Document_and_Entity_Informatio
Document and Entity Information Document | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2015 | Apr. 30, 2015 | |
Document Information [Line Items] | ||
Entity Registrant Name | BLACK HILLS POWER INC | |
Entity Central Index Key | 12400 | |
Document Type | 10-Q | |
Document Period End Date | 31-Mar-15 | |
Amendment Flag | FALSE | |
Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2015 | |
Document Fiscal Period Focus | Q1 | |
Current Fiscal Year End Date | -19 | |
Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes | |
Entity Filer Category | Non-accelerated Filer | |
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 23,416,396 |
Condensed_Statements_of_Income
Condensed Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | |
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Mar. 31, 2015 | Mar. 31, 2014 |
Income Statement [Abstract] | ||
Revenue | $70,283 | $71,267 |
Operating expenses: | ||
Fuel, purchased power and natural gas | 22,104 | 27,045 |
Operations and maintenance | 17,091 | 18,110 |
Depreciation and amortization | 8,125 | 6,887 |
Taxes - property | 1,473 | 1,679 |
Total operating expenses | 48,793 | 53,721 |
Operating income | 21,490 | 17,546 |
Other income (expense): | ||
Interest expense | -5,692 | -4,947 |
AFUDC - borrowed | 39 | 72 |
Interest income | 104 | 58 |
AFUDC - equity | 70 | 145 |
Other income (expense), net | 35 | 43 |
Total other income (expense) | -5,444 | -4,629 |
Income from continuing operations before income taxes | 16,046 | 12,917 |
Income tax expense | -5,643 | -4,274 |
Net Income | 10,403 | 8,643 |
Other comprehensive income (loss): | ||
Reclassification adjustments of cash flow hedges settled and included in net income (net of tax (expense) benefit of $336 and $(6) for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively) | 352 | 10 |
Reclassification adjustment of benefit plan liability - net gain (loss) (net of tax (expense) benefit of $(8) and $(4) for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively) | 15 | 7 |
Other comprehensive income | 367 | 17 |
Comprehensive income | $10,770 | $8,660 |
Condensed_Statements_of_Income1
Condensed Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income OCI Parenthetical (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | |
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Mar. 31, 2015 | Mar. 31, 2014 |
Parentheticals [Abstract] | ||
Reclassification adjustment of cash flow hedges settled, (tax) benefit | $336 | ($6) |
Reclassification adjustment of benefit and other postretirement plans included in net income, (tax) benefit | ($8) | ($4) |
Condensed_Balance_Sheets
Condensed Balance Sheets (USD $) | Mar. 31, 2015 | Dec. 31, 2014 |
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | ||
Current assets: | ||
Cash and cash equivalents | $55,084 | $6,620 |
Receivables - customers, net | 28,227 | 34,684 |
Receivables - affiliates | 5,030 | 5,350 |
Other receivables, net | 341 | 259 |
Money pool notes receivable, net | 33,515 | 68,626 |
Materials, supplies and fuel | 21,374 | 20,965 |
Deferred income tax assets, net, current | 7,456 | 13,661 |
Regulatory assets, current | 13,240 | 10,257 |
Other, current assets | 30,131 | 4,954 |
Total current assets | 194,398 | 165,376 |
Investments | 4,628 | 4,584 |
Property, plant and equipment | 1,116,634 | 1,115,061 |
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization | -313,475 | -309,767 |
Total property, plant and equipment, net | 803,159 | 805,294 |
Other assets: | ||
Regulatory assets, non-current | 67,095 | 68,427 |
Other, non-current assets | 13,336 | 11,708 |
Total other assets | 80,431 | 80,135 |
TOTAL ASSETS | 1,082,616 | 1,055,389 |
Current liabilities: | ||
Accounts payable | 16,254 | 30,543 |
Accounts payable - affiliates | 17,588 | 19,242 |
Accrued liabilities | 45,823 | 16,415 |
Regulatory liabilities, current | 5,808 | 3,073 |
Total current liabilities | 85,473 | 69,273 |
Long-term debt, net of current maturities | 342,753 | 342,752 |
Deferred credits and other liabilities: | ||
Deferred income tax liability, net, non-current | 191,938 | 193,042 |
Regulatory liabilities, non-current | 52,045 | 51,916 |
Benefit plan liabilities | 21,421 | 20,981 |
Other, non-current liabilities | 3,422 | 2,631 |
Total deferred credits and other liabilities | 268,826 | 268,570 |
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 5, 6 and 8) | ||
Stockholder’s equity: | ||
Common stock $1 par value; 50,000,000 shares authorized; 23,416,396 shares issued | 23,416 | 23,416 |
Additional paid-in capital | 39,575 | 39,575 |
Retained earnings | 324,025 | 313,622 |
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | -1,452 | -1,819 |
Total stockholder’s equity | 385,564 | 374,794 |
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY | $1,082,616 | $1,055,389 |
Balance_Sheet_Parentheticals
Balance Sheet Parentheticals (USD $) | Mar. 31, 2015 | Dec. 31, 2014 |
Common Stock, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] | ||
Common Stock, Par Value Per Share | $1 | $1 |
Common Stock, Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 |
Common Stock, Shares, Issued | 23,416,396 | 23,416,396 |
Condensed_Statements_of_Cash_F
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | |
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Mar. 31, 2015 | Mar. 31, 2014 |
Operating activities: | ||
Net income | $10,403 | $8,643 |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities- | ||
