WPL HOLDINGS INC
10-Q, 1996-11-14
ELECTRIC & OTHER SERVICES COMBINED
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                        SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549

                                   FORM  10-Q


               QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
        X      THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
      ------
                  For the quarterly period ended  September 30, 1996
      
               TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
      ------   THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

                  For the transition period from ____________ to ____________

   Commission file number  1-9894 

                               WPL HOLDINGS, INC. 
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

             Wisconsin                          39-1380265
   (State or other jurisdiction      (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
   of incorporation or organization)

   222 West Washington Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin                  53703
      (Address of principal executive offices)                   (Zip Code)

       Registrant's telephone number, including area code   608-252-3311 

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

                               YES   X         NO
                                  --------           --------         

   Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes
   of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
                      
       Common Stock Outstanding at September 30, 1996:  30,795,260 shares

   <PAGE>
                                    CONTENTS


                                                             PAGE

    PART I.   Financial Information:

              Consolidated Financial Statements of WPL
              Holdings, Inc.
              Consolidated Balance Sheets as of
              September 30, 1996 and 1995 and December 31,  2,3
              1995  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

              Consolidated Statement of Income for the
              Three and Twelve Months Ended September 30,     4
              1996 and 1995 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

              Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for
              the Three and Twelve Months Ended               5
              September 30, 1996 and 1995 . . . . . . . .

              Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements      6
              Management's Discussion and Analysis of
              Financial Condition and Results of              7
              Operations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

    PART II.  Other Information . . . . . . . . . . . . .    20

              Signature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    22

              Exhibit Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    23

   <PAGE>

<TABLE>
                                        WPL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                                             Consolidated Balance Sheets
<CAPTION>
                                                              September 30,   September 30,    December 31,
                                                                   1996            1995            1995
                                                                          (Thousands of Dollars)
<S>                                                              <C>             <C>             <C>
ASSETS
UTILITY PLANT:
  Plant in service--
    Electric................................................     $1,700,226      $1,648,378      $1,666,134
    Gas.....................................................        223,889         212,475         217,678
    Water...................................................         23,818          22,192          22,518
    Common..................................................        144,567         130,954         136,943
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
                                                                  2,092,500       2,013,999       2,043,273
  Less: Accumulated provision for depreciation..............        951,086         869,343         887,562
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
                                                                  1,141,414       1,144,656       1,155,711

  Construction work in progress.............................         71,360          34,758          36,996
  Nuclear fuel, net.........................................         18,191          15,209          18,867
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
    Total utility plant.....................................      1,230,965       1,194,623       1,211,574
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
OTHER PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:
   Other property and equipment.............................        138,364         163,371         171,211
   Less:  Accumulated provision for
      depreciation..........................................         24,065          26,504          26,442
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
                                                                    114,299         136,867         144,769
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
INVESTMENTS:
    Nuclear decommissioning trust funds.....................         85,473          66,559          73,357
    Other investments.......................................         13,766          12,098          12,105
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
                                                                     99,239          78,657          85,462
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
CURRENT ASSETS:
  Cash and equivalents......................................          6,519           5,409          11,386
  Accounts receivable less allowance for
    doubtful accounts of  $1,207, $2,037 and
    and $1,735, respectively................................         76,467          71,581          94,648
  Fossil fuel, at average cost..............................         18,337          17,106          14,625
  Materials and supplies, at average cost...................         21,202          20,819          20,723
  Gas in storage, at average cost...........................         11,075           8,244           6,319
  Prepayments and other.....................................         26,414          26,982          27,987
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
    Total current assets....................................        160,014         150,141         175,688
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------

Restricted cash.............................................          7,314           6,498           3,266
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
OTHER ASSETS:
     Regulatory assets......................................        164,781         159,319         171,699
     Deferred charges and other.............................         74,389          98,865          79,956
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
          Total other assets................................        239,170         258,184         251,655

TOTAL ASSETS................................................     $1,851,001      $1,824,970      $1,872,414
                                                                  =========       =========       =========

CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES

  Common stock, $.01 par value, authorized--
    100,000,000 shares; issued and
    outstanding-- 30,795,260, 30,773,588 and
    30,773,588 shares, respectively.........................     $      308      $      308      $      308
  Premium on capital stock & capital surplus................        305,891         307,349         305,223
  Reinvested earnings.......................................        307,207         293,794         291,939
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
       Total common equity..................................        613,406         601,451         597,470

PREFERRED STOCK NOT MANDATORILY REDEEMABLE:
  Cumulative, without par value, authorized
    3,750,000 shares maximum aggregate 
    stated value $150,000,000;
     Cumulative, without par value, $100
        stated value; 449,765 shares
        outstanding.........................................         44,977          44,977          44,977
  Cumulative, without par value, $25
        stated value; 559,630 shares
        outstanding.........................................         14,986          14,986          14,986
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
   Total preferred stock....................................         59,963          59,963          59,963
LONG TERM DEBT, NET.........................................        421,270         427,108         430,362
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
    Total capitalization....................................      1,094,639       1,088,522       1,087,795
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------


CURRENT LIABILITIES:
  Current maturities of long-term debt......................          2,336           5,766           3,397
  Variable rate demand bonds................................         56,975          56,975          56,975
  Short-term debt...........................................         68,295          89,885         109,525
  Accounts payable..........................................         86,054          74,130          94,898
  Accrued payroll and vacation..............................         15,588          15,709          14,299
  Accrued taxes.............................................         14,385           7,605           6,483
  Accrued interest..........................................          6,155           6,409           9,214
  Other.....................................................         46,032          24,927          26,783
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
    Total current liabilities...............................        295,820         281,406         321,574
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------

OTHER LIABILITIES AND CREDITS:
  Accumulated deferred income taxes.........................        241,518         230,267         241,150
  Accumulated deferred investment tax credits...............         37,409          39,321          38,842
  Accrued environmental remediation costs...................         76,046          78,454          76,852
  Other.....................................................        105,569         107,000         106,201
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------
    Total other liabilities and credits.....................        460,542         455,042         463,045
                                                                  ---------       ---------       ---------


TOTAL CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES........................     $1,851,001      $1,824,970      $1,872,414
                                                                  =========       =========       =========

</TABLE>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial
 statements.

