The Future of Finance and Technology: How Utilities Can Lead the Digital Transformation

As utility companies face increasing pressures from regulatory demands, shifting energy landscapes, and evolving customer expectations, the importance of digital transformation has never been greater. The intersection of finance and technology is opening new avenues for operational efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and streamlined business processes. For utilities, which operate in complex, highly regulated environments, this presents a unique opportunity to lead the way in digital transformation while securing long-term growth and sustainability.

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WEC Energy Group Selects Lucasys Tax to Enhance Integration and Compliance Processes

WEC Energy Group has chosen Lucasys Tax to augment its existing tax fixed asset and deferred income tax solution to support Wisconsin regulatory reporting processes and mitigate data integration challenges. This partnership will mitigate risks associated with the retirement of the PowerTax solution and ensure the seamless continuation of critical tax accounting and compliance processes.

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Strategy and the Role of Tax

I’m reading a book, Strategy That Works by  Paul Leinwand and Cesare R. Mainardi ], because, of course, that’s what you do when you are semi-retired.  As I read, I reflected on how strategy at most utility companies is directed at becoming more efficient and more effective operationally while finding a way to otherwise reduce costs to offset continuing customer rate pressure.  The tax department’s role today generally has 2 components both related to cost savings: (1) deliver tax savings that lower tax expense for the company or tax costs recoverable in rates, and (2) deliver costs savings from operating more efficiently.

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Mastering ASC 740: Best Practices for Utility Companies

ASC 740, or Accounting Standards Codification 740, governs how companies report income taxes in their financial statements. For utility companies, complying with ASC 740 presents unique challenges due to the industry's complex regulatory environment and the intricate nature of tax provisions, deferred taxes, and rate-regulated accounting practices. Mastering ASC 740 is essential for ensuring accurate financial reporting, mitigating risk, and satisfying both regulatory and audit requirements.

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Preparing for Regulatory Scrutiny: Tax Compliance in the Utility Sector

In today’s rapidly evolving regulatory landscape, investor-owned utilities (IOUs) face increasing pressure to ensure their tax practices are not only compliant but also transparent and defensible. With the growing scrutiny from regulators and the ever-changing tax laws, staying ahead of potential audits is more critical than ever. To navigate these challenges, IOUs must implement robust strategies for tax compliance, leveraging advanced tools and technologies that can simplify the process and mitigate risks.

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Understanding the Tax Implications of Mergers and Acquisitions in the Utility Sector

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have long been a strategic tool for growth and expansion in the utility industry. Whether to achieve economies of scale, expand service territories, or diversify energy portfolios, these transactions can significantly reshape a company's operations and market position. However, along with the potential benefits, M&A activities come with complex tax implications that can have a lasting impact on a company's financial health and regulatory compliance.

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