concluded Regulatory Proceeding — Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC)MPSC

Michigan 2018 Electric Gas Rate Case In November 2017, NSP-Wisconsin filed a request with the MPSC to increase rates for electric service by $1 million, or 7.1 percent. The filing was based on a 2018 forecast test year, a 10.1 percent return on equity (ROE), an equity ratio of 52.5 percent and a forecasted average rate base of approximately $43 million. The primary driver of the requested increase is continuing investment in transmission and distribution infrastructure. The filing also included a request for step increases in 2019 and 2020 related to electric distribution system investments in those years. In addition to the MPSC staff, intervenors in the case include the Michigan Attorney General and the Association of Businesses Advocating Tariff Equity, a voluntary association of large industrial businesses.

In March 2018, NSP-Wisconsin reached a settlement in principle with the parties authorizing a 2018 rate increase of approximately $300 thousand, or approximately 2.0 percent, which reflects a portion of the TCJA benefits. The settlement was based on a 9.8 percent ROE and a 52.5 percent equity ratio. In April 2018, the MPSC issued an order approving the settlement agreement, and new rates are expected to bewere implemented on May 1, 2018.


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Pending Regulatory Proceeding — FERCFederal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)

MISO ROEMidcontinent Independent System Operator, Inc. (MISO) Return on Equity (ROE) Complaints — In November 2013, a group of customers filed a complaint at the FERC against MISO TOs,transmission owners (TOs), including NSP-Minnesota and NSP-Wisconsin. The complaint argued for a reduction in the ROE in transmission formula rates in the MISO region from 12.38 percent to 9.15 percent, and the removal of ROE adders (including those for Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) membership), effective Nov. 12, 2013.

In September 2016, the FERC approved an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) recommendation that MISO TOs be granted a 10.32 percent base ROE using the methodology adopted by FERC in June 2014 (Opinion 531). This ROE would be applicable for the 15-month refund period from Nov. 12, 2013 to Feb. 11, 2015, and prospectively from the date of the FERC order. The total prospective ROE would be 10.82 percent, including a 50 basis point adder for RTO membership. Various parties requested rehearing of the September 2016 order. The requests are pending FERC action.

In February 2015, a second complaint seeking to reduce the MISO ROE from 12.38 percent to 8.67 percent prior to any RTO adder was filed, resulting in a second period of potential refunds from Feb. 12, 2015 to May 11, 2016. In June 2016, an ALJ recommended a base ROE of 9.7 percent, applying the FERC Opinion 531 methodology. Various parties filed exceptions to the ALJ recommendation, and FERC action is pending. In April 2017, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit (D.C. Circuit) vacated and remanded Opinion 531. It is unclear how the D.C. Circuit’s opinion to vacate and remand Opinion 531 will affect the September 2016 FERC order or the timing and outcome of the second ROE complaint.

NSP-Minnesota has recognized a current refund liability consistent with the best estimate of the final ROE for the Feb. 12, 2015 to May 11, 2016 complaint period.ROE.

6.Commitments and Contingencies

Except to the extent noted below and in Note 5 above,to the financial statements, the circumstances set forth in Notes 10 and 11 to the consolidated financial statements included in NSP-Wisconsin’sthe NSP-Wisconsin Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017, as amended by the NSP-Wisconsin Amendment No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on July 27, 2018, and in Notes 5 and 6 to NSP-Wisconsin's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2018, appropriately represent, in all material respects, the current status of commitments and contingent liabilities and are incorporated herein by reference. The following include commitments, contingencies and unresolved contingencies that are material to NSP-Wisconsin’s financial position.

Guarantees

NSP-Wisconsin provides a guarantee for payment of customer loans related to NSP-Wisconsin’s farm rewiring program. NSP-Wisconsin’s exposure under the guarantee is based upon the net liability under the agreement. The guarantee issued by NSP-Wisconsin has a stated maximum amount. The guarantee contains no recourse provisions and requires no collateral. These agreements have expiration dates through 2020.


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The following table presents the guarantee issued and outstanding for NSP-Wisconsin:
(Millions of Dollars) March 31, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017 June 30, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017
Guarantee issued and outstanding $1.0
 $1.0
 $1.0
 $1.0
Current exposure under this guarantee 
 
 
 

Environmental Contingencies

Ashland Manufactured Gas Plant (MGP) Site — NSP-Wisconsin was named a potentially responsible party for contamination at a site in Ashland, Wis. The Ashland/Northern States Power Lakefront Superfund Site (the Site) includes NSP-Wisconsin property, previously operated as a MGP facility (the Upper Bluff), and two other properties: an adjacent city lakeshore park area (Kreher Park) (collectively the Phase I Area); and ana sediment area of Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay adjoining the park.

In January 2017, NSP-Wisconsin agreed to remediate the Phase(Phase II Project Area (the Sediments), under a settlement agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency. The settlement agreements were approved by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin.Area). NSP-Wisconsin initiated a full scale wet dredge remedy of the SedimentsPhase II area in 2017. Under the current plan, NSP-Wisconsin anticipates completion of restorationPhase II activities of the Sediments in 2018 with finalization of Phase I Project Area (which includes the Upper Bluff and Kreher Park areas of the Site) construction andfinal site restoration activities in early 2019 although April weather may challenge that schedule.2019. Groundwater treatment activities at the Site will continue.continue for many years.

The current cost estimate for the remediation of the entire site (both Phase I Project Area and the Sediments) is approximately $172$175 million, of which approximately $139$146 million has been spent. As of March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017, NSP-Wisconsin had recorded a total liability of $33$29 million and $30 million, respectively, for the entire site.


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NSP-Wisconsin has deferred the unrecovered portion of the estimated Site remediation costs as a regulatory asset. The PSCW has authorized NSP-Wisconsin rate recovery for all remediation costs incurred at the Site. In 2012, the PSCW agreed to allow NSP-Wisconsin to pre-collect certain costs, to amortize costs over a ten-year period and to apply a three percent carrying cost to the unamortized regulatory asset. In December 2017, the PSCW approved an NSP-Wisconsin natural gas rate case, which included recovery of additional expenses associated with remediating the Site. The annual recovery of MGP clean-up costs increased from $12 million in 2017 to $18 million in 2018.