<PAGE>
<TABLE>
                                                 WPL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                                                  Consolidated Statements of Income
<CAPTION>
                                                                        Three Months Ended             Twelve Months Ended
                                                                           September 30,                  September 30,
                                                                      1996              1995          1996            1995
                                                                       (In Thousands of Dollars Except for Per Share Data)

<S>                                                                 <C>             <C>             <C>             <C>
OPERATING REVENUES:
  Electric....................................................      $ 153,587       $ 150,708       $ 577,545       $ 539,358
  Gas.........................................................         10,827          13,601         158,476         130,855
  Fees, rents, non-utility energy
    sales and other...........................................         47,849          31,822         164,672         120,515
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------
                                                                      212,263         196,131         900,693         790,728
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------

OPERATING EXPENSES:                                                                                                          
  Electric production fuels...................................         30,419          30,660         114,585         117,423
  Purchased power.............................................         22,201          14,936          67,698          39,664
  Purchased gas...............................................          6,398           8,108          97,104          81,111
  Other operation.............................................         83,135          60,359         303,330         253,401
  Maintenance.................................................         10,746           9,793          39,439          42,903
  Depreciation and amortization...............................         22,162          22,165          89,308          84,510
  Taxes other than income.....................................          8,335           8,187          33,720          34,796
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------
                                                                      183,396         154,208         745,184         653,808
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------
                                                                                                                             
OPERATING INCOME..............................................         28,867          41,923         155,509         136,920
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------
INTEREST EXPENSE AND OTHER:                                                                                                  
  Interest on debt............................................          8,945           9,749          41,277          38,855
  Allowance for funds used during                                                                                            
    construction (credit).....................................           (741)           (606)         (2,621)         (3,097)
  Other (income) and deductions, net..........................         (1,322)         (1,515)        (13,092)          1,373
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------
                                                                        6,882           7,628          25,564          37,131 
                                                                                                                              
INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS                                                                                             
   BEFORE INCOME TAXES........................................         21,985          34,295         129,945          99,789 
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------

INCOME TAXES:
  Current.....................................................          5,777           8,817          40,075          25,757
  Deferred....................................................          1,965           3,910           3,862           9,936
  Amortization of investment tax credits......................           (478)           (479)         (1,913)         (1,918)
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------
                                                                        7,264          12,248          42,024          33,775

PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS OF SUBSIDIARY.......................            828             827           3,311           3,310 
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------
INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS.............................         13,893          21,220          84,610          62,704 
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS:
  Loss from operations of discontinued
     subsidiary, net of applicable tax benefits
     of $0, $335, $257, and $1,363,
     respectively.............................................            -               510             393           2,134
   Loss on disposal of subsidiary, net
     of applicable tax benefit of $575 and
     tax expense of $0, $3,271, and $0,
     respectively.............................................          1,297            -             12,271             -
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------
                                                                        1,297             510          12,664           2,134
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------
NET INCOME....................................................      $  12,596       $  20,710       $  71,946       $  60,570
                                                                     ========        ========        ========        ========
EARNINGS PER SHARE:
   Income from continuing operations..........................          $0.45           $0.69           $2.75           $2.04
   Discontinued operations....................................          (0.04)          (0.02)          (0.41)          (0.07)
                                                                     --------        --------        --------        --------
   Net income.................................................          $0.41           $0.67           $2.34           $1.97
                                                                     ========        ========        ========        ========
CASH DIVIDENDS PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK......................      $  0.4925       $   0.485       $   1.948       $   1.925
                                                                     ========        ========        ========        ======== 
WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING....................         30,795          30,744          30,784          30,774
                                                                     ========        ========        ========        ========

</TABLE>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial
 statements.

<PAGE>
<TABLE>
                                                               WPL HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                                                                CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
<CAPTION>

                                                                  Three Months Ended               Twelve Months Ended
                                                                     September 30,                     September 30,
                                                                 1996             1995             1996             1995
                                                                                 (Thousands of Dollars)

<S>                                                           <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>
Cash flows from (used for) operating activities:

  Net income ..........................................       $  12,596        $  20,710        $  71,946        $  60,570
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to
    net cash from operating activities:
    Depreciation and amortization......................          22,162           22,165           89,308           84,510
    Deferred income taxes and investment
      tax credits......................................           1,487            3,431            1,950            8,017
    Amortization of nuclear fuel.......................           1,727            2,165            8,274            7,538
    Allowance for equity funds used during
      construction.....................................            (494)            (454)          (1,650)          (2,394)
    (Gain) loss on sale of subsidiaries................           -                -                9,415            -
    (Gain) loss on sale of other property
      and equipment....................................           -                -               (5,676)           -
  Changes in assets and liabilities:
    Restricted cash....................................          (1,373)             720             (816)          (3,265)
    Accounts receivable and unbilled
      revenues.........................................           4,786          (10,097)          (4,886)           2,285
    Production fuels, materials, and
      supplies.........................................          (3,687)          (3,815)          (1,614)            (668)
    Gas in storage.....................................          (6,460)          (3,066)          (2,831)           2,165
    Prepayments and other..............................           8,011            4,011              568              471
    Accounts payable and accruals......................          14,159           11,189           11,549           18,046
    Accrued taxes......................................          (3,295)           1,408            6,780              470
    Other, net.........................................            (602)          20,234            6,995           38,291
                                                                -------          -------          -------          -------
       Net cash from (used for) operating
          activities...................................          49,017           68,601          189,312          216,036
                                                                -------          -------          -------          -------
Cash flows from (used for) financing
   activities:

  Long-term debt maturities, redemptions
    and sinking fund requirements......................          (3,563)          (1,040)          (9,329)           5,993
  Net change in short term debt........................          10,761           (3,479)         (21,590)          27,784
  Retirement of first mortgage bonds...................           -                -               (5,011)         (17,990)
  Common stock cash dividends, less
    dividends reinvested...............................         (15,167)         (14,925)         (60,416)         (61,847)
  Other, net...........................................             362             (322)           5,436            4,349
                                                                -------          -------          -------          -------
     Net cash from (used for) financing
       activities......................................          (7,607)         (19,766)         (90,910)         (41,711)
                                                                -------          -------          -------          -------
Cash flows from (used for) investing
   activities:
  Proceeds from sale of other property and
    equipment..........................................           -                -               36,264            -
  Additions to utility plant, excluding
    AFUDC..............................................         (34,202)         (21,247)        (125,158)        (127,205)
  Allowance for borrowed funds used during
    construction.......................................            (247)            (152)            (971)            (703)
  Dedicated decommissioning funding....................            (726)          (2,217)         (18,914)         (14,656)
  Proceeds from sale of subsidiaries...................           2,800            -               23,024            -
  Purchase of other property and
    equipment..........................................          (1,940)         (10,390)          (5,065)         (14,898)
  Other, net...........................................         (10,211)         (20,491)          (6,472)         (18,849)
                                                                -------          -------          -------          -------
    Net cash from (used for) investing
      activities.......................................         (44,526)         (54,497)         (97,292)        (176,311)
                                                                -------          -------          -------          -------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and
   equivalents.........................................          (3,116)          (5,662)           1,110           (1,986)
Cash and equivalents at beginning of
   period..............................................           9,635           11,071            5,409            7,395
                                                                -------          -------          -------          -------
Cash and equivalents at end of period..................       $   6,519        $   5,409        $   6,519        $   5,409
                                                               ========         ========         ========         ========

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the period for:
    Interest on debt...................................       $  10,697        $   9,897        $  38,210        $  35,891
    Preferred stock dividends of
      subsidiary.......................................       $     828        $     828        $   3,310        $   3,310
    Income taxes.......................................       $  11,301        $   5,524        $  40,454        $  25,476

Noncash financing activities:
   Dividends reinvested................................       $   -            $   -            $   -            $     216

</TABLE>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial 
 statements.