Depreciation and amortization | 8,125 | 6,887 |
Deferred income tax | 4,962 | 4,254 |
Employee benefits | 601 | 324 |
AFUDC - equity | -70 | -145 |
Other adjustments, net | 85 | -1,014 |
Change in operating assets and liabilities - | ||
Accounts receivable and other current assets | 7,951 | -7,768 |
Accounts payable and other current liabilities | -9,244 | 8,111 |
Other operating activities, net | -719 | -1,419 |
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities | 22,094 | 17,873 |
Investing activities: | ||
Property, plant and equipment additions | -8,697 | -21,885 |
Change in money pool notes receivable, net | 35,111 | 6,220 |
Other investing activities | -44 | -63 |
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities | 26,370 | -15,728 |
Financing activities: | ||
Other financing activities | 0 | -6 |
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities | 0 | -6 |
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | 48,464 | 2,139 |
Cash and Cash Equivalents: | ||
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period | 6,620 | 2,259 |
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period | $55,084 | $4,398 |
Managements_Statement
Management's Statement: | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2015 | |
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | |
Management's Statement | MANAGEMENT’S STATEMENT |
The unaudited condensed financial statements included herein have been prepared by Black Hills Power, Inc. (the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”), pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations; however, we believe that the footnotes adequately disclose the information presented. These condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes thereto, included in our 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC. | |
Accounting methods historically employed require certain estimates as of interim dates. The information furnished in the accompanying condensed financial statements reflects all adjustments, including accruals, which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of the March 31, 2015, December 31, 2014 and March 31, 2014 financial information and are of a normal recurring nature. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and March 31, 2014, and our financial condition as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations and financial condition to be expected as of or for any other period. | |
Recently Issued and Adopted Accounting Standards | |
We have implemented all new accounting pronouncements that are in effect and may impact our financial statements and do not believe that there are any other new accounting pronouncements that have been issued that might have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. | |
Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs, ASU 2015-03 | |
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. Debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability will be presented on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the debt liability, similar to the presentation of debt discounts, rather than as an asset. Amortization of these costs will continue to be reported as interest expense. ASU 2015-03 is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of adoption that ASU 2015-03 will have on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. | |
Revenue from Contracts with Customers, ASU 2014-09 | |
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The standard provides companies with a single model for use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific revenue guidance. The core principle of the model is to recognize revenue when control of the goods or services transfers to the customer, as opposed to recognizing revenue when the risks and rewards transfer to the customer under the existing revenue guidance. On April 1, 2015, FASB voted to propose to defer the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year. The proposed guidance would be effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and early adoption is permitted. We are currently assessing the impact, if any, that ASU 2014-09 will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. |
Accounts_Receivable_and_Allowa
Accounts Receivable and Allowance For Doubtful Accounts: | 3 Months Ended | ||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | |||||||
Accounts Receivable, Net [Abstract] | |||||||
Accounts Receivables | ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS | ||||||
Following is a summary of Receivables - customers, net included in the accompanying Condensed Balance Sheets (in thousands) as of: | |||||||
March 31, 2015 | December 31, 2014 | ||||||
Accounts receivable trade | $ | 19,539 | $ | 24,946 | |||
Unbilled revenues | 8,941 | 9,999 | |||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts | (253 | ) | (261 | ) | |||
Receivables - customers, net | $ | 28,227 | $ | 34,684 | |||
Regulatory_Accounting
Regulatory Accounting: | 3 Months Ended | ||||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | |||||||||
Regulated Operations [Abstract] | |||||||||
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities | REGULATORY ACCOUNTING | ||||||||
Our regulated electric operations are subject to regulation by various state and federal agencies. The accounting policies followed are generally subject to the Uniform System of Accounts of the FERC. | |||||||||
