MGE Energy (MGEE) will raise its quarterly dividend by 4.7 percent to $0.3375 per share in 2018. This marks the 43rd consecutive year of dividend increases by the utility company.

The next dividend is payable September 15, 2018, to shareholders of record September 1, 2018. This raises the annual dividend rate by 6 cents from $1.29 per share to $1.35 per share and translates into a new dividend yield of 2.0%.

"The dividend is an important part of our total return to our shareholders. The board's decision to increase our quarterly dividend reflects our commitment to delivering shareholder value and our confidence in our business strategy," said President and CEO Jeffrey Keebler.

MGE Energy is a public utility holding company. Its principal subsidiary, Madison Gas and Electric, generates and distributes electricity to customers in Dane County, Wis., and purchases and distributes natural gas to customers in south-central and western Wisconsin counties.