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Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy) | 12 Months Ended
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Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] |
General, Basis of Presentation | The financial statements reflect investments in controlled subsidiaries on a consolidated basis and Alliant Energy’s, IPL’s and WPL’s proportionate shares of jointly-owned utility EGUs. Unconsolidated investments, which Alliant Energy and WPL do not control, but do have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies, are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Investments that do not meet the criteria for consolidation or the equity method of accounting are accounted for under the cost method. Refer to Notes 1(n) and 6(a) for further discussion of VIEs and equity method investments, respectively. All intercompany balances and transactions, other than certain transactions affecting the rate-making process at IPL and WPL, have been eliminated from the financial statements. Such transactions not eliminated include costs that are recoverable from customers through rate-making processes.
General, Basis of Accounting | The financial statements are prepared in conformity with GAAP, which give recognition to the rate-making and accounting practices of FERC and state commissions having regulatory jurisdiction.
General, Reclassification | Certain prior period amounts in the Financial Statements and Notes have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation for comparative purposes. The balance sheets presentation changed from a utility format to a traditional format. This change revised the order of certain balance sheet line items and did not result in any changes in classification of amounts between line items. Unless otherwise noted, the notes herein exclude discontinued operations for all periods presented, and assets and liabilities held for sale as of December 31, 2014.
General, Use of Estimates | The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect: (a) the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements; and (b) the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Regulatory Assets and Regulatory Liabilities | Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL are subject to regulation by FERC and various state regulatory commissions. As a result, Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL are subject to GAAP provisions for regulated operations, which provide that rate-regulated public utilities record certain costs and credits allowed in the rate-making process in different periods than for non-regulated entities. Regulatory assets generally represent incurred costs that have been deferred as such costs are probable of recovery in future customer rates. Regulatory liabilities generally represent obligations to make refunds to customers or amounts collected in rates for which the related costs have not yet been incurred. Amounts deferred as regulatory assets or accrued as regulatory liabilities are generally recognized in the income statements at the time they are reflected in rates.
Income Taxes | The liability method of accounting is followed for deferred income taxes, which requires the establishment of deferred income tax assets and liabilities, as appropriate, for temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and the amounts reported in the financial statements. Deferred income taxes are recorded using currently enacted tax rates and estimates of state apportionment rates. Changes in deferred income tax assets and liabilities associated with certain property-related differences at IPL are accounted for differently than other subsidiaries of Alliant Energy due to rate-making practices in Iowa. Rate-making practices in Iowa do not include the impact of certain deferred tax expenses (benefits) in the determination of retail rates. Based on these rate-making practices, deferred tax expense (benefit) related to these property-related differences at IPL is not recorded in the income statement but instead recorded to regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities until these temporary differences reverse. Refer to Note 2 for further discussion of regulatory assets and regulatory liabilities associated with property-related differences at IPL. In Wisconsin, the PSCW has allowed rate recovery of deferred tax expense on all temporary differences since 1991. Investment tax credits are deferred and amortized to income over the average lives of the related property. Other tax credits reduce income tax expense in the year claimed. The alternative transition method has been elected to calculate the beginning pool of excess tax benefits available to absorb any tax deficiencies associated with recognition of share-based payment awards. Alliant Energy files a consolidated federal income tax return, which includes the aggregate taxable income or loss of Alliant Energy and its subsidiaries. In addition, a combined return including Alliant Energy and all of its subsidiaries is filed in Wisconsin. Alliant Energy subsidiaries with a presence in Iowa file as part of a consolidated return in Iowa. Under the terms of a tax sharing agreement between Alliant Energy and its subsidiaries, IPL and WPL calculate state income tax using consolidated apportionment rates applied to separate company taxable income.
Cash and Cash Equivalents | Cash and cash equivalents include short-term liquid investments that have original maturities of less than 90 days.
Property, Plant and Equipment | Utility Plant - General - Utility plant is recorded at the original cost of acquisition or construction, which includes material, labor, contractor services, AFUDC and allocable overheads, such as supervision, engineering, benefits, certain taxes and transportation. Repairs, replacements and renewals of items of property determined to be less than a unit of property or that do not increase the property’s life or functionality are charged to maintenance expense. Ordinary retirements of utility plant and salvage value are netted and charged to accumulated depreciation upon removal from utility plant accounts and no gain or loss is recognized consistent with rate-making policies. Removal costs incurred reduce the regulatory liability. Property, plant and equipment that is probable of being retired early is classified as plant anticipated to be retired early. Non-utility Property - General - Non-utility property is recorded at the original cost of acquisition or construction, which includes material, labor and contractor services. Repairs, replacements and renewals of items of property determined to be less than a unit of property or that do not increase the property’s life or functionality are charged to maintenance expense. Upon retirement or sale of non-utility property, the original cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss is included in the income statements.
Depreciation | IPL and WPL use a combination of remaining life and straight-line depreciation methods as approved by their respective regulatory commissions. The composite or group method of depreciation is used, in which a single depreciation rate is applied to the gross investment in a particular class of property. This method pools similar assets and then depreciates each group as a whole. Periodic depreciation studies are performed to determine the appropriate group lives, net salvage, estimated cost of removal and group depreciation rates. These depreciation studies are subject to review and approval by IPL’s and WPL’s respective regulatory commissions. Depreciation expense is included within the recoverable cost of service component of rates charged to customers. The average rates of depreciation for electric, gas and other properties, consistent with current rate-making practices, were as follows:
| IPL |  | WPL
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2012 |  | 2014 |  | 2013 (a) |  | 2012
Electric - generation | 3.6% |  | 3.6% |  | 3.7% |  | 3.2% |  | 3.3% |  | 3.2%
Electric - distribution | 2.5% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.7% |  | 2.7% |  | 2.9%
Gas | 3.3% |  | 3.4% |  | 3.4% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.6%
Other | 4.2% |  | 4.4% |  | 4.5% |  | 6.0% |  | 5.1% |  | 5.3%
(a) | In 2012, the PSCW issued an order approving the implementation of updated depreciation rates for WPL effective January 1, 2013 as a result of a recently completed depreciation study. In 2013, the PSCW and FERC issued orders approving WPL’s requests to revise depreciation rates associated with the acquisition of Riverside effective January 1, 2013.
AFUDC | AFUDC represents costs to finance construction additions including a return on equity component and cost of debt component as required by regulatory accounting. AFUDC for IPL’s construction projects is calculated in accordance with FERC guidelines. AFUDC for WPL’s retail and wholesale jurisdiction construction projects is calculated in accordance with PSCW and FERC guidelines, respectively. The AFUDC recovery rates, computed in accordance with the prescribed regulatory formula, were as follows:
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2012
IPL (FERC formula - Marshalltown CWIP) (a) | 8.0% |  | —% |  | —%
IPL (FERC formula - other CWIP) | 7.8% |  | 8.2% |  | 8.2%
WPL (PSCW formula - retail jurisdiction) | 8.2% |  | 8.2% |  | 8.8%
WPL (FERC formula - wholesale jurisdiction) | 4.1% |  | 4.5% |  | 7.9%
(a) | In 2013, the IUB issued an order establishing rate-making principles for Marshalltown that requires a 10.3% return on common equity for the calculation of AFUDC related to the construction of such facility.
In accordance with their most recent rate orders, IPL applies its AFUDC recovery rates to 100% of applicable CWIP balances and WPL generally applies its AFUDC recovery rates to 50% of applicable CWIP balances. WPL may apply its AFUDC recovery rates to 100% of the retail portion of the CWIP balances for construction projects requiring a CA or CPCN that were approved by the PSCW after their most recent rate order.
