FOR HTML ONLY
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
þ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2010
OR
o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
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Commission |
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Registrant, State of Incorporation, |
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I.R.S. Employer |
File Number |
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Address and Telephone Number |
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Identification No. |
1-3526
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The Southern Company
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58-0690070 |
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(A Delaware Corporation) |
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30 Ivan Allen Jr. Boulevard, N.W. |
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Atlanta, Georgia 30308 |
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(404) 506-5000 |
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1-3164
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Alabama Power Company
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63-0004250 |
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(An Alabama Corporation) |
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600 North 18th Street |
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Birmingham, Alabama 35291 |
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(205) 257-1000 |
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1-6468
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Georgia Power Company
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58-0257110 |
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(A Georgia Corporation) |
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241 Ralph McGill Boulevard, N.E. |
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Atlanta, Georgia 30308 |
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(404) 506-6526 |
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001-31737
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Gulf Power Company
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59-0276810 |
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(A Florida Corporation) |
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One Energy Place |
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Pensacola, Florida 32520 |
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(850) 444-6111 |
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001-11229
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Mississippi Power Company
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64-0205820 |
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(A Mississippi Corporation) |
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2992 West Beach |
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Gulfport, Mississippi 39501 |
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(228) 864-1211 |
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333-98553
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Southern Power Company
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58-2598670 |
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(A Delaware Corporation) |
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30 Ivan Allen Jr. Boulevard, N.W. |
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Atlanta, Georgia 30308 |
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(404) 506-5000 |
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Indicate by check mark whether the registrants (1) have 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 registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been
subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants have submitted electronically and posted on their
corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted
pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period
that the registrants were required to submit and post such files). Yes þ No o
(Response applicable only to The Southern Company at this time.)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a
non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of large accelerated
filer, accelerated filer and smaller reporting company in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
(Check one):
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Large |
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Smaller |
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Accelerated |
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Accelerated |
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Non-accelerated |
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Reporting |
Registrant |
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Filer |
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Filer |
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Filer |
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Company |
The Southern Company |
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X |
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Alabama Power Company |
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X |
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Georgia Power Company |
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X |
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Gulf Power Company |
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X |
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Mississippi Power Company |
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X |
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Southern Power Company |
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X |
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Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the
Exchange Act.) Yes o No þ (Response applicable to all registrants.)
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Description of |
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Shares Outstanding |
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Registrant |
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Common Stock |
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at September 30, 2010 |
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The Southern Company |
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Par Value $5 Per Share |
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838,671,173 |
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Alabama Power Company |
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Par Value $40 Per Share |
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30,537,500 |
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Georgia Power Company |
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Without Par Value |
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9,261,500 |
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Gulf Power Company |
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Without Par Value |
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3,642,717 |
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Mississippi Power Company |
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Without Par Value |
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1,121,000 |
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Southern Power Company |
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Par Value $0.01 Per Share |
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1,000 |
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This combined Form 10-Q is separately filed by The Southern Company, Alabama Power Company, Georgia
Power Company, Gulf Power Company, Mississippi Power Company, and Southern Power Company.
Information contained herein relating to any individual registrant is filed by such registrant on
its own behalf. Each registrant makes no representation as to information relating to the other
registrants.
2
INDEX TO QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
September 30, 2010
3
INDEX TO QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
September 30, 2010
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Page |
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Number |
PART II OTHER INFORMATION |
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Item 1. |
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182 |
Item 1A. |
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182 |
Item 2. |
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Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds |
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Inapplicable |
Item 3. |
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Defaults Upon Senior Securities |
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Inapplicable |
Item 5. |
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Other Information |
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Inapplicable |
Item 6. |
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183 |
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188 |
4
DEFINITIONS
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Term |
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Meaning |
2007 Retail Rate Plan
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Georgia Powers retail rate plan for the years 2008 through 2010 |
AFUDC
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Allowance for funds used during construction |
Alabama Power
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Alabama Power Company |
Clean Air Act
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Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 |
DOE
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U.S. Department of Energy |
Duke Energy
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Duke Energy Corporation |
ECO Plan
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Mississippi Powers Environmental Compliance Overview Plan |
EPA
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency |
FERC
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Federal Energy Regulatory Commission |
Fitch
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Fitch Ratings, Inc. |
Form 10-K
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Combined Annual Report on Form 10-K of Southern Company,
Alabama Power, Georgia Power, Gulf Power, Mississippi Power,
and Southern Power for the year ended December 31, 2009 |
GAAP
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Generally Accepted Accounting Principles |
Georgia Power
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Georgia Power Company |
Georgia PSC Staff
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Georgia Public Service Commission Public Interest Advocacy Staff |
Gulf Power
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Gulf Power Company |
IGCC
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Integrated coal gasification combined cycle |
IIC
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Intercompany Interchange Contract |
Internal Revenue Code
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Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended |
IRS
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Internal Revenue Service |
KWH
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Kilowatt-hour |
LIBOR
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London Interbank Offered Rate |
Mirant
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Mirant Corporation |
Mississippi Power
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Mississippi Power Company |
mmBtu
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Million British thermal unit |
Moodys
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Moodys Investors Service |
MW
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Megawatt |
MWH
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Megawatt-hour |
NDR
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Alabama Powers natural disaster reserve |
NRC
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Nuclear Regulatory Commission |
NSR
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New Source Review |
OCI
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Other Comprehensive Income |
PEP
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Mississippi Powers Performance Evaluation Plan |
Power Pool
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The operating arrangement whereby the integrated generating
resources of the traditional operating companies and Southern
Power are subject to joint commitment and dispatch in order to
serve their combined load obligations |
PPA
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Power Purchase Agreement |
PSC
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Public Service Commission |
Rate CNP Environmental
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Alabama Powers certificated new plant for environmental costs |
Rate ECR
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Alabama Powers energy cost recovery rate mechanism |
Rate NDR
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Alabama Powers natural disaster cost recovery rate mechanism |
Rate RSE
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Alabama Powers rate stabilization and equalization plan |
registrants
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Southern Company, Alabama Power, Georgia Power, Gulf Power,
Mississippi Power, and Southern Power |
SCS
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Southern Company Services, Inc. |
SEC
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Securities and Exchange Commission |
5
DEFINITIONS
(continued)
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Term |
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Meaning |
Southern Company
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The Southern Company |
Southern Company system
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Southern Company, the traditional operating companies,
Southern Power, and other subsidiaries |
SouthernLINC Wireless
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Southern Communications Services, Inc. |
Southern Nuclear
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Southern Nuclear Operating Company, Inc. |
Southern Power
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Southern Power Company |
traditional operating companies
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Alabama Power, Georgia Power, Gulf Power, and Mississippi Power |
Westinghouse
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Westinghouse Electric Company LLC |
wholesale revenues
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revenues generated from sales for resale |
6
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements
include, among other things, statements concerning the strategic goals for the wholesale business,
retail sales, customer growth, economic recovery, fuel cost recovery and other rate actions,
environmental regulations and expenditures, future earnings, dividend payout ratios, access to
sources of capital, financing activities, start and completion of construction projects, plans and
estimated costs for new generation resources, impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
of 2009, impact of recent healthcare legislation, impact of the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act
of 2010, estimated sales and purchases under new power sale and purchase agreements, and estimated
construction and other expenditures. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified
by terminology such as may, will, could, should, expects, plans, anticipates,
believes, estimates, projects, predicts, potential, or continue or the negative of
these terms or other similar terminology. There are various factors that could cause actual
results to differ materially from those suggested by the forward-looking statements; accordingly,
there can be no assurance that such indicated results will be realized. These factors include:
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the impact of recent and future federal and state regulatory change, including legislative
and regulatory initiatives regarding deregulation and restructuring of the electric utility
industry, implementation of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, environmental laws including
regulation of water quality, coal combustion byproducts, and emissions of sulfur, nitrogen,
carbon, soot, particulate matter, hazardous air pollutants, including mercury, and other
substances, financial reform legislation, and also changes in tax and other laws and
regulations to which Southern Company and its subsidiaries are subject, as well as changes in
application of existing laws and regulations; |
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current and future litigation, regulatory investigations, proceedings, or inquiries,
including the pending EPA civil actions against certain Southern Company subsidiaries, FERC
matters, and IRS audits; |
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the effects, extent, and timing of the entry of additional competition in the markets in
which Southern Companys subsidiaries operate; |
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variations in demand for electricity, including those relating to weather, the general
economy and recovery from the recent recession, population and business growth (and declines),
and the effects of energy conservation measures; |
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available sources and costs of fuels; |
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ability to control costs and avoid cost overruns during the development and construction of
facilities; |
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investment performance of Southern Companys employee benefit plans and nuclear
decommissioning trusts; |
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advances in technology; |
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state and federal rate regulations and the impact of pending and future rate cases and
negotiations, including rate actions relating to fuel and other cost recovery mechanisms; |
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regulatory approvals and actions related to the potential Plant Vogtle expansion, including
Georgia PSC and NRC approvals and potential DOE loan guarantees; |
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regulatory approvals and actions related to the Kemper IGCC, including Mississippi PSC
approvals and potential DOE loan guarantees; |
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the performance of projects undertaken by the non-utility businesses and the success of
efforts to invest in and develop new opportunities; |
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internal restructuring or other restructuring options that may be pursued; |
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potential business strategies, including acquisitions or dispositions of assets or
businesses, which cannot be assured to be completed or beneficial to Southern Company or its
subsidiaries; |
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the ability of counterparties of Southern Company and its subsidiaries to make payments as
and when due and to perform as required; |
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the ability to obtain new short- and long-term contracts with wholesale customers; |
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the direct or indirect effect on Southern Companys business resulting from terrorist
incidents and the threat of terrorist incidents; |
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interest rate fluctuations and financial market conditions and the results of financing
efforts, including Southern Companys and its subsidiaries credit ratings; |
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the ability of Southern Company and its subsidiaries to obtain additional generating
capacity at competitive prices; |
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catastrophic events such as fires, earthquakes, explosions, floods, hurricanes, droughts,
pandemic health events such as influenzas, or other similar occurrences; |
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the direct or indirect effects on Southern Companys business resulting from incidents
affecting the U.S. electric grid or operation of generating resources; |
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the effect of accounting pronouncements issued periodically by standard setting bodies; and |
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other factors discussed elsewhere herein and in other reports (including the Form 10-K)
filed by the registrants from time to time with the SEC. |
Each registrant expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.
7
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY
AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
8
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
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For the Three Months |
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For the Nine Months |
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Ended September 30, |
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Ended September 30, |
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2010 |
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2009 |
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2010 |
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2009 |
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(in thousands) |
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(in thousands) |
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Operating Revenues: |
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Retail revenues |
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$ |
4,572,617 |
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$ |
3,997,659 |
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$ |
11,603,017 |
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$ |
10,355,330 |
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Wholesale revenues |
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565,932 |
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519,122 |
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1,580,748 |
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1,408,286 |
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Other electric revenues |
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160,960 |
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139,869 |
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438,547 |
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391,070 |
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Other revenues |
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20,403 |
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24,832 |
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62,336 |
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78,267 |
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Total operating revenues |
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5,319,912 |
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4,681,482 |
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13,684,648 |
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12,232,953 |
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Operating Expenses: |
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Fuel |
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1,969,683 |
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1,733,527 |
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5,243,826 |
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4,588,932 |
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Purchased power |
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209,287 |
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166,791 |
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464,226 |
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407,623 |
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Other operations and maintenance |
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1,020,370 |
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820,889 |
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2,846,785 |
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2,523,184 |
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MC Asset Recovery litigation settlement |
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202,000 |
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Depreciation and amortization |
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426,797 |
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332,117 |
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1,136,730 |
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1,099,216 |
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Taxes other than income taxes |
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235,260 |
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212,882 |
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661,521 |
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620,851 |
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Total operating expenses |
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3,861,397 |
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3,266,206 |
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10,353,088 |
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9,441,806 |
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Operating Income |
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1,458,515 |
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1,415,276 |
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3,331,560 |
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2,791,147 |
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Other Income and (Expense): |
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Allowance for equity funds used during
construction |
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45,162 |
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51,061 |
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139,853 |
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141,173 |
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Interest income |
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5,463 |
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6,013 |
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15,057 |
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17,791 |
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Leveraged lease income (losses) |
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5,839 |
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6,578 |
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12,639 |
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24,695 |
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Gain on disposition of lease termination |
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26,300 |
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Loss on extinguishment of debt |
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(17,184 |
) |
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
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(225,138 |
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(226,345 |
) |
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(666,289 |
) |
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(684,902 |
) |
Other income (expense), net |
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(14,481 |
) |
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(10,466 |
) |
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(37,185 |
) |
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(27,293 |
) |
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Total other income and (expense) |
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(183,155 |
) |
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(173,159 |
) |
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(535,925 |
) |
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(519,420 |
) |
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Earnings Before Income Taxes |
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1,275,360 |
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1,242,117 |
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2,795,635 |
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2,271,727 |
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Income taxes |
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441,927 |
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435,947 |
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925,110 |
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828,833 |
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Consolidated Net Income |
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833,433 |
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806,170 |
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1,870,525 |
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1,442,894 |
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Dividends on Preferred and Preference Stock
of Subsidiaries |
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|
16,195 |
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16,195 |
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48,585 |
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48,585 |
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Consolidated Net Income After Dividends on
Preferred and Preference Stock of
Subsidiaries |
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$ |
817,238 |
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$ |
789,975 |
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$ |
1,821,940 |
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$ |
1,394,309 |
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Common Stock Data: |
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Earnings per share (EPS) - |
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Basic EPS |
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$ |
0.98 |
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$ |
0.99 |
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$ |
2.20 |
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$ |
1.77 |
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Diluted EPS |
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$ |
0.97 |
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$ |
0.99 |
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$ |
2.19 |
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$ |
1.76 |
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Average number of shares of common stock
outstanding (in thousands) |
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Basic |
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835,953 |
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798,418 |
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828,947 |
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789,675 |
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Diluted |
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841,835 |
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800,178 |
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833,220 |
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|
791,259 |
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Cash dividends paid per share of common
stock |
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$ |
0.4550 |
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$ |
0.4375 |
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$ |
1.3475 |
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$ |
1.2950 |
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The accompanying notes as they relate to Southern Company are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
9
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
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For the Nine Months |
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Ended September 30, |
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2010 |
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2009 |
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(in thousands) |
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Operating Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated net income |
|
$ |
1,870,525 |
|
|
