MGE Energy's GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) earnings for the full year of 2023 were $117.7 million, or $3.25 per share, compared to $111.0 million, or $3.07 per share, for the same period in the prior year.
MGE continues to invest in new, cost-effective renewable generation, which is helping to fuel the company's asset growth. An increase in electric investments included in rate base contributed to increased electric earnings for 2023. The Red Barn wind project was completed in April 2023 and Badger Hollow II solar project was completed in December 2023.
During 2023, gas retail therm deliveries decreased approximately 13% compared to the prior year, primarily due to warmer-than-normal weather in 2023. Gas use by commercial and industrial customers was approximately 10% lower during 2023, and residential gas consumption decreased by approximately 15%.
MGE Energy's earnings for the fourth quarter of 2023 were $20.1 million, or 55 cents per share, compared to $21.1 million, or 58 cents per share, for the same period in the prior year. Gas net income decreased $1.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to the same period in the prior year as a result of lower gas sales. During the fourth quarter of 2023, gas retail therm deliveries decreased approximately 15% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022, primarily due to warmer-than-normal weather in 2023