Operating Revenues | Utility - Revenues from Alliant Energy’s utility business are primarily from electricity and natural gas sales and are recognized on an accrual basis as services are rendered or commodities are delivered to customers. Energy sales to individual customers are based on the reading of customers’ meters, which occurs on a systematic basis throughout each reporting period. Amounts of energy delivered to customers since the date of the last meter reading are estimated at the end of each reporting period and the corresponding estimated unbilled revenue is recorded in such reporting period. The unbilled revenue estimate is based on daily system demand volumes, estimated customer usage by class, weather impacts, line losses and the most recent customer rates. IPL and WPL accrue revenues from their wholesale customers to the extent that the actual net revenue requirements calculated in accordance with FERC-approved formula rates for the reporting period are higher or lower than the amounts billed to wholesale customers during such period. Regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities are recorded as the offset for these accrued revenues under formulaic rate-making programs. IPL’s estimated recovery amount is recorded in the current period of service and is reflected in customer bills within two years under the provisions of approved formula rates. WPL’s estimated recovery amount is recorded in the current period of service and subject to final adjustments after a customer audit period in the subsequent year. Final settled recovery amounts are reflected in WPL’s customer bills within two years under the provisions of approved formula rates. IPL and WPL participate in bid/offer-based wholesale energy and ancillary services markets operated by MISO. IPL’s and WPL’s customers and generating resources are located in the MISO region. MISO requires that all load serving entities and generation owners, including IPL and WPL, submit hourly day-ahead and/or real-time bids and offers for energy and ancillary services. The MISO day-ahead and real-time transactions are grouped together, resulting in a net supply to or net purchase from MISO for each hour of each day. The net supply to MISO is recorded in “Electric utility operating revenues” and the net purchase from MISO is recorded in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements. IPL and WPL also engage in transactions in PJM’s bid/offer-based wholesale energy market, which are accounted for similar to the MISO transactions. Non-regulated - Revenues from Alliant Energy’s non-regulated businesses are primarily from its Transportation business and are recognized on an accrual basis as services are rendered or goods are delivered to customers. Taxes Collected from Customers - Certain of Alliant Energy’s subsidiaries serve as collection agents for sales or various other taxes and record revenues on a net basis. Operating revenues do not include the collection of the aforementioned taxes.
Utility Cost Recovery Mechanisms | Electric Production Fuel and Energy Purchases (Fuel-related Costs) - Fuel-related costs are incurred each period to generate and purchase electricity to meet the demand of IPL’s and WPL’s electric customers. These fuel-related costs include the cost of fossil fuels (primarily coal and natural gas) used during each period to produce electricity at their EGUs, electricity purchased each period from wholesale energy markets (primarily MISO) and under PPAs, costs for allowances acquired to allow certain emissions (primarily SO2 and NOx) from their EGUs and costs for chemicals utilized to control emissions from their EGUs. These fuel-related costs are recorded in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements. IPL Retail - The cost recovery mechanisms applicable for IPL’s retail electric customers provide for subsequent adjustments to their electric rates each month for changes in fuel-related costs. Fuel adjustment clause rules applicable to IPL’s Iowa retail jurisdiction also currently allow IPL to recover prudently incurred costs for emission allowances required to comply with EPA regulations, including the Acid Rain program and CAIR, through the fuel adjustment clause. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs each period are recognized in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. The fuel adjustment clause rules applicable to IPL’s Iowa retail jurisdiction currently do not contain a provision for recovery of emission controls chemical costs to flow through the fuel adjustment clause. The fuel adjustment clause rules applicable to IPL’s Minnesota retail jurisdiction currently do not contain a provision for recovery of emission allowance costs or emission controls chemical costs through the fuel adjustment clause. Effective February 22, 2014, IPL began recovering the Iowa retail portion of the DAEC PPA costs from its Iowa retail electric customers through the fuel adjustment clause pursuant to a January 2013 IUB order. This PPA does not contain minimum payments for electric generating capacity. WPL Retail - The cost recovery mechanism applicable for WPL’s retail electric customers is based on forecasts of certain fuel-related costs expected to be incurred during forward-looking test year periods and fuel monitoring ranges determined by the PSCW during each electric retail rate proceeding or in a separate fuel cost plan approval proceeding. However, if WPL’s actual fuel-related costs fall outside these fuel monitoring ranges during the test period, WPL is authorized to defer the incremental under-/over-collection of fuel-related costs that are outside the approved ranges. Deferral of under-collections are reduced to the extent actual return on common equity earned by WPL during the fuel cost plan year exceeds the most recently authorized return on common equity. Deferred amounts for fuel-related costs outside the approved fuel monitoring ranges are recognized in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s income statements each period. The cumulative effects of these deferred amounts are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. WPL’s retail fuel-related costs include costs for emission allowances and emission controls chemicals. IPL and WPL Wholesale - The cost recovery mechanisms applicable for IPL’s and WPL’s wholesale electric customers provide for subsequent adjustments to their electric rates for changes in fuel-related costs. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs are recognized in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements each period. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on the balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. IPL’s and WPL’s costs for emission allowances and emission controls chemicals are excluded from the fuel-related cost recovery mechanisms and are recovered from their wholesale electric customers through annual changes in base rates determined by a formula rate structure. Purchased Electric Capacity - PPAs help meet the electricity demand of IPL’s and WPL’s customers. Certain of these PPAs include minimum payments for IPL’s and WPL’s rights to electric generating capacity, which are charged each period to “Purchased electric capacity” in the income statements. Purchased electric capacity expenses are recovered from IPL’s and WPL’s retail electric customers through changes in base rates determined during periodic rate proceedings. Purchased electric capacity expenses are recovered from IPL’s and WPL’s wholesale electric customers through annual changes in base rates determined by a formula rate structure. Electric Transmission Service - Costs incurred for the transmission of electricity to meet the demands of IPL’s and WPL’s customers are charged each period to “Electric transmission service” in the income statements. IPL Retail - Electric transmission service expense is recovered from IPL’s Iowa retail electric customers through a transmission cost rider. This cost recovery mechanism provides for annual adjustments to electric rates charged to Iowa electric retail customers for changes in electric transmission service expense. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs are recognized in “Electric transmission service” in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements each period. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. The transmission cost rider will remain in effect until the IUB’s final decision in IPL’s next retail electric base rate case, at which time the rider will continue in its current form, continue in a modified form or be terminated. WPL Retail - Electric transmission service expense is recovered from WPL’s retail electric customers through changes in base rates determined during periodic rate proceedings. Pursuant to the escrow accounting treatment WPL received as part of its approved retail electric rate case (2015/2016 Test Period) in July 2014 from the PSCW, the difference between actual electric transmission service expense incurred and the amount of electric transmission service costs collected from customers as electric revenues in 2015 and 2016 will be recognized in “Electric transmission service” in Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s income statements each period. An offsetting amount will be recorded in “Regulatory assets” or “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. IPL and WPL Wholesale - IPL and WPL arrange transmission service for the majority of their respective wholesale electric customers. Electric transmission service expense is allocated to and recovered from these customers based on a load ratio share computation. Cost of Gas Sold - Costs are incurred for the purchase, transportation and storage of natural gas to serve IPL’s and WPL’s gas customers and the costs associated with the natural gas delivered to customers during each period are charged to “Cost of gas sold” in the income statements. The tariffs for IPL’s and WPL’s retail gas customers provide for subsequent adjustments to their rates each month for changes in the cost of gas sold. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs are also recognized in “Cost of gas sold” in the income statements each period. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on the balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. Energy Efficiency Costs - Costs are incurred to fund energy efficiency programs and initiatives that help customers reduce their energy usage. The costs incurred for these programs and initiatives are charged to “Utility - Other operation and maintenance” in the income statements each period. Energy efficiency costs incurred by IPL are recovered from its retail electric and gas customers in Iowa through an additional tariff called an EECR factor. EECR factors are revised annually and include a reconciliation to eliminate any under-/over-collection of energy efficiency costs from prior periods. Energy efficiency costs incurred by WPL are recovered from retail electric and gas customers through changes in base rates determined during periodic rate proceedings. Reconciliations of any under-/over-collection of energy efficiency costs from prior periods are also addressed in WPL’s periodic rate proceedings. Changes in the under-/over-collection of energy efficiency costs each period for IPL and WPL are recognized in “Utility - Other operation and maintenance” in the income statements. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs for IPL and WPL are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on the balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers.
Financial Instruments | Financial instruments are periodically used for risk management purposes to mitigate exposures to fluctuations in certain commodity prices and transmission congestion costs. The fair value of those financial instruments that are determined to be derivatives are recorded as assets or liabilities on the balance sheets. At the end of each reporting period, derivative instruments representing unrealized gain positions are reported as derivative assets, and derivative instruments representing unrealized loss positions are reported as derivative liabilities. Certain commodity purchase and sales contracts qualify for and have been designated under the normal purchase and sale exception. Based on this designation, such contracts are accounted for on the accrual basis of accounting. Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL have elected to not net the fair value amounts of derivatives subject to a master netting arrangement by counterparty. Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL do not offset fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral (receivable) or the obligation to return cash collateral (payable) against fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments that are executed with the same counterparty under the same master netting arrangement.