$ |
1,442,894 |
|
Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income
to net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization, total |
|
|
1,376,511 |
|
|
|
1,310,854 |
|
Deferred income taxes |
|
|
572,862 |
|
|
|
(14,565 |
) |
Deferred revenues |
|
|
(76,976 |
) |
|
|
(40,781 |
) |
Allowance for equity funds used during construction |
|
|
(139,853 |
) |
|
|
(141,173 |
) |
Leveraged lease income (losses) |
|
|
(12,639 |
) |
|
|
(24,695 |
) |
Gain on disposition of lease termination |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(26,300 |
) |
Loss on extinguishment of debt |
|
|
|
|
|
|
17,184 |
|
Pension, postretirement, and other employee benefits |
|
|
51,792 |
|
|
|
42,775 |
|
Stock based compensation expense |
|
|
28,307 |
|
|
|
20,850 |
|
Hedge settlements |
|
|
1,530 |
|
|
|
(16,167 |
) |
Generation construction screening costs |
|
|
(50,554 |
) |
|
|
(21,955 |
) |
Other, net |
|
|
10,126 |
|
|
|
32,321 |
|
Changes in certain current assets and liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-Receivables |
|
|
(319,384 |
) |
|
|
319,286 |
|
-Fossil fuel stock |
|
|
220,017 |
|
|
|
(361,520 |
) |
-Materials and supplies |
|
|
(10,880 |
) |
|
|
(40,811 |
) |
-Other current assets |
|
|
(48,186 |
) |
|
|
(50,977 |
) |
-Accounts payable |
|
|
(82,318 |
) |
|
|
(210,459 |
) |
-Accrued taxes |
|
|
118,131 |
|
|
|
238,988 |
|
-Accrued compensation |
|
|
93,323 |
|
|
|
(273,349 |
) |
-Other current liabilities |
|
|
(75,733 |
) |
|
|
157,384 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
3,526,601 |
|
|
|
2,359,784 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property additions |
|
|
(2,893,812 |
) |
|
|
(3,179,009 |
) |
Investment in restricted cash from pollution control revenue bonds |
|
|
(12 |
) |
|
|
(49,528 |
) |
Distribution of restricted cash from pollution control revenue bonds |
|
|
24,811 |
|
|
|
90,088 |
|
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund purchases |
|
|
(695,855 |
) |
|
|
(1,066,688 |
) |
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund sales |
|
|
671,600 |
|
|
|
1,019,401 |
|
Proceeds from property sales |
|
|
6,607 |
|
|
|
339,911 |
|
Cost of removal, net of salvage |
|
|
(83,930 |
) |
|
|
(85,022 |
) |
Change in construction payables |
|
|
(83,678 |
) |
|
|
110,265 |
|
Other investing activities |
|
|
48,285 |
|
|
|
(35,766 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used for investing activities |
|
|
(3,005,984 |
) |
|
|
(2,856,348 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Financing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Increase (decrease) in notes payable, net |
|
|
(289,202 |
) |
|
|
118,124 |
|
Proceeds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term debt issuances |
|
|
2,796,000 |
|
|
|
2,216,010 |
|
Common stock issuances |
|
|
610,465 |
|
|
|
668,529 |
|
Redemptions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term debt |
|
|
(1,871,485 |
) |
|
|
(1,229,484 |
) |
Payment of common stock dividends |
|
|
(1,113,948 |
) |
|
|
(1,018,928 |
) |
Payment of dividends on preferred and preference stock of subsidiaries |
|
|
(48,921 |
) |
|
|
(48,675 |
) |
Other financing activities |
|
|
(34,513 |
) |
|
|
(18,732 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided from financing activities |
|
|
48,396 |
|
|
|
686,844 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents |
|
|
569,013 |
|
|
|
190,280 |
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period |
|
|
689,722 |
|
|
|
416,581 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period |
|
$ |
1,258,735 |
|
|
$ |
606,861 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Supplemental Cash Flow Information: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash paid during the period for |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest (net of $61,165 and $59,849 capitalized for 2010 and 2009, respectively) |
|
$ |
589,129 |
|
|
$ |
589,919 |
|
Income taxes (net of refunds) |
|
$ |
277,716 |
|
|
$ |
644,541 |
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Southern Company are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
10
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Assets |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
$ |
1,258,735 |
|
|
$ |
689,722 |
|
Restricted cash and cash equivalents |
|
|
18,336 |
|
|
|
43,135 |
|
Receivables |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Customer accounts receivable |
|
|
1,435,968 |
|
|
|
953,222 |
|
Unbilled revenues |
|
|
443,838 |
|
|
|
394,492 |
|
Under recovered regulatory clause revenues |
|
|
226,820 |
|
|
|
333,459 |
|
Other accounts and notes receivable |
|
|
261,104 |
|
|
|
374,670 |
|
Accumulated provision for uncollectible accounts |
|
|
(29,741 |
) |
|
|
(24,568 |
) |
Fossil fuel stock, at average cost |
|
|
1,222,690 |
|
|
|
1,446,984 |
|
Materials and supplies, at average cost |
|
|
808,446 |
|
|
|
793,847 |
|
Vacation pay |
|
|
144,607 |
|
|
|
145,049 |
|
Prepaid expenses |
|
|
529,823 |
|
|
|
508,338 |
|
Other regulatory assets, current |
|
|
222,531 |
|
|
|
166,549 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
66,295 |
|
|
|
48,558 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current assets |
|
|
6,609,452 |
|
|
|
5,873,457 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property, Plant, and Equipment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In service |
|
|
56,029,332 |
|
|
|
53,587,853 |
|
Less accumulated depreciation |
|
|
19,947,881 |
|
|
|
19,121,271 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plant in service, net of depreciation |
|
|
36,081,451 |
|
|
|
34,466,582 |
|
Nuclear fuel, at amortized cost |
|
|
660,856 |
|
|
|
593,119 |
|
Construction work in progress |
|
|
4,457,402 |
|
|
|
4,170,596 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total property, plant, and equipment |
|
|
41,199,709 |
|
|
|
39,230,297 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other Property and Investments: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nuclear decommissioning trusts, at fair value |
|
|
1,142,566 |
|
|
|
1,070,117 |
|
Leveraged leases |
|
|
620,674 |
|
|
|
610,252 |
|
Miscellaneous property and investments |
|
|
279,015 |
|
|
|
282,974 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other property and investments |
|
|
2,042,255 |
|
|
|
1,963,343 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Charges and Other Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred charges related to income taxes |
|
|
1,182,050 |
|
|
|
1,047,452 |
|
Unamortized debt issuance expense |
|
|
192,296 |
|
|
|
208,346 |
|
Unamortized loss on reacquired debt |
|
|
265,867 |
|
|
|
254,936 |
|
Deferred under recovered regulatory clause revenues |
|
|
291,736 |
|
|
|
373,245 |
|
Other regulatory assets, deferred |
|
|
2,652,520 |
|
|
|
2,701,910 |
|
Other deferred charges and assets |
|
|
458,895 |
|
|
|
392,880 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred charges and other assets |
|
|
5,043,364 |
|
|
|
4,978,769 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets |
|
$ |
54,894,780 |
|
|
$ |
52,045,866 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Southern Company are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
11
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Securities due within one year |
|
$ |
1,983,593 |
|
|
$ |
1,112,705 |
|
Notes payable |
|
|
348,399 |
|
|
|
639,199 |
|
Accounts payable |
|
|
1,160,993 |
|
|
|
1,329,448 |
|
Customer deposits |
|
|
333,876 |
|
|
|
330,582 |
|
Accrued taxes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued income taxes |
|
|
77,995 |
|
|
|
13,005 |
|
Unrecognized tax benefits |
|
|
177,969 |
|
|
|
165,645 |
|
Other accrued taxes |
|
|
459,839 |
|
|
|
398,384 |
|
Accrued interest |
|
|
238,944 |
|
|
|
218,188 |
|
Accrued vacation pay |
|
|
182,454 |
|
|
|
183,911 |
|
Accrued compensation |
|
|
351,859 |
|
|
|
247,950 |
|
Liabilities from risk management activities |
|
|
175,938 |
|
|
|
124,648 |
|
Other regulatory liabilities, current |
|
|
190,760 |
|
|
|
528,147 |
|
Other current liabilities |
|
|
311,793 |
|
|
|
292,016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current liabilities |
|
|
5,994,412 |
|
|
|
5,583,828 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term Debt |
|
|
18,198,225 |
|
|
|
18,131,244 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated deferred income taxes |
|
|
7,069,518 |
|
|
|
6,454,822 |
|
Deferred credits related to income taxes |
|
|
238,734 |
|
|
|
248,232 |
|
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits |
|
|
472,174 |
|
|
|
447,650 |
|
Employee benefit obligations |
|
|
2,336,393 |
|
|
|
2,304,344 |
|
Asset retirement obligations |
|
|
1,247,760 |
|
|
|
1,201,343 |
|
Other cost of removal obligations |
|
|
1,202,491 |
|
|
|
1,091,425 |
|
Other regulatory liabilities, deferred |
|
|
295,545 |
|
|
|
277,932 |
|
Other deferred credits and liabilities |
|
|
502,756 |
|
|
|
345,888 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred credits and other liabilities |
|
|
13,365,371 |
|
|
|
12,371,636 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities |
|
|
37,558,008 |
|
|
|
36,086,708 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Redeemable Preferred Stock of Subsidiaries |
|
|
374,496 |
|
|
|
374,496 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stockholders Equity: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Stockholders Equity: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock, par value $5 per share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Authorized September 30, 2010: 1.5 billion shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, 2009: 1.0 billion shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Issued September 30, 2010: 839,145,736 Shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, 2009: 820,151,801 Shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Treasury September 30, 2010: 474,563 Shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, 2009: 505,116 Shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Par value |
|
|
4,195,666 |
|
|
|
4,100,742 |
|
Paid-in capital |
|
|
3,550,130 |
|
|
|
2,994,245 |
|
Treasury, at cost |
|
|
(13,962 |
) |
|
|
(14,797 |
) |
Retained earnings |
|
|
8,594,861 |
|
|
|
7,884,922 |
|
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
|
|
(71,747 |
) |
|
|
(87,778 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Common Stockholders Equity |
|
|
16,254,948 |
|
|
|
14,877,334 |
|
Preferred and Preference Stock of Subsidiaries |
|
|
707,328 |
|
|
|
707,328 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Stockholders Equity |
|
|
16,962,276 |
|
|
|
15,584,662 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
$ |
54,894,780 |
|
|
$ |
52,045,866 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Southern Company are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
12
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Consolidated Net Income |
|
$ |
833,433 |
|
|
$ |
806,170 |
|
|
$ |
1,870,525 |
|
|
$ |
1,442,894 |
|
Other comprehensive income
(loss): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Qualifying hedges: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Changes in fair value,
net of tax of $1,025,
$(1,356), $544,
and $(2,338),
respectively |
|
|
1,595 |
|
|
|
(2,151 |
) |
|
|
814 |
|
|
|
(3,815 |
) |
Reclassification
adjustment for amounts
included in net
income,
net of tax of
$2,438, $4,610,
$9,114, and $13,073,
respectively |
|
|
3,839 |
|
|
|
7,339 |
|
|
|
14,413 |
|
|
|
20,807 |
|
Marketable securities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Change in fair value,
net of tax of
$(2,007), $(1,056),
$(391),
and $239, respectively |
|
|
(3,086 |
) |
|
|
(1,359 |
) |
|
|
(290 |
) |
|
|
2,310 |
|
Pension and other post
retirement benefit plans: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Reclassification
adjustment for amounts
included in net
income,
net of tax of $230,
$222, $690, and
$665, respectively |
|
|
365 |
|
|
|
350 |
|
|
|
1,094 |
|
|
|
1,049 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other comprehensive
income (loss) |
|
|
2,713 |
|
|
|
4,179 |
|
|
|
16,031 |
|
|
|
20,351 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dividends on preferred and
preference stock of
subsidiaries |
|
|
(16,195 |
) |
|
|
(16,195 |
) |
|
|
(48,585 |
) |
|
|
(48,585 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive Income |
|
$ |
819,951 |
|
|
$ |
794,154 |
|
|
$ |
1,837,971 |
|
|
$ |
1,414,660 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Southern Company are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
13
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
THIRD QUARTER 2010 vs. THIRD QUARTER 2009
AND
YEAR-TO-DATE 2010 vs. YEAR-TO-DATE 2009
OVERVIEW
Discussion of the results of operations is focused on Southern Companys primary business of
electricity sales in the Southeast by the traditional operating companies Alabama Power, Georgia
Power, Gulf Power, and Mississippi Power and Southern Power. The traditional operating
companies are vertically integrated utilities providing electric service in four Southeastern
states. Southern Power constructs, acquires, owns, and manages generation assets and sells
electricity at market-based rates in the wholesale market. Southern Companys other business
activities include investments in leveraged lease projects, telecommunications, and renewable
energy projects. For additional information on these businesses, see BUSINESS The Southern
Company System Traditional Operating Companies, Southern Power, and Other Businesses in
Item 1 of the Form 10-K.
Southern Company continues to focus on several key performance indicators. These indicators include
customer satisfaction, plant availability, system reliability, and earnings per share. For
additional information on these indicators, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OVERVIEW
Key Performance Indicators of Southern Company in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$27.2
|
|
3.5
|
|
$427.6
|
|
30.7 |
|
Southern Companys third quarter 2010 net income after dividends on preferred and preference stock
of subsidiaries was $817.2 million ($0.98 per share) compared to $790.0 million ($0.99 per share)
for third quarter 2009. The increase for the third quarter 2010 when compared to the corresponding
period in 2009 was primarily the result of increases in revenues due to warmer weather, revenues
associated with increases in rates under Alabama Powers Rate RSE and Rate CNP Environmental that
took effect in January 2010, and increases in sales primarily in the industrial sector. The
increase for the third quarter 2010 was partially offset by increases in operations and maintenance
expenses, which includes an additional NDR accrual at Alabama Power, reduced amortization of the
regulatory liability related to other cost of removal obligations at Georgia Power as authorized by
the Georgia PSC, and an increase in depreciation on additional plant in service related to
environmental, distribution, and transmission projects.
Southern Companys year-to-date 2010 net income after dividends on preferred and preference stock
of subsidiaries was $1.82 billion ($2.20 per share) compared to $1.39 billion ($1.77 per share) for
year-to-date 2009. The increase for year-to-date 2010 when compared to the corresponding period in
2009 was primarily the result of a litigation settlement agreement with MC Asset Recovery, LLC (MC
Asset Recovery) in the first quarter 2009, increases in revenues due to warmer weather in the
second and third quarters 2010 and significantly colder weather in the first quarter 2010, the
amortization of the regulatory liability related to other cost of removal obligations at Georgia
Power as authorized by the Georgia PSC, revenues associated with increases in rates under Alabama
Powers Rate RSE and Rate CNP Environmental that took effect in January 2010, and increases in
sales primarily in the industrial sector. The increase for year-to-date 2010 was partially offset
by increases in operations and maintenance expenses, which includes an additional NDR accrual at
Alabama Power, a gain in 2009 on the early termination of two international leveraged lease
investments, and an increase in depreciation on additional plant in service related to
environmental, distribution, and transmission projects.
14
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Retail Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$574.9
|
|
14.4
|
|
$1,247.7
|
|
12.0 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, retail revenues were $4.57 billion compared to $4.00 billion for the
corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, retail revenues were $11.60 billion compared
to $10.36 billion for the corresponding period in 2009.
Details of the change to retail revenues are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
(in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(in millions) |
|
(% change) |
Retail prior year |
|
$ |
3,997.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
10,355.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated change in |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rates and pricing |
|
|
162.1 |
|
|
|
4.1 |
|
|
|
296.7 |
|
|
|
2.9 |
|
Sales growth (decline) |
|
|
8.0 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
50.4 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
Weather |
|
|
197.3 |
|
|
|
4.9 |
|
|
|
377.1 |
|
|
|
3.6 |
|
Fuel and other cost recovery |
|
|
207.5 |
|
|
|
5.2 |
|
|
|
523.5 |
|
|
|
5.0 |
|
|
Retail current year |
|
$ |
4,572.6 |
|
|
|
14.4 |
% |
|
$ |
11,603.0 |
|
|
|
12.0 |
% |
|
Revenues associated with changes in rates and pricing increased in the third quarter and for
year-to-date 2010 when compared to the corresponding periods in 2009 primarily due to Rate RSE and
Rate CNP Environmental increases at Alabama Power, higher contributions from market-driven rates
for sales to industrial customers at Georgia Power, recovery of environmental compliance costs at
Gulf Power, and increased recognition of environmental compliance cost recovery revenues at Georgia
Power in accordance with the 2007 Retail Rate Plan.
Revenues attributable to changes in sales increased in the third quarter and for year-to-date 2010
when compared to the corresponding periods in 2009 due to increases in weather-adjusted retail KWH
energy sales of 1.4% and 2.5%, respectively. For the third quarter 2010, weather-adjusted
residential KWH energy sales increased 0.1%, weather-adjusted commercial KWH energy sales decreased
0.8%, and weather-adjusted industrial KWH energy sales increased 5.7%. For year-to-date 2010,
weather-adjusted residential KWH energy sales increased 0.9%, weather-adjusted commercial KWH
energy sales decreased 0.7%, and weather-adjusted industrial KWH energy sales increased 8.2%.
Increased demand in the primary metals, chemicals, and transportation sectors were the main
contributors to the increases in weather-adjusted industrial KWH energy sales for the third quarter
and year-to-date 2010.
Revenues resulting from changes in weather increased in the third quarter 2010 as a result of
warmer weather when compared to the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, revenues
resulting from changes in weather increased as a result of warmer weather in the second and third
quarters 2010 and significantly colder weather in the first quarter 2010 when compared to the
corresponding periods in 2009.
Fuel and other cost recovery revenues increased $207.5 million in the third quarter 2010 and $523.5
million for year-to-date 2010 when compared to the corresponding periods in 2009. Electric rates
for the traditional operating companies include provisions to adjust billings for fluctuations in
fuel costs, including the energy component of purchased power costs. Under these provisions, fuel
revenues generally equal fuel expenses, including the fuel component of purchased power costs, and
do not affect net income.
15
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Wholesale Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$46.8
|
|
9.0
|
|
$172.5
|
|
12.2 |
|
Wholesale energy sales will vary depending on the market cost of available energy compared to the
cost of Southern Company system-owned generation, demand for energy within the Southern Company
service territory, and the availability of Southern Company system generation. Increases and
decreases in revenues that are driven by fuel prices are accompanied by an increase or decrease in
fuel costs and do not have a significant impact on net income.
In the third quarter 2010, wholesale revenues were $565.9 million compared to $519.1 million for
the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to higher energy and capacity
revenues under existing PPAs and new PPAs at Southern Power that began in January, June, and July
2010. This increase was partially offset by the expiration of long-term unit power sales contracts
in May 2010 at Alabama Power and the capacity subject to those contracts being made available for
retail service starting in June 2010.
For year-to-date 2010, wholesale revenues were $1.58 billion compared to $1.41 billion for the
corresponding period in 2009. This increase was primarily due to higher energy and capacity
revenues under existing PPAs and new PPAs at Southern Power that began in January, June, and July
2010, as well as increased energy sales that were not covered by PPAs at Southern Power due to more
favorable weather year-to-date 2010 compared to the corresponding period in 2009. This increase
was partially offset by the expiration of long-term unit power sales contracts in May 2010 at
Alabama Power and the capacity subject to those contracts being made available for retail service
starting in June 2010.
Other Electric Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$21.1
|
|
15.1
|
|
$47.4
|
|
12.1 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other electric revenues were $161.0 million compared to $139.9 million
for the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was primarily the result of a $15.2 million
increase in transmission revenues and a $3.1 million increase in co-generation revenues due to
increased sales volume.
For year-to-date 2010, other electric revenues were $438.5 million compared to $391.1 million for
the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was primarily the result of a $25.7 million
increase in transmission revenues, a $10.7 million increase in co-generation revenues due to
increased sales volume, a $4.1 million increase in rents from electric property, and a $2.3 million
increase in outdoor lighting revenues.
Revenues from co-generation and other energy services are generally offset by related expenses and
do not have a significant effect on net income.
Other Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(4.4)
|
|
(17.8)
|
|
$(16.0)
|
|
(20.4) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other revenues were $20.4 million compared to $24.8 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily the result of a $4.3 million decrease in
revenues at SouthernLINC Wireless related to lower average revenue per subscriber and fewer
subscribers due to increased competition in the industry.
16
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
For year-to-date 2010, other revenues were $62.3 million compared to $78.3 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily the result of a $15.0 million decrease in
revenues at SouthernLINC Wireless related to lower average revenue per subscriber and fewer
subscribers due to increased competition in the industry.
Fuel and Purchased Power Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 |
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 |
|
|
|
vs. |
|
|
vs. |
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2009 |
|
|
Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
|
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
Fuel* |
|
|
$236.2 |
|
|
|
13.6 |
|
|
|
$654.9 |
|
|
|
14.3 |
|
Purchased power |
|
|
42.5 |
|
|
|
25.5 |
|
|
|
56.6 |
|
|
|
13.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total fuel and purchased power expenses |
|
|
$278.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$711.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
Fuel includes fuel purchased by the Southern Company system for tolling
agreements where power is generated by
the provider and is included in purchased power when determining the average cost
of purchased power. |
Fuel and purchased power expenses for the third quarter 2010 were $2.18 billion compared to $1.90
billion for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily the result of a $208.5
million increase related to total KWHs generated and purchased and a $70.2 million increase in the
average cost of fuel and purchased power. The increase in total fuel and purchased power expenses
resulted primarily from increased generation and higher fossil fuel prices when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009.
For year-to-date 2010, fuel and purchased power expenses were $5.71 billion compared to $5.00
billion for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily the result of a $402.9
million increase related to total KWHs generated and purchased and a $308.6 million increase in the
average cost of fuel and purchased power. The increase in total fuel and purchased power expenses
resulted primarily from increased generation and higher fossil fuel prices when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009.
Fuel expenses at the traditional operating companies are generally offset by fuel revenues and do
not have a significant effect on net income. See FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL State PSC Matters
Retail Fuel Cost Recovery herein for additional information. Fuel expenses incurred under
Southern Powers PPAs are generally the responsibility of the counterparties and do not
significantly affect net income.
Details of Southern Companys cost of generation and purchased power are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Cost |
|
Third Quarter 2010 |
|
Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Percent Change |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 |
|
Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
Percent Change |
|
|
(cents per net KWH) |
|
|
|
|
|
(cents per net KWH) |
|
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
3.55 |
|
|
|
3.42 |
|
|
|
3.8 |
|
|
|
3.55 |
|
|
|
3.39 |
|
|
|
4.7 |
|
Purchased power |
|
|
8.03 |
|
|
|
8.00 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
7.13 |
|
|
|
6.20 |
|
|
|
15.0 |
|
|
Energy purchases will vary depending on demand for energy within the Southern Company service area,
the market cost of available energy as compared to the cost of Southern Company system-generated
energy, and the availability of Southern Company system generation.
17
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Other
Operations and Maintenance Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$199.5
|
|
24.3
|
|
$323.6
|
|
12.8 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $1.02 billion compared to
$820.9 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily the result of a
$42.2 million increase in fossil, hydro, and nuclear expenses, a $31.4 million increase in
commodity and labor costs, a $79.5 million increase in transmission and distribution expenses,
which includes an additional accrual of $40.0 million to the NDR at Alabama Power, a $37.2 million
increase in administrative and general expenses, and a $9.2 million increase in customer service
and sales expenses.
For year-to-date 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $2.85 billion compared to
$2.52 billion for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily the result of a
$112.1 million increase in fossil, hydro, and nuclear expenses, a $69.4 million increase in
commodity and labor costs, a $108.2 million increase in transmission and distribution expenses,
which includes an additional accrual of $40.0 million to the NDR at Alabama Power, a $30.4 million
increase in administrative and general expenses, and a $3.5 million increase in customer service
and sales expenses.
See FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL State PSC Matters Alabama Power Retail Regulatory Matters
Natural Disaster Cost Recovery and Note (B) to the Condensed Financial Statements under State PSC
Matters Alabama Power Natural Disaster Cost Recovery herein for additional information on
the NDR.
MC Asset Recovery Litigation Settlement
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
|
|
|
|
$(202.0)
|
|
N/M |
|
N/M Not Meaningful
In the first quarter 2009, Southern Company entered into a litigation settlement agreement with MC
Asset Recovery which resulted in a charge of $202.0 million and required MC Asset Recovery to
release Southern Company and certain other designated avoidance actions assigned to MC Asset
Recovery in connection with Mirants plan of reorganization, as well as to release all actions
against current or former officers and directors of Mirant and Southern Company that have or could
have been filed. The settlement has been completed and resolves all claims by MC Asset Recovery
against Southern Company. In June 2009, the case was dismissed with prejudice. See Note (B) to
the Condensed Financial Statements under Mirant Matters herein for additional information.
Depreciation and Amortization
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$94.7
|
|
28.5
|
|
$37.5
|
|
3.4 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, depreciation and amortization was $426.8 million compared to $332.1
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to the amortization
of $5.0 million in the third quarter 2010 compared to $54.0 million in the third quarter 2009 of
the regulatory liability related to other cost of removal obligations at Georgia Power as
authorized by the Georgia PSC, as well as additional depreciation on plant in service related to
environmental, transmission, and distribution projects.
18
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
For year-to-date 2010, depreciation and amortization was $1.14 billion compared to $1.10 billion
for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily the result of additional
depreciation on plant in service related to environmental, transmission, and distribution projects.
The increase was partially offset by the amortization of $119.3 million in 2010 compared to $54.0
million in 2009 of the regulatory liability related to other cost of removal obligations at Georgia
Power as authorized by the Georgia PSC.
See Note 3 to the financial statements of Southern Company in Item 8 of the Form 10-K under Retail
Regulatory Matters Georgia Power Cost of Removal for additional information on the
amortization of the other cost of removal regulatory liability.
Taxes Other Than Income Taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$22.4
|
|
10.5
|
|
$40.6
|
|
6.6 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, taxes other than income taxes were $235.3 million compared to $212.9
million for the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was primarily due to higher municipal
franchise fees at Georgia Power as a result of increased retail revenues, increases in ad valorem
taxes, and increases in payroll taxes.
For year-to-date 2010, taxes other than income taxes were $661.5 million compared to $620.9 million
for the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was primarily due to higher municipal
franchise fees at Georgia Power as a result of increased retail revenues, increases in ad valorem
taxes, and increases in payroll taxes.
Allowance for Equity Funds Used During Construction
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(5.9)
|
|
(11.6)
|
|
$(1.3)
|
|
(0.9) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, AFUDC equity was $45.2 million compared to $51.1 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, AFUDC equity was $139.9 million compared to
$141.2 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The third quarter and year-to-date 2010
decreases were primarily due to the completion of environmental projects at Alabama Power and Gulf
Power. These decreases were partially offset by increases in construction related to three new combined cycle units, two new nuclear generating units, and ongoing
environmental and transmission projects at Georgia Power.
Leveraged Lease Income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(0.8)
|
|
(11.2)
|
|
$(12.1)
|
|
(48.8) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, leveraged lease income was $5.8 million compared to $6.6 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The decrease when compared to the corresponding period in 2009 was
not material.
For year-to-date 2010, leveraged lease income was $12.6 million compared to $24.7 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was primarily related to the early termination of two
leveraged lease investments in the second quarter 2009.