   <PAGE>
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   1.     The consolidated financial statements included herein have been
       prepared by WPL Holdings, Inc.  (the "Company"), without audit,
       pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange
       Commission.  Accordingly, certain information and footnote disclosures
       normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with
       generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or
       omitted.  The consolidated financial statements include the Company
       and its wholly owned consolidated subsidiaries including Wisconsin
       Power and Light Company (WP&L). These financial statements should be
       read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes
       thereto included in the Company's latest Annual Report on Form 10-K.

          In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting only of
       normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of (a)
       the consolidated results of operations for the three and twelve month 
       periods ended September 30, 1996 and 1995, (b) the consolidated
       financial position at September 30, 1996 and 1995 and December 31,
       1995, and (c) the consolidated statement of cash flows for the three
       and twelve month periods ended September 30, 1996 and 1995 have been
       made.

   2.     During the first quarter of 1996, the Financial Accounting
       Standards Board issued an Exposure Draft on Accounting for Liabilities
       Related to Closure and Removal of Long-Lived Assets which deals with,
       among other issues, the accounting for decommissioning costs.  If
       current electric utility industry accounting practices for such
       decommissioning are changed:  (1) annual provisions for
       decommissioning could increase, (2) the estimated cost for
       decommissioning could be recorded as a liability rather than as
       accumulated depreciation, with recognition of an increase in the
       recorded amount of nuclear plant, and (3) trust fund income from the
       external decommissioning trusts could be reported as investment income
       rather than as a reduction to decommissioning expense. Given the
       preliminary nature of the process, the Company cannot currently
       determine what impact, if any, this process may have on the Company's
       financial condition or results of operations.

   <PAGE>

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

   THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1996 VS. SEPTEMBER 30, 1995:

   Overview

        The Company reported consolidated third quarter net income from
   continuing operations of $13.9 million or 45 cents per share compared to
   $21.2 million or 69 cents per share for the same period in 1995. The
   decrease in earnings primarily reflects the operation  of the Company's
   utility subsidiary, WP&L. The impact of cooler summer weather on higher-
   margin residential electric sales combined with an increase in operations
   and maintenance expense resulted in lower earnings compared with the same
   quarter in 1995. 

        Heartland Development Corporation ("HDC"), parent company of the
   Company's non-regulated operations, reported a loss from continuing
   operations of $1.4 million for the third quarter of 1996 compared with a
   income from continuing operations of $0.3 million for the same period in
   1995. The third quarter performance was due to losses at the Company's
   energy services and environmental consulting businesses. Also during the
   third quarter of 1996, a loss of $1.3 million resulted from additional
   fees and expenses related to the discontinued operation of A&C Enercom
   Consultants, Inc. which is discussed in the "Discontinued Operations"
   section of the MD&A.  

   <TABLE>
   Electric Operations
   <CAPTION>
                            Revenues
                            and Costs           %             kWhs Sold          %             Customers at             %
                         (In Thousands)       Change       (In Thousands)      Change         End of Quarter          Change
                        1996        1995                  1996        1995                  1996           1995

   <S>                 <C>         <C>          <C>    <C>        <C>           <C>         <C>            <C>          <C>
   Residential and
    Farm               $50,863     $55,870      (9)%     758,394    843,617     (10)%       336,221        330,229       2%

   Industrial           36,789      36,497       1%    1,025,866  1,001,149       2%            816            791       3%

   Commercial           28,150      28,704       (2)%    493,528    502,534       (2)%       45,558         44,575       2%

   Wholesale and
    Class A             36,134      29,374      23%    1,371,639    831,530      65%             93             81      15%

   Other                 1,651         263     528%       13,193     12,065       9%          1,741          1,503      16%
                       -------     -------             ---------  ---------                 -------        -------

        Total          153,587     150,708       2%    3,662,620  3,190,895      15%        384,429        377,179       2%
                       -------     -------             =========  =========                 =======        =======
   Electric
    Production
    Fuels               30,419      30,660      (6%)                                               

   Purchased Power      22,201      14,936      49%                                                
                      --------     -------                      
   Margin             $100,967    $105,112       (4)%           
                     =========   =========                      
   </TABLE>


        Electric revenues increased $2.9 million, or 2 percent, as compared
   to the third quarter of 1995. The increase was the result of a 15 percent
   increase in kWh sales primarily due to increased bulk power sales and
   continued customer growth during the third quarter of 1996.

        Electric margin decreased $4.1 million, or 4 percent, during the
   third quarter of 1996 compared to the third quarter of 1995 primarily due
   to a change in the mix of sales from higher margin residential customers
   to lower margin bulk power sales. The decline in residential sales
   reflects a much cooler summer in 1996 as compared to the extreme heat
   experienced in the summer of 1995. The decrease in residential and
   commercial revenues was offset somewhat by opportunities for WP&L to
   increase its sale of power to other utilities. The 49 percent increase in
   purchased power expense reflects both increased sales and the availability
   of competitively priced off-system power.

   <TABLE>
   Gas Operations
   <CAPTION>


                             Revenues
                             and Costs         %           Therms Sold          %           Customers at           %
                          (In Thousands)     Change      (In Thousands)       Change       End of Quarter       Change
                          1996      1995                1996        1995                 1996         1995

   <S>                   <C>       <C>        <C>       <C>         <C>         <C>     <C>          <C>          <C>
   Residential and
    Farm                 $5,576    $5,177       8%       7,564       7,761       (3)%   132,084      127,428       4%
   Firm                   3,625     3,474       4%       6,659       7,433      (10)%    16,169       15,698       3%

   Interruptible            377       357       6%         987       1,134      (13)%       247          226       9%
   Transport. and 
    Other                 1,249     4,593     (73)%     38,044      36,319        5%        254          255      (0)%
                         ------    ------               ------      ------              -------      -------

        Total            10,827    13,601     (20)%     53,254      52,647        1%    148,754      143,607       4%
                         ------    ------               ======      ======              =======      =======

   Purchased Gas          6,398     8,108     (21)%                                                        
                         ------    ------                     

   Margin                 4,429     5,493     (19)%          
                         ======    ======                     
   </TABLE>


        Gas revenues decreased $2.8 million, or 20 percent, in the third
   quarter of 1996 as compared to 1995.  A somewhat milder third quarter of
   1996 resulted in a 3 percent decease in high margin residential sales.  In
   addition, a change in the sales mix, on a therms sold basis, resulted in a
   10 and 13 percent decrease in firm and interruptible sales, respectively,
   with a 5 percent increase in transportation sales. The gas incentive
   program authorized by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW)
   resulted in additional earnings of $0.2 million pre-tax during the third
   quarter of 1996 compared with a slight loss for the same period in 1995.
   Growth in the economic service territory resulted in a 4 percent increase
   in customers.

        The review of the gas incentive program for 1995 by the PSCW was
   completed and will result in  a November 1996 refund to residential
   natural gas customers of $3.3 million. The full amount of the refund will
   be reflected in the financial results in the fourth quarter 1996, which is
   expected to have no material impact on earnings.

   Fees, Rents, Non Utility Energy Sales and Other Revenues

        Fees, rents, non utility energy sales and other revenues primarily
   reflect sales and revenues of the Company's non-regulated subsidiaries,
   consolidated under HDC, as adjusted for discontinued operations. The $16.0
   million increase in fees, rents, non utility energy sales and other
   revenues is the result of higher energy marketing revenues due to an
   increase in power marketing activity at the energy marketing company.