Asset Impairments | Property, Plant and Equipment of Regulated Operations - Property, plant and equipment of regulated operations are reviewed for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate all or a portion of the carrying value of the assets may be disallowed for rate-making purposes. If IPL or WPL are disallowed recovery of any portion of the carrying value of their regulated property, plant and equipment that is under construction, has been recently completed or is probable of abandonment, an impairment charge is recognized equal to the amount of the carrying value that was disallowed. If IPL or WPL are disallowed a full or partial return on the carrying value of their regulated property, plant and equipment that is under construction, has been recently completed or is probable of abandonment, an impairment charge is recognized equal to the difference between the carrying value and the present value of the future revenues expected from their regulated property, plant and equipment. Refer to Note 3 for discussion of adjustments made by Alliant Energy and IPL in 2013 to the carrying value of IPL’s Whispering Willow - East wind project, based on the MPUC approving full cost recovery of the Minnesota retail portion of the wind project construction costs in 2013. Property, Plant and Equipment of Non-regulated Operations - Property, plant and equipment of non-regulated operations are reviewed for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. Impairment is indicated if the carrying value of an asset exceeds its undiscounted future cash flows. An impairment charge is recognized equal to the amount the carrying value exceeds the asset’s fair value. Unconsolidated Equity Investments - If events or circumstances indicate the carrying value of investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting may not be recoverable and the decline in value is other than temporary, potential impairment is assessed. If an impairment is indicated, a charge is recognized equal to the amount the carrying value exceeds the investment’s fair value.
Emission Allowances | Emission allowances are granted by the EPA at zero cost and permit the holder of the allowances to emit certain gaseous by-products of fossil fuel combustion, including SO2 and NOx. Purchased emission allowances are recorded as intangible assets at their original cost and evaluated for impairment as long-lived assets to be held and used. Emission allowances allocated or acquired are held primarily for consumption. Amortization of emission allowances recorded in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements in 2014, 2013 and 2012 was not material, and is based upon a weighted average cost for each EPA compliance program category of vintage year utilized during the reporting period. As of December 31, 2014, future estimated amortization expense for emission allowances was not material for 2015 through 2019. Cash inflows and outflows related to sales and purchases of emission allowances are presented in investing activities in the cash flows statements.
Asset Retirement Obligations | The fair value of a legal obligation associated with the retirement costs of an asset is recorded as a liability with an equivalent amount added to the asset cost when an asset is placed in service, when a legal obligation is subsequently identified or when sufficient information becomes available to determine a reasonable estimate of the fair value of future retirement costs. The fair value of AROs is determined using discounted cash flows analyses. The liability is accreted to its present value and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the useful life of the related asset. Accretion and depreciation expenses related to AROs for IPL’s and WPL’s regulated operations are recorded to regulatory assets on the balance sheets. Upon regulatory approval to recover IPL’s AROs expenditures, its regulatory assets are amortized to depreciation and amortization expenses in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements over the same time period that IPL’s customer rates are increased to recover the ARO expenditures. Effective January 1, 2013, WPL’s regulatory assets related to AROs are being recovered as a component of depreciation rates included in the most recent depreciation study approved by the PSCW in its May 2012 order. Accretion and depreciation expenses related to AROs for Alliant Energy’s non-regulated operations are recorded to depreciation and amortization expenses in Alliant Energy’s income statements. Upon settlement of the ARO liability, an entity settles the obligation for its recorded amount or incurs a gain or loss. Any gains or losses related to AROs for IPL’s and WPL’s regulated operations are recorded to regulatory liabilities or regulatory assets on the balance sheets.
Debt Issuance and Retirement Costs | Debt issuance costs and debt premiums or discounts are deferred and amortized over the expected life of each debt issue, considering maturity dates and, if applicable, redemption rights held by others. Alliant Energy’s non-regulated businesses and Corporate Services expense in the period of retirement any unamortized debt issuance costs and debt premiums or discounts on debt retired early.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts | Allowances for doubtful accounts are recorded for estimated losses resulting from the inability of customers to make required payments. Allowances for doubtful accounts are estimated based on historical write-offs, customer arrears and other economic factors within IPL’s and WPL’s service territories.
Variable Interest Entities | An entity is considered a VIE if its equity investors do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties, or its equity investors lack any of the following characteristics: (1) power, through voting rights or similar rights, to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance; (2) the obligation to absorb expected losses of the entity; or (3) the right to receive expected benefits of the entity. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is required to consolidate the VIE. The financial statements did not reflect any VIEs on a consolidated basis.
Cash Flows Presentation | Alliant Energy presents cash flows from continuing operations together with cash flows from discontinued operations in its cash flows statements.
New Accounting Pronouncements | Revenue Recognition - In May 2014, FASB issued an accounting standard providing principles for recognizing revenue for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers with the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This standard also requires disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL are required to adopt this standard on January 1, 2017 and are currently evaluating the impact on their financial condition and results of operations. Discontinued Operations - In April 2014, FASB issued an accounting standard that changes the criteria for reporting and qualifying for discontinued operations. Under the new standard, a disposal of a component or a group of components of an entity is required to be reported in discontinued operations if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on an entity’s operational and financial results. The new standard also requires additional disclosures about discontinued operations and individually significant components of an entity that are disposed of or that are classified as held for sale and do not qualify for discontinued operations. In the fourth quarter of 2014, Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL elected to early adopt the new standard, which is applied prospectively. As of December 31, 2014, IPL’s Minnesota natural gas distribution assets qualified as held for sale. Alliant Energy and IPL evaluated the anticipated sale of these assets and believe it did not represent a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on their operational and financial results. As a result, the operating results of IPL’s Minnesota natural gas distribution assets have not been separately classified and reported as discontinued operations in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements. Alliant Energy and IPL are currently evaluating the impact of the new standard on IPL’s anticipated sale of its Minnesota electric distribution assets and currently do not expect the anticipated sale of these assets to qualify as discontinued operations under the new standard.
IPL [Member] |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] |
General, Basis of Presentation | The financial statements reflect investments in controlled subsidiaries on a consolidated basis and Alliant Energy’s, IPL’s and WPL’s proportionate shares of jointly-owned utility EGUs. Unconsolidated investments, which Alliant Energy and WPL do not control, but do have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies, are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Investments that do not meet the criteria for consolidation or the equity method of accounting are accounted for under the cost method. Refer to Notes 1(n) and 6(a) for further discussion of VIEs and equity method investments, respectively. All intercompany balances and transactions, other than certain transactions affecting the rate-making process at IPL and WPL, have been eliminated from the financial statements. Such transactions not eliminated include costs that are recoverable from customers through rate-making processes.
General, Basis of Accounting | The financial statements are prepared in conformity with GAAP, which give recognition to the rate-making and accounting practices of FERC and state commissions having regulatory jurisdiction.
General, Reclassification | Certain prior period amounts in the Financial Statements and Notes have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation for comparative purposes. The balance sheets presentation changed from a utility format to a traditional format. This change revised the order of certain balance sheet line items and did not result in any changes in classification of amounts between line items. Unless otherwise noted, the notes herein exclude discontinued operations for all periods presented, and assets and liabilities held for sale as of December 31, 2014.
General, Use of Estimates | The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect: (a) the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements; and (b) the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Regulatory Assets and Regulatory Liabilities | Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL are subject to regulation by FERC and various state regulatory commissions. As a result, Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL are subject to GAAP provisions for regulated operations, which provide that rate-regulated public utilities record certain costs and credits allowed in the rate-making process in different periods than for non-regulated entities. Regulatory assets generally represent incurred costs that have been deferred as such costs are probable of recovery in future customer rates. Regulatory liabilities generally represent obligations to make refunds to customers or amounts collected in rates for which the related costs have not yet been incurred. Amounts deferred as regulatory assets or accrued as regulatory liabilities are generally recognized in the income statements at the time they are reflected in rates.
Income Taxes | The liability method of accounting is followed for deferred income taxes, which requires the establishment of deferred income tax assets and liabilities, as appropriate, for temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and the amounts reported in the financial statements. Deferred income taxes are recorded using currently enacted tax rates and estimates of state apportionment rates. Changes in deferred income tax assets and liabilities associated with certain property-related differences at IPL are accounted for differently than other subsidiaries of Alliant Energy due to rate-making practices in Iowa. Rate-making practices in Iowa do not include the impact of certain deferred tax expenses (benefits) in the determination of retail rates. Based on these rate-making practices, deferred tax expense (benefit) related to these property-related differences at IPL is not recorded in the income statement but instead recorded to regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities until these temporary differences reverse. Refer to Note 2 for further discussion of regulatory assets and regulatory liabilities associated with property-related differences at IPL. In Wisconsin, the PSCW has allowed rate recovery of deferred tax expense on all temporary differences since 1991. Investment tax credits are deferred and amortized to income over the average lives of the related property. Other tax credits reduce income tax expense in the year claimed. The alternative transition method has been elected to calculate the beginning pool of excess tax benefits available to absorb any tax deficiencies associated with recognition of share-based payment awards. Alliant Energy files a consolidated federal income tax return, which includes the aggregate taxable income or loss of Alliant Energy and its subsidiaries. In addition, a combined return including Alliant Energy and all of its subsidiaries is filed in Wisconsin. Alliant Energy subsidiaries with a presence in Iowa file as part of a consolidated return in Iowa. Under the terms of a tax sharing agreement between Alliant Energy and its subsidiaries, IPL and WPL calculate state income tax using consolidated apportionment rates applied to separate company taxable income.