19
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Gain on Disposition of Lease Termination
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
|
|
|
|
$(26.3)
|
|
N/M |
|
N/M Not Meaningful
In the second quarter 2009, Southern Company terminated two international leveraged lease
investments early which resulted in a gain of $26.3 million.
Loss on Extinguishment of Debt
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
|
|
|
|
$(17.2)
|
|
N/M |
|
N/M Not Meaningful
In the second quarter 2009, Southern Company terminated two international leveraged lease
investments early. The proceeds from the terminations were used to extinguish all debt related to
leveraged lease investments, a portion of which had make-whole redemption provisions which resulted
in a loss of $17.2 million.
Interest Expense, Net of Amounts Capitalized
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(1.2)
|
|
(0.5)
|
|
$(18.6)
|
|
(2.7) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, interest expense, net of amounts capitalized was $225.1 million compared
to $226.3 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009 was not material.
For year-to-date 2010, interest expense, net of amounts capitalized was $666.3 million compared to
$684.9 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a $24.8
million decrease related to lower average interest rates on variable-rate debt, an $18.7 million
decrease in other interest charges, and a $1.3 million decrease related to higher capitalized
interest. Partially offsetting this decrease was a $26.2 million increase associated with $1.04
billion in additional debt outstanding at September 30, 2010 when compared to September 30, 2009.
Income Taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$6.0
|
|
1.4
|
|
$96.3
|
|
11.6 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, income taxes were $441.9 million compared to $435.9 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. This increase was primarily due to higher pre-tax earnings in the
third quarter 2010, partially offset by state investment tax credits at Georgia Power, and tax
benefits associated with the construction of a biomass facility at Southern Power.
For year-to-date 2010, income taxes were $925.1 million compared to $828.8 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. This increase was primarily due to higher pre-tax earnings in 2010,
partially offset by a decrease in uncertain tax positions at Georgia Power related to state income
tax credits that remain subject to litigation, state investment tax credits at Georgia Power, and
tax benefits associated with the construction of a biomass facility at Southern Power.
20
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
See FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Income Tax Matters Georgia State Income Tax Credits and Note
(B) to the Condensed Financial Statements under Income Tax Matters Georgia State Income Tax
Credits and Note (G) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for additional information.
FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL
The results of operations discussed above are not necessarily indicative of Southern Companys
future earnings potential. The level of Southern Companys future earnings depends on numerous
factors that affect the opportunities, challenges, and risks of Southern Companys primary business
of selling electricity. These factors include the traditional operating companies ability to
maintain a constructive regulatory environment that continues to allow for the recovery of all
prudently incurred costs during a time of increasing costs. Other major factors include
profitability of the competitive wholesale supply business and federal regulatory policy, which may
impact Southern Companys level of participation in this market. Future earnings for the
electricity business in the near term will depend, in part, upon maintaining energy sales which is
subject to a number of factors. These factors include weather, competition, new energy contracts
with neighboring utilities and other wholesale customers, energy conservation practiced by
customers, the price of electricity, the price elasticity of demand, and the rate of economic
growth or decline in the service area. In addition, the level of future earnings for the wholesale
supply business also depends on numerous factors including creditworthiness of customers, total
generating capacity available in the Southeast, future acquisitions and construction of generating
facilities, and the successful remarketing of capacity as current contracts expire. Changes in
economic conditions impact sales for the traditional operating companies and Southern Power, and
the pace of the economic recovery remains uncertain. The timing and extent of the economic
recovery will impact growth and may impact future earnings. For additional information relating to
these issues, see RISK FACTORS in Item 1A and MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE
EARNINGS POTENTIAL of Southern Company in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
Environmental Matters
Compliance costs related to the Clean Air Act and other environmental statutes and regulations
could affect earnings if such costs cannot continue to be fully recovered in rates on a timely
basis. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental
Matters of Southern Company in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Southern Company
under Environmental Matters in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
New Source Review Actions
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
New Source Review Actions of Southern Company in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of
Southern Company under Environmental Matters New Source Review Actions in Item 8 of the Form
10-K for additional information regarding civil actions brought by the EPA against certain Southern
Company subsidiaries. The EPAs action against Alabama Power is alleging that Alabama Power
violated the NSR provisions of the Clean Air Act and related state laws with respect to certain of
its coal-fired generating facilities. On September 2, 2010, following the end of discovery, the
EPA dismissed five of its eight remaining claims against Alabama Power, leaving only three claims
for summary disposition or trial, including one relating to a facility co-owned by Mississippi
Power. The parties each filed motions for summary judgment on September 30, 2010. The court has
set a trial date for October 2011 for any remaining claims. The ultimate outcome of this matter
cannot now be determined.
21
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Carbon Dioxide Litigation
New York Case
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Carbon Dioxide Litigation New York Case of Southern Company in Item 7 and Note 3 to the
financial statements of Southern Company under Environmental Matters Carbon Dioxide Litigation
New York Case in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding carbon dioxide
litigation. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit denied the defendants petition for
rehearing en banc on March 5, 2010. On August 2, 2010, the defendants filed a petition for writ of
certiorari with the U.S. Supreme Court. The ultimate outcome of these matters cannot be determined
at this time.
Other Litigation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Carbon Dioxide Litigation Other Litigation of Southern Company in Item 7 and Note 3 to the
financial statements of Southern Company under Environmental Matters Carbon Dioxide Litigation
Other Litigation in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding carbon dioxide
litigation related to Hurricane Katrina. On May 28, 2010, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth
Circuit dismissed the plaintiffs appeal of the case based on procedural grounds relating to the
loss of a quorum by the full court on reconsideration, reinstating the district court decision in
favor of the defendants. On August 27, 2010, the plaintiffs petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court for
a writ of mandamus directing the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to reinstate the
plaintiffs appeal. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at this time.
Air Quality
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Southern Company in Item 7 of the Form
10-K for information regarding the Industrial Boiler Maximum Achievable Control Technology
regulations. On April 29, 2010, the EPA issued a proposed rule that would establish emissions
limits for various hazardous air pollutants typically emitted from industrial boilers, including
biomass boilers. The EPA is required to finalize the rules by January 16, 2011. The impact of
these proposed regulations will depend on their final form and the outcome of any legal challenges,
and cannot be determined at this time.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Southern Company in Item 7 of the Form
10-K for information regarding proposed sulfur dioxide (SO2) regulations. On August 23,
2010, the EPAs final revisions to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for SO2,
which included the establishment of a new short-term standard, became effective. The ultimate
impact of the revised standard will depend on additional regulatory action, state implementation,
and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
On January 22, 2010, the EPA finalized revisions to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) by setting a new one-hour standard that became effective on April
12, 2010. The impact of this regulation will depend on additional regulatory action, state
implementation, and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
Although none of the areas within Southern Companys service territory are expected to be
designated as nonattainment for the standard, based on current ambient air quality monitoring data,
the new NO2 standard could result in significant additional compliance and operational
costs for units that require new source permitting.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Southern Company in Item 7 of the Form
10-K for information regarding the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR). On August 2, 2010, the EPA
published a proposed rule to replace CAIR, which was overturned by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit in 2008 but
left in place pending the promulgation of a replacement rule. This proposed rule, referred to as
the Transport Rule, would require 31 eastern
22
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
states and the District of Columbia (D.C.) to reduce
power plant emissions of SO2 and nitrogen oxides (NOx) that contribute to
downwind states nonattainment of federal ozone and/or fine particulate matter ambient air quality
standards. To address fine particulate matter standards, the proposed Transport Rule would require
D.C. and 27 eastern states, including Alabama, Florida, and Georgia, to reduce annual emissions of
SO2 and NOx from power plants. To address ozone standards, the proposed
Transport Rule would also require D.C. and 25 states, including each of the states in Southern
Companys service territory, to achieve additional reductions in NOx emissions from
power plants during the ozone season. The proposed Transport Rule contains a preferred option
that would allow limited interstate trading of emissions allowances; however, the EPA also requests
comment on two alternative approaches that would not allow interstate trading of emissions
allowances. The EPA states that it also intends to develop a second phase of the Transport Rule
next year to address the more stringent ozone air quality standards as they are finalized. The EPA
expects to finalize the Transport Rule in late spring of 2011 and to set the initial compliance
deadline starting in 2012. The impact of this proposed regulation and potential future regulation
will depend on its final form, state implementation, and the outcome of any legal challenges, and
cannot be determined at this time.
These regulations could result in significant additional compliance and operational costs that
could affect future unit retirement and replacement decisions and results of operations, cash
flows, and financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated rates.
Coal Combustion Byproducts
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Coal Combustion Byproducts of Southern Company in Item 7
of the Form 10-K for information regarding potential additional regulation of coal combustion
byproducts. On June 21, 2010, the EPA published a rulemaking proposal which requested comments on
two potential regulatory options for management and disposal of coal combustion byproducts:
regulation as a solid waste or regulation as if the materials
technically constituted a hazardous waste. Adoption of either option could
require closure of or significant change to existing storage units and construction of lined
landfills, as well as additional waste management and groundwater monitoring requirements. Under
both options, the EPA proposes to exempt the beneficial reuse of coal combustion byproducts from
regulation; however, a hazardous or other designation indicative of heightened risk could limit or
eliminate beneficial reuse options. Comments on the proposed rules
are due by November 19, 2010. Although its analysis is preliminary,
Southern Company believes the EPA has significantly underestimated compliance costs in the proposed rule.
The outcome of these proposed regulations will depend on their
final form and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
However, additional regulation of coal combustion byproducts could have a significant impact on the
management, beneficial use, and disposal of such byproducts. These changes could result in
significant additional compliance and operational costs that could affect future unit retirement
and replacement decisions and results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition if such
costs are not recovered through regulated rates. Further, higher
costs that are recovered through regulated rates could contribute to
reduced demand for electricity, which could negatively impact results
of operations, cash flows, and financial condition.
23
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Global Climate Issues
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Global Climate Issues of Southern Company in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for information regarding the
potential for legislation and regulation addressing greenhouse gas and other emissions. On April
1, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule regulating greenhouse gas emissions from new motor vehicles
under the Clean Air Act. The EPA has stated that, once this rule becomes effective on January 2,
2011, carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases will become regulated pollutants under the
Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) preconstruction permit program and the Title V
operating permit program, which both apply to power plants. As a result, the construction of new
facilities or the major modification of existing facilities could trigger the requirement for a PSD
permit and the installation of the best available control technology for carbon dioxide and other
greenhouse gases. On May 13, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule, referred to as the Tailoring Rule,
governing how these programs would be applied to stationary sources, including power plants. This
rule establishes two phases for applying PSD and Title V requirements to greenhouse gas emissions
sources. The first phase, beginning on January 2, 2011, will apply to sources and projects that
would already be covered under PSD or Title V, whereas the second phase, beginning July 1, 2011,
will apply to sources and projects that would not otherwise trigger those programs but for their
greenhouse gas emissions. The final rules could result in significant additional compliance and
operational costs that could affect future unit retirement and replacement decisions and results of
operations, cash flows, and financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated
rates. The ultimate outcome of these final rules cannot be determined at this time and will depend
on the outcome of any legal challenges.
State PSC Matters
Retail Fuel Cost Recovery
The traditional operating companies each have established fuel cost recovery rates approved by
their respective state PSCs. In recent years, the traditional operating companies have experienced
volatility in pricing of fuel commodities with higher than expected pricing for coal and uranium
and volatile price swings in natural gas. These higher fuel costs have resulted in total under
recovered fuel costs included in the balance sheets of Georgia Power and Gulf Power of
approximately $505 million at September 30, 2010. Alabama Power and Mississippi Power collected
all previously under recovered fuel costs and, as of September 30, 2010, had a total over recovered
fuel balance of approximately $102 million. At December 31, 2009, total under recovered fuel costs
included in the balance sheets of Georgia Power and Gulf Power were approximately $667 million and
Alabama Power and Mississippi Power had a total over recovered fuel balance of $229 million. Fuel
cost recovery revenues are adjusted for differences in actual recoverable fuel costs and amounts
billed in current regulated rates. Accordingly, changes to the billing factors will have no
significant effect on Southern Companys revenues or net income but will affect cash flow. The
traditional operating companies continuously monitor the under or over recovered fuel cost
balances. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters
Fuel Cost Recovery of Southern Company in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements under
Retail Regulatory Matters Alabama Power Fuel Cost Recovery and Retail Regulatory Matters
Georgia Power Fuel Cost Recovery in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
Alabama Power Retail Regulatory Matters
Nuclear Outage Accounting Order
On August 17, 2010, the Alabama PSC approved a change to the nuclear maintenance outage accounting
process associated with routine refueling activities. Currently, Alabama Power accrues nuclear
outage operations and maintenance expenses for the two units of Plant Farley during the 18-month
cycle for the outages. In accordance with the new order, nuclear outage expenses will be deferred
when the charges actually occur and then amortized over the subsequent 18-month period.
24
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The initial result of implementation of the new accounting order is that no nuclear maintenance
outage expenses will be recognized from January 2011 through December 2011, which will decrease
nuclear outage operations and maintenance expenses in 2011 from 2010 by approximately $50 million.
During the fall of 2011, actual nuclear outage expenses associated with one unit of Plant Farley
will be deferred to a regulatory asset account; beginning in January 2012 these deferred costs will
be amortized to nuclear operations and maintenance expense over an 18-month period. During the
spring of 2012, actual nuclear outage expenses associated with the other unit of Plant Farley will
be deferred to a regulatory asset account; beginning in July 2012 these deferred costs will be
amortized to nuclear operations and maintenance expense over an 18-month period. Alabama Power
will continue the pattern of deferral of nuclear outage expenses as incurred and the recognition of
expenses over a subsequent 18-month period.
Natural Disaster Cost Recovery
Based on an order from the Alabama PSC, Alabama Power maintains a reserve for operations and
maintenance expenses to cover the cost of damages from major storms to its transmission and
distribution facilities, referred to as the NDR.
On August 20, 2010, the Alabama PSC approved an order enhancing the NDR that eliminated the $75
million authorized limit and allows Alabama Power to make additional accruals to the NDR. The
order also allows for reliability-related expenditures to be charged against the additional
accruals when the NDR balance exceeds $75 million. Alabama Power may designate a portion of the
NDR to reliability-related expenditures as a part of an annual budget process for the following
year or during the current year for identified unbudgeted reliability-related expenditures that are
incurred. Accruals that have not been designated can be used to offset storm charges. Additional
accruals to the NDR will enhance Alabama Powers ability to deal with the financial effects of
future natural disasters, promote system reliability, and offset costs retail customers would
otherwise bear.
The structure of the monthly Rate NDR charge to customers is not altered and continues to include a
component to maintain the $75 million base reserve.
In September 2010, Alabama Power accrued an additional $40 million to the NDR, resulting in an
accumulated balance of approximately $118 million, which is included in the Condensed Balance
Sheets herein under other regulatory liabilities, deferred. The additional accruals are reflected
as operations and maintenance expense in the Condensed Statements of Income herein.
Georgia Power Retail Regulatory Matters
Rate Plans
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Georgia
Power of Southern Company in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Southern Company
under Retail Regulatory Matters Georgia Power Retail Rate Plans and Cost of Removal in
Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding the 2007 Retail Rate Plan.
On August 27, 2009, the Georgia PSC approved an accounting order that would allow Georgia Power to
amortize up to $324 million of its regulatory liability related to other cost of removal
obligations. Under the terms of the accounting order, Georgia Power was entitled to amortize up to
one-third of the regulatory liability ($108 million) in 2009, limited to the amount needed to earn
no more than a 9.75% retail return on equity (ROE). In addition, Georgia Power may amortize up to
two-thirds of the regulatory liability ($216 million) in 2010, limited to the amount needed to earn
no more than a 10.15% retail ROE. From July 1, 2009 through September 30, 2010, Georgia Power had
amortized $161 million of the regulatory liability. Georgia Power currently expects to amortize
approximately $40 million of the regulatory liability in the fourth quarter 2010; however, the
final amount is subject to the limitations described previously and cannot be determined at this
time.
In accordance with the 2007 Retail Rate Plan, Georgia Power filed a base rate case with the Georgia
PSC on July 1, 2010. The filing includes a requested rate increase totaling $615 million, or 8.2%
of retail revenues, to be effective January 1,
25
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
2011 based on a proposed retail ROE of 11.95%. The
requested increase will be recovered through Georgia Powers existing base rate tariffs as follows:
$451 million, or 6.0%, through the traditional base rate tariffs; $115 million, or 1.5%, through
the Environmental Compliance Cost Recovery (ECCR) tariff; $32 million through the Demand Side
Management (DSM) tariffs; and $17 million through the Municipal Franchise Fee (MFF) tariff. The
majority of the increase in retail revenues is being requested to cover the costs of environmental
compliance and continued investment in new generation, transmission, and distribution facilities to
support growth and ensure reliability. The remainder of the increase includes recovery of higher
operation, maintenance, and other investment costs to meet the current and future demand for
electricity.
Unlike rate plans based on traditional one-year test periods, the 2007 Retail Rate Plan was
designed to operate for the three-year period ending December 31, 2010. The 2010 rate case request
includes proposed enhancements to the structure of the 2007 Retail Rate Plan to fit the current
economic climate, including a process of annual tariff compliance reviews that would allow it to
continue to operate for multiple years (Proposed Alternate Rate Plan). The primary points of the
Proposed Alternate Rate Plan include:
|
§ |
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Continuation of a plus or minus 100 basis point range for ROE. |
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§ |
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Creation of an Adjustable Cost Recovery (ACR) tariff. If approved, beginning with an
effective date of January 1, 2012, the ACR will work to maintain Georgia Powers earnings
within the ROE band established by the Georgia PSC in this case. If Georgia Powers
earnings projected for the upcoming year are within the ROE band, no adjustment under the
ACR tariff will be requested. If Georgia Powers earnings projected for the upcoming year
are outside (either above or below) the approved ROE band, the ACR tariff will be used to
adjust projected earnings back to the mid-point of the approved ROE band. |
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The ACR tariff would also return to the sharing mechanism used prior to the 2007 Retail Rate
Plan whereby two-thirds of any actual earnings for the previous year above the approved ROE
band would be refunded to customers, with the remaining one-third retained by Georgia Power
as incentive to manage expenses and operate as efficiently as possible. In addition, if
earnings are below the approved ROE band, Georgia Power would accept one-third of the
shortfall and retail customers would be responsible for the remaining two-thirds. |
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Creation of a new Certified Capacity Cost Recovery (CCCR) tariff to recover costs
related to new capacity additions certified by the Georgia PSC and updated through
applicable project construction monitoring reports and hearings. |
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§ |
|
Continuation and enhancement of the ECCR and DSM-Residential tariffs from the 2007
Retail Rate Plan and creation of a DSM-Commercial tariff to recover environmental capital
and operating costs resulting from governmental mandates and DSM costs approved and
certified by the Georgia PSC. |
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Implementation of an annual review of the MFF tariff to adjust for changes in relative
gross receipts between customers served inside and outside municipal boundaries. |
These proposed enhancements would become effective in 2012 with revenue requirements for each
tariff updated through separate compliance filings based on Georgia Powers budget for the upcoming
year. Based on Georgia Powers 2010 budget, earnings are currently projected to be slightly below
the proposed ROE band in 2012 and within the band in 2013. However, updated budgets and revenue
forecasts may eliminate, increase, or decrease the need for an ACR tariff adjustment in either
year. In addition, Georgia Power currently estimates the ECCR tariff would increase by $120
million in 2012 and would decrease by $12 million in 2013. The CCCR tariff would begin recovering
the costs of Plant McDonough Units 4, 5, and 6 with increases of $99 million in February 2012, $77
million in June 2012, and $76 million in February 2013. The DSM tariffs would increase by $17
million in 2012 and $18 million in 2013 to reflect the terms of the stipulated agreement in Georgia
Powers 2010 DSM Certification proceeding. Amounts recovered under the MFF tariff are based on
amounts recovered under all other tariffs.
26
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Hearings on Georgia Powers direct testimony were held in October 2010. In direct testimony filed
on October 22, 2010, the Georgia PSC Staff proposed various adjustments based on a traditional
one-year test period that would result in a proposed increase of $436 million in 2011 using a 10.5%
ROE. The Georgia PSC Staff recommendation would also allow additional increases of $181 million
and $88 million in 2012 and 2013, respectively, to recover the costs associated with Plant
McDonough Units 4, 5, and 6. These additional increases would be recovered through Georgia Powers
traditional base rate tariffs. While supporting the proposed DSM and MFF tariffs, the Georgia PSC
Staff recommended against approval of the proposed ECCR, CCCR, and ACR tariffs. Georgia Power
disagrees with the Georgia PSC Staffs positions. Hearings on the Georgia PSC Staff and intervenor
direct testimony will be held in November 2010. Georgia Powers rebuttal hearings will occur in
early December 2010. The Georgia PSC is scheduled to issue a final order in this matter on
December 21, 2010.
The final outcome of these matters cannot now be determined.
Fuel Cost Recovery
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Fuel Cost
Recovery of Southern Company in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements under Retail
Regulatory Matters Georgia Power Fuel Cost Recovery in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for
additional information.