        In addition to the revenues of the non-regulated businesses, fees,
   rents, non utility energy sales and other revenues also include revenue
   from the water utility operations of WP&L. These revenues represent $1.1
   million for both the three months ended September 30, 1996 and 1995. 


   Other Operation and Maintenance 

        The increase in  other operation and maintenance expense of $23.7
   million is primarily due to the increased activity in the energy marketing
   business, merger related expenses, employee welfare plan expense, and the
   timing of Kewaunee expenses. Refueling costs at Kewaunee which occurred in
   the second quarter of 1995 did not begin until late in the third quarter
   of 1996.

   Income Taxes

   Income taxes decreased between third quarters consistent with lower
   taxable income. 



   TWELVE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1996 VS. SEPTEMBER 30, 1995:

   Overview

        The Company reported consolidated net income from continuing
   operations of $84.6 million or $2.75 per share  for the twelve months
   ended September 30, 1996, as compared to $62.7 million or $2.04 per share
   for the same period in 1995. Earnings per share for the twelve-month
   periods ended September 30, 1996 and September 30, 1995, were $2.34 and
   $1.97, respectively, reflecting the impact of the discontinued operation
   of A&C Enercom Consultants, Inc. The increase in earnings primarily
   reflects the operations of WP&L. Weather-driven  sales growth along with
   continued customer growth in the service territory contributed to
   increased electric and gas margins as compared with the twelve months
   ended September 30, 1995. In addition, a $3.4 million after-tax gain on
   the sale of a combustion turbine was recognized during the twelve months
   ended September 30, 1996.  

        Other operation and maintenance expenses at WP&L decreased primarily
   due to higher early retirement and severance expenses during the twelve
   month period ended September 30, 1995, and a shift in the refueling cycle
   at the Kewaunee Nuclear Power Plant from the second quarter of 1995 to the
   end of the third quarter of 1996.

        HDC reported a loss from continuing operations of $4.2 million for
   the twelve months ended September 30, 1996, compared with a loss from
   continuing operations of $0.1 million for the same period in 1995. The
   losses in both periods are largely attributable to the operations of the
   energy services business which includes losses on commodity transactions.
   Offsetting these losses was a gain of $4.2 million in the twelve months
   ended September 30, 1996, related to the sale of the Company's investment
   in assisted living properties.

         During the twelve months ended September 30 , 1996, a $0.4 million
   loss on discontinued operations resulted from  A&C Enercom Consultants,
   Inc. and  a $12.3 million loss on disposal of A&C Enercom Consultants,
   Inc. was recognized which is discussed in the "Discontinued Operations"
   section of the MD&A. 

   <TABLE>
   Electric Operations
   <CAPTION>

                               Revenues                                                  
                               and Costs              %             kWh Sold             %           Customers at            %
                            (In Thousands)         Change        (In Thousands)        Change       End of Quarter        Change
                           1996          1995                  1996          1995                 1996          1995

   <S>                    <C>           <C>          <C>    <C>           <C>          <C>        <C>           <C>        <C>
   Residential and
     Farm                 $199,134      $199,344      -      2,928,103     2,918,306    9%        336,221       330,229     2%

   Industrial              143,780       140,867      2%     3,957,926     3,868,308    2%            816           791     3%

   Commercial              104,037       101,852      2%     1,800,120     1,744,523    3%         45,558        44,575     2%
   Wholesale and
     Class A               124,330        89,937     38%     4,818,134     2,747,997   75%             93            81    15%

   Other                     6,264         7,358     (15)%      57,338        53,459    7%          1,741         1,503    16%
                           -------       -------            ----------    ----------              -------       -------

        Total              577,545       539,358      7%    13,561,621    11,332,593   20%        384,429       377,179     2%
                           -------       -------            ==========    ==========              =======       =======
   Electric
    production
    fuels                  114,585       117,423     (2)%                                                             

   Purchased Power          67,698        39,664     71%
                           -------       -------

   Margin                 $395,262      $382,271      3%
                           =======       =======
   </TABLE>

        Electric revenues increased $38.2 million, or 7 percent, as compared
   to the twelve months ended September 30, 1995. The increase was the result
   of a 20 percent increase in kWh sales primarily due to higher sales to
   other utilities, colder winter weather in 1996, and customer growth. 

        Electric margin increased $13.0 million, during the twelve months
   ended September 30, 1996, compared to the same period in 1995. Higher
   sales to commercial and industrial customers as well as other utilities
   combined with reduced costs per kWh for electric production fuels and
   purchased power resulted in a 3 percent increase in electric margin.
   Although total fuel and purchased power costs declined on a per kWh basis,
   purchased power expense increased by 71 percent. This increase is due to
   the Company's higher level of sales to other utilities as well as the
   opportunity to purchase low cost energy. Partially offsetting increased
   purchased power costs are slightly lower delivered coal and nuclear fuel
   costs per kWh.


   <TABLE>
   Gas Operations
   <CAPTION>
                           Revenues
                          and Costs           %          Therms Sold            %           Customers at            %
                        (In Thousands)     Change       (In Thousands)       Change        End of Quarter        Change
                        1996       1995               1996         1995                  1996          1995

   <S>                 <C>       <C>         <C>     <C>           <C>         <C>       <C>           <C>         <C>
   Residential and
    Farm               $85,354   $64,562     32%     142,024       115,591     23%       132,084       127,428      4%

   Firm                 47,632    36,031     32%      98,997        82,706     20%        16,169        15,698      3%

   Interruptible         3,626     4,730     (23)%    10,526        14,990     (30)%         247           226      9%

   Transport. and
    Other               21,864    25,532     (14)%   176,450       160,382     10%           254           255     (0)%
                       -------   -------             -------       -------               -------       -------
        Total          158,476   130,855     21%     427,997       373,669     15%       148,754       143,607      4%
                       =======   =======             =======       =======               =======       =======

   Purchased Gas        97,104    81,111     20%                                                              
                       -------   -------                    

   Margin              $61,372   $49,744     23%            
                       =======   =======                    
   </TABLE>

        Gas revenues increased $27.6 million, or 21 percent, during the
   twelve months ended September 30, 1996, as compared to the twelve months
   ended September 30, 1995. The higher revenues were the result of a 15
   percent rise in therm sales primarily due to colder winter weather and
   residential and firm customer growth. The higher sales volumes as well as
   favorable management of gas supply costs resulted in a $11.6 million, or
   23 percent, increase in gas margin. 

        With the elimination of the purchased gas adjustment clause effective
   January 1, 1995, the fluctuations in the commodity cost of gas above or
   below a prescribed commodity price index will increase or decrease WP&L's
   margin on gas sales. Both benefits and exposures are subject to customer
   sharing provisions. WP&L's share is capped at $1.1 million, pre-tax. For
   the twelve months ended September 30, 1996, the gas incentive program
   resulted in additional earnings of $1.0 million pre-tax compared with
   additional earnings of $0.6 million pre-tax for the same period in 1995. 