Cash and Cash Equivalents | Cash and cash equivalents include short-term liquid investments that have original maturities of less than 90 days.
Property, Plant and Equipment | Non-utility Property - General - Non-utility property is recorded at the original cost of acquisition or construction, which includes material, labor and contractor services. Repairs, replacements and renewals of items of property determined to be less than a unit of property or that do not increase the property’s life or functionality are charged to maintenance expense. Upon retirement or sale of non-utility property, the original cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss is included in the income statements. Utility Plant - General - Utility plant is recorded at the original cost of acquisition or construction, which includes material, labor, contractor services, AFUDC and allocable overheads, such as supervision, engineering, benefits, certain taxes and transportation. Repairs, replacements and renewals of items of property determined to be less than a unit of property or that do not increase the property’s life or functionality are charged to maintenance expense. Ordinary retirements of utility plant and salvage value are netted and charged to accumulated depreciation upon removal from utility plant accounts and no gain or loss is recognized consistent with rate-making policies. Removal costs incurred reduce the regulatory liability. Property, plant and equipment that is probable of being retired early is classified as plant anticipated to be retired early.
Depreciation | IPL and WPL use a combination of remaining life and straight-line depreciation methods as approved by their respective regulatory commissions. The composite or group method of depreciation is used, in which a single depreciation rate is applied to the gross investment in a particular class of property. This method pools similar assets and then depreciates each group as a whole. Periodic depreciation studies are performed to determine the appropriate group lives, net salvage, estimated cost of removal and group depreciation rates. These depreciation studies are subject to review and approval by IPL’s and WPL’s respective regulatory commissions. Depreciation expense is included within the recoverable cost of service component of rates charged to customers. The average rates of depreciation for electric, gas and other properties, consistent with current rate-making practices, were as follows:
| IPL |  | WPL
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2012 |  | 2014 |  | 2013 (a) |  | 2012
Electric - generation | 3.6% |  | 3.6% |  | 3.7% |  | 3.2% |  | 3.3% |  | 3.2%
Electric - distribution | 2.5% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.7% |  | 2.7% |  | 2.9%
Gas | 3.3% |  | 3.4% |  | 3.4% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.6%
Other | 4.2% |  | 4.4% |  | 4.5% |  | 6.0% |  | 5.1% |  | 5.3%
(a) | In 2012, the PSCW issued an order approving the implementation of updated depreciation rates for WPL effective January 1, 2013 as a result of a recently completed depreciation study. In 2013, the PSCW and FERC issued orders approving WPL’s requests to revise depreciation rates associated with the acquisition of Riverside effective January 1, 2013.
AFUDC | AFUDC represents costs to finance construction additions including a return on equity component and cost of debt component as required by regulatory accounting. AFUDC for IPL’s construction projects is calculated in accordance with FERC guidelines. AFUDC for WPL’s retail and wholesale jurisdiction construction projects is calculated in accordance with PSCW and FERC guidelines, respectively. The AFUDC recovery rates, computed in accordance with the prescribed regulatory formula, were as follows:
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2012
IPL (FERC formula - Marshalltown CWIP) (a) | 8.0% |  | —% |  | —%
IPL (FERC formula - other CWIP) | 7.8% |  | 8.2% |  | 8.2%
WPL (PSCW formula - retail jurisdiction) | 8.2% |  | 8.2% |  | 8.8%
WPL (FERC formula - wholesale jurisdiction) | 4.1% |  | 4.5% |  | 7.9%
(a) | In 2013, the IUB issued an order establishing rate-making principles for Marshalltown that requires a 10.3% return on common equity for the calculation of AFUDC related to the construction of such facility.
In accordance with their most recent rate orders, IPL applies its AFUDC recovery rates to 100% of applicable CWIP balances and WPL generally applies its AFUDC recovery rates to 50% of applicable CWIP balances. WPL may apply its AFUDC recovery rates to 100% of the retail portion of the CWIP balances for construction projects requiring a CA or CPCN that were approved by the PSCW after their most recent rate order.
Operating Revenues | Utility - Revenues from Alliant Energy’s utility business are primarily from electricity and natural gas sales and are recognized on an accrual basis as services are rendered or commodities are delivered to customers. Energy sales to individual customers are based on the reading of customers’ meters, which occurs on a systematic basis throughout each reporting period. Amounts of energy delivered to customers since the date of the last meter reading are estimated at the end of each reporting period and the corresponding estimated unbilled revenue is recorded in such reporting period. The unbilled revenue estimate is based on daily system demand volumes, estimated customer usage by class, weather impacts, line losses and the most recent customer rates. IPL and WPL accrue revenues from their wholesale customers to the extent that the actual net revenue requirements calculated in accordance with FERC-approved formula rates for the reporting period are higher or lower than the amounts billed to wholesale customers during such period. Regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities are recorded as the offset for these accrued revenues under formulaic rate-making programs. IPL’s estimated recovery amount is recorded in the current period of service and is reflected in customer bills within two years under the provisions of approved formula rates. WPL’s estimated recovery amount is recorded in the current period of service and subject to final adjustments after a customer audit period in the subsequent year. Final settled recovery amounts are reflected in WPL’s customer bills within two years under the provisions of approved formula rates. IPL and WPL participate in bid/offer-based wholesale energy and ancillary services markets operated by MISO. IPL’s and WPL’s customers and generating resources are located in the MISO region. MISO requires that all load serving entities and generation owners, including IPL and WPL, submit hourly day-ahead and/or real-time bids and offers for energy and ancillary services. The MISO day-ahead and real-time transactions are grouped together, resulting in a net supply to or net purchase from MISO for each hour of each day. The net supply to MISO is recorded in “Electric utility operating revenues” and the net purchase from MISO is recorded in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements. IPL and WPL also engage in transactions in PJM’s bid/offer-based wholesale energy market, which are accounted for similar to the MISO transactions. Non-regulated - Revenues from Alliant Energy’s non-regulated businesses are primarily from its Transportation business and are recognized on an accrual basis as services are rendered or goods are delivered to customers. Taxes Collected from Customers - Certain of Alliant Energy’s subsidiaries serve as collection agents for sales or various other taxes and record revenues on a net basis. Operating revenues do not include the collection of the aforementioned taxes.