Other MGP, Landfill or Disposal Sites — In addition to the site in Ashland Wis.,MGP Site, NSP-Wisconsin is currently involved in investigating and/or remediating an MGP, landfill or other disposal sites.site. NSP-Wisconsin has identified one site where contamination is present and where investigation and/or remediation activities are currently underway. Other parties may have responsibility for some portion of the investigation and/or remediation activities that are underway.activities. NSP-Wisconsin anticipates that these investigation or remediation activities will continue through at least 2018. NSP-Wisconsin had accrued $0.1 million for this site as of March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017. NSP-Wisconsin anticipates that any amounts spent will be fully recovered from customers.

Legal Contingencies

NSP-Wisconsin is involved in various litigation matters that are being defended and handled in the ordinary course of business. The assessment of whether a loss is probable or is a reasonable possibility, and whether the loss or a range of loss is estimable, often involves a series of complex judgments about future events. Management maintains accruals for such losses that are probable of being incurred and subject to reasonable estimation. Management is sometimes unable to estimate an amount or range of a reasonably possible loss in certain situations, including but not limited to when (1) the damages sought are indeterminate, (2) the proceedings are in the early stages, or (3) the matters involve novel or unsettled legal theories. In such cases, there is considerable uncertainty regarding the timing or ultimate resolution of such matters, including a possible eventual loss. For current proceedings not specifically reported herein, management does not anticipate that the ultimate liabilities, if any, arising from such current proceedings would have a material effect on NSP-Wisconsin’s financial statements. Unless otherwise required by GAAP, legal fees are expensed as incurred.


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Employment, Tort and Commercial Litigation

Gas Trading Litigation — e prime, inc. (e prime) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Xcel Energy. e prime was in the business of natural gas trading and marketing but has not engaged in natural gas trading or marketing activities since 2003.  Thirteen lawsuits were commenced against e prime and Xcel Energy (and NSP-Wisconsin, in two instances) between 2003 and 2009 alleging fraud and anticompetitive activities in conspiring to restrain the trade of natural gas and manipulate natural gas prices.

e prime, Xcel Energy Inc. and its other affiliates were sued along with several other gas marketing companies. These cases were all consolidated in the U.S. District Court in Nevada. Six of the cases remain active, which includes a multi-district litigation (MDL) matter consisting of a Colorado class (Breckenridge), a Wisconsin class (Arandell Corp.), a Missouri class, a Kansas class, and two other cases identified as “Sinclair Oil” and “Farmland.” In March 2017, summary judgment was granted by the MDL judge in favor of Xcel Energy and e prime in the Sinclair Oil and Farmland cases. In November 2017, the U.SU.S. District Court in Nevada granted summary judgment against two plaintiffs in the Arandell Corp. case in favor of Xcel Energy and NSP-Wisconsin, leaving only three individual plaintiffs remaining in the litigation. In addition, the plaintiffs’ motions for class certification and remand back to originating courts in these cases were denied in March 2017. Plaintiffs have appealed the summary judgment motions granted in the Farmland and Sinclair Oil cases and the denial of class certification and remand to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit (Ninth Circuit). Oral arguments were heard before the Ninth Circuit in February 2018. In March 2018, the Ninth Circuit reversed and remanded the summary judgment in the Farmland case. The Farmland defendants subsequently filed a request for further review by the Ninth Circuit.Circuit, which was denied. In light of the decision in the Farmland case, the Sinclair plaintiffs have requested the Ninth Circuit to reverse the grant of summary judgment without hearing. Final rulings on all pending motionsOral arguments were presented to the Ninth Circuit in July 2018 regarding this issue and appeals are expected by the enddenial of 2018.class certification and it is uncertain when a decision will be issued. In addition, Xcel Energy, NSP-Wisconsin and e prime have concluded that a loss is remote.


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7.Borrowings and Other Financing Instruments

Commercial Paper — NSP-Wisconsin meets its short-term liquidity requirements primarily through the issuance of commercial paper and borrowings under its credit facility. Commercial paper outstanding for NSP-Wisconsin was as follows:
(Amounts in Millions, Except Interest Rates) Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 Year Ended Dec. 31, 2017 Three Months Ended June 30, 2018 Year Ended Dec. 31, 2017
Borrowing limit $150
 $150
 $150
 $150
Amount outstanding at period end 22
 11
 30
 11
Average amount outstanding 18
 52
 18
 52
Maximum amount outstanding 46
 129
 41
 129
Weighted average interest rate, computed on a daily basis 1.80% 1.23% 2.20% 1.23%
Weighted average interest rate at period end 2.24
 1.73
 2.29
 1.73

Letters of Credit — NSP-Wisconsin uses letters of credit, generally with terms of one year, to provide financial guarantees for certain operating obligations. At March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017, there were no letters of credit outstanding.

Credit Facility — In order to use its commercial paper program to fulfill short-term funding needs, NSP-Wisconsin must have a revolving credit facility in place at least equal to the amount of its commercial paper borrowing limit and cannot issue commercial paper in an aggregate amount exceeding available capacity under this credit facility.  The line of credit provides short-term financing in the form of notes payable to banks, letters of credit and back-up support for commercial paper borrowings.

At March 31,June 30, 2018, NSP-Wisconsin had the following committed credit facility available (in millions of dollars):
Credit Facility (a)
Credit Facility (a)
 
Drawn (b)
 Available
Credit Facility (a)
 
Drawn (b)
 Available
$150
 $22
 $128
150
 $30
 $120

(a) 
This credit facility expires in June 2021.
(b) 
Includes outstanding commercial paper.

All credit facility bank borrowings, outstanding letters of credit and outstanding commercial paper reduce the available capacity under the credit facility. NSP-Wisconsin had no direct advances on the credit facility outstanding at March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017.

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Other Short-Term Borrowings The following table presents the notes payable of Clearwater Investments, Inc., a NSP-Wisconsin subsidiary, to Xcel Energy Inc.:
(Amounts in Millions, Except Interest Rates) March 31, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017 June 30, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017
Notes payable to affiliates $0.5
 $0.5
 $0.5
 $0.5
Weighted average interest rate at period end 2.34% 1.73% 2.53% 1.73%

8.Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities

Fair Value Measurements

The accounting guidance for fair value measurements and disclosures provides a single definition of fair value and requires certain disclosures about assets and liabilities measured at fair value.  A hierarchical framework for disclosing the observability of the inputs utilized in measuring assets and liabilities at fair value is established by this guidance. The three levels in the hierarchy are as follows:

Level 1 — Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reporting date.  The types of assets and liabilities included in Level 1 are highly liquid and actively traded instruments with quoted prices.