   Fees, Rents, Non Utility Energy Sales and Other Revenues

        Fees, rents, non utility energy sales and other revenues primarily
   reflect sales and revenues of the Company's non-regulated subsidiaries,
   consolidated under HDC, as adjusted for discontinued operations.

        The increase of $44.2 million is primarily due to increased power
   marketing activity at the energy services subsidiary. The increase was
   partially offset by lower revenues in the environmental business due to a
   softening market as well as lower revenues in the affordable housing
   business due to a decrease in syndication revenues.

        In addition to the revenues of the non-regulated businesses, fees,
   rents, non utility energy sales and other revenues also include revenue
   from the water utility operations of WP&L. These revenues represent $4.2
   million for both the twelve months ended September 30, 1996 and 1995,
   respectively. 

   Other Operation and Maintenance

        The increase in other operation and maintenance expense of $46.5
   million is primarily due to the increased costs associated with gas and
   electric marketing transactions in the energy services subsidiary. The
   higher expenses at HDC were offset by a $16.7 million reduction in expense
   at WP&L. The decrease in the utility operations was a result of higher
   early retirement and severance expenses during the twelve months ended
   September 30, 1995, related to the Company's reengineering efforts. In
   addition, nuclear plant refueling costs which occurred during the twelve-
   month period ended September 30, 1995, did not begin until late in the
   third quarter of 1996. 

   Depreciation and Amortization 

        Depreciation and amortization expense increased $4.8 million  as a
   result of property additions, and greater amortization of contributions in
   aid of construction  ( a reduction of expense) during the twelve months
   ended September 30, 1995.

   Interest Expense and Other 

        Interest expense and other increased primarily as a result two
   significant gains recognized during the twelve months ended September 30,
   1996. The sale of a combustion turbine by WP&L resulted in a gain of $5.7
   million. In addition , HDC recognized a $4.2 million gain on a sale of its
   investment in assisted living properties.

   Income Taxes

        Income taxes increased for the twelve-month period ended September
   30, 1996, as a result of higher taxable income.



   TWELVE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1996 VS. TWELVE MONTHS ENDED
   DECEMBER 31, 1995:

   OVERVIEW

        The Company reported consolidated net income from continuing
   operations of $84.6 million or $2.75 per share  for the twelve months
   ended September 30, 1996 as compared to $71.6 million or $2.33 per share
   for the twelve months ended December 31, 1995. The increase in earnings
   primarily reflects the operations of WP&L. Weather-driven  sales growth 
   contributed to increased electric and gas margins. In addition, a $3.4
   million after-tax gain on the sale of a combustion turbine was recognized
   during the twelve months ended September 30, 1996.

        HDC reported a loss from continuing operations of $4.2 million for
   the twelve months ended September 30, 1996 compared with a loss from
   continuing operations of $1.5 million for the twelve months ended December
   31, 1995. The losses in both periods are largely attributable to the
   operations of the energy services business. Offsetting these losses was a
   gain of $4.2 million in the twelve months ended September 30, 1996,
   related to the sale of the Company's investment in assisted living
   properties.

         During the twelve months ended September 30 , 1996, a $0.4 million
   loss on discontinued operations resulted from the sale of A&C Enercom
   Consultants, Inc. and  a $12.3 million loss on disposal of A&C Enercom
   Consultants, Inc. was recognized which is discussed in the "Discontinued
   Operations" section of the MD&A.  Earnings per share for the twelve-month
   periods ended September 30, 1996 and December 31, 1995 were $2.34 and
   $1.90, respectively, reflecting the impact of the discontinued operation
   of A&C Enercom Consultants, Inc.

   <TABLE>

   Electric Operations
   <CAPTION>
                            Revenues
                           and Costs          %             kWh Sold             %          Customers at         %
                         (In Thousands)     Change       (In Thousands)       Change       End of Quarter      Change
                        1996       1995                 1996         1995                 1996        1995

   <S>               <C>         <C>          <C>   <C>          <C>             <C>     <C>         <C>        <C> 
   Residential and
    Farm             $199,134    $199,850      -     2,928,103    2,937,825      -       336,221     329,643     2%

   Industrial         143,780     140,562      2%    3,957,926    3,872,520      2%          816         795     3%

   Commercial         104,037     102,129      2%    1,800,120    1,773,406      2%       45,558      44,730     2%

   Wholesale and
    Class A           124,330      97,350     28%    4,818,134    3,109,385     55%           93          48    94%

   Other                6,264       6,433     (3)%      57,338       54,042      6%        1,741       1,294    35%
                      -------     -------           ----------   ----------              -------     -------

        Total         577,545     546,324      6%   13,561,621   11,747,178     15%      384,429     376,510     2%
                      -------     -------           ==========   ==========              =======     =======
   Electric 
    production
    fuels             114,585     116,488     (2)%                                                         

   Purchased Power     67,698      44,940      51%                                                           
                      -------     -------

   Margin            $395,262    $384,896       3%
                      =======     =======
   </TABLE>


        Electric revenues increased $31.2 million, or 6 percent, as compared
   to the twelve months ended December 31, 1995. The increase was the result
   of an 55 percent increase in kWh sales to other utilities, and higher
   commercial and industrial sales. 

        Electric margin increased $10.4 million, or 3 percent, during the
   twelve months ended September 30, 1996, compared to the twelve months
   ended December 31, 1995, primarily due to higher sales (as discussed
   above). Aggregate costs of production fuels and purchased power increased
   as a result of an 15 percent increase in kWh sales. Because of this
   increase in sales and the availability of competitively priced off-system
   power, purchased power increased 51 percent. 

   <TABLE>
   Gas Operations
   <CAPTION>

                           Revenues
                           and Costs          %          Therms Sold         %          Customers at         %
                        (In Thousands)      Change      (In Thousands)     Change      End of Quarter      Change
                       1996         1995               1996       1995               1996         1995

   <S>                 <C>        <C>         <C>    <C>         <C>        <C>     <C>          <C>         <C> 
   Residential and
    Farm               $85,354    $70,382     21%    142,024     126,903    12%     132,084      129,576      2%
   Firm                 47,632     39,456     21%     98,997      91,316     8%      16,169       15,976      1%

   Interruptible         3,626      3,708      (2)%   10,526      12,148    (13)%       247          257      (4)%

   Transport. and
    Other               21,864     25,619     (15)%  176,450     169,121     4%         254          284     (11)%
                       -------    -------            -------     -------            -------      -------

        Total          158,476    139,165     14%    427,997     399,488     7%     148,754      146,093      2%
                       =======    =======            =======     =======            =======      =======

   Purchased Gas        97,104     84,002     16%
                       -------    -------
   Margin              $61,372    $55,163     11%
                       =======    =======

   </TABLE>

        Gas revenues increased $19.3 million, or 14 percent, during the
   twelve months ended September 30, 1996, as compared to the twelve months
   ended December 31, 1995. The higher revenues were the result of a 7
   percent rise in therm sales primarily due to colder winter weather in the
   first quarter of 1996. 

        Gas margin increased $6.2 million or 11 percent during the twelve
   months ended September 30, 1996, compared with the period ended December
   31, 1995, primarily due to a change in the mix of customer sales. The
   sales mix indicates a decline of 13 percent in interruptible sales with a
   corresponding increase of 12 percent and 8 percent in higher margin
   residential and firm sales, respectively. 

