Noncontrolling Interest (Tables) (MGE [Member])

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

MGE [Member]

Noncontrolling Interest (Tables) [Line Items]

Noncontrolling Interest in Balance Sheet

(In thousands)		2011		2010
MGE Power Elm Road (a)	$	70,966	$	99,390
MGE Power West Campus (b)		30,676		32,675
MGE Transco (c)		12,709		9,928
Total noncontrolling interest	$	114,351	$	141,993

Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax

(In thousands)		2011		2010		2009
MGE Power Elm Road (a)	$	14,576	$	11,266	$	4,858
MGE Power West Campus (b)		7,501		7,680		7,573
MGE Transco (c)		1,893		1,794		1,452
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax	$	23,970	$	20,740	$	13,883