Utility Cost Recovery Mechanisms | Electric Production Fuel and Energy Purchases (Fuel-related Costs) - Fuel-related costs are incurred each period to generate and purchase electricity to meet the demand of IPL’s and WPL’s electric customers. These fuel-related costs include the cost of fossil fuels (primarily coal and natural gas) used during each period to produce electricity at their EGUs, electricity purchased each period from wholesale energy markets (primarily MISO) and under PPAs, costs for allowances acquired to allow certain emissions (primarily SO2 and NOx) from their EGUs and costs for chemicals utilized to control emissions from their EGUs. These fuel-related costs are recorded in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements. IPL Retail - The cost recovery mechanisms applicable for IPL’s retail electric customers provide for subsequent adjustments to their electric rates each month for changes in fuel-related costs. Fuel adjustment clause rules applicable to IPL’s Iowa retail jurisdiction also currently allow IPL to recover prudently incurred costs for emission allowances required to comply with EPA regulations, including the Acid Rain program and CAIR, through the fuel adjustment clause. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs each period are recognized in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. The fuel adjustment clause rules applicable to IPL’s Iowa retail jurisdiction currently do not contain a provision for recovery of emission controls chemical costs to flow through the fuel adjustment clause. The fuel adjustment clause rules applicable to IPL’s Minnesota retail jurisdiction currently do not contain a provision for recovery of emission allowance costs or emission controls chemical costs through the fuel adjustment clause. Effective February 22, 2014, IPL began recovering the Iowa retail portion of the DAEC PPA costs from its Iowa retail electric customers through the fuel adjustment clause pursuant to a January 2013 IUB order. This PPA does not contain minimum payments for electric generating capacity. WPL Retail - The cost recovery mechanism applicable for WPL’s retail electric customers is based on forecasts of certain fuel-related costs expected to be incurred during forward-looking test year periods and fuel monitoring ranges determined by the PSCW during each electric retail rate proceeding or in a separate fuel cost plan approval proceeding. However, if WPL’s actual fuel-related costs fall outside these fuel monitoring ranges during the test period, WPL is authorized to defer the incremental under-/over-collection of fuel-related costs that are outside the approved ranges. Deferral of under-collections are reduced to the extent actual return on common equity earned by WPL during the fuel cost plan year exceeds the most recently authorized return on common equity. Deferred amounts for fuel-related costs outside the approved fuel monitoring ranges are recognized in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s income statements each period. The cumulative effects of these deferred amounts are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. WPL’s retail fuel-related costs include costs for emission allowances and emission controls chemicals. IPL and WPL Wholesale - The cost recovery mechanisms applicable for IPL’s and WPL’s wholesale electric customers provide for subsequent adjustments to their electric rates for changes in fuel-related costs. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs are recognized in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements each period. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on the balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. IPL’s and WPL’s costs for emission allowances and emission controls chemicals are excluded from the fuel-related cost recovery mechanisms and are recovered from their wholesale electric customers through annual changes in base rates determined by a formula rate structure. Purchased Electric Capacity - PPAs help meet the electricity demand of IPL’s and WPL’s customers. Certain of these PPAs include minimum payments for IPL’s and WPL’s rights to electric generating capacity, which are charged each period to “Purchased electric capacity” in the income statements. Purchased electric capacity expenses are recovered from IPL’s and WPL’s retail electric customers through changes in base rates determined during periodic rate proceedings. Purchased electric capacity expenses are recovered from IPL’s and WPL’s wholesale electric customers through annual changes in base rates determined by a formula rate structure. Electric Transmission Service - Costs incurred for the transmission of electricity to meet the demands of IPL’s and WPL’s customers are charged each period to “Electric transmission service” in the income statements. IPL Retail - Electric transmission service expense is recovered from IPL’s Iowa retail electric customers through a transmission cost rider. This cost recovery mechanism provides for annual adjustments to electric rates charged to Iowa electric retail customers for changes in electric transmission service expense. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs are recognized in “Electric transmission service” in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements each period. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. The transmission cost rider will remain in effect until the IUB’s final decision in IPL’s next retail electric base rate case, at which time the rider will continue in its current form, continue in a modified form or be terminated. WPL Retail - Electric transmission service expense is recovered from WPL’s retail electric customers through changes in base rates determined during periodic rate proceedings. Pursuant to the escrow accounting treatment WPL received as part of its approved retail electric rate case (2015/2016 Test Period) in July 2014 from the PSCW, the difference between actual electric transmission service expense incurred and the amount of electric transmission service costs collected from customers as electric revenues in 2015 and 2016 will be recognized in “Electric transmission service” in Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s income statements each period. An offsetting amount will be recorded in “Regulatory assets” or “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. IPL and WPL Wholesale - IPL and WPL arrange transmission service for the majority of their respective wholesale electric customers. Electric transmission service expense is allocated to and recovered from these customers based on a load ratio share computation. Cost of Gas Sold - Costs are incurred for the purchase, transportation and storage of natural gas to serve IPL’s and WPL’s gas customers and the costs associated with the natural gas delivered to customers during each period are charged to “Cost of gas sold” in the income statements. The tariffs for IPL’s and WPL’s retail gas customers provide for subsequent adjustments to their rates each month for changes in the cost of gas sold. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs are also recognized in “Cost of gas sold” in the income statements each period. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on the balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. Energy Efficiency Costs - Costs are incurred to fund energy efficiency programs and initiatives that help customers reduce their energy usage. The costs incurred for these programs and initiatives are charged to “Utility - Other operation and maintenance” in the income statements each period. Energy efficiency costs incurred by IPL are recovered from its retail electric and gas customers in Iowa through an additional tariff called an EECR factor. EECR factors are revised annually and include a reconciliation to eliminate any under-/over-collection of energy efficiency costs from prior periods. Energy efficiency costs incurred by WPL are recovered from retail electric and gas customers through changes in base rates determined during periodic rate proceedings. Reconciliations of any under-/over-collection of energy efficiency costs from prior periods are also addressed in WPL’s periodic rate proceedings. Changes in the under-/over-collection of energy efficiency costs each period for IPL and WPL are recognized in “Utility - Other operation and maintenance” in the income statements. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs for IPL and WPL are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on the balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers.
Financial Instruments | Financial instruments are periodically used for risk management purposes to mitigate exposures to fluctuations in certain commodity prices and transmission congestion costs. The fair value of those financial instruments that are determined to be derivatives are recorded as assets or liabilities on the balance sheets. At the end of each reporting period, derivative instruments representing unrealized gain positions are reported as derivative assets, and derivative instruments representing unrealized loss positions are reported as derivative liabilities. Certain commodity purchase and sales contracts qualify for and have been designated under the normal purchase and sale exception. Based on this designation, such contracts are accounted for on the accrual basis of accounting. Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL have elected to not net the fair value amounts of derivatives subject to a master netting arrangement by counterparty. Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL do not offset fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral (receivable) or the obligation to return cash collateral (payable) against fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments that are executed with the same counterparty under the same master netting arrangement.
Asset Impairments | Property, Plant and Equipment of Regulated Operations - Property, plant and equipment of regulated operations are reviewed for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate all or a portion of the carrying value of the assets may be disallowed for rate-making purposes. If IPL or WPL are disallowed recovery of any portion of the carrying value of their regulated property, plant and equipment that is under construction, has been recently completed or is probable of abandonment, an impairment charge is recognized equal to the amount of the carrying value that was disallowed. If IPL or WPL are disallowed a full or partial return on the carrying value of their regulated property, plant and equipment that is under construction, has been recently completed or is probable of abandonment, an impairment charge is recognized equal to the difference between the carrying value and the present value of the future revenues expected from their regulated property, plant and equipment. Refer to Note 3 for discussion of adjustments made by Alliant Energy and IPL in 2013 to the carrying value of IPL’s Whispering Willow - East wind project, based on the MPUC approving full cost recovery of the Minnesota retail portion of the wind project construction costs in 2013. Property, Plant and Equipment of Non-regulated Operations - Property, plant and equipment of non-regulated operations are reviewed for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. Impairment is indicated if the carrying value of an asset exceeds its undiscounted future cash flows. An impairment charge is recognized equal to the amount the carrying value exceeds the asset’s fair value. Unconsolidated Equity Investments - If events or circumstances indicate the carrying value of investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting may not be recoverable and the decline in value is other than temporary, potential impairment is assessed. If an impairment is indicated, a charge is recognized equal to the amount the carrying value exceeds the investment’s fair value.
Emission Allowances | Emission allowances are granted by the EPA at zero cost and permit the holder of the allowances to emit certain gaseous by-products of fossil fuel combustion, including SO2 and NOx. Purchased emission allowances are recorded as intangible assets at their original cost and evaluated for impairment as long-lived assets to be held and used. Emission allowances allocated or acquired are held primarily for consumption. Amortization of emission allowances recorded in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements in 2014, 2013 and 2012 was not material, and is based upon a weighted average cost for each EPA compliance program category of vintage year utilized during the reporting period. As of December 31, 2014, future estimated amortization expense for emission allowances was not material for 2015 through 2019. Cash inflows and outflows related to sales and purchases of emission allowances are presented in investing activities in the cash flows statements.
Asset Retirement Obligations | The fair value of a legal obligation associated with the retirement costs of an asset is recorded as a liability with an equivalent amount added to the asset cost when an asset is placed in service, when a legal obligation is subsequently identified or when sufficient information becomes available to determine a reasonable estimate of the fair value of future retirement costs. The fair value of AROs is determined using discounted cash flows analyses. The liability is accreted to its present value and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the useful life of the related asset. Accretion and depreciation expenses related to AROs for IPL’s and WPL’s regulated operations are recorded to regulatory assets on the balance sheets. Upon regulatory approval to recover IPL’s AROs expenditures, its regulatory assets are amortized to depreciation and amortization expenses in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements over the same time period that IPL’s customer rates are increased to recover the ARO expenditures. Effective January 1, 2013, WPL’s regulatory assets related to AROs are being recovered as a component of depreciation rates included in the most recent depreciation study approved by the PSCW in its May 2012 order. Accretion and depreciation expenses related to AROs for Alliant Energy’s non-regulated operations are recorded to depreciation and amortization expenses in Alliant Energy’s income statements. Upon settlement of the ARO liability, an entity settles the obligation for its recorded amount or incurs a gain or loss. Any gains or losses related to AROs for IPL’s and WPL’s regulated operations are recorded to regulatory liabilities or regulatory assets on the balance sheets.