Level 2 — Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets, but are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reporting date.  The types of assets and liabilities included in Level 2 are typically either comparable to actively traded securities or contracts or priced with models using highly observable inputs.

Level 3 — Significant inputs to pricing have little or no observability as of the reporting date.  The types of assets and liabilities included in Level 3 are those valued with models requiring significant management judgment or estimation.


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Specific valuation methods include the following:

Cash equivalents — The fair values of cash equivalents are generally based on cost plus accrued interest; money market funds are measured using quoted net asset values.

Interest rate derivatives The fair values of interest rate derivatives are based on broker quotes that utilize current market interest rate forecasts.

Commodity derivatives The methods used to measure the fair value of commodity derivative forwards and options utilize forward prices and volatilities, as well as pricing adjustments for specific delivery locations, and are generally assigned a Level 2 classification.  When contractual settlements extend to periods beyond those readily observable on active exchanges or quoted by brokers, the significance of the use of less observable forecasts of long-term forward prices and volatilities on a valuation is evaluated and may result in Level 3 classification.

Derivative Instruments Fair Value Measurements

NSP-Wisconsin enters into derivative instruments, including forward contracts, futures, swaps and options, for trading purposes and to manage risk in connection with changes in interest rates and utility commodity prices.

Interest Rate Derivatives — NSP-Wisconsin enters into various instruments that effectively fix the interest payments on certain floating rate debt obligations or effectively fix the yield or price on a specified benchmark interest rate for an anticipated debt issuance for a specific period.  These derivative instruments are generally designated as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes.

At March 31,June 30, 2018, accumulated other comprehensive loss related to interest rate derivatives included immaterial net losses expected to be reclassified into earnings during the next 12 months as the related hedged interest rate transactions impact earnings, including forecasted amounts for unsettled hedges, as applicable.

Commodity Derivatives — NSP-Wisconsin may enter into derivative instruments to manage variability of future cash flows from changes in commodity prices in its electric and natural gas operations, as well as for trading purposes. This could include the purchase or sale of natural gas to generate electric energy and natural gas for resale.


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The following table details the gross notional amounts of commodity options at March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017:
(Amounts in Thousands)(a)(b)
March 31, 2018Dec. 31, 2017
Million British thermal units of natural gas
42
(Amounts in Thousands) (a)(b)
 June 30, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017
Million British thermal units of natural gas 58
 42

(a) 
Amounts are not reflective of net positions in the underlying commodities.
(b) 
Notional amounts for options are included on a gross basis, but are weighted for the probability of exercise.

Impact of Derivative Activities on Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss — There were immaterial pre-tax losses related to interest rate derivatives reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into earnings during the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2018 and 2017. There were $0.1 million of net losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into earnings during both the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017.

During the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2018, changes in the fair value of natural gas commodity derivatives resulted in immaterial net losses recognized as regulatory assets and liabilities. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, changes in the fair value of natural gas commodity derivatives resulted in immaterial and $0.1 million of net losses respectively, recognized as regulatory assets and liabilities.liabilities, respectively. The classification as a regulatory asset or liability is based on commission approved regulatory recovery mechanisms.

There were no natural gas commodity derivative settlement gains or losses recognized and $0.2 million of losses recognized for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and were subject to purchased natural gas cost recovery mechanisms, which result in reclassifications of derivative settlement gains and losses out of income to a regulatory asset or liability, as appropriate. There were no gains or losses recognized during the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017.

NSP-Wisconsin had no derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges during the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2018 and 2017. Therefore, no gains or losses from fair value hedges or related hedged transactions were recognized for these periods.


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Consideration of Credit Risk and Concentrations  NSP-Wisconsin continuously monitors the creditworthiness of the counterparties to its interest rate derivatives and commodity derivative contracts prior to settlement, and assesses each counterparty’s ability to perform on the transactions set forth in the contracts. Given this assessment, as well as an assessment of the impact of NSP-Wisconsin’s own credit risk when determining the fair value of derivative liabilities, the impact of credit risk was immaterial to the fair value of unsettled commodity derivatives presented in the consolidated balance sheets.

NSP-Wisconsin employs additional credit risk control mechanisms when appropriate, such as letters of credit, parental guarantees, standardized master netting agreements and termination provisions that allow for offsetting of positive and negative exposures. Credit exposure is monitored and, when necessary, the activity with a specific counterparty is limited until credit enhancement is provided.

Recurring Fair Value Measurements — The following table presents for each of the fair value hierarchy levels, NSP-Wisconsin’s derivative assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
            
 March 31, 2018 June 30, 2018
 Fair Value 
Fair Value
Total
 
Counterparty
Netting (a)
 
Total (b)
 Fair Value 
Fair Value
Total
 
Counterparty
Netting (a)
 
Total (b)
(Thousands of Dollars) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 
Current derivative assets                        
Natural gas commodity $11
 $
 $
 $11
 $
 $11
 $
 $28
 $
 $28
 $
 $28
  Dec. 31, 2017
  Fair Value 
Fair Value
Total
 
Counterparty
Netting (a)
 
Total (b)
(Thousands of Dollars) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3   
Current derivative assets            
Natural gas commodity $
 $14
 $
 $14
 $
 $14

(a) 
NSP-Wisconsin nets derivative instruments and related collateral in its consolidated balance sheet when supported by a legally enforceable master netting agreement, and all derivative instruments and related collateral amounts were subject to master netting agreements at March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017.  The counterparty netting amounts presented exclude settlement receivables and payables and non-derivative amounts that may be subject to the same master netting agreements.
(b) 
Included in prepayments and other current assets balance of $3.3$2.9 million and $3.5 million at March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017, respectively, in the consolidated balance sheets.


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Fair Value of Long-Term Debt

As of March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017, other financial instruments for which the carrying amount did not equal fair value were as follows:
 March 31, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017 June 30, 2018 Dec. 31, 2017
(Thousands of Dollars) Carrying Amount Fair Value Carrying Amount Fair Value Carrying Amount Fair Value Carrying Amount Fair Value
Long-term debt, including current portion $761,112
 $827,506
 $761,180
 $856,106
 $761,228
 $816,474
 $761,180
 $856,106

The fair value of NSP-Wisconsin’s long-term debt is estimated based on recent trades and observable spreads from benchmark interest rates for similar securities. The fair value estimates are based on information available to management as of March 31,June 30, 2018 and Dec. 31, 2017, and given the observability of the inputs to these estimates, the fair values presented for long-term debt have been assigned a Level 2.