Our regulatory assets and liabilities were as follows (in thousands) as of: | |||||||||
Recovery/Amortization Period | March 31, 2015 | December 31, 2014 | |||||||
(in years) | |||||||||
Regulatory assets: | |||||||||
Unamortized loss on reacquired debt (a) | 10 | $ | 2,306 | $ | 2,377 | ||||
AFUDC (b) | 45 | 8,332 | 8,365 | ||||||
Employee benefit plans (c) | 12 | 24,418 | 24,418 | ||||||
Deferred energy and fuel cost adjustments - current (a) | Less than 1 year | 15,189 | 14,696 | ||||||
Flow through accounting (a) | 35 | 11,564 | 11,171 | ||||||
Decommissioning costs (a) | 10 | 11,311 | 11,786 | ||||||
Other (a) | 10 | 7,215 | 5,871 | ||||||
Total regulatory assets | $ | 80,335 | $ | 78,684 | |||||
Regulatory liabilities: | |||||||||
Cost of removal for utility plant (a) | 53 | $ | 36,174 | $ | 35,510 | ||||
Employee benefit plans (c) | 12 | 14,538 | 14,538 | ||||||
Other | 13 | 7,141 | 4,941 | ||||||
Total regulatory liabilities | $ | 57,853 | $ | 54,989 | |||||
____________________ | |||||||||
(a) | Recovery of costs, but we are not allowed a rate of return. | ||||||||
(b) | In addition to recovery of costs, we are allowed a rate of return. | ||||||||
(c) | In addition to recovery of costs, we are allowed a return on a portion of this amount or a reduction in rate base, respectively. |
Related_Party_Transactions
Related Party Transactions: | 3 Months Ended | |||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | ||||||||
Related Party Transactions [Abstract] | ||||||||
Related Party Transactions Disclosure | RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS | |||||||
Receivables and Payables | ||||||||
We have accounts receivable and accounts payable balances related to transactions with other BHC subsidiaries. The balances were as follows (in thousands) as of: | ||||||||
March 31, 2015 | December 31, 2014 | |||||||
Receivables - affiliates | $ | 5,030 | $ | 5,350 | ||||
Accounts payable - affiliates | $ | 17,588 | $ | 19,242 | ||||
Money Pool Notes Receivable and Notes Payable | ||||||||
We have entered into a Utility Money Pool Agreement (the “Agreement”) with BHC, Cheyenne Light and Black Hills Energy. We are the administrator of the Money Pool. Under the Agreement, we may borrow from BHC; however the Agreement restricts us from loaning funds to BHC or to any of BHC’s non-utility subsidiaries. The Agreement does not restrict us from paying dividends to BHC. Borrowings and advances under the Agreement bear interest at the weighted average daily cost of our parent company’s credit facility borrowings as defined under the Agreement, or if there are no external funds outstanding on that date, then the rate will be the daily one-month LIBOR plus 1.0%. At March 31, 2015, the average cost of borrowing under the Utility Money Pool was 1.38%. | ||||||||
We had the following balances with the Utility Money Pool (in thousands) as of: | ||||||||
March 31, 2015 | December 31, 2014 | |||||||
Money pool notes receivable, net | $ | 33,515 | $ | 68,626 | ||||
Our net interest income (expense) relating to balances with the Utility Money Pool was as follows (in thousands): | ||||||||
Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
2015 | 2014 | |||||||
Net interest income (expense) | $ | 258 | $ | (781 | ) | |||
Other related party activity was as follows (in thousands): | ||||||||
Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
2015 | 2014 | |||||||
Revenue: | ||||||||
Energy sold to Cheyenne Light | $ | 326 | $ | 679 | ||||
Rent from electric properties | $ | 1,124 | $ | 1,023 | ||||
Fuel and purchased power: | ||||||||
Purchases of coal from WRDC | $ | 4,045 | $ | 5,014 | ||||
Purchase of excess energy from Cheyenne Light | $ | 476 | $ | 629 | ||||
Purchase of renewable wind energy from Cheyenne Light - Happy Jack | $ | 549 | $ | 664 | ||||
Purchase of renewable wind energy from Cheyenne Light - Silver Sage | $ | 936 | $ | 1,094 | ||||
Gas transportation service agreement | ||||||||
Gas transportation service agreement with Cheyenne Light for firm and interruptible gas transportation | $ | 103 | $ | — | ||||
Corporate support: | ||||||||
Corporate support services and fees from Parent, Black Hills Service Company and Black Hills Utility Holdings | $ | 7,033 | $ | 7,853 | ||||
Employee_Benefit_Plans
Employee Benefit Plans: | 3 Months Ended | |||||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] | ||||||||||
Employee Benefit Plans Disclosure | EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS | |||||||||
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | ||||||||||
The components of net periodic benefit cost for the Defined Benefit Pension Plan were as follows (in thousands): | ||||||||||
Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||||
2015 | 2014 | |||||||||
Service cost | $ | 199 | $ | 176 | ||||||
Interest cost | 739 | 748 | ||||||||
Expected return on plan assets | (984 | ) | (926 | ) | ||||||
Prior service cost | 11 | 11 | ||||||||
Net loss (gain) | 549 | 235 | ||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost | $ | 514 | $ | 244 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Postretirement Healthcare Plan | ||||||||||
The components of net periodic benefit cost for the Defined Benefit Postretirement Healthcare Plan were as follows (in thousands): | ||||||||||
Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||||
2015 | 2014 | |||||||||
Service cost | $ | 58 | $ | 56 | ||||||
Interest cost | 54 | 60 | ||||||||