   Fees, Rents, Non Utility Energy Sales and Other Revenues

        Fees, rents, non utility energy sales and other revenues primarily
   reflect sales and revenues of the Company's non-regulated subsidiaries,
   consolidated under HDC, as adjusted for discontinued operations. The
   increase in fees, rents, non utility energy sales and other revenues of
   $43 million is primarily due to increased power marketing activity at the
   energy services subsidiary. The increase was partially offset by lower
   revenues in the environmental business due to a softening market and in
   the affordable housing business due to a decrease in syndication revenues.

        In addition to the revenues of the non-regulated businesses, fees,
   rents, non utility energy sales and other revenues also include revenue
   from the water utility operations of WP&L. These revenues represent $4.2
   million for both the twelve months ended September 30, 1996 and December
   31, 1995. 
       
   Other Operation and Maintenance

        The increase in other operation and maintenance expense of $49.9
   million is primarily due to the increased activity in the energy services
   business. The increase in expenses at HDC was offset by a $5.6 million
   reduction in expense at WP&L.  The decrease in the utility operations is
   primarily due to the timing of nuclear plant refueling costs which
   occurred during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 1995, and did
   not begin until late in the third quarter of 1996. 

   Depreciation and Amortization 

        Depreciation and amortization expense increased $3.0 million  as a
   result of property additions, and greater amortization of contributions in
   aid of construction (a reduction of expense) during the twelve months
   ended December 31, 1995.

   Income Taxes

        Income taxes increased for the twelve month period ended September
   30, 1996, as a result of higher taxable income.

   Other (Income) and Deductions, Net

        Other (income) and deductions increased primarily as a result two
   significant gains recognized during the twelve months ended September 30,
   1996. The sale of a combustion turbine resulted in a pre-tax gain of $5.7
   million and a $4.2 million gain resulted from the sale of an  HDC
   investment in assisted living properties.

   Discontinued Operations

        During the fourth quarter of 1995, the Company recognized an $11.0
   million estimated loss related to the discontinued operations of A&C
   Enercom Consultants, Inc. ("A&C"), its utility energy and marketing
   consulting business. During the three months ended September 30, 1996, the
   Company recognized an additional $1.3 million of fees and expenses related
   to the disposition. The impact of the disposition of this business segment
   was as follows in each of the time periods presented:

   <TABLE>
   <CAPTION>
                                    Three Months Ended                     Twelve Months Ended
                                 9/30/96         9/30/95         9/30/96         9/30/95        12/31/95
                               ($Millions)     ($Millions)     ($Millions)     ($Millions)     ($Millions)

    <S>                                <C>             <C>            <C>              <C>           <C>
    Loss from operations of
     discontinued subsidiary           ---              .5             0.4             2.1            2.2

    Loss on disposal of
    subsidiary                         1.3             ---            12.3             ---           11.0
   </TABLE>


   LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

        The Company's liquidity is primarily determined by the level of cash
   generated from its utility operations and the funding requirements of
   WP&L's ongoing construction and maintenance programs. WP&L finances its
   construction expenditures through internally generated funds supplemented,
   when required, by outside financing.  

        During the three and twelve months ended September 30, 1996, and
   September 30, 1995, the Company generated sufficient cash flows from
   operations, the sale of other property and equipment and short-term
   borrowings to cover operating expenses, cash dividends and investing
   activities. Cash flows from operations decreased to $49.0 million for the
   three months ended September 30, 1996, compared to $68.6 million for the
   same period last year. For the twelve-month period ended September 30,
   1996, cash flows from operations decreased to $189.3 million from $216.0
   million during the same period in 1995. During the twelve months ended
   September 30, 1996, the Company received $59.3 million from sales of a
   combustion turbine and several non-regulated investments. For the twelve
   month period ended September 30, 1996, cash flows from operations
   increased to $189.3 million from $185.7 million for the twelve months
   ended December 31, 1995.


   Financing and Capital Structure

        The level of short-term borrowing fluctuates based primarily on
   seasonal corporate needs, the timing of long-term financing and capital
   market conditions.  WP&L generally borrows on a short-term basis to
   provide interim financing of construction and capital expenditures in
   excess of available internally-generated funds. To maintain flexibility in
   its capital structure and to take advantage of favorable short-term rates,
   the Company also uses proceeds from the sales of accounts receivable and
   unbilled revenues to finance a portion of its long-term cash needs. Bank
   lines of credit of $120 million at September 30, 1996, are available to
   support these borrowings.

        The Company's capitalization at September 30,1996, including the
   current maturities of long-term debt, variable rate demand bonds and
   short-term debt, consisted of 53 percent common equity, 5 percent
   preferred stock and 42 percent total debt. 

   Capital Expenditures

        The Company's largest subsidiary, WP&L, is a capital-intensive
   business and requires large investments in long-lived assets. Therefore,
   the Company's most significant capital requirements relate to utility
   construction expenditures. Construction expenditures for the three months
   ended September 30, 1996, were $37.3 million.  The estimated construction
   expenditures for the remainder of 1996 are $34.1 million.  
                              
        The Company has a 41.0 percent ownership interest in Kewaunee Nuclear
   Power Plant (Kewaunee). The operating partner of this plant is Wisconsin
   Public Service Corporation (WPSC). 

        Kewaunee was taken out of service on September 21, 1996, for a
   scheduled refueling and maintenance outage which was originally projected
   to be of five weeks duration (i.e., Kewaunee was scheduled to return to
   service on October 25, 1996).  During the outage, however, electronic 
   inspection of previously sleeved steam generator tubes disclosed continued
   degradation of steam generator tube sleeve joints.  There were 907 new 
   indications of corrosion in Steam Generator A and 587 new indications in
   Steam Generator B which would require plugging, except for the impact of
   two technical specification changes described below.  Plugging of these
   tubes would result in the aggregate number of effectively plugged Steam
   Generator A tubes of approximately 49% of total tubes and the aggregate
   number of effectively plugged Steam Generator B tubes of approximately 34%
   of total tubes (each steam generator has a total of 3,388 tubes).  In each
   instance, this would exceed the currently effective 25% average plugging
   limit for each of the two steam generators established by the current
   Kewaunee safety analysis report and would prevent further operation of
   Kewaunee unless and until the tubes are repaired or the two steam
   generators are replaced.  WPSC has successfully performed the safety
   analyses necessary to increase the steam generator effective plugging
   margin from 25% to 30%.