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9.Other (Expense),Expense, Net

Other (expense),expense, net consisted of the following:
 Three Months Ended March 31 Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30
(Thousands of Dollars) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017
Interest income $156
 $143
Interest (expense) income $(15) $61
 $141
 $204
Other nonoperating income 6
 155
 42
 75
 48
 230
Other nonoperating expense (3) (4) (7) (7)
Insurance policy expense (47) (49) (94) (98)
Benefits non-service cost (471) (678) (486) (678) (957) (1,356)
Insurance policy expense (47) (49)
Other nonoperating expense (3) (3)
Other (expense), net $(359) $(432)
Other expense, net $(509) $(595) $(869) $(1,027)

10.
Segment Information

Operating results from the regulated electric utility and regulated natural gas utility are each separately and regularly reviewed by NSP-Wisconsin’s chief operating decision maker.  NSP-Wisconsin evaluates performance based on profit or loss generated from the product or service provided.  These segments are managed separately because the revenue streams are dependent upon regulated rate recovery, which is separately determined for each segment.

NSP-Wisconsin has the following reportable segments: regulated electric utility, regulated natural gas utility and all other.

NSP-Wisconsin’s regulated electric utility segment generates, transmits and distributes electricity primarily in portions of Wisconsin and Michigan. 
NSP-Wisconsin’s regulated natural gas utility segment purchases, transports, stores and distributes natural gas primarily in portions of Wisconsin and Michigan.
Revenues from operating segments not included above are below the necessary quantitative thresholds and are therefore included in the all other category.  Those primarily include investments in rental housing projects that qualify for low-income housing tax credits.

Asset and capital expenditure information is not provided for NSP-Wisconsin’s reportable segments because as an integrated electric and natural gas utility, NSP-Wisconsin operates significant assets that are not dedicated to a specific business segment, and reporting assets and capital expenditures by business segment would require arbitrary and potentially misleading allocations which may not necessarily reflect the assets that would be required for the operation of the business segments on a stand-alone basis.

To report income from operations for regulated electric and regulated natural gas utility segments, the majority of costs are directly assigned to each segment.  However, some costs, such as common depreciation, common operating and maintenance (O&M) expenses and interest expense are allocated based on cost causation allocators.  A general allocator is used for certain general and administrative expenses, including office supplies, rent, property insurance and general advertising.

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(Thousands of Dollars) Regulated Electric Regulated Natural Gas All Other Reconciling Eliminations Consolidated Total
Three Months Ended June 30, 2018          
Operating revenues (a)
 $209,502
 $21,981
 $271
 $
 $231,754
Intersegment revenues 106
 127
 
 (233) 
Total revenues $209,608
 $22,108
 $271
 $(233) $231,754
Net income (loss) $15,481
 $(148) $(144) $
 $15,189
(Thousands of Dollars) Regulated Electric Regulated Natural Gas All Other Reconciling Eliminations Consolidated Total
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018          
Operating revenues (a)
 $216,366
 $56,500
 $278
 $
 $273,144
Intersegment revenues 109
 148
 
 (257) 
Total revenues $216,475
 $56,648
 $278
 $(257) $273,144
Net income $20,444
 $10,399
 $574
 $
 $31,417
(Thousands of Dollars) Regulated Electric Regulated Natural Gas All Other Reconciling Eliminations Consolidated Total Regulated Electric Regulated Natural Gas All Other Reconciling Eliminations Consolidated Total
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017          
Three Months Ended June 30, 2017          
Operating revenues (a)
 $216,309
 $48,347
 $275
 $
 $264,931
 $210,742
 $19,027
 $257
 $
 $230,026
Intersegment revenues 96
 114
 
 (210) 
 123
 68
 
 (191) 
Total revenues $216,405
 $48,461
 $275
 $(210) $264,931
 $210,865
 $19,095
 $257
 $(191) $230,026
Net income $15,470
 $6,545
 $404
 $
 $22,419
Net income (loss) $14,516
 $(973) $698
 $
 $14,241
(a) 
Operating revenues include $38 million and $42$43 million of affiliate electric revenue for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

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(Thousands of Dollars) Regulated
Electric
 Regulated
Natural Gas
 All
Other
 Reconciling
Eliminations
 Consolidated
Total
Six Months Ended June 30, 2018          
Operating revenues (a)
 $425,868
 $78,481
 $549
 $
 $504,898
Intersegment revenues 215
 275
 
 (490) 
Total revenues $426,083
 $78,756
 $549
 $(490) $504,898
Net income $35,925
 $10,250
 $430
 $
 $46,605
(Thousands of Dollars) Regulated
Electric
 Regulated
Natural Gas
 All
Other
 Reconciling
Eliminations
 Consolidated
Total
Six Months Ended June 30, 2017    
      
Operating revenues (a)
 $427,051
 $67,374
 $532
 $
 $494,957
Intersegment revenues 219
 182
 
 (401) 
Total revenues $427,270
 $67,556
 $532
 $(401) $494,957
Net income $29,986
 $5,572
 $1,102
 $
 $36,660
(a)
Operating revenues include $76 million and $85 million of affiliate electric revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

11.Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits

Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
        
 Three Months Ended March 31 Three Months Ended June 30
 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017
(Thousands of Dollars) Pension Benefits 
Postretirement Health
Care Benefits
 Pension Benefits 
Postretirement Health
Care Benefits
Service cost $1,195
 $1,154
 $9
 $7
 $1,194
 $1,155
 $9
 $7
Interest cost (a)
 1,360
 1,554
 142
 148
 1,360
 1,555
 142
 148
Expected return on plan assets (a)
 (2,256) (2,295) (16) (8) (2,257) (2,295) (16) (8)
Amortization of prior service cost (credit) (a)
 (8) 35
 (88) (88)
Amortization of prior service (credit) cost (a)
 (6) 34
 (88) (88)
Amortization of net loss (a)
 1,418
 1,462
 139
 109
 1,419
 1,461
 139
 109
Net periodic benefit cost $1,709
 $1,910
 $186
 $168
 1,710
 1,910
 186
 168
Credits not recognized due to the effects of regulation

 $221
 $
 $
 $
Costs not recognized due to the effects of regulation 
 
 
 
Net benefit cost recognized for financial reporting

 $1,930
 $1,910
 $186
 $168
 $1,710
 $1,910
 $186
 $168
  Six Months Ended June 30
  2018
2017
2018
2017
(Thousands of Dollars) Pension Benefits 
Postretirement Health
Care Benefits
Service cost $2,389
 $2,309
 $18
 $14
Interest cost (a)
 2,720
 3,109
 284
 296
Expected return on plan assets (a)
 (4,513) (4,590) (32) (16)
Amortization of prior service (credit) cost (a)
 (14) 69
 (176) (176)
Amortization of net loss (a)
 2,837
 2,923
 278
 218
Net periodic benefit cost 3,419
 3,820
 372
 336
Credits not recognized due to the effects of regulation 221
 
 
 
Net benefit cost recognized for financial reporting $3,640
 $3,820
 $372
 $336

a) (a) The components of net periodic cost other than the service cost component are included in the line item “other income,expense, net” in the
income statement or capitalized on the balance sheet as a regulatory asset.