Debt Issuance and Retirement Costs | Debt issuance costs and debt premiums or discounts are deferred and amortized over the expected life of each debt issue, considering maturity dates and, if applicable, redemption rights held by others. Alliant Energy’s non-regulated businesses and Corporate Services expense in the period of retirement any unamortized debt issuance costs and debt premiums or discounts on debt retired early.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts | Allowances for doubtful accounts are recorded for estimated losses resulting from the inability of customers to make required payments. Allowances for doubtful accounts are estimated based on historical write-offs, customer arrears and other economic factors within IPL’s and WPL’s service territories.
Variable Interest Entities | An entity is considered a VIE if its equity investors do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties, or its equity investors lack any of the following characteristics: (1) power, through voting rights or similar rights, to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance; (2) the obligation to absorb expected losses of the entity; or (3) the right to receive expected benefits of the entity. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is required to consolidate the VIE. The financial statements did not reflect any VIEs on a consolidated basis.
New Accounting Pronouncements | Revenue Recognition - In May 2014, FASB issued an accounting standard providing principles for recognizing revenue for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers with the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This standard also requires disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL are required to adopt this standard on January 1, 2017 and are currently evaluating the impact on their financial condition and results of operations. Discontinued Operations - In April 2014, FASB issued an accounting standard that changes the criteria for reporting and qualifying for discontinued operations. Under the new standard, a disposal of a component or a group of components of an entity is required to be reported in discontinued operations if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on an entity’s operational and financial results. The new standard also requires additional disclosures about discontinued operations and individually significant components of an entity that are disposed of or that are classified as held for sale and do not qualify for discontinued operations. In the fourth quarter of 2014, Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL elected to early adopt the new standard, which is applied prospectively. As of December 31, 2014, IPL’s Minnesota natural gas distribution assets qualified as held for sale. Alliant Energy and IPL evaluated the anticipated sale of these assets and believe it did not represent a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on their operational and financial results. As a result, the operating results of IPL’s Minnesota natural gas distribution assets have not been separately classified and reported as discontinued operations in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements. Alliant Energy and IPL are currently evaluating the impact of the new standard on IPL’s anticipated sale of its Minnesota electric distribution assets and currently do not expect the anticipated sale of these assets to qualify as discontinued operations under the new standard.
WPL [Member] |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] |
General, Basis of Presentation | The financial statements reflect investments in controlled subsidiaries on a consolidated basis and Alliant Energy’s, IPL’s and WPL’s proportionate shares of jointly-owned utility EGUs. Unconsolidated investments, which Alliant Energy and WPL do not control, but do have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies, are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Investments that do not meet the criteria for consolidation or the equity method of accounting are accounted for under the cost method. Refer to Notes 1(n) and 6(a) for further discussion of VIEs and equity method investments, respectively. All intercompany balances and transactions, other than certain transactions affecting the rate-making process at IPL and WPL, have been eliminated from the financial statements. Such transactions not eliminated include costs that are recoverable from customers through rate-making processes.
General, Basis of Accounting | The financial statements are prepared in conformity with GAAP, which give recognition to the rate-making and accounting practices of FERC and state commissions having regulatory jurisdiction.
General, Reclassification | Certain prior period amounts in the Financial Statements and Notes have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation for comparative purposes. The balance sheets presentation changed from a utility format to a traditional format. This change revised the order of certain balance sheet line items and did not result in any changes in classification of amounts between line items. Unless otherwise noted, the notes herein exclude discontinued operations for all periods presented, and assets and liabilities held for sale as of December 31, 2014.
General, Use of Estimates | The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect: (a) the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements; and (b) the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Regulatory Assets and Regulatory Liabilities | Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL are subject to regulation by FERC and various state regulatory commissions. As a result, Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL are subject to GAAP provisions for regulated operations, which provide that rate-regulated public utilities record certain costs and credits allowed in the rate-making process in different periods than for non-regulated entities. Regulatory assets generally represent incurred costs that have been deferred as such costs are probable of recovery in future customer rates. Regulatory liabilities generally represent obligations to make refunds to customers or amounts collected in rates for which the related costs have not yet been incurred. Amounts deferred as regulatory assets or accrued as regulatory liabilities are generally recognized in the income statements at the time they are reflected in rates.
Income Taxes | The liability method of accounting is followed for deferred income taxes, which requires the establishment of deferred income tax assets and liabilities, as appropriate, for temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and the amounts reported in the financial statements. Deferred income taxes are recorded using currently enacted tax rates and estimates of state apportionment rates. Changes in deferred income tax assets and liabilities associated with certain property-related differences at IPL are accounted for differently than other subsidiaries of Alliant Energy due to rate-making practices in Iowa. Rate-making practices in Iowa do not include the impact of certain deferred tax expenses (benefits) in the determination of retail rates. Based on these rate-making practices, deferred tax expense (benefit) related to these property-related differences at IPL is not recorded in the income statement but instead recorded to regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities until these temporary differences reverse. Refer to Note 2 for further discussion of regulatory assets and regulatory liabilities associated with property-related differences at IPL. In Wisconsin, the PSCW has allowed rate recovery of deferred tax expense on all temporary differences since 1991. Investment tax credits are deferred and amortized to income over the average lives of the related property. Other tax credits reduce income tax expense in the year claimed. The alternative transition method has been elected to calculate the beginning pool of excess tax benefits available to absorb any tax deficiencies associated with recognition of share-based payment awards. Alliant Energy files a consolidated federal income tax return, which includes the aggregate taxable income or loss of Alliant Energy and its subsidiaries. In addition, a combined return including Alliant Energy and all of its subsidiaries is filed in Wisconsin. Alliant Energy subsidiaries with a presence in Iowa file as part of a consolidated return in Iowa. Under the terms of a tax sharing agreement between Alliant Energy and its subsidiaries, IPL and WPL calculate state income tax using consolidated apportionment rates applied to separate company taxable income.
Cash and Cash Equivalents | Cash and cash equivalents include short-term liquid investments that have original maturities of less than 90 days.
Property, Plant and Equipment | Non-utility Property - General - Non-utility property is recorded at the original cost of acquisition or construction, which includes material, labor and contractor services. Repairs, replacements and renewals of items of property determined to be less than a unit of property or that do not increase the property’s life or functionality are charged to maintenance expense. Upon retirement or sale of non-utility property, the original cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss is included in the income statements. Utility Plant - General - Utility plant is recorded at the original cost of acquisition or construction, which includes material, labor, contractor services, AFUDC and allocable overheads, such as supervision, engineering, benefits, certain taxes and transportation. Repairs, replacements and renewals of items of property determined to be less than a unit of property or that do not increase the property’s life or functionality are charged to maintenance expense. Ordinary retirements of utility plant and salvage value are netted and charged to accumulated depreciation upon removal from utility plant accounts and no gain or loss is recognized consistent with rate-making policies. Removal costs incurred reduce the regulatory liability. Property, plant and equipment that is probable of being retired early is classified as plant anticipated to be retired early.
Depreciation | IPL and WPL use a combination of remaining life and straight-line depreciation methods as approved by their respective regulatory commissions. The composite or group method of depreciation is used, in which a single depreciation rate is applied to the gross investment in a particular class of property. This method pools similar assets and then depreciates each group as a whole. Periodic depreciation studies are performed to determine the appropriate group lives, net salvage, estimated cost of removal and group depreciation rates. These depreciation studies are subject to review and approval by IPL’s and WPL’s respective regulatory commissions. Depreciation expense is included within the recoverable cost of service component of rates charged to customers. The average rates of depreciation for electric, gas and other properties, consistent with current rate-making practices, were as follows:
| IPL |  | WPL
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2012 |  | 2014 |  | 2013 (a) |  | 2012
Electric - generation | 3.6% |  | 3.6% |  | 3.7% |  | 3.2% |  | 3.3% |  | 3.2%
Electric - distribution | 2.5% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.7% |  | 2.7% |  | 2.9%
Gas | 3.3% |  | 3.4% |  | 3.4% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.5% |  | 2.6%
Other | 4.2% |  | 4.4% |  | 4.5% |  | 6.0% |  | 5.1% |  | 5.3%
(a) | In 2012, the PSCW issued an order approving the implementation of updated depreciation rates for WPL effective January 1, 2013 as a result of a recently completed depreciation study. In 2013, the PSCW and FERC issued orders approving WPL’s requests to revise depreciation rates associated with the acquisition of Riverside effective January 1, 2013.