On March 11, 2010, the Georgia PSC voted to approve the stipulation among Georgia Power, the
Georgia PSC Staff, and three customer groups with the exception that the under recovered fuel
balance be collected over 42 months. The new rates, which became effective April 1, 2010, will
result in an increase of approximately $373 million to Georgia Powers total annual fuel cost
recovery billings. Georgia Power is required to file its next fuel case by March 1, 2011.
Legislation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Legislation of Southern
Company in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
Healthcare Reform
On March 23, 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) was signed into law and,
on March 30, 2010, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (HCERA and, together
with PPACA, the Acts), which makes various amendments to certain aspects of the PPACA, was signed
into law. The Acts effectively change the tax treatment of federal subsidies paid to sponsors of
retiree health benefit plans that provide prescription drug benefits that are at least actuarially
equivalent to the corresponding benefits provided under Medicare Part D. The federal subsidy paid
to employers was introduced as part of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and
Modernization Act of 2003 (MPDIMA). Since the 2006 tax year, Southern Company and the traditional
operating companies have been receiving the federal subsidy related to certain retiree prescription
drug plans that were determined to be actuarially equivalent to the benefit provided under Medicare
Part D. Under the MPDIMA, the federal subsidy does not reduce an employers income tax deduction
for the costs of providing such prescription drug plans nor is it subject to income tax
individually. Under the Acts, beginning in 2013, an employers income tax deduction for the costs
of providing Medicare Part D-equivalent prescription drug benefits to retirees will be reduced by
the amount of the federal subsidy. Under GAAP, any impact from a change in tax law must be
recognized in the period enacted regardless of the effective date; however, as a result of state
regulatory treatment, this change had no material impact on the financial statements of Southern
Company. Southern Company is in the process of assessing the extent to which the legislation may
affect its future health care and related employee benefit plan costs. Any future impact on the
financial statements of Southern Company cannot be determined at this time.
27
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Stimulus Funding
On April 28, 2010, Southern Company signed a Smart Grid Investment Grant agreement with the DOE,
formally accepting a $165 million grant under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
This funding, to be matched by Southern Company, will be used for transmission and distribution
automation and modernization projects that must be completed by April 28, 2013.
Income Tax Matters
Georgia State Income Tax Credits
Georgia Powers 2005 through 2009 income tax filings for the State of Georgia include state income
tax credits for increased activity through Georgia ports. Georgia Power had also filed similar
claims for the years 2002 through 2004. The Georgia Department of Revenue has not responded to
these claims. In July 2007, Georgia Power filed a complaint in the Superior Court of Fulton County
to recover the credits claimed for the years 2002 through 2004. On March 22, 2010, the Superior
Court of Fulton County ruled in favor of Georgia Powers motion for summary judgment. The Georgia
Department of Revenue has appealed to the Georgia Court of Appeals. An unrecognized tax benefit
has been recorded related to these credits. If Georgia Power prevails, no material impact on
Southern Companys net income is expected as a significant portion of any tax benefit is expected
to be returned to retail customers. If Georgia Power is not successful, payment of the related
state tax could have a significant, and possibly material, negative effect on Southern Companys
cash flow. See Note 5 to the financial statements of Southern Company under Unrecognized Tax
Benefits in Item 8 of the Form 10-K and Note (G) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for
additional information. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot now be determined.
Tax Method of Accounting for Repairs
Southern Company submitted a change in the tax accounting method for repair costs associated with
Southern Companys generation, transmission, and distribution systems with the filing of the 2009
federal income tax return in September 2010. The new tax method is expected to result in net
positive cash flow for 2010 of approximately $243 million. Although IRS approval of this change is
considered automatic, the amount claimed is subject to review because the IRS will be issuing final
guidance on this issue. Currently, the IRS is working with the utility industry in an effort to
resolve this matter in a consistent manner for all utilities. Due to uncertainty concerning the
ultimate resolution of this issue, an unrecognized tax benefit has been recorded for the change in
the tax accounting method for repair costs. See Note (G) to the Condensed Financial Statements
herein for additional information. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at
this time.
Bonus Depreciation
On September 27, 2010, the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010 (SBJCA) was signed into law.
The SBJCA includes an extension of the 50% bonus depreciation for certain property acquired in 2010
and placed in service in 2010 or, in certain limited cases, 2011. Southern Company has estimated
the cash flow reduction to tax payments for 2010 to be approximately $309 million.
Construction Projects
The subsidiary companies of Southern Company are engaged in continuous construction programs to
accommodate existing and estimated future loads on their respective systems. Southern Company
intends to continue its strategy of developing and constructing new generating facilities,
including units at Southern Power, proposed new nuclear units, and a proposed IGCC facility, as
well as adding environmental control equipment and expanding the transmission and distribution
systems. For the traditional operating companies, major generation construction projects are
subject to state PSC approvals in order to be included in retail rates. While Southern Power
generally constructs and acquires generation assets covered by long-term PPAs, any uncontracted capacity could negatively affect future
earnings. See Note 7 to the
28
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
financial statements of Southern Company under Construction Program
in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for estimated construction expenditures for the next three years. In
addition, see Note 3 to the financial statements of Southern Company under Retail Regulatory
Matters Georgia Power Nuclear Construction and Retail Regulatory Matters Integrated Coal
Gasification Combined Cycle in Item 8 of the Form 10-K and Note (B) to the Condensed Financial
Statements under State PSC Matters Georgia Power Nuclear Construction and State PSC Matters Mississippi Power Integrated Coal Gasification Combined Cycle herein for additional information.
On September 3, 2010, Georgia Power filed with the Georgia PSC the Nuclear Construction Cost
Recovery tariff, as authorized in April 2009 under the Georgia Nuclear Energy Financing Act. The
filing includes a rate increase of approximately $218 million to recover financing costs associated
with the construction of two additional nuclear units on the site of Plant Vogtle (Plant Vogtle
Units 3 and 4), effective January 1, 2011.
Other Matters
Southern Company and its subsidiaries are involved in various other matters being litigated,
regulatory matters, and certain tax-related issues that could affect future earnings. In addition,
Southern Company and its subsidiaries are subject to certain claims and legal actions arising in
the ordinary course of business. The business activities of Southern Companys subsidiaries are
subject to extensive governmental regulation related to public health and the environment, such as
regulation of air emissions and water discharges. Litigation over environmental issues and claims
of various types, including property damage, personal injury, common law nuisance, and citizen
enforcement of environmental requirements such as opacity and air and water quality standards, has
increased generally throughout the United States. In particular, personal injury and other claims
for damages caused by alleged exposure to hazardous materials, and common law nuisance claims for
injunctive relief and property damage allegedly caused by greenhouse gas and other emissions, have
become more frequent. The ultimate outcome of such pending or potential litigation against
Southern Company and its subsidiaries cannot be predicted at this time; however, for current
proceedings not specifically reported herein or in Note 3 to the financial statements of Southern
Company in Item 8 of the Form 10-K, management does not anticipate that the liabilities, if any,
arising from such current proceedings would have a material adverse effect on Southern Companys
financial statements.
The coastal contamination resulting from the oil spill that began in April 2010 in the Gulf of
Mexico has not significantly impacted operations, but has had and may continue to have significant
economic impacts on the affected areas within Southern Companys service territory.
See the Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for discussion of various other
contingencies, regulatory matters, and other matters being litigated which may affect future
earnings potential.
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Southern Company prepares its consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States. Significant accounting policies are
described in Note 1 to the financial statements of Southern Company in Item 8 of the Form 10-K.
In the application of these policies, certain estimates are made that may have a material impact
on Southern Companys results of operations and related disclosures. Different assumptions and
measurements could produce estimates that are significantly different from those recorded in the
financial statements. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates of Southern Company in Item 7 of the
Form 10-K for a complete discussion of Southern Companys critical accounting policies and
estimates related to Electric Utility Regulation, Contingent Obligations, Unbilled Revenues, and
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits.
29
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
Overview
Southern Companys financial condition remained stable at September 30, 2010. Southern Company
intends to continue to monitor its access to short-term and long-term capital markets as well as
its bank credit arrangements to meet future capital and liquidity needs. See Sources of Capital
and Financing Activities herein for additional information.
Net cash provided from operating activities totaled $3.5 billion for the first nine months of 2010,
an increase of $1.2 billion from the corresponding period in 2009. Significant changes in
operating cash flow for the first nine months of 2010 compared to the corresponding period in 2009
include an increase in net income as previously discussed, a reduction in fossil fuel stock, and an
increase in deferred income taxes primarily due to the change in the tax accounting method for
repair costs as previously discussed. Net cash used for investing activities totaled $3.0 billion
for the first nine months of 2010, an increase of $150 million from the corresponding period in
2009. The increase was due to proceeds received on sales of property in 2009. Net cash provided
from financing activities totaled $48 million for the first nine months of 2010, a decrease of $638
million from the corresponding period in 2009, primarily due to fewer issuances of securities in
the first nine months of 2010 and a reduction in notes payable outstanding. Fluctuations in cash
flow from financing activities vary from year to year based on capital needs and the maturity or
redemption of securities.
Significant balance sheet changes for the first nine months of 2010 include an increase in cash and
cash equivalents of $569 million and an increase of $2.0 billion in total property, plant, and
equipment for the installation of equipment to comply with environmental standards and construction
of generation, transmission, and distribution facilities. Other significant changes include an
increase in equity of $1.4 billion.
The market price of Southern Companys common stock at September 30, 2010 was $37.24 per share
(based on the closing price as reported on the New York Stock Exchange) and the book value was
$19.38 per share, representing a market-to-book ratio of 192%, compared to $33.32, $18.15, and
184%, respectively, at the end of 2009. The dividend for the third quarter 2010 was $0.4550 per
share compared to $0.4375 per share in the third quarter 2009.
Capital Requirements and Contractual Obligations
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Capital
Requirements and Contractual Obligations of Southern Company in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for a
description of Southern Companys capital requirements for its construction program, scheduled
maturities of long-term debt, interest, preferred and preference stock dividends, leases, trust
funding requirements, other purchase commitments, unrecognized tax benefits and interest, and
derivative obligations. Approximately $2 billion will be required through September 30, 2011 to
fund maturities and announced repurchases and redemptions of long-term debt. Georgia Power met its
obligations to repurchase $462.5 million in pollution control revenue bonds subsequent to September
30, 2010 with a portion of its current cash and cash equivalents balance at September 30, 2010.
Gulf Power met its obligations to redeem $75 million in senior notes subsequent to September 30,
2010 with a portion of its current cash and cash equivalents balance at September 30, 2010. No
mandatory contributions to Southern Companys pension plan are expected for the years ending
December 31, 2010 and 2011, although management may consider making discretionary contributions.
The construction programs are subject to periodic review and revision, and actual construction
costs may vary from these estimates because of numerous factors. These factors include: changes in
business conditions; changes in load projections; changes in environmental statutes and
regulations; changes in generating plants to meet new regulatory requirements; changes in FERC
rules and regulations; PSC approvals; changes in legislation; the cost and efficiency of
construction labor, equipment, and materials; project scope and design changes; and the cost of
capital. In addition, there can be no assurance that costs related to capital expenditures will be
fully recovered.
30
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Sources of Capital
Southern Company intends to meet its future capital needs through internal cash flow and external
security issuances. Equity capital can be provided from any combination of Southern Companys
stock plans, private placements, or public offerings. The amount and timing of additional equity
capital to be raised in 2010, as well as in subsequent years, will be contingent on Southern
Companys investment opportunities. Except as described below with respect to potential DOE loan
guarantees, the traditional operating companies and Southern Power plan to obtain the funds
required for construction and other purposes from sources similar to those utilized in the past,
which were primarily from operating cash flows, security issuances, term loans, short-term
borrowings, and equity contributions from Southern Company.
However, the amount, type, and timing of any future financings, if needed, will depend upon
prevailing market conditions, regulatory approval, and other factors. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION
AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Sources of Capital of Southern Company in
Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
On June 18, 2010, Georgia Power reached an agreement with the DOE to accept terms for a conditional
commitment for federal loan guarantees that would apply to future Georgia Power borrowings related
to Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4. Any borrowings guaranteed by the DOE would be full recourse to
Georgia Power and secured by a first priority lien on Georgia Powers 45.7% undivided ownership
interest in Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4. Total guaranteed borrowings would not exceed the lesser of
70% of eligible project costs or approximately $3.4 billion, and are expected to be funded by the
Federal Financing Bank. Final approval and issuance of loan guarantees by the DOE are subject to
receipt of the combined construction and operating license for Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 from the
NRC, negotiation of definitive agreements, completion of due diligence by the DOE, receipt of any
necessary regulatory approvals, and satisfaction of other conditions. There can be no assurance
that the DOE will issue loan guarantees for Georgia Power.
In addition, Mississippi Power has applied to the DOE for federal loan guarantees to finance a
portion of the eligible construction costs of the Kemper IGCC. Mississippi Power is in advanced
due diligence with the DOE but has yet to begin discussions with the DOE regarding the terms and
conditions of any loan guarantee. There can be no assurance the DOE will issue federal loan
guarantees to Mississippi Power.
Southern Companys current liabilities frequently exceed current assets because of the continued
use of short-term debt as a funding source to meet cash needs as well as scheduled maturities of
long-term debt. To meet short-term cash needs and contingencies, Southern Company has substantial
cash flow from operating activities and access to capital markets, including commercial paper
programs (which are backed by bank credit facilities), to meet liquidity needs. At September 30,
2010, Southern Company and its subsidiaries had approximately $1.3 billion of cash and cash
equivalents and approximately $4.8 billion of unused committed credit arrangements with banks. Of
the cash and cash equivalents, approximately $1.1 billion was held in various money market mutual
funds. The money market mutual funds invest in a portfolio of highly-rated, short-term securities,
and redemptions from the funds are available on a same day basis up to the full amount of the
investment. Of the unused credit arrangements, $126 million expire in 2010, $1.4 billion expire in
2011, and $3.2 billion expire in 2012. Of the credit arrangements expiring in 2010 and 2011, $81
million contain provisions allowing two-year term loans executable at expiration and $922 million
contain provisions allowing one-year term loans executable at expiration. At September 30, 2010,
approximately $1.8 billion of the credit facilities were dedicated to providing liquidity support
to the traditional operating companies variable rate pollution control revenue bonds. Subsequent
to September 30, 2010, Gulf Power renewed an existing credit agreement totaling $30 million and
increased an existing credit agreement by $5 million; both agreements contain provisions allowing a
one-year term loan executable at expiration and extended the expiration date to 2011. See Note 6
to the financial statements of Southern Company under Bank Credit Arrangements in Item 8 of the
Form 10-K and Note (E) to the Condensed Financial
31
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Statements under Bank Credit Arrangements herein for additional information. The traditional
operating companies may also meet short-term cash needs through a Southern Company subsidiary
organized to issue and sell commercial paper at the request and for the benefit of each of the
traditional operating companies. At September 30, 2010, the Southern Company system had
approximately $345 million of commercial paper borrowings outstanding with a weighted average
interest rate of 0.4% per annum. During the third quarter 2010, Southern Company had an average of
$814 million of commercial paper outstanding at a weighted average interest rate of 0.3% per annum
and the maximum amount outstanding was $1.1 billion. Management believes that the need for working
capital can be adequately met by utilizing commercial paper programs, lines of credit, and cash.
Off-Balance Sheet Financing Arrangements
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Off-Balance Sheet
Financing Arrangements of Southern Company in Item 7 and Note 7 to the financial statements of
Southern Company under Operating Leases in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for information related to
Mississippi Powers lease of a combined cycle generating facility at Plant Daniel. In April 2010,
Mississippi Power was required to notify the lessor, Juniper Capital L.P., if it intended to
terminate the lease at the end of the initial term expiring in October 2011. Mississippi Power
chose not to give notice to terminate the lease. Mississippi Power has the option to purchase the
units or renew the lease. Mississippi Power will have to provide notice of its intent to either
renew the lease or purchase the facility by July 2011. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot
be determined at this time.
Credit Rating Risk
Southern Company does not have any credit arrangements that would require material changes in
payment schedules or terminations as a result of a credit rating downgrade. There are certain
contracts that could require collateral, but not accelerated payment, in the event of a credit
rating change of certain subsidiaries to BBB and Baa2, or BBB- and/or Baa3 or below. These
contracts are for physical electricity purchases and sales, fuel purchases, fuel transportation and
storage, emissions allowances, energy price risk management, and construction of new generation.
At September 30, 2010, the maximum potential collateral requirements under these contracts at a BBB
and Baa2 rating were approximately $9 million and at a BBB- and/or Baa3 rating were approximately
$483 million. At September 30, 2010, the maximum potential collateral requirements under these
contracts at a rating below BBB- and/or Baa3 were approximately $2.5 billion. Generally,
collateral may be provided by a Southern Company guaranty, letter of credit, or cash.
Additionally, any credit rating downgrade could impact Southern Companys ability to access capital
markets, particularly the short-term debt market.
On January 22, 2010, Fitch applied new guidelines regarding the ratings of various hybrid capital
instruments and preferred securities of companies in all sectors, including banks, insurers,
non-bank financial institutions, and non-financial corporate entities, including utilities. As a
result, the Fitch ratings of the preferred stock, preference stock, and long-term debt payable to
affiliated trusts of the traditional operating companies decreased from A to A- at Alabama Power
and Georgia Power, from A- to BBB+ at Gulf Power, and from A+ to A at Mississippi Power. These
ratings are not applicable to the collateral requirements described above.
On August 12, 2010, Moodys downgraded the issuer and long-term debt ratings of Southern Company
(senior unsecured to Baa1 from A3), Georgia Power (senior unsecured to A3 from A2), Gulf Power
(senior unsecured to A3 from A2) and Mississippi Power (senior unsecured to A2 from A1). Moodys
also announced that it had downgraded the short-term ratings of Southern Company and a financing
subsidiary of Southern Company that issues commercial paper for the benefit of Southern Company
subsidiaries (including Georgia Power, Gulf Power, and Mississippi Power) to P-2 from P-1. In
addition, Moodys announced that it had downgraded the variable rate demand obligation ratings of
Georgia Power, Gulf Power, and Mississippi Power to VMIG-2 from VMIG-1 and the preferred and
preference stock ratings of Georgia Power (to Baa2 from Baa1), Gulf Power (to Baa2 from Baa1), and
Mississippi Power (to Baa1 from A3). Moodys also downgraded the trust preferred securities rating
of Georgia Power to Baa1 from A3. All of these companies have stable ratings outlooks from
Moodys.
32
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
On September 3, 2010, Fitch downgraded the issuer and long-term debt ratings of Mississippi Power
(senior unsecured to A+ from AA- and issuer default rating to A from A+). Fitch also announced
that it had downgraded the short-term ratings of Mississippi Power to F1 from F1+. In addition,
Fitch announced that it had downgraded the pollution control revenue bond ratings of Mississippi
Power to A+ from AA- and the preferred stock ratings of Mississippi Power to A- from A. Fitch
announced that the ratings outlook for Mississippi Power is stable. Also, Fitch announced that the
ratings outlook of Southern Company had been revised to negative.
Market Price Risk
Southern Companys market risk exposure relative to interest rate changes for the third quarter
2010 has not changed materially compared with the December 31, 2009 reporting period. Since a
significant portion of outstanding indebtedness is at fixed rates, Southern Company is not aware of
any facts or circumstances that would significantly affect exposures on existing indebtedness in
the near term. However, the impact on future financing costs cannot now be determined.
Due to cost-based rate regulation, the traditional operating companies continue to have limited
exposure to market volatility in interest rates, commodity fuel prices, and prices of electricity.
In addition, Southern Powers exposure to market volatility in commodity fuel prices and prices of
electricity is limited because its long-term sales contracts shift substantially all fuel cost
responsibility to the purchaser. However, during 2010, Southern Power is exposed to market
volatility in energy-related commodity prices as a result of sales of uncontracted generating
capacity. The traditional operating companies continue to manage fuel-hedging programs implemented
per the guidelines of their respective state PSCs. To mitigate residual risks relative to
movements in electricity prices, the traditional operating companies enter into physical
fixed-price contracts for the purchase and sale of electricity through the wholesale electricity
market. To mitigate residual risks relative to movements in gas prices, the registrants may enter
into fixed-price contracts for natural gas purchases; however, a significant portion of contracts
are priced at market. As such, Southern Company had no material change in market risk exposure for
the third quarter 2010 when compared with the December 31, 2009 reporting period.