In January 2018, contributions of $150 million were made across four of Xcel Energy’s pension plans, of which $10.0 million was attributable to NSP-Wisconsin. Xcel Energy does not expect additional pension contributions during 2018.


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12.Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2018 and 2017 were as follows:
    
 
Gains and Losses on
Cash Flow Hedges
 
Gains and Losses on
Cash Flow Hedges
(Thousands of Dollars) Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Three Months Ended June 30, 2018 Three Months Ended June 30, 2017
Accumulated other comprehensive loss at Jan. 1 $(69) $(133)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss at April 1 $(46) $(114)
Losses reclassified from net accumulated other comprehensive loss 23
 19
 23
 19
Net current period other comprehensive income 23
 19
 23
 19
Accumulated other comprehensive loss at March 31 $(46) $(114)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss at June 30 $(23) $(95)

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Gains and Losses on
Cash Flow Hedges
(Thousands of Dollars) Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 Six Months Ended June 30, 2017
Accumulated other comprehensive loss at Jan. 1 $(69) $(133)
Losses reclassified from net accumulated other comprehensive loss 46
 38
Net current period other comprehensive income 46
 38
Accumulated other comprehensive loss at June 30 $(23) $(95)

Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2018 and 2017 were as follows:
     
 
Amounts Reclassified from
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Loss
  
Amounts Reclassified from
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Loss
 
(Thousands of Dollars) Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 Three Months Ended March 31, 2017  Three Months Ended June 30, 2018 Three Months Ended June 30, 2017 
Losses on cash flow hedges:          
Interest rate derivatives $31
(a) 
$31
(a) 
 $32
(a) 
$31
(a) 
Total, pre-tax 31
 31
  32
 31
 
Tax benefit (8) (12)  (9) (12) 
Total amounts reclassified, net of tax $23
 $19
  $23
 $19
 
  
Amounts Reclassified from
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Loss
 
(Thousands of Dollars) Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 
Losses on cash flow hedges:     
Interest rate derivatives $63
(a) 
$62
(a) 
Total, pre-tax 63
 62
 
Tax benefit (17) (24) 
Total amounts reclassified, net of tax $46
 $38
 

(a) 
Included in interest charges.

13. Revenues

NSP-Wisconsin principally generates revenue from the generation, transmission, distribution and sale of electricity and the transportation, distribution and sale of natural gas to retail customers. Performance obligations related to the sale of energy are satisfied as energy is delivered to customers. NSP-Wisconsin recognizes revenue in an amount that corresponds directly to the price of the energy delivered to the customer. The measurement of energy sales to customers is generally based on 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 the last meter reading are estimated, and the corresponding unbilled revenue is recognized. Contract terms are generally short-term in nature, and as such NSP-Wisconsin does not recognize a separate financing component of its collections from customers. NSP-Wisconsin presents its revenues net of any excise or other fiduciary-type taxes or fees.


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NSP-Wisconsin has various rate-adjustment mechanisms in place that provide for the recovery of natural gas, electric fuel and purchased energy costs. These cost-adjustment tariffs may increase or decrease the level of revenue collected from customers and are revised periodically for differences between the total amount collected under the clauses and the costs incurred. When applicable,
under governing regulatory commission rate orders, fuel cost over-recoveries (the excess of fuel revenue billed to customers over fuel
costs incurred) are deferred as regulatory liabilities and under-recoveries (the excess of fuel costs incurred over fuel revenues billed to
customers) are deferred as regulatory assets. NSP-Wisconsin must submit a forward looking fuel cost plan annually for approval by the PSCW. The rules also allow for deferral of any under-recovery or over-recovery of fuel costs in excess of a two percent annual tolerance band, for future rate recovery or refund, subject to PSCW approval.

Certain rate rider mechanisms qualify as alternative revenue programs under GAAP. These mechanisms arise from costs imposed upon the utility by action of a regulator or legislative body related to an environmental, public safety or other mandate. When certain criteria are met (including collection within 24 months), revenue is recognized equal to the revenue requirement, which may include return on rate base items and incentives. The mechanisms are revised periodically for differences between the total amount collected and the revenue recognized, which may increase or decrease the level of revenue collected from customers. Alternative revenue is recorded on a gross basis and is disclosed separate from revenue from contracts with customers in the period earned.

In the following tables, revenue is classified by the type of goods/services rendered and market/customer type. The tables also reconcile revenue to the reportable segments.

  Three Months Ended June 30, 2018
(Thousands of Dollars) Electric Natural Gas All Other Total
Major revenue types        
Revenue from contracts with customers:        
Residential $58,734
 $10,912
 $10
 $69,656
Commercial and industrial (C&I) 106,367
 9,407
 25
 115,799
Other 1,782
 
 236
 2,018
Total retail 166,883
 20,319
 271
 187,473
Interchange 38,370
 
 
 38,370
Other 1,360
 1,069
 
 2,429
Total revenue from contracts with customers 206,613
 21,388
 271
 228,272
Alternative revenue and other 2,889
 593
 
 3,482
Total revenues $209,502
 $21,981
 $271
 $231,754
  Three Months Ended June 30, 2017
(Thousands of Dollars) Electric Natural Gas All Other Total
Major revenue types        
Revenue from contracts with customers:        
Residential $54,754
 $9,015
 $
 $63,769
C&I 107,899
 8,577
 27
 116,503
Other 1,678
 