   Paragraphs which included forward information are preceded by an
   asterisk("*")

        *As anticipated in the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for
   the quarter ended March 31, 1996, the owners of Kewaunee have submitted
   requests with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for two technical
   specification changes:  (1) The first technical specification change,
   which was approved in September 1996, relocates the sleeve pressure
   boundary and allows leaving in service or unplugging 74 tubes in Steam
   Generator A and 52 tubes in Steam Generator B; (2) The second technical 
   specification change, approval of which is still pending, would
   allow the laser weld repair of the remaining sleeve joints thereby
   allowing the steam generator tubes with the new  indications to remain in
   service.  Although the Company cannot predict the exact nature and timing
   of the NRC's response to the request for the second technical
   specification change, the Company currently expects the request to be
   approved by the NRC in mid-November of 1996.  It is estimated that the
   repair of the steam generators will extend the outage six to nine weeks
   beyond the original five week period. Based on current estimates, Kewaunee
   is expected to be returned to service prior to year end.  It is estimated 
   that the total cost of repairing corroded sleeved tubes utilizing laser 
   welding repair technology would be $3,000,000 to $5,000,000, WP&L's share 
   being $1,230,000 to $2,050,000.  The current estimated cost to WP&L of
   purchasing replacement power is in the range of $430,000 per week more
   than the cost of Kewaunee generated power.  For 1997, WP&L is pursuing
   regulatory approval of one of several alternative cost recovery mechanisms
   which would reduce the financial exposure of either an extended Kewaunee
   outage or a mid-operating cycle outage.

        *Prior to the current refueling outage, Kewaunee was operating at 98%
   of full rated capacity due to the plugging of tubes.  After the
   anticipated repairs to be made during this outage, Kewaunee could be
   operating at approximately the same 98% level.

        *The duration of the current Kewaunee outage will depend upon a
   number of steam generator repair related factors, including: (1) whether
   or not the NRC will permit the use of the laser welding repair technology,
   (2) the length of time it takes the NRC to respond to Kewaunee's request
   for use of the laser welding repair technology, (3) the availability of
   the necessary welding equipment and trained personnel to operate the
   equipment, (4) the number of tubes to be repaired, (5) the level of
   satisfaction the NRC has that the tubes that remain unplugged will perform
   safely during the next operating cycle, and (6) the tube repair success
   rate. If for any reason the steam generators cannot be repaired, the
   ability of the Kewaunee owners to reach consensus on steam generator
   replacement and to secure the approval of the PSCW for such replacement
   would become critical factors affecting the duration of the current outage
   because in that case replacement of steam generators is essential for the
   continued operations of Kewaunee.

        *If the repairs are made using laser welding technology, such repairs
   would only be temporary because corrosion will continue at a rate which
   cannot be forecasted accurately.  Although WPSC believes that the repairs
   could extend the useful life of the steam generators for a period of three
   or more years, there has been minimal field experience with this repair
   technology, and there can be no assurance that such repairs will be
   effective or, once effective, remain effective for any given period of
   time. If it should become necessary to retire Kewaunee permanently, WP&L
   would replace the Kewaunee generation through a combination of power
   purchases, increased generation at existing WP&L generating units and new
   generating unit additions if necessary. 

        Currently, the  owners of Kewaunee have different views of the future
   market value of energy which impact on the desirability of replacing the
   steam generators.  During the first quarter of 1996 WPSC filed an
   application with the PSCW seeking approval to replace the steam generators
   in 1999.  WP&L believes that analysis and final action on this application
   will take approximately two years to complete.  The joint owners continue
   to analyze and discuss various options related to the future of Kewaunee,
   including various ownership transfer alternatives. The net book value of
   WP&L's share of Kewaunee as of September 30, 1996, was $56.2 million.

        WP&L has applied to the PSCW for accelerated depreciation of the
   remaining book value of Kewaunee such that by the end of the year 2002
   there would be full recovery of all plant investment. The request for this
   acceleration reflects the condition of the present steam generators and
   the evolution of the electric generation marketplace towards a more
   competitive model. 

        Certain matters as identified above are "forward-looking statements"
   intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the
   Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Such forward-looking
   statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties which could
   cause actual results and outcomes to differ materially from those
   currently anticipated.  In addition to the matters specifically described
   in the forward-looking statements, factors that could affect actual
   results or outcomes include the timing and nature of regulatory responses
   and approvals, technological developments and advancements regarding
   repair of the steam generator tubes, the time needed to complete necessary
   repairs, the useful life of any repairs effected, and the cost of
   purchased electric power or additional generating facilities to replace
   the power generated by Kewaunee.  Shareholders, potential investors and
   other readers are urged to consider these factors in evaluating the
   forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance
   on such forward-looking statements.  The forward-looking statements
   included herein are only made as of the date of this Quarterly Report on
   Form 10-Q and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly such
   forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

   Rates and Regulatory Matters

        In the PSCW rate order UR-109, effective January 1, 1995, the PSCW
   approved certain incentive programs. In 1995, WP&L collected $2.0 million
   pre-tax in revenues for SO2 emissions and service reliability incentive
   clauses.  Based on the 1995 performance of the SO2 emissions and service
   reliability incentive programs a $2.5 million refund was approved by the
   PSCW to retail electric customers and was made during the third quarter of
   1996. 

        The gas incentive program for 1995 resulted in a additional earnings
   of $1.0 million and a refund to residential natural gas customers of $3.3
   million. The refund is expected to occur in November 1996. 

        WP&L made its required biennial rate case filing with the PSCW on
   April 1, 1996. Technical hearings will are anticipated to take place from
   November 18, 1996, through November 27, 1996. A final order is expected in
   early 1997.

   INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

        The PSCW's inquiries into the future structure of the natural gas and
   electric utility industries are ongoing. The stated goal of the PSCW in
   the natural gas docket is to move all gas supply activities out of the
   existing regulated distribution utilities and allow independent units to
   compete for the business. The goal of the electric restructuring process
   is to create open access transmission and distribution services for all
   customers with competitive generation and customer service markets.
   Additional proceedings as well as consultation with the legislature are
   planned prior to a target implementation date after the year 2000. 

        On April 24, 1996, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
   issued two rules (No. 888 and 889) that will promote competition by
   opening access to the nation's wholesale power market. The new rules
   require public utilities that own, control or operate transmission 
   systems to provide other companies with the same transmission
   access/service that they provide to themselves. The Company presently has
   on file with the FERC a pro forma open access transmission tariff, filed
   on July 8, 1996, in compliance with FERC order no. 888. On September 20,
   1996, the FERC extended the deadline for compliance with order no. 889 to
   January 3, 1997. WP&L will fulfill its requirements through participation
   in a regional Open Access Same-time Information System administered by the
   Mid-America Interconnected Network, Inc. 

        On September 26, 1996, the PSCW issued an order which establishes the
   minimum Standards for a Wisconsin Independent System Operator (Standards).
   The Standards will be applied by the PSCW in Advance Plan proceedings,
   merger review cases, transmission construction cases, and other
   proceedings as appropriate.  The order provides that the Standards will be
   reviewed and revised as necessary in light of ongoing regional and
   national events such as FERC requirements or policy, regional
   institutions, or relevant actions of neighboring states.  

   INFLATION

        The impacts of inflation on WP&L are currently mitigated through
   current rate making methodologies.   Although rates will be held flat
   until at least 1997, management expects that any impact of inflation will
   be mitigated by customer growth and productivity improvements. 