The changes in fair value of energy-related derivative contracts for the three and nine months
ended September 30, 2010 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
Changes |
|
Changes |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
(in millions) |
Contracts outstanding at the beginning of the period, assets (liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(202 |
) |
|
$ |
(178 |
) |
Contracts realized or settled |
|
|
49 |
|
|
|
160 |
|
Current period changes(a) |
|
|
(96 |
) |
|
|
(231 |
) |
|
Contracts outstanding at the end of the period, assets (liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(249 |
) |
|
$ |
(249 |
) |
|
|
|
|
(a) |
|
Current period changes also include the changes in fair value of new contracts entered into
during the period, if any. |
The change in the fair value positions of the energy-related derivative contracts for the three and
nine months ended September 30, 2010 was a decrease of $47 million and a decrease of $71 million,
respectively, substantially all of which is due to natural gas positions. The change is
attributable to both the volume and prices of natural gas. At September 30, 2010, Southern Company
had a net hedge volume of 138 million mmBtu with a weighted average contract cost of approximately
$1.85 per mmBtu above market prices, compared to 134 million mmBtu at June 30, 2010 with a weighted
average contract cost of approximately $1.56 per mmBtu above market prices and compared to 145
million mmBtu at December 31, 2009 with a weighted average contract cost of approximately $1.23 per
mmBtu above market prices. The majority of the natural gas hedges are recovered through the
traditional operating companies fuel cost recovery clauses.
33
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The fair value of energy-related derivative contracts by hedge designation reflected in the
financial statements as assets (liabilities) consists of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Asset (Liability) Derivatives |
|
September 30, 2010 |
|
December 31, 2009 |
|
|
(in millions) |
Regulatory hedges |
|
$ |
(247 |
) |
|
$ |
(175 |
) |
Cash flow hedges |
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
(2 |
) |
Not designated |
|
|
(3 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
Total fair value |
|
$ |
(249 |
) |
|
$ |
(178 |
) |
|
Energy-related derivative contracts that are designated as regulatory hedges relate to the
traditional operating companies fuel-hedging programs, where gains and losses are initially
recorded as regulatory liabilities and assets, respectively, and then are included in fuel expense
as they are recovered through the fuel cost recovery clauses. Gains and losses on energy-related
derivatives that are designated as cash flow hedges are mainly used by Southern Power to hedge
anticipated purchases and sales and are initially deferred in OCI before being recognized in income
in the same period as the hedged transaction. Gains and losses on energy-related derivative
contracts that are not designated or fail to qualify as hedges are recognized in the statements of
income as incurred.
Total net unrealized pre-tax gains (losses) recognized in income for the three and nine months
ended September 30, 2010 were $(4) million and $(2) million, respectively. For the three and nine
months ended September 30, 2009, the total net unrealized pre-tax gains (losses) recognized in
income were $2 million and $1 million, respectively.
Southern Company uses over-the-counter contracts that are not exchange-traded but are fair valued
using prices which are actively quoted, and thus fall into Level 2. The maturities of the
energy-related derivative contracts at September 30, 2010 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
September 30, 2010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair Value Measurements |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
Maturity |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
Year 1 |
|
|
Years 2&3 |
|
|
Years 4&5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
Level 1 |
|
$ |
|
|
$ |
|
|
$ |
|
|
$ |
|
Level 2 |
|
(249) |
|
|
(168) |
|
|
(80) |
|
|
(1) |
|
Level 3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair value of contracts outstanding at end of period |
|
$(249) |
|
|
$ (168) |
|
|
$ (80) |
|
|
$ (1) |
|
|
|
See Note (C) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for further discussion on fair value
measurements.
For additional information, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
LIQUIDITY Market Price Risk of Southern Company in Item 7 and Note 1 under Financial
Instruments and Note 11 to the financial statements of Southern Company in Item 8 of the Form 10-K
and Note (H) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein.
Financing Activities
During the third quarter 2010, Southern Company issued approximately $198 million of common stock
through the Southern Investment Plan and employee and director stock plans. In addition, Southern
Company issued approximately 2 million shares of common stock through at-the-market issuances
pursuant to sales agency agreements related to Southern Companys continuous equity offering
program and received cash proceeds of approximately $73 million, net of $0.6 million in fees and
commissions. The proceeds were primarily used to fund ongoing construction projects, to repay
short-term and long-term indebtedness, and for general corporate purposes.
34
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
In the first nine months of 2010, Southern Company issued approximately $475 million of common
stock through the Southern Investment Plan and employee and director stock plans. In addition,
Southern Company issued approximately 4 million shares of common stock through at-the-market
issuances pursuant to sales agency agreements related to Southern Companys continuous equity
offering program and received cash proceeds of approximately $143 million, net of $1.2 million in
fees and commissions. The proceeds were primarily used to fund ongoing construction projects, to
repay short-term and long-term indebtedness, and for general corporate purposes.
In March 2010, Georgia Power issued $350 million aggregate principal amount of Series 2010A
Floating Rate Senior Notes due March 15, 2013. The net proceeds were used to repay at maturity
$250 million aggregate principal amount of Series 2008A Floating Rate Senior Notes due March 17,
2010, to repay a portion of its outstanding short-term indebtedness, and for general corporate
purposes, including Georgia Powers continuous construction program.
In April 2010, Gulf Power issued $175 million aggregate principal amount of Series 2010A 4.75%
Senior Notes due April 15, 2020. The net proceeds were used to repay at maturity $140 million
aggregate principal amount of its Series 2009A Floating Rate Senior Notes due June 28, 2010, to
repay a portion of its outstanding short-term indebtedness, and for general corporate purposes,
including Gulf Powers continuous construction program.
In June 2010, Georgia Power issued $600 million aggregate principal amount of Series 2010B 5.40%
Senior Notes due June 1, 2040. The net proceeds from the sale of the Series 2010B Senior Notes
were used for the redemption of all of the $200 million aggregate principal amount of Georgia
Powers Series R 6.00% Senior Notes due October 15, 2033 and all of the $150 million aggregate
principal amount of Georgia Powers Series O 5.90% Senior Notes due April 15, 2033, to repay a
portion of its outstanding short-term indebtedness, and for general corporate purposes, including
Georgia Powers continuous construction program.
In June 2010, Gulf Power incurred obligations in connection with the issuance of $21 million
aggregate principal amount of the Development Authority of Monroe County (Georgia) Pollution
Control Revenue Bonds (Gulf Power Plant Scherer Project), First Series 2010. The net proceeds were
used to fund pollution control and environmental improvement facilities at Plant Scherer.
In September 2010, Southern Company issued $400 million aggregate principal amount of Series 2010A
2.375% Senior Notes due September 15, 2015. The net proceeds will be used for the announced
redemption of $250 million aggregate principal amount of Southern Company Capital Funding, Inc.s
Series C 5.75% Senior Notes due November 15, 2015 and were also used to repay a portion of its
outstanding short-term indebtedness, and for other general corporate purposes.
In September 2010, Mississippi Power entered into a one-year $125 million aggregate principal
amount long-term floating rate bank loan that bears interest based on one-month LIBOR. The
proceeds were used to repay a portion of Mississippi Powers short-term indebtedness and for
general corporate purposes, including Mississippi Powers continuous construction program.
In September 2010, Georgia Power issued $500 million aggregate principal amount Series 2010C 4.75%
Senior Notes due September 1, 2040. The net proceeds were used to redeem all of the $250 million
aggregate principal amount of Georgia Powers Series X 5.70% Senior Notes due January 15, 2045,
$125 million aggregate principal amount of Georgia Powers Series W 6% Senior Notes due August 15,
2044, $100 million aggregate principal amount of Georgia Powers Series T 5.75% Senior Public
Income Notes due January 15, 2044, and $35 million aggregate principal amount of Savannah Electric
and Power Companys (Savannah Electric) Series G 5.75% Senior Notes due December 1, 2044 (which
were assumed by Georgia Power upon its merger with Savannah Electric).
Also in September 2010, Georgia Power issued $500 million aggregate principal amount Series 2010D
1.30% Senior Notes due September 15, 2013. Subsequent to September 30, 2010, the net proceeds were
used for the repurchase of all of the $114.3 million aggregate principal amount of outstanding
Development Authority of Burke County Pollution Control Revenue Bonds (Georgia Power Plant Vogtle
Project), First Series 2009, due January 1, 2049; $40 million
aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Development Authority of Monroe County Pollution
Control Revenue Bonds (Georgia Power Plant Scherer Project), First Series 2009, due January 1,
2049; $173 million aggregate principal
35
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
amount of the outstanding Development Authority of Bartow
County (Georgia) Pollution Control Revenue Bonds (Georgia Power Plant Bowen Project), First Series
2009, due December 1, 2032; $89.2 million aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Development
Authority of Monroe County Pollution Control Revenue Bonds (Georgia Power Plant Scherer Project),
Second Series 2009, due October 1, 2048; and $46 million aggregate principal amount of the
outstanding Development Authority of Burke County Pollution Control Revenue Bonds (Georgia Power
Plant Vogtle Project), First Series 1996, due October 1, 2032, and for other general corporate
purposes, including Georgia Powers continuous construction program. The pollution control revenue
bonds repurchased by Georgia Power are being held by Georgia Power and may be remarketed to
investors in the future.
In September 2010, Gulf Power issued $125 million aggregate principal amount of its Series 2010B
5.10% Senior Notes due October 1, 2040. The net proceeds were used to repay a portion of its
outstanding short-term indebtedness, for general corporate purposes, including Gulf Powers
continuous construction program, and, subsequent to September 30, 2010, for the redemption of all
of the $40 million aggregate principal amount of Gulf Powers Series I 5.75% Senior Notes due
September 15, 2033 and $35 million aggregate principal amount of Gulf Powers Series J 5.875%
Senior Notes due April 1, 2044.
Subsequent to September 30, 2010, Alabama Power issued $250 million aggregate principal amount of
Series 2010A 3.375% Senior Notes due October 1, 2020. Subsequent to September 30, 2010, the net
proceeds were used for the redemption of $150 million aggregate principal amount of Alabama Powers
Series AA 5.625% Senior Notes due April 15, 2034 and for other general corporate purposes,
including Alabama Powers continuous construction program.
See Southern Companys Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows herein for further details
regarding financing activities during the first nine months of 2010.
In addition to any financings that may be necessary to meet capital requirements and contractual
obligations, Southern Company and its subsidiaries plan to continue, when economically feasible, a
program to retire higher-cost securities and replace these obligations with lower-cost capital if
market conditions permit.
36
PART I
Item 3. Quantitative And Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Market Price Risk
herein for each registrant and Note 1 to the financial statements of each registrant under
Financial Instruments, Note 11 to the financial statements of Southern Company, Alabama Power,
and Georgia Power, and Note 10 to the financial statements of Gulf Power, Mississippi Power, and
Southern Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K. Also, see Note (H) to the Condensed Financial
Statements herein for information relating to derivative instruments.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures.
(a) Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures.
As of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report, Southern Company conducted an
evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of Southern Companys management,
including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the
design and operation of the disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Sections 13a-15(e)
and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934). Based upon this evaluation, the Chief
Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that the disclosure controls and
procedures are effective.
(b) Changes in internal controls.
There have been no changes in Southern Companys internal control over financial reporting (as such
term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) during
the third quarter 2010 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect
Southern Companys internal control over financial reporting other than as described in the next
paragraph.
In August 2010, Alabama Power implemented a new general ledger system and Mississippi Power
implemented new general ledger, supply chain, and work management systems. These systems provide
additional operational and internal control benefits including system security and the automation
of previously manual controls. These process improvement initiatives were not in response to an
identified internal control deficiency.
Item 4T. Controls and Procedures.
(a) Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures.
As of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report, Alabama Power, Georgia Power, Gulf
Power, Mississippi Power, and Southern Power conducted separate evaluations under the supervision
and with the participation of each companys management, including the Chief Executive Officer and
the Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the disclosure
controls and procedures (as defined in Sections 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934). Based upon these evaluations, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial
Officer, in each case, concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
(b) Changes in internal controls.
There have been no changes in Georgia Powers, Gulf Powers, or Southern Powers internal control
over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934) during the third quarter 2010 that have materially affected or are
reasonably likely to materially affect Georgia Powers, Gulf Powers, or Southern Powers internal
control over financial reporting.
There have been no changes in Alabama Powers and Mississippi Powers internal control over
financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934) during the third quarter 2010 that have materially affected or are reasonably
likely to materially affect Alabama Powers and Mississippi Powers internal control over financial
reporting, other than as described in the next paragraph.
37
In August 2010, Alabama Power implemented a new general ledger system and Mississippi Power
implemented new general ledger, supply chain, and work management systems. These systems provide
additional operational and internal control benefits including system security and the automation
of previously manual controls. These process improvement initiatives were not in response to an
identified internal control deficiency.
38
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Operating Revenues: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Retail revenues |
|
$ |
1,526,738 |
|
|
$ |
1,342,665 |
|
|
$ |
3,924,612 |
|
|
$ |
3,520,408 |
|
Wholesale revenues, non-affiliates |
|
|
85,823 |
|
|
|
170,573 |
|
|
|
395,164 |
|
|
|
483,180 |
|
Wholesale revenues, affiliates |
|
|
42,966 |
|
|
|
34,042 |
|
|
|
193,622 |
|
|
|
170,887 |
|
Other revenues |
|
|
50,406 |
|
|
|
44,876 |
|
|
|
149,927 |
|
|
|
123,963 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating revenues |
|
|
1,705,933 |
|
|
|
1,592,156 |
|
|
|
4,663,325 |
|
|
|
4,298,438 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Expenses: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
500,150 |
|
|
|
506,376 |
|
|
|
1,455,226 |
|
|
|
1,437,095 |
|
Purchased power, non-affiliates |
|
|
34,931 |
|
|
|
42,915 |
|
|
|
65,532 |
|
|
|
84,582 |
|
Purchased power, affiliates |
|
|
57,524 |
|
|
|
73,966 |
|
|
|
161,216 |
|
|
|
172,096 |
|
Other operations and maintenance |
|
|
378,133 |
|
|
|
272,118 |
|
|
|
997,731 |
|
|
|
827,275 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
153,488 |
|
|
|
136,784 |
|
|
|
451,065 |
|
|
|
406,687 |
|
Taxes other than income taxes |
|
|
84,261 |
|
|
|
77,353 |
|
|
|
247,592 |
|
|
|
239,673 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating expenses |
|
|
1,208,487 |
|
|
|
1,109,512 |
|
|
|
3,378,362 |
|
|
|
3,167,408 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Income |
|
|
497,446 |
|
|
|
482,644 |
|
|
|
1,284,963 |
|
|
|
1,131,030 |
|
Other Income and (Expense): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Allowance for equity funds used during construction |
|
|
8,155 |
|
|
|
21,053 |
|
|
|
28,529 |
|
|
|
56,931 |
|
Interest income |
|
|
4,129 |
|
|
|
4,419 |
|
|
|
12,143 |
|
|
|
12,689 |
|
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
|
|
(76,292 |
) |
|
|
(75,817 |
) |
|
|
(226,986 |
) |
|
|
(224,792 |
) |
Other income (expense), net |
|
|
(6,137 |
) |
|
|
(6,714 |
) |
|
|
(17,827 |
) |
|
|
(17,577 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other income and (expense) |
|
|
(70,145 |
) |
|
|
(57,059 |
) |
|
|
(204,141 |
) |
|
|
(172,749 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings Before Income Taxes |
|
|
427,301 |
|
|
|
425,585 |
|
|
|
1,080,822 |
|
|
|
958,281 |
|
Income taxes |
|
|
157,782 |
|
|
|
154,050 |
|
|
|
398,912 |
|
|
|
344,416 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Income |
|
|
269,519 |
|
|
|
271,535 |
|
|
|
681,910 |
|
|
|
613,865 |
|
Dividends on Preferred and Preference Stock |
|
|
9,866 |
|
|
|
9,866 |
|
|
|
29,598 |
|
|
|
29,598 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Income After Dividends on Preferred and Preference Stock |
|
$ |
259,653 |
|
|
$ |
261,669 |
|
|
$ |
652,312 |
|
|
$ |
584,267 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Net Income After Dividends on Preferred and Preference Stock |
|
$ |
259,653 |
|
|
$ |
261,669 |
|
|
$ |
652,312 |
|
|
$ |
584,267 |
|
Other comprehensive income (loss): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Qualifying hedges: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Changes in fair value, net of tax of $18, $(187),
$8, and $(1,773), respectively |
|
|
30 |
|
|
|
(307 |
) |
|
|
13 |
|
|
|
(2,916 |
) |
Reclassification adjustment for amounts included in net
income, net of tax of $(68), $1,217, $475, and $3,456, respectively |
|
|
(110 |
) |
|
|
2,002 |
|
|
|
782 |
|
|
|
5,685 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other comprehensive income (loss) |
|
|
(80 |
) |
|
|
1,695 |
|
|
|
795 |
|
|
|
2,769 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive Income |
|
$ |
259,573 |
|
|
$ |
263,364 |
|
|
$ |
653,107 |
|
|
$ |
587,036 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Alabama Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
40
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Operating Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income |
|
$ |
681,910 |
|
|
$ |
613,865 |
|
Adjustments to reconcile net income
to net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization, total |
|
|
519,320 |
|
|
|
474,250 |
|
Deferred income taxes |
|
|
301,119 |
|
|
|
(32,333 |
) |
Allowance for equity funds used during construction |
|
|
(28,529 |
) |
|
|
(56,931 |
) |
Pension, postretirement, and other employee benefits |
|
|
(8,840 |
) |
|
|
(2,955 |
) |
Stock based compensation expense |
|
|
4,174 |
|
|
|
3,475 |
|
Other, net |
|
|
27,933 |
|
|
|
25,302 |
|
Changes in certain current assets and liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-Receivables |
|
|
(109,948 |
) |
|
|
232,890 |
|
-Fossil fuel stock |
|
|
21,130 |
|
|
|
(20,609 |
) |
-Materials and supplies |
|
|
(9,906 |
) |
|
|
(22,783 |
) |
-Other current assets |
|
|
(33,540 |
) |
|
|
(43,436 |
) |
-Accounts payable |
|
|
(66,037 |
) |
|
|
(197,357 |
) |
-Accrued taxes |
|
|
(48,091 |
) |
|
|
168,493 |
|
-Accrued compensation |
|
|
7,541 |
|
|
|
(46,583 |
) |
-Other current liabilities |
|
|
(103,390 |
) |
|
|
70,111 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
1,154,846 |
|
|
|
1,165,399 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property additions |
|
|
(684,738 |
) |
|
|
(896,913 |
) |
Distribution of restricted cash from pollution control revenue bonds |
|
|
18,464 |
|
|
|
39,866 |
|
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund purchases |
|
|
(126,039 |
) |
|
|
(177,639 |
) |
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund sales |
|
|
126,039 |
|
|
|
177,639 |
|
Cost of removal, net of salvage |
|
|
(25,830 |
) |
|
|
(21,419 |
) |
Change in construction payables |
|
|
(34,329 |
) |
|
|
37,486 |
|
Other investing activities |
|
|
(9,212 |
) |
|
|
(27,484 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used for investing activities |
|
|
(735,645 |
) |
|
|
(868,464 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Financing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Decrease in notes payable, net |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(24,995 |
) |
Proceeds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock issued to parent |
|
|
|
|
|
|
135,000 |
|
Capital contributions from parent company |
|
|
18,823 |
|
|
|
17,177 |
|
Pollution control revenue bonds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
53,000 |
|
Senior notes issuances |
|
|
|
|
|
|
500,000 |
|
Redemptions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Senior notes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(250,000 |
) |
Payment of preferred and preference stock dividends |
|
|
(29,670 |
) |
|
|
(29,602 |
) |
Payment of common stock dividends |
|
|
(407,025 |
) |
|
|
(392,100 |
) |
Other financing activities |
|
|
(1,242 |
) |
|
|
(2,474 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided from (used for) financing activities |
|
|
(419,114 |
) |
|
|
6,006 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents |
|
|
87 |
|
|
|
302,941 |
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period |
|
|
368,016 |
|
|
|
28,181 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period |
|
$ |
368,103 |
|
|
$ |
331,122 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Supplemental Cash Flow Information: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash paid during the period for |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest (net of $11,121 and $23,813 capitalized for 2010 and 2009, respectively) |
|
$ |
214,102 |
|
|
$ |
190,014 |
|
Income taxes (net of refunds) |
|
$ |
212,036 |
|
|
$ |
274,486 |
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Alabama Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
41
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Assets |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
$ |
368,103 |
|
|
$ |
368,016 |
|
Restricted cash and cash equivalents |
|
|
18,249 |
|
|
|
36,711 |
|
Receivables |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Customer accounts receivable |
|
|
451,381 |
|
|
|
322,292 |
|
Unbilled revenues |
|
|
142,372 |
|
|
|
134,875 |
|
Under recovered regulatory clause revenues |
|
|
12,065 |
|
|
|
37,338 |
|
Other accounts and notes receivable |
|
|
46,986 |
|
|
|
33,522 |
|
Affiliated companies |
|
|
45,382 |
|
|
|
61,508 |
|
Accumulated provision for uncollectible accounts |
|
|
(12,035 |
) |
|
|
(9,551 |
) |
Fossil fuel stock, at average cost |
|
|
369,074 |
|
|
|
394,511 |
|
Materials and supplies, at average cost |
|
|
335,954 |
|
|
|
326,074 |
|
Vacation pay |
|
|
54,038 |
|
|
|
53,607 |
|
Prepaid expenses |
|
|
222,608 |
|
|
|
111,320 |
|
Other regulatory assets, current |
|
|
45,246 |
|
|
|
34,347 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
8,633 |
|
|
|
6,203 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current assets |
|
|
2,108,056 |
|
|
|
1,910,773 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property, Plant, and Equipment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In service |
|
|
19,794,009 |
|
|
|
18,574,229 |
|
Less accumulated provision for depreciation |
|
|
6,861,206 |
|
|
|
6,558,864 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plant in service, net of depreciation |
|
|
12,932,803 |
|
|
|
12,015,365 |
|
Nuclear fuel, at amortized cost |
|
|
296,484 |
|
|
|
253,308 |
|
Construction work in progress |
|
|
560,185 |
|
|
|
1,256,311 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total property, plant, and equipment |
|
|
13,789,472 |
|
|
|
13,524,984 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other Property and Investments: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries |
|
|
61,600 |
|
|
|
59,628 |
|
Nuclear decommissioning trusts, at fair value |
|
|
516,696 |
|
|
|
489,795 |
|
Miscellaneous property and investments |
|
|
70,066 |
|
|
|
69,749 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other property and investments |
|
|
648,362 |
|
|
|
619,172 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Charges and Other Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred charges related to income taxes |
|
|
411,986 |
|
|
|
387,447 |
|
Prepaid pension costs |
|
|
159,843 |
|
|
|
132,643 |
|
Other regulatory assets, deferred |
|
|
741,280 |
|
|
|
750,492 |
|
Other deferred charges and assets |
|
|
207,103 |
|
|
|
198,582 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred charges and other assets |
|
|
1,520,212 |
|
|
|
1,469,164 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets |
|
$ |
18,066,102 |
|
|
$ |
17,524,093 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Alabama Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
42
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Securities due within one year |
|
$ |
450,000 |
|
|
$ |
100,000 |
|
Accounts payable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Affiliated |
|
|
225,885 |
|
|
|
194,675 |
|
Other |
|
|
193,220 |
|
|
|
328,400 |
|
Customer deposits |
|
|
85,849 |
|
|
|
86,975 |
|
Accrued taxes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued income taxes |
|
|
1,721 |
|
|
|
14,789 |
|
Other accrued taxes |
|
|
101,088 |
|
|
|
31,918 |
|
Accrued interest |
|
|
65,219 |
|
|
|
65,455 |
|
Accrued vacation pay |
|
|
44,415 |
|
|
|
44,751 |
|
Accrued compensation |
|
|
81,239 |
|
|
|
71,286 |
|
Liabilities from risk management activities |
|
|
40,499 |
|
|
|
37,844 |
|
Over recovered regulatory clause revenues |
|
|
95,227 |
|
|
|
181,565 |
|
Other current liabilities |
|
|
38,062 |
|
|
|
40,020 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current liabilities |
|
|
1,422,424 |
|
|
|
1,197,678 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term Debt |
|
|
5,732,575 |
|
|
|
6,082,489 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated deferred income taxes |
|
|
2,572,558 |
|
|
|
2,293,468 |
|
Deferred credits related to income taxes |
|
|
85,979 |
|
|
|
88,705 |
|
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits |
|
|
158,770 |
|
|
|
164,713 |
|
Employee benefit obligations |
|
|
405,342 |
|
|
|
387,936 |
|
Asset retirement obligations |
|
|
511,828 |
|
|
|
491,007 |
|
Other cost of removal obligations |
|
|
701,073 |
|
|
|
668,151 |
|
Other regulatory liabilities, deferred |
|
|
198,742 |
|
|
|
169,224 |
|
Deferred over recovered regulatory clause revenues |
|
|
5,495 |
|
|
|
22,060 |
|
Other deferred credits and liabilities |
|
|
77,676 |
|
|
|
37,113 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred credits and other liabilities |
|
|
4,717,463 |
|
|
|
4,322,377 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities |
|
|
11,872,462 |
|
|
|
11,602,544 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Redeemable Preferred Stock |
|
|
341,715 |
|
|
|
341,715 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Preference Stock |
|
|
343,373 |
|
|
|
343,373 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Stockholders Equity: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock, par value $40 per share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Authorized - 40,000,000 shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Outstanding - 30,537,500 shares |
|
|
1,221,500 |
|
|
|
1,221,500 |
|
Paid-in capital |
|
|
2,145,902 |
|
|
|
2,119,818 |
|
Retained earnings |
|
|
2,145,738 |
|
|
|
1,900,526 |
|
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
|
|
(4,588 |
) |
|
|
(5,383 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total common stockholders equity |
|
|
5,508,552 |
|
|
|
5,236,461 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
$ |
18,066,102 |
|
|
$ |
17,524,093 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Alabama Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
43
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
THIRD QUARTER 2010 vs. THIRD QUARTER 2009
AND
YEAR-TO-DATE 2010 vs. YEAR-TO-DATE 2009
OVERVIEW
Alabama Power operates as a vertically integrated utility providing electricity to retail customers
within its traditional service area located within the State of Alabama and to wholesale customers
in the Southeast. Many factors affect the opportunities, challenges, and risks of Alabama Powers
primary business of selling electricity. These factors include the ability to maintain a
constructive regulatory environment, to maintain energy sales given current economic conditions,
and to effectively manage and secure timely recovery of costs. These costs include those related
to projected long-term demand growth, increasingly stringent environmental standards, fuel, capital
expenditures, and restoration following major storms. Appropriately balancing the need to recover
these increasing costs with customer prices will continue to challenge Alabama Power for the
foreseeable future.