AFUDC | AFUDC represents costs to finance construction additions including a return on equity component and cost of debt component as required by regulatory accounting. AFUDC for IPL’s construction projects is calculated in accordance with FERC guidelines. AFUDC for WPL’s retail and wholesale jurisdiction construction projects is calculated in accordance with PSCW and FERC guidelines, respectively. The AFUDC recovery rates, computed in accordance with the prescribed regulatory formula, were as follows:
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2012
IPL (FERC formula - Marshalltown CWIP) (a) | 8.0% |  | —% |  | —%
IPL (FERC formula - other CWIP) | 7.8% |  | 8.2% |  | 8.2%
WPL (PSCW formula - retail jurisdiction) | 8.2% |  | 8.2% |  | 8.8%
WPL (FERC formula - wholesale jurisdiction) | 4.1% |  | 4.5% |  | 7.9%
(a) | In 2013, the IUB issued an order establishing rate-making principles for Marshalltown that requires a 10.3% return on common equity for the calculation of AFUDC related to the construction of such facility.
In accordance with their most recent rate orders, IPL applies its AFUDC recovery rates to 100% of applicable CWIP balances and WPL generally applies its AFUDC recovery rates to 50% of applicable CWIP balances. WPL may apply its AFUDC recovery rates to 100% of the retail portion of the CWIP balances for construction projects requiring a CA or CPCN that were approved by the PSCW after their most recent rate order.
Operating Revenues | Utility - Revenues from Alliant Energy’s utility business are primarily from electricity and natural gas sales and are recognized on an accrual basis as services are rendered or commodities are delivered to customers. Energy sales to individual customers are based on the reading of customers’ meters, which occurs on a systematic basis throughout each reporting period. Amounts of energy delivered to customers since the date of the last meter reading are estimated at the end of each reporting period and the corresponding estimated unbilled revenue is recorded in such reporting period. The unbilled revenue estimate is based on daily system demand volumes, estimated customer usage by class, weather impacts, line losses and the most recent customer rates. IPL and WPL accrue revenues from their wholesale customers to the extent that the actual net revenue requirements calculated in accordance with FERC-approved formula rates for the reporting period are higher or lower than the amounts billed to wholesale customers during such period. Regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities are recorded as the offset for these accrued revenues under formulaic rate-making programs. IPL’s estimated recovery amount is recorded in the current period of service and is reflected in customer bills within two years under the provisions of approved formula rates. WPL’s estimated recovery amount is recorded in the current period of service and subject to final adjustments after a customer audit period in the subsequent year. Final settled recovery amounts are reflected in WPL’s customer bills within two years under the provisions of approved formula rates. IPL and WPL participate in bid/offer-based wholesale energy and ancillary services markets operated by MISO. IPL’s and WPL’s customers and generating resources are located in the MISO region. MISO requires that all load serving entities and generation owners, including IPL and WPL, submit hourly day-ahead and/or real-time bids and offers for energy and ancillary services. The MISO day-ahead and real-time transactions are grouped together, resulting in a net supply to or net purchase from MISO for each hour of each day. The net supply to MISO is recorded in “Electric utility operating revenues” and the net purchase from MISO is recorded in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements. IPL and WPL also engage in transactions in PJM’s bid/offer-based wholesale energy market, which are accounted for similar to the MISO transactions. Non-regulated - Revenues from Alliant Energy’s non-regulated businesses are primarily from its Transportation business and are recognized on an accrual basis as services are rendered or goods are delivered to customers. Taxes Collected from Customers - Certain of Alliant Energy’s subsidiaries serve as collection agents for sales or various other taxes and record revenues on a net basis. Operating revenues do not include the collection of the aforementioned taxes.
Utility Cost Recovery Mechanisms | Electric Production Fuel and Energy Purchases (Fuel-related Costs) - Fuel-related costs are incurred each period to generate and purchase electricity to meet the demand of IPL’s and WPL’s electric customers. These fuel-related costs include the cost of fossil fuels (primarily coal and natural gas) used during each period to produce electricity at their EGUs, electricity purchased each period from wholesale energy markets (primarily MISO) and under PPAs, costs for allowances acquired to allow certain emissions (primarily SO2 and NOx) from their EGUs and costs for chemicals utilized to control emissions from their EGUs. These fuel-related costs are recorded in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements. IPL Retail - The cost recovery mechanisms applicable for IPL’s retail electric customers provide for subsequent adjustments to their electric rates each month for changes in fuel-related costs. Fuel adjustment clause rules applicable to IPL’s Iowa retail jurisdiction also currently allow IPL to recover prudently incurred costs for emission allowances required to comply with EPA regulations, including the Acid Rain program and CAIR, through the fuel adjustment clause. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs each period are recognized in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. The fuel adjustment clause rules applicable to IPL’s Iowa retail jurisdiction currently do not contain a provision for recovery of emission controls chemical costs to flow through the fuel adjustment clause. The fuel adjustment clause rules applicable to IPL’s Minnesota retail jurisdiction currently do not contain a provision for recovery of emission allowance costs or emission controls chemical costs through the fuel adjustment clause. Effective February 22, 2014, IPL began recovering the Iowa retail portion of the DAEC PPA costs from its Iowa retail electric customers through the fuel adjustment clause pursuant to a January 2013 IUB order. This PPA does not contain minimum payments for electric generating capacity. WPL Retail - The cost recovery mechanism applicable for WPL’s retail electric customers is based on forecasts of certain fuel-related costs expected to be incurred during forward-looking test year periods and fuel monitoring ranges determined by the PSCW during each electric retail rate proceeding or in a separate fuel cost plan approval proceeding. However, if WPL’s actual fuel-related costs fall outside these fuel monitoring ranges during the test period, WPL is authorized to defer the incremental under-/over-collection of fuel-related costs that are outside the approved ranges. Deferral of under-collections are reduced to the extent actual return on common equity earned by WPL during the fuel cost plan year exceeds the most recently authorized return on common equity. Deferred amounts for fuel-related costs outside the approved fuel monitoring ranges are recognized in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s income statements each period. The cumulative effects of these deferred amounts are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. WPL’s retail fuel-related costs include costs for emission allowances and emission controls chemicals. IPL and WPL Wholesale - The cost recovery mechanisms applicable for IPL’s and WPL’s wholesale electric customers provide for subsequent adjustments to their electric rates for changes in fuel-related costs. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs are recognized in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements each period. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on the balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. IPL’s and WPL’s costs for emission allowances and emission controls chemicals are excluded from the fuel-related cost recovery mechanisms and are recovered from their wholesale electric customers through annual changes in base rates determined by a formula rate structure. Purchased Electric Capacity - PPAs help meet the electricity demand of IPL’s and WPL’s customers. Certain of these PPAs include minimum payments for IPL’s and WPL’s rights to electric generating capacity, which are charged each period to “Purchased electric capacity” in the income statements. Purchased electric capacity expenses are recovered from IPL’s and WPL’s retail electric customers through changes in base rates determined during periodic rate proceedings. Purchased electric capacity expenses are recovered from IPL’s and WPL’s wholesale electric customers through annual changes in base rates determined by a formula rate structure. Electric Transmission Service - Costs incurred for the transmission of electricity to meet the demands of IPL’s and WPL’s customers are charged each period to “Electric transmission service” in the income statements. IPL Retail - Electric transmission service expense is recovered from IPL’s Iowa retail electric customers through a transmission cost rider. This cost recovery mechanism provides for annual adjustments to electric rates charged to Iowa electric retail customers for changes in electric transmission service expense. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs are recognized in “Electric transmission service” in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements each period. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. The transmission cost rider will remain in effect until the IUB’s final decision in IPL’s next retail electric base rate case, at which time the rider will continue in its current form, continue in a modified form or be terminated. WPL Retail - Electric transmission service expense is recovered from WPL’s retail electric customers through changes in base rates determined during periodic rate proceedings. Pursuant to the escrow accounting treatment WPL received as part of its approved retail electric rate case (2015/2016 Test Period) in July 2014 from the PSCW, the difference between actual electric transmission service expense incurred and the amount of electric transmission service costs collected from customers as electric revenues in 2015 and 2016 will be recognized in “Electric transmission service” in Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s income statements each period. An offsetting amount will be recorded in “Regulatory assets” or “Regulatory liabilities” on Alliant Energy’s and WPL’s balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. IPL and WPL Wholesale - IPL and WPL arrange transmission service for the majority of their respective wholesale electric customers. Electric transmission service expense is allocated to and recovered from these customers based on a load ratio share computation. Cost of Gas Sold - Costs are incurred for the purchase, transportation and storage of natural gas to serve IPL’s and WPL’s gas customers and the costs associated with the natural gas delivered to customers during each period are charged to “Cost of gas sold” in the income statements. The tariffs for IPL’s and WPL’s retail gas customers provide for subsequent adjustments to their rates each month for changes in the cost of gas sold. Changes in the under-/over-collection of these costs are also recognized in “Cost of gas sold” in the income statements each period. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on the balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers. Energy Efficiency Costs - Costs are incurred to fund energy efficiency programs and initiatives that help customers reduce their energy usage. The costs incurred for these programs and initiatives are charged to “Utility - Other operation and maintenance” in the income statements each period. Energy efficiency costs incurred by IPL are recovered from its retail electric and gas customers in Iowa through an additional tariff called an EECR factor. EECR factors are revised annually and include a reconciliation to eliminate any under-/over-collection of energy efficiency costs from prior periods. Energy efficiency costs incurred by WPL are recovered from retail electric and gas customers through changes in base rates determined during periodic rate proceedings. Reconciliations of any under-/over-collection of energy efficiency costs from prior periods are also addressed in WPL’s periodic rate proceedings. Changes in the under-/over-collection of energy efficiency costs each period for IPL and WPL are recognized in “Utility - Other operation and maintenance” in the income statements. The cumulative effects of the under-/over-collection of these costs for IPL and WPL are recorded in current “Regulatory assets” or current “Regulatory liabilities” on the balance sheets until they are reflected in future billings to customers.