Prior service cost (benefit) | (84 | ) | (84 | ) | ||||||
Net loss (gain) | — | — | ||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost | $ | 28 | $ | 32 | ||||||
Supplemental Non-qualified Defined Benefit Plans | ||||||||||
The components of net periodic benefit cost for the Supplemental Non-qualified Defined Benefit Plans were as follows (in thousands): | ||||||||||
Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||||
2015 | 2014 | |||||||||
Interest cost | $ | 36 | $ | 37 | ||||||
Net loss (gain) | 23 | 11 | ||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost | $ | 59 | $ | 48 | ||||||
Contributions | ||||||||||
We anticipate we will make contributions to the benefit plans during 2015 and 2016. Contributions to the Defined Benefit Pension Plan are cash contributions made directly to the Pension Plan Trust accounts. Contributions to the Healthcare and Supplemental Plans are made in the form of benefit payments. Contributions and anticipated contributions are as follows (in thousands): | ||||||||||
Contributions Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 | Remaining Anticipated Contributions for 2015 | Anticipated Contributions for 2016 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | $ | — | $ | 1,657 | $ | 1,657 | ||||
Defined Benefit Postretirement Healthcare Plan | $ | 130 | $ | 389 | $ | 577 | ||||
Supplemental Non-qualified Defined Benefit Plans | $ | 54 | $ | 163 | $ | 184 | ||||
Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru
Fair Value of Financial Instruments: | 3 Months Ended | |||||||||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | ||||||||||||||
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||
Fair Value of Financial Instruments | FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS | |||||||||||||
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Accounting guidance on fair value measurements establishes a hierarchy for grouping assets and liabilities, based on significance of inputs. For additional information see Note 1 included in our 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC. | ||||||||||||||
The estimated fair values of our financial instruments were as follows (in thousands) as of: | ||||||||||||||
March 31, 2015 | December 31, 2014 | |||||||||||||
Carrying Amount | Fair Value | Carrying Amount | Fair Value | |||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents (a) | $ | 55,084 | $ | 55,084 | $ | 6,620 | $ | 6,620 | ||||||
Long-term debt, including current maturities (b) | $ | 342,753 | $ | 442,121 | $ | 342,752 | $ | 430,497 | ||||||
_________________ | ||||||||||||||
(a) | Carrying value approximates fair value due to either short-term length of maturity or variable interest rates that approximate prevailing market rates and therefore is classified in Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. | |||||||||||||
(b) | Long-term debt is valued using the market approach based on observable inputs of quoted market prices and yields available for debt instruments either directly or indirectly for similar maturities and debt ratings in active markets and therefore is classified in Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The carrying amount of our variable rate debt approximates fair value due to the variable interest rates with short reset periods. |
Supplemental_Disclosure_of_Cas
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: | 3 Months Ended | |||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | ||||||||
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] | ||||||||
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures | SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION | |||||||
Three months ended March 31, | 2015 | 2014 | ||||||
(in thousands) | ||||||||
Non-cash investing and financing activities - | ||||||||
Property, plant and equipment acquired with accrued liabilities | $ | 2,042 | $ | 11,760 | ||||
Cash (paid) refunded during the period for - | ||||||||
Interest (net of amounts capitalized) | $ | (2,718 | ) | $ | (3,264 | ) | ||
Income taxes, net | $ | — | $ | — | ||||
Commitment_and_Contingencies
Commitment and Contingencies: | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2015 | |
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure | COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES |
Other than the item discussed below, there have been no significant changes to commitments and contingencies from those previously disclosed in Note 11 of our Notes to the Financial Statements in our 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K. | |
Oil Creek Fire | |
On June 29, 2012, a forest and grassland fire occurred in the western Black Hills of Wyoming. A fire investigator retained by the Weston County Fire Protection District concluded that the fire was caused by the failure of a transmission structure owned, operated and maintained by us. On April 16, 2013, a large group of private landowners filed suit in the United States District Court for the District of Wyoming. There are approximately 36 Plaintiff groups (including property jointly owned by multiple family members or entities), or approximately 73 individually named private plaintiffs. In addition, the State of Wyoming has intervened in the lawsuit. Both the private landowners and the State of Wyoming assert claims for damages against us. The claims include allegations of negligence, negligence per se, common law nuisance and trespass. In addition to claims for compensatory damages, the lawsuit seeks recovery of punitive damages. We have denied and will vigorously defend all claims arising out of the fire. We cannot predict the outcome of expert investigation, the viability of alleged claims or the outcome of the litigation. | |