Alabama Power continues to focus on several key performance indicators. These indicators include
customer satisfaction, plant availability, system reliability, and net income after dividends on
preferred and preference stock. For additional information on these indicators, see MANAGEMENTS
DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OVERVIEW Key Performance Indicators of Alabama Power in Item 7 of the
Form 10-K.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(2.0)
|
|
(0.8)
|
|
$68.0
|
|
11.6 |
|
Alabama Powers net income after dividends on preferred and preference stock for the third quarter
2010 was $259.7 million compared to $261.7 million for the corresponding period in 2009. Alabama
Powers net income after dividends on preferred and preference stock for year-to-date 2010 was
$652.3 million compared to $584.3 million for the corresponding period in 2009. For the third
quarter 2010, the decrease in net income when compared to the corresponding period in 2009 was not
material. The increase for year-to-date 2010 when compared to the corresponding period in 2009 was
primarily due to increases in rates under Rate RSE and Rate CNP Environmental that took effect in
January 2010, warmer weather in the second and third quarters 2010 as well as significantly colder
weather in the first quarter 2010, and increases in industrial sales. The increases in revenues
were partially offset by increases in operations and maintenance expenses, which include an
additional NDR accrual in the third quarter 2010, and depreciation and amortization and a reduction
in AFUDC equity.
The increases in rates under Rate RSE and Rate CNP Environmental were offset by decreases in Rate
ECR and the costs associated with the expiration of a PPA certificated by the Alabama PSC,
resulting in an overall annual reduction in Alabama Powers retail customer billing rates in 2010.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Retail Rate
Adjustments of Alabama Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Alabama Power
under Retail Regulatory Matters in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
44
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Retail Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$184.0
|
|
13.7
|
|
$404.2
|
|
11.5 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, retail revenues were $1.53 billion compared to $1.34 billion for the
corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, retail revenues were $3.92 billion compared
to $3.52 billion for the corresponding period in 2009.
Details of the change to retail revenues are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
(in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(in millions) |
|
(% change) |
Retail prior year |
|
$ |
1,342.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
3,520.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated change in |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rates and pricing |
|
|
90.4 |
|
|
|
6.7 |
|
|
|
218.7 |
|
|
|
6.2 |
|
Sales growth (decline) |
|
|
(1.6 |
) |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
6.4 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
Weather |
|
|
82.6 |
|
|
|
6.2 |
|
|
|
163.7 |
|
|
|
4.7 |
|
Fuel and other cost recovery |
|
|
12.6 |
|
|
|
0.9 |
|
|
|
15.4 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
Retail current year |
|
$ |
1,526.7 |
|
|
|
13.7 |
% |
|
$ |
3,924.6 |
|
|
|
11.5 |
% |
|
Revenues associated with changes in rates and pricing increased in the third quarter and
year-to-date 2010 when compared to the corresponding periods in 2009 primarily due to Rate RSE and
Rate CNP Environmental increases effective January 2010.
Revenues attributable to changes in sales decreased in the third quarter 2010 when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009. Industrial KWH energy sales increased 8.8% due to an increase in
demand primarily in the chemicals and primary metals sectors. Weather-adjusted residential KWH
energy sales decreased 2.5% driven by a decrease in demand. Weather-adjusted commercial KWH energy
sales growth was not material.
Revenues attributable to changes in sales increased year-to-date 2010 when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009. Industrial KWH energy sales increased 12.4% due to an increase in
demand primarily in the chemicals and primary metals sectors. Weather-adjusted residential KWH
energy sales growth was not material. Weather-adjusted commercial KWH energy sales decreased 1.2%
driven by a decline in the number of customers.
Revenues resulting from changes in weather increased in the third quarter 2010 as a result of
warmer weather when compared to the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, revenues
resulting from changes in weather increased as a result of warmer weather in the second and third
quarters 2010 and significantly colder weather in the first quarter 2010 when compared to the
corresponding periods in 2009.
Fuel and other cost recovery revenues increased in the third quarter and year-to-date 2010 when
compared to the corresponding periods in 2009 primarily due to increased generation. These
increases were offset primarily by a decrease in costs associated with the expiration of a PPA
certificated by the Alabama PSC and a reduction in the Rate NDR customer billing rate as a result
of achieving the target reserve balance in January 2010. Electric rates include provisions to
recognize the full recovery of fuel costs, purchased power costs, PPAs certificated by the Alabama
PSC, and costs associated with the NDR. Under these provisions, fuel and other cost recovery
revenues generally equal fuel and other cost recovery expenses and do not impact net income.
45
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Retail Rate
Adjustments of Alabama Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Alabama Power
under Retail Regulatory Matters in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
Wholesale Revenues Non-Affiliates
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(84.8)
|
|
(49.7)
|
|
$(88.0)
|
|
(18.2) |
|
Wholesale revenues from non-affiliates will vary depending on the market cost of available energy
compared to the cost of Alabama Power and Southern Company system-owned generation, demand for
energy within the Southern Company service territory, and availability of Southern Company system
generation. Increases and decreases in revenues that are driven by fuel prices are accompanied by
an increase or decrease in fuel costs and do not have a significant impact on net income.
In May 2010, the long-term unit power sales contracts expired and the unit power sales capacity
revenues ceased, resulting in a $90.2 million and $107.4 million revenue reduction in the third
quarter and year-to-date 2010, respectively. Beginning in June 2010, such capacity subject to the
unit power sales contracts became available for retail service. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND
ANALYSIS RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Operating Revenues of Alabama Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K
for additional information.
In the third quarter 2010, wholesale revenues from non-affiliates were $85.8 million compared to
$170.6 million for the corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was primarily due to a 62.3%
decrease in KWH sales, partially offset by a 33.5% increase in the price of energy.
For year-to-date 2010, wholesale revenues from non-affiliates were $395.2 million compared to
$483.2 million for the corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was primarily due to a 32.5%
decrease in KWH sales, partially offset by a 21.1% increase in the price of energy.
Wholesale Revenues Affiliates
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$9.0
|
|
26.2
|
|
$22.7
|
|
13.3 |
|
Wholesale revenues from affiliates will vary depending on demand and the availability and cost of
generating resources at each company within the Southern Company system. These affiliate sales are
made in accordance with the IIC, as approved by the FERC. These transactions do not have a
significant impact on earnings since the energy is generally sold at marginal cost.
In the third quarter 2010, wholesale revenues from affiliates were $43.0 million compared to $34.0
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was due to an 18.5% increase in prices
and a 6.5% increase in KWH sales.
For year-to-date 2010, wholesale revenues from affiliates were $193.6 million compared to $170.9
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to an 8.7% increase
in prices and a 4.3% increase in KWH sales.
46
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Other Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$5.5
|
|
12.3
|
|
$26.0
|
|
20.9 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other revenues were $50.4 million compared to $44.9 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to a $3.7 million increase in transmission
sales and a $3.2 million increase in revenues from gas-fueled co-generation steam facilities as a
result of greater sales volume, partially offset by a decrease in customer charges related to
collection fees.
For year-to-date 2010, other revenues were $149.9 million compared to $124.0 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to a $10.9 million increase in revenues from
gas-fueled co-generation steam facilities as a result of greater sales volume, an $8.2 million
increase in transmission sales, a $1.3 million increase in customer charges related to reconnection
fees, and a $1.3 million increase in pole attachment rentals.
Co-generation steam fuel revenues do not have a significant impact on earnings since they are
generally offset by fuel expense.
Fuel and Purchased Power Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 |
|
|
vs. |
|
vs. |
|
|
Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
Fuel* |
|
$ |
(6.2 |
) |
|
|
(1.2 |
) |
|
$ |
18.1 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
|
Purchased power non-affiliates |
|
|
(8.0 |
) |
|
|
(18.6 |
) |
|
|
(19.0 |
) |
|
|
(22.5 |
) |
Purchased power affiliates |
|
|
(16.5 |
) |
|
|
(22.2 |
) |
|
|
(10.9 |
) |
|
|
(6.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total fuel and purchased power expenses |
|
$ |
(30.7 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
(11.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
Fuel includes fuel purchased by Alabama Power for tolling agreements where power is generated
by the provider and is included in
purchased power when determining the average cost of purchased power. |
In the third quarter 2010, total fuel and purchased power expenses were $592.6 million
compared to $623.3 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to
a $41.3 million decrease in the volume of energy purchased, partially offset by a $14.9 million
increase in KWHs generated.
For year-to-date 2010, the decrease in total fuel and purchased power expenses when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009 was not material.
Fuel and purchased power transactions do not have a significant impact on earnings since energy
expenses are generally offset by energy revenues through Rate ECR. See FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL
FERC and Alabama PSC Matters Retail Fuel Cost Recovery herein for additional information.
47
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Details of Alabama Powers cost of generation and purchased power are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Third Quarter |
|
Percent |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
Percent |
Average Cost |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
Change |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
Change |
|
|
(cents per net KWH) |
|
|
|
|
|
(cents per net KWH) |
|
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
2.72 |
|
|
|
2.80 |
|
|
|
(2.9 |
) |
|
|
2.78 |
|
|
|
2.83 |
|
|
|
(1.8 |
) |
Purchased power |
|
|
7.11 |
|
|
|
6.45 |
|
|
|
10.2 |
|
|
|
6.83 |
|
|
|
6.23 |
|
|
|
9.6 |
|
|
In the third quarter 2010, the decrease in fuel expense when compared to the corresponding period
in 2009 was not material. For year-to-date 2010, the increase in fuel expense when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009 was not material.
Non-Affiliates
In the third quarter 2010, purchased power expense from non-affiliates was $34.9 million compared
to $42.9 million for the corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was primarily related to a
35.8% decrease in the average cost per KWH purchased, partially offset by a 26.8% increase in the
volume of energy purchased.
For year-to-date 2010, purchased power expense from non-affiliates was $65.5 million compared to
$84.6 million for the corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was related to an 18.7% decrease
in the volume of energy purchased and a 4.7% decrease in the average cost per KWH purchased.
Energy purchases from non-affiliates will vary depending on the market cost of available energy
compared to the cost of Southern Company system-generated energy, demand for energy within the
Southern Company system service territory, and availability of Southern Company system generation.
Affiliates
In the third quarter 2010, purchased power expense from affiliates was $57.5 million compared to
$74.0 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was related to a 41.5% decrease
in the amount of energy purchased, partially offset by a 33.0% increase in price.
For year-to-date 2010, purchased power expense from affiliates was $161.2 million compared to
$172.1 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was related to a 27.2% increase
in price, partially offset by a 26.3% decrease in the volume of energy purchased.
Energy purchases from affiliates will vary depending on demand and the availability and cost of
generating resources at each company within the Southern Company system. These purchases are made
in accordance with the IIC, or other contractual agreements, as approved by the FERC.
Other
Operations and Maintenance Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$106.0
|
|
39.0
|
|
$170.4
|
|
20.6 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $378.1 million compared
to $272.1 million for the corresponding period in 2009. Transmission and distribution expenses
increased $58.8 million due primarily to an additional accrual of $40 million to the NDR. See
FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL FERC and Alabama PSC
48
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Matters Retail Regulatory Matters herein for additional information on the NDR. In addition,
overhead line maintenance expenses increased. Steam production expenses increased $12.3 million
due to environmental mandates (which are offset by revenues associated with Rate CNP Environmental)
and maintenance costs related to increases in labor and materials expenses. Administrative and
general expenses increased $20.6 million related to increases in the injuries and damages reserve,
affiliated service companies expenses, and labor, partially offset by a reduction in employee
medical and other benefit-related expenses. Nuclear production expenses increased $8.2 million due
to maintenance costs related to increases in labor.
For year-to-date 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $997.7 million compared to
$827.3 million for the corresponding period in 2009. Transmission and distribution expenses
increased $60.2 million due primarily to an additional accrual of $40 million to the NDR. See FUTURE EARNINGS
POTENTIAL FERC and Alabama PSC Matters Retail Regulatory Matters herein for additional
information on the NDR. In addition, overhead line maintenance expenses increased. Steam
production expenses increased $48.4 million due to scheduled outage costs, environmental mandates
(which are offset by revenues associated with Rate CNP Environmental), and maintenance costs
related to increases in labor and materials expenses. Administrative and general expenses
increased $43.3 million due to increases in the injuries and damages reserve, affiliated service
companies expenses, labor, and property insurance expenses, partially offset by a reduction in
employee medical and other benefit-related expenses. Nuclear production expenses increased $12.2
million due to maintenance costs related to increases in labor.
Depreciation and Amortization
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$16.7
|
|
12.2
|
|
$44.4
|
|
10.9 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, depreciation and amortization was $153.5 million compared to $136.8
million for the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, depreciation and amortization
was $451.1 million compared to $406.7 million for the corresponding period in 2009. These
increases were due to additions of property, plant, and equipment primarily related to
environmental mandates (which are offset by revenues associated with Rate CNP Environmental),
distribution, and transmission projects.
Taxes Other Than Income Taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$6.9
|
|
8.9
|
|
$7.9
|
|
3.3 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, taxes other than income taxes were $84.3 million compared to $77.4
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to increases in state
and municipal public utility license tax bases.
For year-to-date 2010, the increase in taxes other than income taxes when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009 was not material.
49
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Allowance for Equity Funds Used During Construction
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(12.9)
|
|
(61.3)
|
|
$(28.4)
|
|
(49.9) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, AFUDC equity was $8.2 million compared to $21.1 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, AFUDC equity was $28.5 million compared to
$56.9 million for the corresponding period in 2009. These decreases were due to the completion of
construction projects related to environmental mandates at generating facilities, partially offset
by increases in nuclear facility projects.
Income Taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$3.7
|
|
2.4
|
|
$54.5
|
|
15.8 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, the increase in total income taxes when compared to the corresponding
period in 2009 was not material. For year-to-date 2010, income taxes were $398.9 million compared
to $344.4 million for the corresponding period in 2009. These increases were primarily due to
higher pre-tax earnings and a reduction of the tax benefits associated with a decrease in AFUDC
equity.
FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL
The results of operations discussed above are not necessarily indicative of Alabama Powers future
earnings potential. The level of Alabama Powers future earnings depends on numerous factors that
affect the opportunities, challenges, and risks of Alabama Powers primary business of selling
electricity. These factors include Alabama Powers ability to maintain a constructive regulatory
environment that continues to allow for the recovery of all prudently incurred costs during a time
of increasing costs. Future earnings in the near term will depend, in part, upon maintaining
energy sales which is subject to a number of factors. These factors include weather, competition,
new energy contracts with neighboring utilities, energy conservation practiced by customers, the
price of electricity, the price elasticity of demand, and the rate of economic growth or decline in
Alabama Powers service area. Changes in economic conditions impact sales for Alabama Power, and
the pace of the economic recovery remains uncertain. The timing and extent of the economic
recovery will impact growth and may impact future earnings. For additional information relating to
these issues, see RISK FACTORS in Item 1A and MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE
EARNINGS POTENTIAL of Alabama Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
Environmental Matters
Compliance costs related to the Clean Air Act and other environmental statutes and regulations
could affect earnings if such costs cannot continue to be fully recovered in rates on a timely
basis. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental
Matters of Alabama Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Alabama Power under
Environmental Matters in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
New Source Review Actions
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters New
Source Review Actions of Alabama Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Alabama
Power under Environmental Matters New Source Review Actions in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for
additional
50
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
information regarding a civil action brought by the EPA alleging that Alabama Power violated the
NSR provisions of the Clean Air Act and related state laws with respect to certain of its
coal-fired generating facilities. On September 2, 2010, following the end of discovery,
the EPA dismissed five of its eight remaining claims against Alabama Power, leaving only three
claims for summary disposition or trial, including one relating to a facility co-owned by
Mississippi Power. The parties each filed motions for summary judgment on September 30, 2010. The
court has set a trial date for October 2011 for any remaining claims. The ultimate outcome of this
matter cannot now be determined.