   OTHER

   Proposed Merger

        The Company, IES Industries Inc. ("IES"), and Interstate Power Co.
   ("IPC") have entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger ("Merger
   Agreement"), dated November 10, 1995, as amended, providing for:  a) IPC
   becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, and b) the merger of
   IES with and into the Company, which merger will result in the combination
   of IES and the Company as a single holding company.  The holding company
   will be renamed Interstate Energy Corporation.  Under terms of the Merger
   Agreement, the outstanding shares of the Company's common stock will
   remain unchanged and outstanding as shares of Interstate Energy. Each
   outstanding share of IES common stock will be converted to 1.14 shares of
   Interstate Energy's common stock. Each share of IPC's common stock will be
   converted to 1.11 shares of Interstate Energy's common stock.

        The Company, IES and IPC held separate shareowner meetings on
   September 5, 1996.  At the annual meetings the shareowners of all three
   companies approved  the Merger Agreement. In addition to shareholder
   approval, approvals must be secured from regulatory agencies at the
   federal and state level. The merger partners expect the merger to be
   completed during the first half of 1997. 


   PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

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

        At the Company's annual meeting of shareowners held on September 5,
   1996, Rockne G. Flowers, Katharine C. Lyall and Henry C. Prange were
   elected as directors whose terms will expire in 1999.  The following table
   sets forth certain information with respect to the election of directors
   at the annual meeting.

                                                    Shares Withholding
   Name of Nominee       Shares Voted For                Authority
   Rockne G. Flowers      26,004,985                     916,276
   Katharine C. Lyall     25,947,322                     971,171
   Henry C. Prange        25,849,176                   1,026,285

        The following table sets forth the other directors of the Company
   whose terms of office continued after the 1996 annual meeting.

   Name of Director         Year In Which Terms Expires
   Erroll B. Davis, Jr.         1997
   Milton E. Neshek             1997
   Carol T. Toussaint           1997
   L. David Carley              1998
   Donald R. Haldeman           1998
   Arnold M. Nemirow            1998
   Judith D. Pyle               1998

        At the annual meeting, shareowners approved the appointment of Arthur
   Andersen LLP as the Company's independent auditors for the 1996 calendar
   year.  With respect to such matter, the number of shares voted for and
   against were 26,203,139 and 312,401, respectively.  The number of shares
   abstaining were 416,401 and the broker non-votes were O.

        The following three non-routine items had 3,069,652 shares subject to
   broker non-votes:

        The Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated November 10, 1995, as
   amended, among the Company, IES Industries Inc. and Interstate Power
   Company, the related Plan of Merger to be entered into by and between the
   Company and IES Industries Inc. and the transactions contemplated by the
   Merger Agreement and the related Plan of Merger, including, among other
   things, the issuance of common stock of the Company pursuant to the terms
   of the Merger Agreement and the related Plan of Merger, was approved by
   shareowners at the annual meeting.  With respect to such matter, the
   number of shares voted for and against were 22,148,912 and 1,078,883,
   respectively.  The number of shares abstaining were 696,627.

        The proposal to change Article 1 of the Restated Articles of
   Incorporation amending the name of the corporation to Interstate Energy
   Corporation was approved with 21,585,265 votes for, 1,346,145 votes
   against and 910,640 votes abstained.

        The final item was the amendment to the Restated Articles of
   Incorporation relating to increasing the authorized number of shares of
   common stock to 200,000,000.  This was approved by a vote of 21,246,865
   for, 1,739,830 against and 1,234,419 abstained.

   Item 6.  Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

              1. Exhibits

             2A   Amendment No. 2 to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as
                  of August 16, 1996, by and among WPL Holdings, Inc., IES
                  Industries Inc., Interstate Power Company, a Delaware
                  corporation, WPLH Acquisition Co. and Interstate Power
                  Company, a Wisconsin corporation [Incorporated by reference
                  to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K,
                  dated August 15, 1996]

             27   Financial Data Schedule

              2. Reports on Form 8-K:  The Company filed a Current Report on
   Form 8-K, dated August 15, 1996, reporting under Item 5 that the Boards of
   Directors of the Company, IES Industries Inc. and Interstate Power Company
   authorized the execution and delivery of a second amendment to the
   Agreement and Plan of Merger among the parties increasing the IES exchange
   ratio from 1.01 to 1.14.


   <PAGE>

                                    SIGNATURE


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


                                        WPL Holdings, Inc.



                                        Date: November 14, 1996 


                                        /s/ Edward M. Gleason         
                                        Edward M. Gleason, Vice President -
                                        Treasurer, and Corporate Secretary
                                        (principal financial officer and
                                        officer authorized to sign on behalf
                                        of the registrant)

   <PAGE>


   EXHIBIT INDEX



   Exhibit
     No.         Description

         2A      Amendment No. 2 to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of
                 August 16, 1996, by and among WPL Holdings, Inc., IES
                 Industries Inc., Interstate Power Company, a Delaware
                 corporation, WPLH Acquisition Co. and Interstate Power
                 Company, a Wisconsin corporation [Incorporated by reference
                 to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K,
                 dated August 15, 1996]

         27      Financial Data Schedule


<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> UT
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF WPL HOLDINGS, INC. AS OF AND
FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1996 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS
ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-START>                             OCT-01-1995
<PERIOD-END>                               SEP-30-1996
<BOOK-VALUE>                                  PER-BOOK
<TOTAL-NET-UTILITY-PLANT>                      1230965
<OTHER-PROPERTY-AND-INVEST>                     213538
<TOTAL-CURRENT-ASSETS>                          160014
<TOTAL-DEFERRED-CHARGES>                        239170
<OTHER-ASSETS>                                    7314
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 1851001
<COMMON>                                           308
<CAPITAL-SURPLUS-PAID-IN>                       305891
<RETAINED-EARNINGS>                             307207
<TOTAL-COMMON-STOCKHOLDERS-EQ>                  613406
                                0
                                      59963
<LONG-TERM-DEBT-NET>                            421270
<SHORT-TERM-NOTES>                               31795
<LONG-TERM-NOTES-PAYABLE>                        56975
<COMMERCIAL-PAPER-OBLIGATIONS>                   36500
<LONG-TERM-DEBT-CURRENT-PORT>                     2336
                            0
<CAPITAL-LEASE-OBLIGATIONS>                          0
<LEASES-CURRENT>                                     0
<OTHER-ITEMS-CAPITAL-AND-LIAB>                  628756
<TOT-CAPITALIZATION-AND-LIAB>                  1851001
<GROSS-OPERATING-REVENUE>                       900693
<INCOME-TAX-EXPENSE>                             42024
<OTHER-OPERATING-EXPENSES>                      303330
<TOTAL-OPERATING-EXPENSES>                      745184
<OPERATING-INCOME-LOSS>                         155509
<OTHER-INCOME-NET>                               13092
<INCOME-BEFORE-INTEREST-EXPEN>                  168601
<TOTAL-INTEREST-EXPENSE>                         38656
<NET-INCOME>                                     87921
                       3311
<EARNINGS-AVAILABLE-FOR-COMM>                    84610
<COMMON-STOCK-DIVIDENDS>                         60416
<TOTAL-INTEREST-ON-BONDS>                        38210
<CASH-FLOW-OPERATIONS>                          189312
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     2.75
<EPS-DILUTED>                                        0<F1>
<FN>
<F1>Applicable accounting rules do not require WPL Holdings, Inc. to report
earnings per share on a fully diluted basis.
</FN>
        

</TABLE>


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