 230
 1,908
Total retail 164,331
 17,592
 257
 182,180
Interchange 42,965
 
 
 42,965
Other 523
 910
 
 1,433
Total revenue from contracts with customers 207,819
 18,502
 257
 226,578
Alternative revenue and other 2,923
 525
 
 3,448
Total revenues $210,742
 $19,027
 $257
 $230,026

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 Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 Six Months Ended June 30, 2018
(Thousands of Dollars) Regulated Electric Regulated Natural Gas All Other Total Electric Natural Gas All Other Total
Major revenue types                
Revenue from contracts with customers:                
Residential $67,803
 $30,326
 $16
 $98,145
 $126,537
 $41,238
 $26
 $167,801
Commercial and industrial (C&I) 104,817
 24,550
 25
 129,392
 211,184
 33,957
 50
 245,191
Other 1,606
 
 237
 1,843
 3,388
 
 473
 3,861
Total retail 174,226
 54,876
 278
 229,380
 341,109
 75,195
 549
 416,853
Interchange 37,674
 
 
 37,674
 76,044
 
 
 76,044
Other 1,504
 1,007
 
 2,511
 2,864
 2,076
 
 4,940
Total revenue from contracts with customers 213,404
 55,883
 278
 269,565
 420,017
 77,271
 549
 497,837
Alternative revenue and other 2,962
 617
 
 3,579
 5,851
 1,210
 
 7,061
Total revenues $216,366
 $56,500
 $278
 $273,144
 $425,868
 $78,481
 $549
 $504,898
 Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Six Months Ended June 30, 2017
(Thousands of Dollars) Regulated Electric Regulated Natural Gas All Other Total Electric Natural Gas All Other Total
Major revenue types                
Revenue from contracts with customers:                
Residential $66,043
 $26,628
 $20
 $92,691
 $120,797
 $35,643
 $20
 $156,460
C&I 102,380
 20,258
 24
 122,662
 210,279
 28,835
 51
 239,165
Other 1,520
 
 231
 1,751
 3,198
 
 461
 3,659
Total retail 169,943
 46,886
 275
 217,104
 334,274
 64,478
 532
 399,284
Interchange 42,378
 
 
 42,378
 85,343
 
 
 85,343
Other 969
 908
 
 1,877
 1,492
 1,818
 
 3,310
Total revenue from contracts with customers 213,290
 47,794
 275
 261,359
 421,109
 66,296
 532
 487,937
Alternative revenue and other 3,019
 553
 
 3,572
 5,942
 1,078
 
 7,020
Total revenues $216,309
 $48,347
 $275
 $264,931
 $427,051
 $67,374
 $532
 $494,957


Item 2MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Discussion of financial condition and liquidity for NSP-Wisconsin is omitted per conditions set forth in general instructions H (1) (a) and (b) of Form 10-Q for wholly owned subsidiaries. It is replaced with management’s narrative analysis of the results of operations set forth in general instructions H (2) (a) of Form 10-Q for wholly owned subsidiaries (reduced disclosure format).

Financial Review

The following discussion and analysis by management focuses on those factors that had a material effect on NSP-Wisconsin’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows during the periods presented, or are expected to have a material impact in the future. It should be read in conjunction with the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements and related notes to the consolidated financial statements. Due to the seasonality of NSP-Wisconsin’s electric and natural gas sales, such interim results are not necessarily an appropriate base from which to project annual results.


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Forward-Looking Statements

Except for the historical statements contained in this report, the matters discussed herein, are forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements including the TCJA’s impact to NSP-Wisconsin and its customers, as well as assumptions and other statements are intended to be identified in this document by the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “objective,” “outlook,” “plan,” “project,” “possible,” “potential,” “should,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions. Actual results may vary materially. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we expressly disclaim any obligation to update any forward-looking information. The following factors, in addition to those discussed elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and in other securities filings (including NSP-Wisconsin’sthe NSP-Wisconsin Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended Dec. 31, 2017, as amended by the NSP-Wisconsin Amendment No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on July 27, 2018, and subsequent securities filings), could cause actual results to differ materially from management expectations as suggested by such forward-looking information: general economic conditions, including inflation rates, monetary fluctuations and their impact on capital expenditures and the ability of NSP-Wisconsin and its subsidiaries to obtain financing on favorable terms; business conditions in the energy industry; including the risk of a slow down in the U.S. economy or delay in growth, recovery, trade, fiscal, taxation and environmental policies in areas where NSP-Wisconsin has a financial interest; customer business conditions; actions of credit rating agencies; competitive factors including the extent and timing of the entry of additional competition in the markets served by NSP-Wisconsin and its subsidiaries; unusual weather; effects of geopolitical events, including war and acts of terrorism; cyber security threats and data security breaches; state, federal and foreign legislative and regulatory initiatives that affect cost and investment recovery, have an impact on rates or have an impact on asset operation or ownership or impose environmental compliance conditions; structures that affect the speed and degree to which competition enters the electric and natural gas markets; costs and other effects of legal and administrative proceedings, settlements, investigations and claims; financial or regulatory accounting policies imposed by regulatory bodies; outcomes of regulatory proceedings; availability or cost of capital; and employee work force factors.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The following discussion includes financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP, as well as certain non-GAAP financial measures such as electric margin and natural gas margin.  Generally, a non-GAAP financial measure is a numerical measure of a company’s financial performance, financial position or cash flows that excludes (or includes) amounts that are adjusted from the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. NSP-Wisconsin’s management uses non-GAAP measures internally for financial planning and analysis, for reporting of results to the Board of Directors and when communicating its earnings outlook to analysts and investors. Non-GAAP financial measures are intended to supplement investors’ understanding of our operating performance and should not be considered alternatives for financial measures presented in accordance with GAAP. These measures are discussed in more detail below and may not be comparable to other companies’ similarly titled non-GAAP financial measures.

Electric margin is presented as electric revenues less electric fuel and purchased power expenses and natural gas margin is presented as natural gas revenues less the cost of natural gas sold and transported. Expenses incurred for electric fuel and purchased power and the cost of natural gas sold and transported are generally recovered through various recovery mechanisms, and as a result, changes in these expenses are offset in operating revenues. Management believes electric and natural gas margins provide the most meaningful basis for evaluating our operations because they exclude the revenue impact of fluctuations in these expenses. These margins can be reconciled to operating income, a GAAP measure, by including other operating revenues, O&Moperating and maintenance expenses, conservation expenses, depreciation and amortization and taxes (other than income taxes).