Carbon Dioxide Litigation
New York Case
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Carbon Dioxide Litigation New York Case of Alabama Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial
statements of Alabama Power under Environmental Matters Carbon Dioxide Litigation New York
Case in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding carbon dioxide litigation.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit denied the defendants petition for rehearing en
banc on March 5, 2010. On August 2, 2010, the defendants filed a petition for writ of certiorari
with the U.S. Supreme Court. The ultimate outcome of these matters cannot be determined at this
time.
Other Litigation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Carbon Dioxide Litigation Other Litigation of Alabama Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the
financial statements of Alabama Power under Environmental Matters Carbon Dioxide Litigation
Other Litigation in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding carbon dioxide
litigation related to Hurricane Katrina. On May 28, 2010, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth
Circuit dismissed the plaintiffs appeal of the case based on procedural grounds relating to the
loss of a quorum by the full court on reconsideration, reinstating the district court decision in
favor of the defendants. On August 27, 2010, the plaintiffs petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court for
a writ of mandamus directing the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to reinstate the
plaintiffs appeal. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at this time.
Air Quality
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Alabama Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K
for information regarding proposed sulfur dioxide (SO2) regulations. On August 23,
2010, the EPAs final revisions to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for SO2,
which included the establishment of a new short-term standard, became effective. The ultimate
impact of the revised standard will depend on additional regulatory action, state implementation,
and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
On January 22, 2010, the EPA finalized revisions to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) by setting a new one-hour standard that became effective on April
12, 2010. The impact of this regulation will depend on additional regulatory action, state
implementation, and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
Although none of the areas within Alabama Powers service territory are expected to be designated
as nonattainment for the standard, based on current ambient air quality monitoring data, the new
NO2 standard could result in significant additional compliance and operational costs
for units that require new source permitting.
51
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Alabama Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K
for information regarding the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR). On August 2, 2010, the EPA
published a proposed rule to replace CAIR, which was overturned by the U.S. Court of Appeals for
the D.C. Circuit in 2008 but left in place pending the promulgation of a replacement rule. This
proposed rule, referred to as the Transport Rule, would require 31 eastern states and the District
of Columbia (D.C.) to reduce power plant emissions of SO2 and nitrogen oxides
(NOx) that contribute to downwind states nonattainment of federal ozone and/or fine
particulate matter ambient air quality standards. To address fine particulate matter standards,
the proposed Transport Rule would require D.C. and 27 eastern states, including Alabama, to reduce
annual emissions of SO2 and NOx from power plants. To address ozone
standards, the proposed Transport Rule would also require D.C. and 25 states, including Alabama, to
achieve additional reductions in NOx emissions from power plants during the ozone
season. The proposed Transport Rule contains a preferred option that would allow limited
interstate trading of emissions allowances; however, the EPA also requests comment on two
alternative approaches that would not allow interstate trading of emissions allowances. The EPA
states that it also intends to develop a second phase of the Transport Rule next year to address
the more stringent ozone air quality standards as they are finalized. The EPA expects to finalize
the Transport Rule in late spring of 2011 and to set the initial compliance deadline starting in
2012. The impact of this proposed regulation and potential future regulation will depend on its
final form, state implementation, and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined
at this time.
These regulations could result in significant additional compliance and operational costs that
could affect future unit retirement and replacement decisions and results of operations, cash
flows, and financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated rates.
Coal Combustion Byproducts
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Coal Combustion Byproducts of Alabama Power in Item 7 of
the Form 10-K for information regarding potential additional regulation of coal combustion
byproducts. On June 21, 2010, the EPA published a rulemaking proposal which requested comments on
two potential regulatory options for management and disposal of coal combustion byproducts:
regulation as a solid waste or regulation as if the materials
technically constituted a hazardous waste. Adoption of either option could
require closure of or significant change to existing storage units and construction of lined
landfills, as well as additional waste management and groundwater monitoring requirements. Under
both options, the EPA proposes to exempt the beneficial reuse of coal combustion byproducts from
regulation; however, a hazardous or other designation indicative of heightened risk could limit or
eliminate beneficial reuse options. Comments on the proposed rules
are due by November 19, 2010. Although its analysis is preliminary,
Southern Company believes the EPA has significantly underestimated compliance costs in the proposed rule.
The outcome of these proposed regulations will depend on their
final form and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
However, additional regulation of coal combustion byproducts could have a significant impact on
Alabama Powers management, beneficial use, and disposal of such byproducts. These changes could
result in significant additional compliance and operational costs that could affect future unit
retirement and replacement decisions and results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition
if such costs are not recovered through regulated rates. Further,
higher costs that are recovered through regulated rates could
contribute to reduced demand for electricity, which could negatively
impact results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition.
52
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Global Climate Issues
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Global Climate Issues of Alabama Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for information regarding the
potential for legislation and regulation addressing greenhouse gas and other emissions. On April
1, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule regulating greenhouse gas emissions from new motor vehicles
under the Clean Air Act. The EPA has stated that, once this rule becomes effective on January 2,
2011, carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases will become regulated pollutants under the
Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) preconstruction permit program and the Title V
operating permit program, which both apply to power plants. As a result, the construction of new
facilities or the major modification of existing facilities could trigger the requirement for a PSD
permit and the installation of the best available control technology for carbon dioxide and other
greenhouse gases. On May 13, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule, referred to as the Tailoring Rule,
governing how these programs would be applied to stationary sources, including power plants. This
rule establishes two phases for applying PSD and Title V requirements to greenhouse gas emissions
sources. The first phase, beginning on January 2, 2011, will apply to sources and projects that
would already be covered under PSD or Title V, whereas the second phase, beginning July 1, 2011,
will apply to sources and projects that would not otherwise trigger those programs but for their
greenhouse gas emissions. The final rules could result in significant additional compliance and
operational costs that could affect future unit retirement and replacement decisions and results of
operations, cash flows, and financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated
rates. The ultimate outcome of these final rules cannot be determined at this time and will depend
on the outcome of any legal challenges.
FERC and Alabama PSC Matters
Retail Regulatory Matters
Nuclear Outage Accounting Order
On August 17, 2010, the Alabama PSC approved a change to the nuclear maintenance outage accounting
process associated with routine refueling activities. Currently, Alabama Power accrues nuclear
outage operations and maintenance expenses for the two units of Plant Farley during the 18-month
cycle for the outages. In accordance with the new order, nuclear outage expenses will be deferred
when the charges actually occur and then amortized over the subsequent 18-month period.
The initial result of implementation of the new accounting order is that no nuclear maintenance
outage expenses will be recognized from January 2011 through December 2011, which will decrease
nuclear outage operations and maintenance expenses in 2011 from 2010 by approximately $50 million.
During the fall of 2011, actual nuclear outage expenses associated with one unit of Plant Farley
will be deferred to a regulatory asset account; beginning in January 2012 these deferred costs will
be amortized to nuclear operations and maintenance expense over an 18-month period. During the
spring of 2012, actual nuclear outage expenses associated with the other unit of Plant Farley will
be deferred to a regulatory asset account; beginning in July 2012 these deferred costs will be
amortized to nuclear operations and maintenance expense over an 18-month period. Alabama Power
will continue the pattern of deferral of nuclear outage expenses as incurred and the recognition of
expenses over a subsequent 18-month period.
53
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Retail Fuel Cost Recovery
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Fuel Cost
Recovery of Alabama Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Alabama Power under
Retail Regulatory Matters Fuel Cost Recovery in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for information
regarding Alabama Powers fuel cost recovery. Alabama Powers over recovered fuel costs as of
September 30, 2010 totaled $57.7 million as compared to $199.6 million at December 31, 2009. These
over recovered fuel costs at September 30, 2010 are included in over recovered regulatory clause
revenues and deferred over recovered regulatory clause revenues on Alabama Powers Condensed
Balance Sheets herein. The current and deferred classifications are based on estimates which
include such factors as weather, generation availability, energy demand, and the price of energy.
A change in any of these factors could have a material impact on the timing of any return of the
over recovered fuel costs.
Natural Disaster Cost Recovery
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Natural
Disaster Reserve of Alabama Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Alabama
Power under Retail Regulatory Matters Natural Disaster Reserve in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for
information regarding natural disaster cost recovery.
On August 20, 2010, the Alabama PSC approved an order enhancing the NDR that eliminated the $75
million authorized limit and allows Alabama Power to make additional accruals to the NDR. The
order also allows for reliability-related expenditures to be charged against the additional
accruals when the NDR balance exceeds $75 million. Alabama Power may designate a portion of the
NDR to reliability-related expenditures as a part of an annual budget process for the following
year or during the current year for identified unbudgeted reliability-related expenditures that are
incurred. Accruals that have not been designated can be used to offset storm charges. Additional
accruals to the NDR will enhance Alabama Powers ability to deal with the financial effects of
future natural disasters, promote system reliability, and offset costs retail customers would
otherwise bear.
The structure of the monthly Rate NDR charge to customers is not altered and continues to include a
component to maintain the $75 million base reserve.
In September 2010, Alabama Power accrued an additional $40 million to the NDR, resulting in an
accumulated balance of approximately $118 million, which is included in the Condensed Balance
Sheets herein under other regulatory liabilities, deferred. The additional accruals are reflected
as operations and maintenance expense in the Condensed Statements of Income herein.
Hydro Relicensing
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL FERC Matters of Alabama
Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for information regarding Alabama Powers applications to the FERC
for new licenses for certain of its hydroelectric projects. On March 31, 2010, the FERC issued a
new 30-year license for the Lewis Smith and Bankhead developments on the Warrior River. The new
license authorizes Alabama Power to continue operating these facilities in a manner consistent with
past operations. On April 30, 2010, a stakeholders group filed a request for rehearing of the FERC
order issuing the new license. On May 27, 2010, the FERC granted the rehearing request for the
limited purpose of allowing the FERC additional time to consider the substantive issues raised in
the request. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at this time.
54
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Legislation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Legislation of Alabama
Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
Healthcare Reform
On March 23, 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) was signed into law and,
on March 30, 2010, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (HCERA and, together
with PPACA, the Acts), which makes various amendments to certain aspects of the PPACA, was signed
into law. The Acts effectively change the tax treatment of federal subsidies paid to sponsors of
retiree health benefit plans that provide prescription drug benefits that are at least actuarially
equivalent to the corresponding benefits provided under Medicare Part D. The federal subsidy paid
to employers was introduced as part of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and
Modernization Act of 2003 (MPDIMA). Since the 2006 tax year, Alabama Power has been receiving the
federal subsidy related to certain retiree prescription drug plans that were determined to be
actuarially equivalent to the benefit provided under Medicare Part D. Under the MPDIMA, the
federal subsidy does not reduce an employers income tax deduction for the costs of providing such
prescription drug plans nor is it subject to income tax individually. Under the Acts, beginning in
2013, an employers income tax deduction for the costs of providing Medicare Part D-equivalent
prescription drug benefits to retirees will be reduced by the amount of the federal subsidy. Under
GAAP, any impact from a change in tax law must be recognized in the period enacted regardless of
the effective date; however, as a result of state regulatory treatment, this change had no material
impact on the financial statements of Alabama Power. Southern Company is in the process of
assessing the extent to which the legislation may affect its future health care and related
employee benefit plan costs. Any future impact on the financial statements of Alabama Power cannot
be determined at this time.
Stimulus Funding
On April 28, 2010, Southern Company signed a Smart Grid Investment Grant agreement with the DOE,
formally accepting a $165 million grant under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009
(ARRA). This funding will be used for transmission and distribution automation and modernization
projects that must be completed by April 28, 2013. Alabama Power will receive, and will match, $65
million under this agreement.
On May 12, 2010, Alabama Power signed an agreement with the DOE formally accepting a $6 million
grant under the ARRA. This funding will be used for hydro generation upgrades. The total upgrade
project is expected to cost $30 million and Alabama Power plans to spend $24 million on the
project.
Income Tax Matters
Tax Method of Accounting for Repairs
Southern Company submitted a change in the tax accounting method for repair costs associated with
Southern Companys generation, transmission, and distribution systems with the filing of the 2009
federal income tax return in September 2010. The new tax method is expected to result in net
positive cash flow for 2010 of approximately $117 million for Alabama Power. Although IRS approval
of this change is considered automatic, the amount claimed is subject to review because the IRS
will be issuing final guidance on this issue. Currently, the IRS is working with the utility
industry in an effort to resolve this matter in a consistent manner for all utilities. Due to
uncertainty concerning the ultimate resolution of this issue, an unrecognized tax benefit has been
recorded for the change in the tax accounting method for repair costs. See Note (G) to the
Condensed Financial Statements herein for additional information. The ultimate outcome of this
matter cannot be determined at this time.
55
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Bonus Depreciation
On September 27, 2010, the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010 (SBJCA) was signed into law.
The SBJCA includes an extension of the 50% bonus depreciation for certain property acquired in 2010
and placed in service in 2010 or, in certain limited cases, 2011. Alabama Power has estimated the
cash flow reduction to tax payments for 2010 to be approximately $102 million.
Other Matters
Alabama Power is involved in various other matters being litigated and regulatory matters that
could affect future earnings. In addition, Alabama Power is subject to certain claims and legal
actions arising in the ordinary course of business. Alabama Powers business activities are
subject to extensive governmental regulation related to public health and the environment, such as
regulation of air emissions and water discharges. Litigation over environmental issues and claims
of various types, including property damage, personal injury, common law nuisance, and citizen
enforcement of environmental requirements such as opacity and air and water quality standards, has
increased generally throughout the United States. In particular, personal injury and other claims
for damages caused by alleged exposure to hazardous materials, and common law nuisance claims for
injunctive relief and property damage allegedly caused by greenhouse gas and other emissions, have
become more frequent. The ultimate outcome of such pending or potential litigation against Alabama
Power cannot be predicted at this time; however, for current proceedings not specifically reported
herein or in Note 3 to the financial statements of Alabama Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K,
management does not anticipate that the liabilities, if any, arising from such current proceedings
would have a material adverse effect on Alabama Powers financial statements.
The coastal contamination resulting from the oil spill that began in April 2010 in the Gulf of
Mexico has not impacted operations, but has had and may continue to have significant economic
impacts on the affected areas within Alabama Powers service territory.
See the Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for discussion of various other
contingencies, regulatory matters, and other matters being litigated which may affect future
earnings potential.
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Alabama Power prepares its financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States. Significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 to the
financial statements of Alabama Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K. In the application of these
policies, certain estimates are made that may have a material impact on Alabama Powers results of
operations and related disclosures. Different assumptions and measurements could produce estimates
that are significantly different from those recorded in the financial statements. See MANAGEMENTS
DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS ACCOUNTING POLICIES Application of Critical Accounting Policies and
Estimates of Alabama Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for a complete discussion of Alabama Powers
critical accounting policies and estimates related to Electric Utility Regulation, Contingent
Obligations, Unbilled Revenues, and Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits.
56
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
Overview
Alabama Powers financial condition remained stable at September 30, 2010. Alabama Power intends
to continue to monitor its access to short-term and long-term capital markets as well as its bank
credit arrangements to meet future capital and liquidity needs. See Sources of Capital and
Financing Activities herein for additional information.
Net cash provided from operating activities totaled $1.16 billion for the first nine months of
2010, compared to $1.17 billion for the corresponding period in 2009. The $10.6 million decrease
in cash provided from operating activities was primarily due to less cash collections of regulatory
clause revenues when compared to the prior year, partially offset by an increase in deferred income
taxes primarily due to the change in the tax accounting method for repair costs as previously
discussed. Net cash used for investing activities totaled $735.6 million in the first nine months
of 2010 primarily due to gross property additions related to steam generation equipment and
construction payables. Net cash used for financing activities totaled $419.1 million for the first
nine months of 2010, compared to $6.0 million provided in the corresponding period in 2009. The
$425.1 million decrease is primarily due to no issuances of securities in the first nine months of
2010. Fluctuations in cash flow from financing activities vary year to year based on capital needs
and the maturity or redemption of securities.
Significant balance sheet changes for the first nine months of 2010 include increases of $264.5
million in total property, plant, and equipment related to environmental projects, partially offset
by a reduction in construction work in progress and an increase in accumulated provision for
depreciation; $129.1 million in customer accounts receivable; $111.3 million in prepaid expenses;
$279.1 million in accumulated deferred income taxes; and $245.2 million in retained earnings.
Capital Requirements and Contractual Obligations
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Capital
Requirements and Contractual Obligations of Alabama Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for a
description of Alabama Powers capital requirements for its construction program, scheduled
maturities of long-term debt, interest, derivative obligations, preferred and preference
stock dividends, leases, purchase commitments, and trust funding requirements. Approximately $450
million will be required through September 30, 2011 to fund maturities and announced redemptions of
long-term debt. No mandatory contributions to Alabama Powers pension plan are expected for the
years ending December 31, 2010 and 2011, although management may consider making discretionary
contributions. The construction program is subject to periodic review and revision, and actual
construction costs may vary from these estimates because of numerous factors. These factors
include: changes in business conditions; changes in load projections; changes in environmental
statutes and regulations; changes in generating plants to meet new regulatory requirements; changes
in FERC rules and regulations; Alabama PSC approvals; changes in legislation; the cost and
efficiency of construction labor, equipment, and materials; project scope and design changes; and
the cost of capital. In addition, there can be no assurance that costs related to capital
expenditures will be fully recovered.
Sources of Capital
Alabama Power plans to obtain the funds required for construction and other
purposes from sources similar to those utilized in the past. Alabama Power has primarily utilized
funds from operating cash flows, short-term debt, security issuances, and equity contributions from
Southern Company. However, the amount, type, and timing of any future financings, if needed, will
depend upon prevailing market conditions, regulatory approval, and other factors. See MANAGEMENTS
DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Sources of Capital of Alabama Power
in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
57
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Alabama Powers current liabilities sometimes exceed current assets because of Alabama Powers debt
due within one year and the periodic use of short-term debt as a funding source primarily to meet
scheduled maturities of long-term debt, as well as cash needs, which can fluctuate significantly
due to the seasonality of the business. To meet short-term cash needs and contingencies, Alabama
Power had at September 30, 2010 cash and cash equivalents of approximately $368 million and unused
committed credit arrangements with banks of approximately $1.3 billion. Of the cash and cash
equivalents, approximately $319 million was held in various money market mutual funds. The money
market mutual funds invest in a portfolio of highly-rated, short-term securities, and redemptions
from the funds are available on a same day basis up to the full amount of the investment. Of the
unused credit arrangements, $60 million expire in 2010, $446 million expire in 2011, and $765
million expire in 2012. All of the credit arrangements that expire in 2010 contain provisions
allowing for one-year term loans executable at expiration. Alabama Power expects to renew its
credit arrangements, as needed, prior to expiration. The credit arrangements provide liquidity
support to Alabama Powers commercial paper borrowings and $798 million are dedicated to funding
purchase obligations related to variable rate pollution control revenue bonds. See Note 6 to the
financial statements of Alabama Power under Bank Credit Arrangements in Item 8 of the Form 10-K
and Note (E) to the Condensed Financial Statements under Bank Credit Arrangements herein for
additional information. Alabama Power may also meet short-term cash needs through a Southern
Company subsidiary organized to issue and sell commercial paper at the request and for the benefit
of Alabama Power and other Southern Company subsidiaries. At September 30, 2010, Alabama Power had
no commercial paper borrowings outstanding. During the third quarter 2010, Alabama Power had an
average of $8 million of commercial paper outstanding at a weighted average interest rate of 0.2%
per annum and the maximum amount outstanding was $60 million. Management believes that the need
for working capital can be adequately met by utilizing commercial paper programs, lines of credit,
and cash.
Credit Rating Risk
Alabama Power does not have any credit arrangements that would require material changes in payment
schedules or terminations as a result of a credit rating downgrade. There are certain contracts
that could require collateral, but not accelerated payment, in the event of a credit rating change
to below BBB- and/or Baa3. These contracts are primarily for physical electricity purchases, fuel
purchases, fuel transportation and storage, and energy price risk management. At September 30,
2010, the maximum potential collateral requirements under these contracts at a rating below BBB-
and/or Baa3 were approximately $343 million. Included in these amounts are certain agreements that
could require collateral in the event that one or more Power Pool participants has a credit rating
change to below investment grade. Generally, collateral may be provided by a Southern Company
guaranty, letter of credit, or cash. Additionally, any credit rating downgrade could impact
Alabama Powers ability to access capital markets, particularly the short-term debt market.
On January 22, 2010, Fitch applied new guidelines regarding the ratings of various hybrid capital
instruments and preferred securities of companies in all sectors, including banks, insurers,
non-bank financial institutions, and non-financial corporate entities, including utilities. As a
result, the Fitch ratings of Alabama Powers preferred stock, preference stock, and long-term debt
payable to affiliated trusts decreased from A to A-. These ratings are not applicable to the
collateral requirements described above.