Civil litigation of this kind, however, is likely to lead to settlement negotiations, including negotiations prompted by pre-trial civil court procedures. We believe such negotiations would effect a settlement of all claims. Regardless of whether the litigation is determined at trial or through settlement, we expect to incur significant investigation, legal and expert services expenses associated with the litigation. We maintain insurance coverage to limit our exposure to losses due to civil liability claims, and related litigation expense, and we will pursue recoveries to the maximum extent available under the policies. The deductible applicable to some types of claims arising out of this fire is $1.0 million. Based upon information currently available, we believe that a loss associated with settlement of pending claims is probable. Accordingly, we recorded a loss contingency liability related to these claims and we recorded a receivable for costs we believe are reimbursable and probable of recovery under our insurance coverage. Both of these entries reflect our reasonable estimate of probable future litigation expense and settlement costs; we did not base these contingencies on any determination that it is probable we would be found liable for these claims were they to be litigated. | |
Given the uncertainty of litigation, however, a loss related to the fire, the litigation and related claims in excess of the loss we have determined to be probable is reasonably possible. We cannot reasonably estimate the amount of such possible loss because expert investigations and our review of damage claim documentation are ongoing, and there are significant factual and legal issues to be resolved. Further claims may be presented by these claimants and other parties. We have received claims seeking recovery for fire suppression, reclamation and rehabilitation costs, damage to fencing and other personal property, alleged injury to timber, grass or hay, livestock and related operations, and diminished value of real estate. Based on the legal standard for measuring damages that we believe applies to this matter, we estimate the current total claims to be approximately $55 million; however the actual amount of allowed claims and any loss will depend on the resolution of certain factual and legal issues. We are not yet able to reasonably estimate the amount of any reasonable possible losses in excess of the amount we have accrued. Based upon information currently available, however, management does not expect the outcome of the claims to have a material adverse effect upon our consolidated financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. |
Accounts_Receivable_and_Allowa1
Accounts Receivable and Allowance For Doubtful Accounts: Accounts Receivable (Tables) | 3 Months Ended | ||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | |||||||
Accounts Receivable, Net [Abstract] | |||||||
Schedule of Accounts Receivable | Following is a summary of Receivables - customers, net included in the accompanying Condensed Balance Sheets (in thousands) as of: | ||||||
March 31, 2015 | December 31, 2014 | ||||||
Accounts receivable trade | $ | 19,539 | $ | 24,946 | |||
Unbilled revenues | 8,941 | 9,999 | |||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts | (253 | ) | (261 | ) | |||
Receivables - customers, net | $ | 28,227 | $ | 34,684 | |||
Regulatory_Accounting_Regulato
Regulatory Accounting: Regulatory Accounting (Tables) | 3 Months Ended | ||||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | |||||||||
Regulated Operations [Abstract] | |||||||||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets | Our regulatory assets and liabilities were as follows (in thousands) as of: | ||||||||
Recovery/Amortization Period | March 31, 2015 | December 31, 2014 | |||||||
(in years) | |||||||||
Regulatory assets: | |||||||||
Unamortized loss on reacquired debt (a) | 10 | $ | 2,306 | $ | 2,377 | ||||
AFUDC (b) | 45 | 8,332 | 8,365 | ||||||
Employee benefit plans (c) | 12 | 24,418 | 24,418 | ||||||
Deferred energy and fuel cost adjustments - current (a) | Less than 1 year | 15,189 | 14,696 | ||||||
Flow through accounting (a) | 35 | 11,564 | 11,171 | ||||||
Decommissioning costs (a) | 10 | 11,311 | 11,786 | ||||||
Other (a) | 10 | 7,215 | 5,871 | ||||||
Total regulatory assets | $ | 80,335 | $ | 78,684 | |||||
Schedule of Regulatory Liabilities | |||||||||
Regulatory liabilities: | |||||||||
Cost of removal for utility plant (a) | 53 | $ | 36,174 | $ | 35,510 | ||||
Employee benefit plans (c) | 12 | 14,538 | 14,538 | ||||||
Other | 13 | 7,141 | 4,941 | ||||||
Total regulatory liabilities | $ | 57,853 | $ | 54,989 | |||||
____________________ | |||||||||
(a) | Recovery of costs, but we are not allowed a rate of return. | ||||||||
(b) | In addition to recovery of costs, we are allowed a rate of return. | ||||||||
(c) | In addition to recovery of costs, we are allowed a return on a portion of this amount or a reduction in rate base, respectively. |
Related_Party_Transactions_Rel
Related Party Transactions: Related Party Transactions (Tables) | 3 Months Ended | |||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | ||||||||