Financial Instruments | Financial instruments are periodically used for risk management purposes to mitigate exposures to fluctuations in certain commodity prices and transmission congestion costs. The fair value of those financial instruments that are determined to be derivatives are recorded as assets or liabilities on the balance sheets. At the end of each reporting period, derivative instruments representing unrealized gain positions are reported as derivative assets, and derivative instruments representing unrealized loss positions are reported as derivative liabilities. Certain commodity purchase and sales contracts qualify for and have been designated under the normal purchase and sale exception. Based on this designation, such contracts are accounted for on the accrual basis of accounting. Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL have elected to not net the fair value amounts of derivatives subject to a master netting arrangement by counterparty. Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL do not offset fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral (receivable) or the obligation to return cash collateral (payable) against fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments that are executed with the same counterparty under the same master netting arrangement.
Asset Impairments | Property, Plant and Equipment of Regulated Operations - Property, plant and equipment of regulated operations are reviewed for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate all or a portion of the carrying value of the assets may be disallowed for rate-making purposes. If IPL or WPL are disallowed recovery of any portion of the carrying value of their regulated property, plant and equipment that is under construction, has been recently completed or is probable of abandonment, an impairment charge is recognized equal to the amount of the carrying value that was disallowed. If IPL or WPL are disallowed a full or partial return on the carrying value of their regulated property, plant and equipment that is under construction, has been recently completed or is probable of abandonment, an impairment charge is recognized equal to the difference between the carrying value and the present value of the future revenues expected from their regulated property, plant and equipment. Refer to Note 3 for discussion of adjustments made by Alliant Energy and IPL in 2013 to the carrying value of IPL’s Whispering Willow - East wind project, based on the MPUC approving full cost recovery of the Minnesota retail portion of the wind project construction costs in 2013. Property, Plant and Equipment of Non-regulated Operations - Property, plant and equipment of non-regulated operations are reviewed for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. Impairment is indicated if the carrying value of an asset exceeds its undiscounted future cash flows. An impairment charge is recognized equal to the amount the carrying value exceeds the asset’s fair value. Unconsolidated Equity Investments - If events or circumstances indicate the carrying value of investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting may not be recoverable and the decline in value is other than temporary, potential impairment is assessed. If an impairment is indicated, a charge is recognized equal to the amount the carrying value exceeds the investment’s fair value.
Emission Allowances | Emission allowances are granted by the EPA at zero cost and permit the holder of the allowances to emit certain gaseous by-products of fossil fuel combustion, including SO2 and NOx. Purchased emission allowances are recorded as intangible assets at their original cost and evaluated for impairment as long-lived assets to be held and used. Emission allowances allocated or acquired are held primarily for consumption. Amortization of emission allowances recorded in “Electric production fuel and energy purchases” in the income statements in 2014, 2013 and 2012 was not material, and is based upon a weighted average cost for each EPA compliance program category of vintage year utilized during the reporting period. As of December 31, 2014, future estimated amortization expense for emission allowances was not material for 2015 through 2019. Cash inflows and outflows related to sales and purchases of emission allowances are presented in investing activities in the cash flows statements.
Asset Retirement Obligations | The fair value of a legal obligation associated with the retirement costs of an asset is recorded as a liability with an equivalent amount added to the asset cost when an asset is placed in service, when a legal obligation is subsequently identified or when sufficient information becomes available to determine a reasonable estimate of the fair value of future retirement costs. The fair value of AROs is determined using discounted cash flows analyses. The liability is accreted to its present value and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the useful life of the related asset. Accretion and depreciation expenses related to AROs for IPL’s and WPL’s regulated operations are recorded to regulatory assets on the balance sheets. Upon regulatory approval to recover IPL’s AROs expenditures, its regulatory assets are amortized to depreciation and amortization expenses in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements over the same time period that IPL’s customer rates are increased to recover the ARO expenditures. Effective January 1, 2013, WPL’s regulatory assets related to AROs are being recovered as a component of depreciation rates included in the most recent depreciation study approved by the PSCW in its May 2012 order. Accretion and depreciation expenses related to AROs for Alliant Energy’s non-regulated operations are recorded to depreciation and amortization expenses in Alliant Energy’s income statements. Upon settlement of the ARO liability, an entity settles the obligation for its recorded amount or incurs a gain or loss. Any gains or losses related to AROs for IPL’s and WPL’s regulated operations are recorded to regulatory liabilities or regulatory assets on the balance sheets.
Debt Issuance and Retirement Costs | Debt issuance costs and debt premiums or discounts are deferred and amortized over the expected life of each debt issue, considering maturity dates and, if applicable, redemption rights held by others. Alliant Energy’s non-regulated businesses and Corporate Services expense in the period of retirement any unamortized debt issuance costs and debt premiums or discounts on debt retired early.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts | Allowances for doubtful accounts are recorded for estimated losses resulting from the inability of customers to make required payments. Allowances for doubtful accounts are estimated based on historical write-offs, customer arrears and other economic factors within IPL’s and WPL’s service territories.
Variable Interest Entities | An entity is considered a VIE if its equity investors do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties, or its equity investors lack any of the following characteristics: (1) power, through voting rights or similar rights, to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance; (2) the obligation to absorb expected losses of the entity; or (3) the right to receive expected benefits of the entity. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is required to consolidate the VIE. The financial statements did not reflect any VIEs on a consolidated basis.
New Accounting Pronouncements | Revenue Recognition - In May 2014, FASB issued an accounting standard providing principles for recognizing revenue for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers with the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This standard also requires disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL are required to adopt this standard on January 1, 2017 and are currently evaluating the impact on their financial condition and results of operations. Discontinued Operations - In April 2014, FASB issued an accounting standard that changes the criteria for reporting and qualifying for discontinued operations. Under the new standard, a disposal of a component or a group of components of an entity is required to be reported in discontinued operations if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on an entity’s operational and financial results. The new standard also requires additional disclosures about discontinued operations and individually significant components of an entity that are disposed of or that are classified as held for sale and do not qualify for discontinued operations. In the fourth quarter of 2014, Alliant Energy, IPL and WPL elected to early adopt the new standard, which is applied prospectively. As of December 31, 2014, IPL’s Minnesota natural gas distribution assets qualified as held for sale. Alliant Energy and IPL evaluated the anticipated sale of these assets and believe it did not represent a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on their operational and financial results. As a result, the operating results of IPL’s Minnesota natural gas distribution assets have not been separately classified and reported as discontinued operations in Alliant Energy’s and IPL’s income statements. Alliant Energy and IPL are currently evaluating the impact of the new standard on IPL’s anticipated sale of its Minnesota electric distribution assets and currently do not expect the anticipated sale of these assets to qualify as discontinued operations under the new standard.

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