Results of Operations

NSP-Wisconsin’s net income was approximately $31$47 million for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2018 compared with approximately $22$37 million for the same period in 2017. The increase was driven by higher natural gas and electric rates and the impact of favorable weather, partially offset by additional depreciation and amortization expense related to higher invested capital.


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Electric Revenues and Margin

Electric production expenses tend to vary with the quantity of electricity sold and changes in the unit costs of fuel and purchased power. The electric fuel and purchased power cost recovery mechanism of the Wisconsin jurisdiction may not allow for complete recovery of all expenses and, therefore, changes in fuel or purchased power costs can impact earnings. The following table details the electric revenues and margin:
 Three Months Ended March 31 Six Months Ended June 30
(Millions of Dollars) 2018 2017 2018 2017
Electric revenues $221
 $216
Electric revenues before impact of the TCJA $437
 $427
Electric fuel and purchased power (104) (109) (209) (215)
Electric Margin before impact of the TCJA $117
 $107
Electric margin before impact of the TCJA $228
 $212
Impact of the TCJA (5) 
 (11) 
Electric margin $112
 $107
 $217
 $212

The following tables summarize the components of the changes in electric revenues and electric margin for the threesix months ended
March 31,June 30, 2018:
 
Electric Revenues
(Millions of Dollars) 2018 vs. 2017 2018 vs. 2017
Retail rate increase (Wisconsin) $5
Retail rate increase (Wisconsin and Michigan) $11
Estimated impact of weather 3
 8
Interchange agreement billings with NSP-Minnesota (5) (9)
Other, net

 2
Total increase in electric revenues before impact of the TCJA

 $5
 $10
Impact of TCJA (offset as a reduction in income tax expense)

 (5) (11)
Total increase in electric revenues $
Total decrease in electric revenues $(1)
 
Electric Margin
(Millions of Dollars) 2018 vs. 2017 2018 vs. 2017
Retail rate increase (Wisconsin) $5
Retail rate increase (Wisconsin and Michigan) $11
Estimated impact of weather 3
 8
Purchased capacity costs 2
 3
Fuel and purchased power cost recovery (5)
Interchange agreement billings with NSP-Minnesota 1
 (3)
Other, net

 (1) 2
Total increase in electric margin before impact of the TCJA


 $10
 $16
Impact of TCJA (offset as a reduction in income tax expense)

 (5) (11)
Total increase in electric margin $5
 $5

Natural Gas Revenues and Margin
 
Total natural gas expense tends to vary with changing sales requirements and the cost of natural gas purchases. However, due to the design of purchased natural gas cost recovery mechanisms to recover current expenses for sales to retail customers, fluctuations in the cost of natural gas have little effect on natural gas margin. The following table details the natural gas revenues and margin:
 Three Months Ended March 31 Six Months Ended June 30
(Millions of Dollars) 2018 2017 2018 2017
Natural gas revenues $57
 $48
Natural gas revenues before impact of TCJA $79
 $67
Cost of natural gas sold and transported (29) (26) (37) (35)
Natural gas margin before impact of the TCJA $28
 $22
 $42
 $32
Impact of the TCJA (offset as a reduction in income tax expense) (1) 
 (1) 
Natural gas margin $27
 $22
 $41
 $32


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The following tables summarize the components of the changes in natural gas revenues and natural gas margin for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2018:

Natural Gas Revenues
(Millions of Dollars) 2018 vs. 2017 2018 vs. 2017
Retail rate increase (Wisconsin and Michigan) $3
 $5
Estimated impact of weather 3
 4
Purchased natural gas adjustment clause recovery 2
 3
Other, net 1
Total increase in natural gas revenues before impact of the TCJA $9
 $12
Impact of TCJA (offset as a reduction in income tax expense)

 (1) (1)
Total increase in natural gas revenues $8
 $11

Natural Gas Margin
(Millions of Dollars) 2018 vs. 2017 2018 vs. 2017
Retail rate increase (Wisconsin and Michigan) $3
 $5
Estimated impact of weather 3
 4
Other, net 1
Total increase in natural gas margin before impact of the TCJA

 $6
 $10
Impact of TCJA (offset as a reduction in income tax expense) (1) (1)
Total increase in natural gas margin $5
 $9

Non-Fuel Operating Expenses and Other Items

Depreciation and Amortization — Depreciation and amortization expense increased $4$7 million, or 13.113.5 percent for the first quartersix months of 2018.2018 compared to the same period in 2017. The increase was primarily attributable todriven by capital investmentsexpenditures due to planned system investments and increased amortization at the Ashland/Northern States Power Lakefront Superfund Site.Ashland MGP site.

Income Taxes Income tax expense decreased $3$7 million for the first quartersix months of 2018 compared with the same period in 2017. The decrease was primarily due to the decrease in thedriven by a lower federal tax rate due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and an increase in plant-related regulatory differences related to ARAM. These were partially offset by the deferral of the effects of ARAM.TCJA. The ETR was 24.725.1 percent for the first quartersix months of 2018 compared with 38.0 percent for the same period in 2017. The lower ETR in 2018 is primarily due to the items referenced above.lower federal tax rate. See Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements.

Public Utility Regulation

Except to the extent noted below and in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements, the circumstances set forth in Public Utility Regulation included in Item 1 of NSP-Wisconsin’sthe NSP-Wisconsin Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended by the NSP-Wisconsin Amendment No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on July 27, 2018, for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017 and Public Utility Regulation included in Item 2 of NSP-Wisconsin's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2018, appropriately represent, in all material respects, the current status of public utility regulation and are incorporated herein by reference.

NSP-Wisconsin / American Transmission Company, LLC (ATC) - La Crosse to Madison, Wis. Transmission Line — In 2013, NSP-Wisconsin and ATC jointly filed an application with the PSCW for a certificate of public convenience and necessity (CPCN) for a 345 KV transmission line that would extend from La Crosse, Wis. to Madison, Wis.  NSP-Wisconsin’s half of the line will be shared with three co-owners, Dairyland Power Cooperative, WPPI Energy and Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency-Wisconsin.

In 2015, the PSCW approved a CPCN and route for the project. Two groups appealed the CPCN order to the La Crosse County Circuit Court (Circuit Court). In May 2017, the Circuit Court issued its decision and the parties appealed aspects of the case to the Wisconsin Court of Appeals. In May 2018, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals concluded the PSCW utilized a rational basis in determining the need for construction along the contested seven-mile portion of the new transmission line. No further appeals are anticipated. The 180-mile project is expected to cost approximately $541 million. NSP-Wisconsin’s portion of the investment, which includes AFUDC, is estimated to be approximately $200 million. Construction on the line began in January 2016, with completion anticipated by late 2018.