Related Party Transactions [Abstract] | ||||||||
Schedule of Related Party Accounts Receivable and Payable | The balances were as follows (in thousands) as of: | |||||||
March 31, 2015 | December 31, 2014 | |||||||
Receivables - affiliates | $ | 5,030 | $ | 5,350 | ||||
Accounts payable - affiliates | $ | 17,588 | $ | 19,242 | ||||
Schedule of Related Party Notes | We had the following balances with the Utility Money Pool (in thousands) as of: | |||||||
March 31, 2015 | December 31, 2014 | |||||||
Money pool notes receivable, net | $ | 33,515 | $ | 68,626 | ||||
Schedule of Related Party Interest Income Expense | Our net interest income (expense) relating to balances with the Utility Money Pool was as follows (in thousands): | |||||||
Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
2015 | 2014 | |||||||
Net interest income (expense) | $ | 258 | $ | (781 | ) | |||
Schedule of Revenues and Purchases from Related Parties | Other related party activity was as follows (in thousands): | |||||||
Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
2015 | 2014 | |||||||
Revenue: | ||||||||
Energy sold to Cheyenne Light | $ | 326 | $ | 679 | ||||
Rent from electric properties | $ | 1,124 | $ | 1,023 | ||||
Fuel and purchased power: | ||||||||
Purchases of coal from WRDC | $ | 4,045 | $ | 5,014 | ||||
Purchase of excess energy from Cheyenne Light | $ | 476 | $ | 629 | ||||
Purchase of renewable wind energy from Cheyenne Light - Happy Jack | $ | 549 | $ | 664 | ||||
Purchase of renewable wind energy from Cheyenne Light - Silver Sage | $ | 936 | $ | 1,094 | ||||
Gas transportation service agreement | ||||||||
Gas transportation service agreement with Cheyenne Light for firm and interruptible gas transportation | $ | 103 | $ | — | ||||
Corporate support: | ||||||||
Corporate support services and fees from Parent, Black Hills Service Company and Black Hills Utility Holdings | $ | 7,033 | $ | 7,853 | ||||
Employee_Benefit_Plans_Employe
Employee Benefit Plans: Employee Benefit Plans (Tables) | 3 Months Ended | |||||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | ||||||||||
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] | ||||||||||
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs | The components of net periodic benefit cost for the Defined Benefit Pension Plan were as follows (in thousands): | |||||||||
Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||||
2015 | 2014 | |||||||||
Service cost | $ | 199 | $ | 176 | ||||||
Interest cost | 739 | 748 | ||||||||
Expected return on plan assets | (984 | ) | (926 | ) | ||||||
Prior service cost | 11 | 11 | ||||||||
Net loss (gain) | 549 | 235 | ||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost | $ | 514 | $ | 244 | ||||||
Defined Benefit Postretirement Healthcare Plan | ||||||||||
The components of net periodic benefit cost for the Defined Benefit Postretirement Healthcare Plan were as follows (in thousands): | ||||||||||
Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||||
2015 | 2014 | |||||||||
Service cost | $ | 58 | $ | 56 | ||||||
Interest cost | 54 | 60 | ||||||||
Prior service cost (benefit) | (84 | ) | (84 | ) | ||||||
Net loss (gain) | — | — | ||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost | $ | 28 | $ | 32 | ||||||
Supplemental Non-qualified Defined Benefit Plans | ||||||||||
The components of net periodic benefit cost for the Supplemental Non-qualified Defined Benefit Plans were as follows (in thousands): | ||||||||||
Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||||
2015 | 2014 | |||||||||
Interest cost | $ | 36 | $ | 37 | ||||||
Net loss (gain) | 23 | 11 | ||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost | $ | 59 | $ | 48 | ||||||
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Contributions | Contributions and anticipated contributions are as follows (in thousands): | |||||||||
Contributions Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 | Remaining Anticipated Contributions for 2015 | Anticipated Contributions for 2016 | ||||||||
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | $ | — | $ | 1,657 | $ | 1,657 | ||||
Defined Benefit Postretirement Healthcare Plan | $ | 130 | $ | 389 | $ | 577 | ||||
Supplemental Non-qualified Defined Benefit Plans | $ | 54 | $ | 163 | $ | 184 | ||||
Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru1
Fair Value of Financial Instruments: Fair Value of Financial Instruments(Tables) | 3 Months Ended | |||||||||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | ||||||||||||||
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||
Schedule of Fair Value of Financial Instruments | The estimated fair values of our financial instruments were as follows (in thousands) as of: | |||||||||||||
March 31, 2015 | December 31, 2014 | |||||||||||||
Carrying Amount | Fair Value | Carrying Amount | Fair Value | |||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents (a) | $ | 55,084 | $ | 55,084 | $ | 6,620 | $ | 6,620 | ||||||
Long-term debt, including current maturities (b) | $ | 342,753 | $ | 442,121 | $ | 342,752 | $ | 430,497 | ||||||
_________________ | ||||||||||||||
(a) | Carrying value approximates fair value due to either short-term length of maturity or variable interest rates that approximate prevailing market rates and therefore is classified in Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. | |||||||||||||
(b) | Long-term debt is valued using the market approach based on observable inputs of quoted market prices and yields available for debt instruments either directly or indirectly for similar maturities and debt ratings in active markets and therefore is classified in Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The carrying amount of our variable rate debt approximates fair value due to the variable interest rates with short reset periods. |
Supplemental_Disclosure_of_Cas1
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information (Tables) | 3 Months Ended | |||||||
Mar. 31, 2015 | ||||||||
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] | ||||||||
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures | ||||||||
Three months ended March 31, | 2015 | 2014 | ||||||
(in thousands) | ||||||||
Non-cash investing and financing activities - | ||||||||
Property, plant and equipment acquired with accrued liabilities | $ | 2,042 | $ | 11,760 | ||||
Cash (paid) refunded during the period for - | ||||||||
Interest (net of amounts capitalized) | $ | (2,718 | ) | $ | (3,264 | ) | ||
Income taxes, net | $ | — | $ | — | ||||
Accounts_Receivable_and_Allowa2
Accounts Receivable and Allowance For Doubtful Accounts: Accounts Receivable (Details) (USD $) | Mar. 31, 2015 | Dec. 31, 2014 |
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | ||
Accounts Receivable [Line Items] | ||
Allowance for doubtful accounts | ($253) | ($261) |
Receivables - customers, net | 28,227 | 34,684 |
Billed Revenues [Member] | ||
Accounts Receivable [Line Items] | ||
Accounts receivable, trade | 19,539 | 24,946 |
Unbilled Revenues [Member] | ||
Accounts Receivable [Line Items] | ||
Accounts receivable, trade | $8,941 | $9,999 |
Regulatory_Accounting_Regulato1
Regulatory Accounting: Regulatory Accounting (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | |||
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Mar. 31, 2015 | Dec. 31, 2014 | ||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||
Regulatory Assets | $80,335 | $78,684 | ||
Regulatory Liabilities | 57,853 | 54,989 | ||
Cost of removal for utility plant [Member] | ||||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||
Regulatory Liabilities Amortization Period, Unclassified | 53 years | |||
Regulatory Liabilities | 36,174 | [1] | 35,510 | [1] |
Employee benefit plans [Member] | ||||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||
Regulatory Liabilities Amortization Period, Unclassified | 12 years | |||
Regulatory Liabilities | 14,538 | [2] | 14,538 | [2] |
Other regulatory liabilities [Member] | ||||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||
Regulatory Liabilities Amortization Period, Unclassified | 13 years | |||
Regulatory Liabilities | 7,141 | 4,941 | ||
Unamortized Loss on reacquired debt [Member] | ||||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||
Regulatory Assets Amortization Period, Unclassified | 10 years | |||
Regulatory Assets | 2,306 | [1] | 2,377 | [1] |
Allowance For Funds Used During Construction [Member] | ||||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||
Regulatory Assets Amortization Period, Unclassified | 45 years | |||
Regulatory Assets | 8,332 | [3] | 8,365 | [3] |
Employee benefit plans [Member] | ||||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||
Regulatory Assets Amortization Period, Unclassified | 12 years | |||
Regulatory Assets | 24,418 | [2] | 24,418 | [2] |
Deferred energy and fuel cost adjustments - current [Member] | ||||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||
Regulatory Assets | 15,189 | [1] | 14,696 | [1] |
Flow through accounting [Member] | ||||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||
Regulatory Assets Amortization Period, Unclassified | 35 years | |||
Regulatory Assets | 11,564 | [1] | 11,171 | [1] |
Decommissioning costs [Member] | ||||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||
Regulatory Assets Amortization Period, Unclassified | 10 years | |||
Regulatory Assets | 11,311 | [1] | 11,786 | [1] |
Other regulatory assets [Member] | ||||
Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Line Items] | ||||
Regulatory Assets Amortization Period, Unclassified | 10 years | |||
Regulatory Assets | $7,215 | [1] | $5,871 | [1] |
[1] | Recovery of costs, but we are not allowed a rate of return. | |||
[2] | In addition to recovery of costs, we are allowed a return on a portion of this amount or a reduction in rate base, respectively. | |||
[3] | In addition to recovery of costs, we are allowed a rate of return. |
Related_Party_Transactions_Rel1
Related Party Transactions: Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | ||
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Mar. 31, 2015 | Mar. 31, 2014 | Dec. 31, 2014 |
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Receivables - affiliates | $5,030 | $5,350 | |
Accounts payable - affiliates | 17,588 | 19,242 | |
Related Party Transaction, Utility Money Pool Interest Rate | 1.38% | ||
Money pool notes receivable, net | 33,515 | 68,626 | |
Parent [Member] | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage | 1.00% | ||
Utility Money Pool [Member] | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Interest Income (Expense), Net | 258 | -781 | |
Subsidiary of Common Parent [Member] | Purchase Of Natural Gas, Cheyenne Light [Member] | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Costs and Expenses, Related Party | 103 | 0 | |