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2017 Electric Fuel Cost Recovery NSP-Wisconsin’s electric fuel costs for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017 were lower than authorized in rates and outside the two percent annual tolerance band, primarily due to lower purchased power costs coupled with moderate weather and generation sales into the MISO market. Under the fuel cost recovery rules, NSP-Wisconsin may retain approximately $4 million of fuel costs and defer the amount of over-recovery in excess of the two percent annual tolerance band for future refund to customers. In MarchJuly 2018, the PSCW required NSP-Wisconsin filedto provide a refund of approximately $10 million to customers, which is expected to start in September 2018.

2018 Electric Fuel Cost Recovery — NSP-Wisconsin’s electric fuel costs for the six months ended June 30, 2018 were lower than
authorized in rates and outside the two percent annual tolerance band established in the Wisconsin fuel cost recovery rules, primarily
due to increased sales to other utilities compared to the forecast used to set authorized rates. Under the fuel cost recovery rules, NSP-Wisconsin may retain the amount of over-recovery up to two percent of authorized annual fuel costs, or approximately $3.4 million. However, NSP-Wisconsin must defer the amount of over-recovery in excess of the two percent annual tolerance band for future refund to customers. Accordingly, NSP-Wisconsin recorded an accrued liability of approximately $2.1 million through June 30, 2018. The amount of the deferral could increase or decrease based on actual fuel costs incurred for the remainder of the year. In the first quarter of 2019, NSP-Wisconsin will file a reconciliation of 20172018 fuel costs with the PSCW indicating a refund liability of approximately $10 million.PSCW. The final amount of theany potential refund is subject to review and approval by the PSCW, which is not expected in mid- 2018.until mid-2019.


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Summary of Recent Federal Regulatory Developments

FERC

The FERC has jurisdiction over rates for electric transmission service in interstate commerce and electricity sold at wholesale, hydro facility licensing, natural gas transportation, asset transactions and mergers, accounting practices and certain other activities of NSP-Wisconsin, including enforcement of North American Electric Reliability Corporation mandatory electric reliability standards. State and local agencies have jurisdiction over many of NSP-Wisconsin’s activities, including regulation of retail rates and environmental matters. See additional discussion in the summary of recent federal regulatory developments and public utility regulation sections of the NSP-Wisconsin Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended by the NSP-Wisconsin Amendment No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on July 27, 2018, for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017.2017 and in NSP-Wisconsin's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2018. In addition to the matters discussed below, see Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of other regulatory matters.

Xcel Energy, which includes NSP-Wisconsin, attempts to mitigate the risk of regulatory penalties through formal training on
prohibited practices and a compliance function that reviews interaction with the markets under FERC and Commodity Futures Trading Commission jurisdictions. Public campaigns are conducted to raise awareness of the public safety issues of interacting with our electric systems. While programs to comply with regulatory requirements are in place, there is no guarantee the compliance programs or other measures will be sufficient to ensure against violations.

FERC Order, ROE Policy — In June 2014, the FERC adopted a two-step ROE methodology for electric utilities in an order (Opinion 531) issued in a complaint proceeding involving New England Transmission Owners (NETOs). The issue of how to apply the FERC ROE methodology has been contested in various complaint proceedings, including two ROE complaints involving the MISO TOs, which include NSP-Minnesota and NSP-Wisconsin. In April 2017, the D.C. Circuit vacated and remanded the June 2014 ROE order. The D.C. Circuit found that the FERC had not properly determined that the ROE authorized for the NETOs prior to June 2014 was unjust and unreasonable. The D.C. Circuit also found that the FERC failed to justify the new ROE methodology. The FERC has yet to act on the D.C. Circuit’s decision. See Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements for discussion of the D.C. Circuit’s decision and the impact on the MISO ROE Complaints.

Item 4 — CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

NSP-Wisconsin maintains a set of disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms. In addition, the disclosure controls and procedures ensure that information required to be disclosed is accumulated and communicated to management, including the chief executive officer (CEO) and chief financial officer (CFO), allowing timely decisions regarding required disclosure. As of March 31,June 30, 2018, based on an evaluation carried out under the supervision and with the participation of NSP-Wisconsin’s management, including the CEO and CFO, of the effectiveness of its disclosure controls and the procedures, the CEO and CFO have concluded that NSP-Wisconsin’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

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Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

No changes in NSP-Wisconsin’s internal control over financial reporting occurred during the most recent fiscal quarter that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, NSP-Wisconsin’s internal control over financial reporting.

Part II — OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1 — LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

NSP-Wisconsin is involved in various litigation matters that are being defended and handled in the ordinary course of business. The assessment of whether a loss is probable or is a reasonable possibility, and whether the loss or a range of loss is estimable, often involves a series of complex judgments about future events. Management maintains accruals for such losses that are probable of being incurred and subject to reasonable estimation. Management is sometimes unable to estimate an amount or range of a reasonably possible loss in certain situations, including but not limited to when (1) the damages sought are indeterminate, (2) the proceedings are in the early stages, or (3) the matters involve novel or unsettled legal theories. In such cases, there is considerable uncertainty regarding the timing or ultimate resolution of such matters, including a possible eventual loss.


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Additional Information

See Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion of legal claims and environmental proceedings. See Part I Item 2 and Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of proceedings involving utility rates and other regulatory matters.

Item 1A — RISK FACTORS

NSP-Wisconsin’s risk factors are documented in Item 1A of Part I of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017, as amended by the NSP-Wisconsin Amendment No. 1 to its Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on July 27, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference. There have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in the Form 10-K.

Item 6 — EXHIBITS
*Indicates incorporation by reference
101The following materials from NSP-Wisconsin’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31,June 30, 2018 are formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language):  (i) the Consolidated Statements of Income, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (iv) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (v) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, and (vi) document and entity information.

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

  Northern States Power Company (a Wisconsin corporation)
   
AprilJuly 27, 2018By:/s/ JEFFREY S. SAVAGE
  Jeffrey S. Savage
  Senior Vice President, Controller
  (Principal Accounting Officer)
   
  /s/ ROBERT C. FRENZEL
  Robert C. Frenzel
  Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Director
  (Principal Financial Officer)

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