Subsidiary of Common Parent [Member] | Coal, Purchased [Member] | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Costs and Expenses, Related Party | 4,045 | 5,014 | |
Subsidiary of Common Parent [Member] | Purchase of Excess Energy, Cheyenne Light [Member] | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Costs and Expenses, Related Party | 476 | 629 | |
Subsidiary of Common Parent [Member] | Happy Jack Wind Purchase Power Agreeement [Member] | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Costs and Expenses, Related Party | 549 | 664 | |
Subsidiary of Common Parent [Member] | Silver Sage Wind Power Purchase Agreement [Member] | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Costs and Expenses, Related Party | 936 | 1,094 | |
Subsidiary of Common Parent [Member] | Allocated Costs From Related Parties [Member] | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Costs and Expenses, Related Party | 7,033 | 7,853 | |
Subsidiary of Common Parent [Member] | Energy sold to Cheyenne Light [Member] | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Revenue from Related Parties | 326 | 679 | |
Subsidiary of Common Parent [Member] | Lease Agreements [Member] | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Revenue from Related Parties | $1,124 | $1,023 |
Employee_Benefit_Plans_Employe1
Employee Benefit Plans: Employee Benefit Plans (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | |
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Mar. 31, 2015 | Mar. 31, 2014 |
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] | ||
Service cost | $199 | $176 |
Interest cost | 739 | 748 |
Expected return on plan assets | -984 | -926 |
Prior service cost (benefit) | 11 | 11 |
Net loss (gain) | 549 | 235 |
Net periodic benefit cost | 514 | 244 |
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Contributions [Abstract] | ||
Contributions made by Employer | 0 | |
Remaining Anticipated Contributions for Current Year | 1,657 | |
Anticipated Contributions for Next Year | 1,657 | |
Defined Benefit Postretirement Healthcare Plan | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] | ||
Service cost | 58 | 56 |
Interest cost | 54 | 60 |
Prior service cost (benefit) | -84 | -84 |
Net loss (gain) | 0 | 0 |
Net periodic benefit cost | 28 | 32 |
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Contributions [Abstract] | ||
Contributions made by Employer | 130 | |
Remaining Anticipated Contributions for Current Year | 389 | |
Anticipated Contributions for Next Year | 577 | |
Supplemental Non-qualified Defined Benefit Plans | ||
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] | ||
Interest cost | 36 | 37 |
Net loss (gain) | 23 | 11 |
Net periodic benefit cost | 59 | 48 |
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Contributions [Abstract] | ||
Contributions made by Employer | 54 | |
Remaining Anticipated Contributions for Current Year | 163 | |
Anticipated Contributions for Next Year | $184 |
Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru2
Fair Value of Financial Instruments: Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $) | Mar. 31, 2015 | Dec. 31, 2014 | Mar. 31, 2014 | Dec. 31, 2013 | ||
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | ||||||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, carrying amount | $55,084 | $6,620 | $4,398 | $2,259 | ||
Carrying Amount [Member] | ||||||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, carrying amount | 55,084 | [1] | 6,620 | [1] | ||
Long-term debt, including current maturities, carrying amount | 342,753 | [2] | 342,752 | [2] | ||
Fair Value [Member] | ||||||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, fair value | 55,084 | [1] | 6,620 | [1] | ||
Long-term debt, including current maturities, fair value | $442,121 | [2] | $430,497 | [2] | ||
[1] | Carrying value approximates fair value due to either short-term length of maturity or variable interest rates that approximate prevailing market rates and therefore is classified in Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. | |||||
[2] | Long-term debt is valued using the market approach based on observable inputs of quoted market prices and yields available for debt instruments either directly or indirectly for similar maturities and debt ratings in active markets and therefore is classified in Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The carrying amount of our variable rate debt approximates fair value due to the variable interest rates with short reset periods. |
Supplemental_Disclosure_of_Cas2
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information (Details) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | |
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | Mar. 31, 2015 | Mar. 31, 2014 |
Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract] | ||
Property, plant and equipment acquired with accrued liabilities | $2,042 | $11,760 |
Interest and Income Taxes Paid Net [Abstract] | ||
Interest paid, (net of amounts capitalized) | -2,718 | -3,264 |
Income taxes, net | $0 | $0 |
Commitment_and_Contingencies_O
Commitment and Contingencies: Oil Creek Fire (Details) (Pending Litigation [Member], Oil Creek Fire [Member], Loss from Catastrophes [Member], USD $) | 3 Months Ended |
In Millions, unless otherwise specified | Mar. 31, 2015 |
Minimum [Member] | |
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |
Insurance Coverage Deductible Per Occurrence | $1 |
Maximum [Member] | |
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value | $55 |