Market Price Risk
Alabama Powers market risk exposure relative to interest rate changes for the third quarter 2010
has not changed materially compared with the December 31, 2009 reporting period. Since a
significant portion of outstanding indebtedness remains at fixed rates, Alabama Power is not aware
of any facts or circumstances that would significantly affect exposures on existing indebtedness in
the near term. However, the impact on future financing costs cannot now be determined.
58
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Due to cost-based rate regulation, Alabama Power continues to have limited exposure to market
volatility in interest rates, commodity fuel prices, and prices of electricity. To mitigate
residual risks relative to movements in electricity prices, Alabama Power enters into physical
fixed-price contracts for the purchase and sale of electricity through the wholesale electricity
market. Alabama Power continues to manage a retail fuel-hedging program implemented per the
guidelines of the Alabama PSC. As such, Alabama Power had no material change in market risk
exposure for the third quarter 2010 when compared with the December 31, 2009 reporting period.
The changes in fair value of energy-related derivative contracts, the majority of which are
composed of regulatory hedges, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 were as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
Changes |
|
Changes |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
(in millions) |
Contracts outstanding at the beginning of the period, assets (liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(45 |
) |
|
$ |
(44 |
) |
Contracts realized or settled |
|
|
14 |
|
|
|
48 |
|
Current period changes(a) |
|
|
(23 |
) |
|
|
(58 |
) |
|
Contracts outstanding at the end of the period, assets (liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(54 |
) |
|
$ |
(54 |
) |
|
(a) Current period changes also include the changes in fair value of new contracts entered into
during the period, if any.
The change in the fair value positions of the energy-related derivative contracts for the
three months and nine months ended September 30, 2010 was a decrease of $9 million and a decrease
of $10 million, respectively, substantially all of which is due to natural gas positions. The
change is attributable to both the volume and prices of natural gas. At September 30, 2010,
Alabama Power had a net hedge volume of 34 million mmBtu with a weighted average contract cost of
approximately $1.62 per mmBtu above market prices, compared to 31 million mmBtu at June 30, 2010
with a weighted average contract cost of approximately $1.47 per mmBtu above market prices and 36
million mmBtu at December 31, 2009 with a weighted average contract cost of approximately $1.22 per
mmBtu above market prices. The majority of the natural gas hedges are recovered through the fuel
cost recovery clause.
Regulatory hedges relate to Alabama Powers fuel-hedging program where gains and losses are
initially recorded as regulatory liabilities and assets, respectively, and then are included in
fuel expense as they are recovered through the fuel cost recovery clause.
Unrealized pre-tax gains and losses recognized in income for the three and nine months ended
September 30, 2010 and 2009 for energy-related derivative contracts that are not hedges were not
material.
Alabama Power uses over-the-counter contracts that are not exchange-traded but are fair valued
using prices which are actively quoted, and thus fall into Level 2. The maturities of the
energy-related derivative contracts at September 30, 2010 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
September 30, 2010 |
|
|
Fair Value Measurements |
|
|
Total |
|
Maturity |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
Year 1 |
|
Years 2&3 |
|
Years 4&5 |
|
|
(in millions) |
Level 1 |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Level 2 |
|
|
(54 |
) |
|
|
(40 |
) |
|
|
(14 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Level 3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair value of
contracts
outstanding at end
of period |
|
$ |
(54 |
) |
|
$ |
(40 |
) |
|
$ |
(14 |
) |
|
$ |
|
|
|
See Note (C) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for further discussion on fair value
measurements.
59
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
For additional information, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
LIQUIDITY Market Price Risk of Alabama Power in Item 7 and Note 1 under Financial Instruments
and Note 11 to the financial statements of Alabama Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K and Note (H) to
the Condensed Financial Statements herein.
Financing Activities
Subsequent to September 30, 2010, Alabama Power issued $250 million aggregate principal amount of
Series 2010A 3.375% Senior Notes due October 1, 2020. Subsequent to September 30, 2010, the net
proceeds were used for the redemption of $150 million aggregate principal amount of Alabama Powers
Series AA 5.625% Senior Notes due April 15, 2034 and for other general corporate purposes,
including Alabama Powers continuous construction program.
In addition to any financings that may be necessary to meet capital requirements and contractual
obligations, Alabama Power plans to continue, when economically feasible, a program to retire
higher-cost securities and replace these obligations with lower-cost capital if market conditions
permit.
60
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Operating Revenues: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Retail revenues |
|
$ |
2,418,231 |
|
|
$ |
2,093,503 |
|
|
$ |
6,036,216 |
|
|
$ |
5,368,123 |
|
Wholesale revenues, non-affiliates |
|
|
108,938 |
|
|
|
108,521 |
|
|
|
307,167 |
|
|
|
301,077 |
|
Wholesale revenues, affiliates |
|
|
16,844 |
|
|
|
53,687 |
|
|
|
43,118 |
|
|
|
98,520 |
|
Other revenues |
|
|
84,163 |
|
|
|
71,477 |
|
|
|
225,345 |
|
|
|
199,623 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating revenues |
|
|
2,628,176 |
|
|
|
2,327,188 |
|
|
|
6,611,846 |
|
|
|
5,967,343 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Expenses: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
928,016 |
|
|
|
830,283 |
|
|
|
2,442,897 |
|
|
|
2,083,662 |
|
Purchased power, non-affiliates |
|
|
128,557 |
|
|
|
86,450 |
|
|
|
294,098 |
|
|
|
219,220 |
|
Purchased power, affiliates |
|
|
142,509 |
|
|
|
158,864 |
|
|
|
436,507 |
|
|
|
528,505 |
|
Other operations and maintenance |
|
|
434,904 |
|
|
|
358,821 |
|
|
|
1,224,157 |
|
|
|
1,102,876 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
181,866 |
|
|
|
122,740 |
|
|
|
426,094 |
|
|
|
464,931 |
|
Taxes other than income taxes |
|
|
98,732 |
|
|
|
86,620 |
|
|
|
264,372 |
|
|
|
243,876 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating expenses |
|
|
1,914,584 |
|
|
|
1,643,778 |
|
|
|
5,088,125 |
|
|
|
4,643,070 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Income |
|
|
713,592 |
|
|
|
683,410 |
|
|
|
1,523,721 |
|
|
|
1,324,273 |
|
Other Income and (Expense): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Allowance for equity funds used during construction |
|
|
34,039 |
|
|
|
23,200 |
|
|
|
104,694 |
|
|
|
66,267 |
|
Interest income |
|
|
603 |
|
|
|
611 |
|
|
|
1,398 |
|
|
|
1,644 |
|
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
|
|
(94,596 |
) |
|
|
(95,309 |
) |
|
|
(274,918 |
) |
|
|
(293,124 |
) |
Other income (expense), net |
|
|
(5,754 |
) |
|
|
(4,127 |
) |
|
|
(12,967 |
) |
|
|
(8,316 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other income and (expense) |
|
|
(65,708 |
) |
|
|
(75,625 |
) |
|
|
(181,793 |
) |
|
|
(233,529 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings Before Income Taxes |
|
|
647,884 |
|
|
|
607,785 |
|
|
|
1,341,928 |
|
|
|
1,090,744 |
|
Income taxes |
|
|
223,669 |
|
|
|
215,720 |
|
|
|
432,851 |
|
|
|
378,030 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Income |
|
|
424,215 |
|
|
|
392,065 |
|
|
|
909,077 |
|
|
|
712,714 |
|
Dividends on Preferred and Preference Stock |
|
|
4,345 |
|
|
|
4,345 |
|
|
|
13,036 |
|
|
|
13,036 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Income After Dividends on Preferred and Preference Stock |
|
$ |
419,870 |
|
|
$ |
387,720 |
|
|
$ |
896,041 |
|
|
$ |
699,678 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Net Income After Dividends on Preferred and Preference Stock |
|
$ |
419,870 |
|
|
$ |
387,720 |
|
|
$ |
896,041 |
|
|
$ |
699,678 |
|
Other comprehensive income (loss): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Qualifying hedges: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Changes in fair value, net of tax of $-, $(430), $(6), and
$(156), respectively |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(682 |
) |
|
|
(10 |
) |
|
|
(247 |
) |
Reclassification adjustment for amounts included in net
income, net of tax of $1,379, $2,350, $5,136, and $6,520, respectively |
|
|
2,186 |
|
|
|
3,725 |
|
|
|
8,143 |
|
|
|
10,336 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other comprehensive income (loss) |
|
|
2,186 |
|
|
|
3,043 |
|
|
|
8,133 |
|
|
|
10,089 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive Income |
|
$ |
422,056 |
|
|
$ |
390,763 |
|
|
$ |
904,174 |
|
|
$ |
709,767 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Georgia Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
62
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Operating Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income |
|
$ |
909,077 |
|
|
$ |
712,714 |
|
Adjustments to reconcile net income
to net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization, total |
|
|
550,940 |
|
|
|
566,741 |
|
Deferred income taxes |
|
|
225,432 |
|
|
|
111,035 |
|
Deferred revenues |
|
|
(77,081 |
) |
|
|
(37,210 |
) |
Deferred expenses |
|
|
(53,761 |
) |
|
|
(39,570 |
) |
Allowance for equity funds used during construction |
|
|
(104,694 |
) |
|
|
(66,267 |
) |
Pension, postretirement, and other employee benefits |
|
|
20,458 |
|
|
|
16,713 |
|
Hedge settlements |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(16,167 |
) |
Insurance cash surrender value |
|
|
1,275 |
|
|
|
22,381 |
|
Other, net |
|
|
(8,925 |
) |
|
|
21,131 |
|
Changes in certain current assets and liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-Receivables |
|
|
(125,658 |
) |
|
|
3,648 |
|
-Fossil fuel stock |
|
|
153,144 |
|
|
|
(245,777 |
) |
-Prepaid income taxes |
|
|
2,096 |
|
|
|
(20,694 |
) |
-Other current assets |
|
|
4,006 |
|
|
|
505 |
|
-Accounts payable |
|
|
61,223 |
|
|
|
40,719 |
|
-Accrued taxes |
|
|
65,873 |
|
|
|
131,432 |
|
-Accrued compensation |
|
|
45,015 |
|
|
|
(105,097 |
) |
-Other current liabilities |
|
|
38,103 |
|
|
|
35,575 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
1,706,523 |
|
|
|
1,131,812 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property additions |
|
|
(1,628,055 |
) |
|
|
(1,778,030 |
) |
Distribution of restricted cash from pollution control revenue bonds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
22,077 |
|
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund purchases |
|
|
(569,815 |
) |
|
|
(889,049 |
) |
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund sales |
|
|
545,561 |
|
|
|
841,763 |
|
Nuclear decommissioning trust securities lending collateral |
|
|
20,793 |
|
|
|
43,824 |
|
Cost of removal, net of salvage |
|
|
(45,918 |
) |
|
|
(41,709 |
) |
Change in construction payables, net of joint owner portion |
|
|
27,345 |
|
|
|
45,828 |
|
Other investing activities |
|
|
(16,318 |
) |
|
|
7,519 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used for investing activities |
|
|
(1,666,407 |
) |
|
|
(1,747,777 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Financing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Decrease in notes payable, net |
|
|
(320,549 |
) |
|
|
(103,634 |
) |
Proceeds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital contributions from parent company |
|
|
681,353 |
|
|
|
923,840 |
|
Pollution control revenue bonds issuances |
|
|
|
|
|
|
416,510 |
|
Senior notes issuances |
|
|
1,950,000 |
|
|
|
500,000 |
|
Other long-term debt issuances |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,100 |
|
Redemptions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pollution control revenue bonds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(327,310 |
) |
Senior notes |
|
|
(1,111,914 |
) |
|
|
(332,841 |
) |
Other long-term debt |
|
|
(2,500 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Payment of preferred and preference stock dividends |
|
|
(13,300 |
) |
|
|
(13,121 |
) |
Payment of common stock dividends |
|
|
(615,000 |
) |
|
|
(554,175 |
) |
Other financing activities |
|
|
(32,761 |
) |
|
|
(12,674 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided from financing activities |
|
|
535,329 |
|
|
|
497,695 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents |
|
|
575,445 |
|
|
|
(118,270 |
) |
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period |
|
|
14,309 |
|
|
|
132,739 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period |
|
$ |
589,754 |
|
|
$ |
14,469 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Supplemental Cash Flow Information: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash paid during the period for |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest (net of $39,022 and $28,443 capitalized for 2010 and 2009, respectively) |
|
$ |
231,285 |
|
|
$ |
239,290 |
|
Income taxes (net of refunds) |
|
$ |
107,427 |
|
|
$ |
115,436 |
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Georgia Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
63
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Assets |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
$ |
589,754 |
|
|
$ |
14,309 |
|
Receivables |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Customer accounts receivable |
|
|
753,688 |
|
|
|
486,885 |
|
Unbilled revenues |
|
|
206,150 |
|
|
|
172,035 |
|
Under recovered regulatory clause revenues |
|
|
196,149 |
|
|
|
291,837 |
|
Joint owner accounts receivable |
|
|
45,288 |
|
|
|
146,932 |
|
Other accounts and notes receivable |
|
|
55,466 |
|
|
|
62,758 |
|
Affiliated companies |
|
|
28,593 |
|
|
|
11,775 |
|
Accumulated provision for uncollectible accounts |
|
|
(13,309 |
) |
|
|
(9,856 |
) |
Fossil fuel stock, at average cost |
|
|
573,122 |
|
|
|
726,266 |
|
Materials and supplies, at average cost |
|
|
367,308 |
|
|
|
362,803 |
|
Vacation pay |
|
|
73,806 |
|
|
|
74,566 |
|
Prepaid income taxes |
|
|
90,058 |
|
|
|
132,668 |
|
Other regulatory assets, current |
|
|
105,665 |
|
|
|
76,634 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
117,249 |
|
|
|
62,651 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current assets |
|
|
3,188,987 |
|
|
|
2,612,263 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property, Plant, and Equipment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In service |
|
|
26,109,530 |
|
|
|
25,120,034 |
|
Less accumulated provision for depreciation |
|
|
9,857,869 |
|
|
|
9,493,068 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plant in service, net of depreciation |
|
|
16,251,661 |
|
|
|
15,626,966 |
|
Nuclear fuel, at amortized cost |
|
|
364,372 |
|
|
|
339,810 |
|
Construction work in progress |
|
|
3,079,691 |
|
|
|
2,521,091 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total property, plant, and equipment |
|
|
19,695,724 |
|
|
|
18,487,867 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other Property and Investments: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries |
|
|
68,037 |
|
|
|
66,106 |
|
Nuclear decommissioning trusts, at fair value |
|
|
625,869 |
|
|
|
580,322 |
|
Miscellaneous property and investments |
|
|
38,391 |
|
|
|
38,516 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other property and investments |
|
|
732,297 |
|
|
|
684,944 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Charges and Other Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred charges related to income taxes |
|
|
707,496 |
|
|
|
608,851 |
|
Deferred under recovered regulatory clause revenues |
|
|
291,736 |
|
|
|
373,245 |
|
Other regulatory assets, deferred |
|
|
1,331,659 |
|
|
|
1,321,904 |
|
Other deferred charges and assets |
|
|
202,049 |
|
|
|
205,492 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred charges and other assets |
|
|
2,532,940 |
|
|
|
2,509,492 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets |
|
$ |
26,149,948 |
|
|
$ |
24,294,566 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Georgia Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
64
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Securities due within one year |
|
$ |
874,817 |
|
|
$ |
253,882 |
|
Notes payable |
|
|
3,410 |
|
|
|
323,958 |
|
Accounts payable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Affiliated |
|
|
293,416 |
|
|
|
238,599 |
|
Other |
|
|
545,539 |
|
|
|
602,003 |
|
Customer deposits |
|
|
200,189 |
|
|
|
200,103 |
|
Accrued taxes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued income taxes |
|
|
79,533 |
|
|
|
548 |
|
Unrecognized tax benefits |
|
|
177,241 |
|
|
|
164,863 |
|
Other accrued taxes |
|
|
261,155 |
|
|
|
290,174 |
|
Accrued interest |
|
|
117,228 |
|
|
|
89,228 |
|
Accrued vacation pay |
|
|
55,098 |
|
|
|
57,662 |
|
Accrued compensation |
|
|
91,663 |
|
|
|
42,756 |
|
Liabilities from risk management activities |
|
|
84,146 |
|
|
|
49,788 |
|
Other cost of removal obligations, current |
|
|
37,000 |
|
|
|
216,000 |
|
Other regulatory liabilities, current |
|
|
21,066 |
|
|
|
99,807 |
|
Other current liabilities |
|
|
117,382 |
|
|
|
84,319 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current liabilities |
|
|
2,958,883 |
|
|
|
2,713,690 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term Debt |
|
|
7,985,180 |
|
|
|
7,782,340 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated deferred income taxes |
|
|
3,648,873 |
|
|
|
3,389,907 |
|
Deferred credits related to income taxes |
|
|
129,985 |
|
|
|
133,683 |
|
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits |
|
|
232,566 |
|
|
|
242,496 |
|
Employee benefit obligations |
|
|
945,999 |
|
|
|
923,177 |
|
Asset retirement obligations |
|
|
703,827 |
|
|
|
676,705 |
|
Other cost of removal obligations |
|
|
186,793 |
|
|
|
124,662 |
|
Other deferred credits and liabilities |
|
|
210,345 |
|
|
|
139,024 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred credits and other liabilities |
|
|
6,058,388 |
|
|
|
5,629,654 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities |
|
|
17,002,451 |
|
|
|
16,125,684 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Preferred Stock |
|
|
44,991 |
|
|
|
44,991 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Preference Stock |
|
|
220,966 |
|
|
|
220,966 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Stockholders Equity: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock, without par value |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Authorized - 20,000,000 shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Outstanding - 9,261,500 shares |
|
|
398,473 |
|
|
|
398,473 |
|
Paid-in capital |
|
|
5,281,791 |
|
|
|
4,592,350 |
|
Retained earnings |
|
|
3,213,975 |
|
|
|
2,932,934 |
|
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
|
|
(12,699 |
) |
|
|
(20,832 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total common stockholders equity |
|
|
8,881,540 |
|
|
|
7,902,925 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
$ |
26,149,948 |
|
|
$ |
24,294,566 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Georgia Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
65
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
THIRD QUARTER 2010 vs. THIRD QUARTER 2009
AND
YEAR-TO-DATE 2010 vs. YEAR-TO-DATE 2009
OVERVIEW
Georgia Power operates as a vertically integrated utility providing electricity to retail customers
within its traditional service area located within the State of Georgia and to wholesale customers
in the Southeast. Many factors affect the opportunities, challenges, and risks of Georgia Powers
business of selling electricity. These factors include the ability to maintain a constructive
regulatory environment, to maintain energy sales given current economic conditions, and to
effectively manage and secure timely recovery of rising costs. These costs include those related
to projected long-term demand growth, increasingly stringent environmental standards, and fuel
prices. Georgia Power is currently constructing two new nuclear and three new combined cycle
generating units. Appropriately balancing required costs and capital expenditures with customer
prices will continue to challenge Georgia Power for the foreseeable future. Georgia Power filed a
general rate case on July 1, 2010, requesting a base rate increase effective January 1, 2011. On
March 11, 2010, the Georgia PSC approved Georgia Powers request to increase its fuel cost recovery
rate effective April 1, 2010. Georgia Power is required to file its next fuel cost recovery case
by March 1, 2011.
Georgia Power continues to focus on several key performance indicators. These indicators include
customer satisfaction, plant availability, system reliability, and net income after dividends on
preferred and preference stock. For additional information on these indicators, see MANAGEMENTS
DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OVERVIEW Key Performance Indicators of Georgia Power in Item 7 of the
Form 10-K.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$32.2
|
|
8.3
|
|
$196.3
|
|
28.1 |
|
Georgia Powers net income after dividends on preferred and preference stock for the third quarter
2010 was $419.9 million compared to $387.7 million for the corresponding period in 2009.
The increase was due primarily to higher residential base revenues resulting from warmer
weather in the third quarter 2010, partially offset by a reduction in the amortization of the
regulatory liability related to other cost of removal obligations that began in July 2009 as
authorized by the Georgia PSC, as well as higher operations and maintenance expenses.
Georgia Powers year-to-date 2010 net income after dividends on preferred and preference stock was
$896.0 million compared to $699.7 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was
due primarily to higher residential base revenues resulting from warmer weather in the second and
third quarters 2010, significantly colder weather in the first quarter 2010, and the amortization
of the regulatory liability related to other cost of removal obligations, partially offset by
increases in operations and maintenance expenses.
Retail Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$324.7
|
|
15.5
|
|
$668.1
|
|
12.4 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, retail revenues were $2.4 billion compared to $2.1 billion for the
corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, retail revenues were $6.0 billion compared to
$5.4 billion for the corresponding period in 2009.
66
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Details of the change to retail revenues are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
(in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(in millions) |
|
(% change) |
Retail prior year |
|
$ |
2,093.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
5,368.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated change in |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rates and pricing |
|
|
49.5 |
|
|
|
2.4 |
|
|
|
21.8 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
Sales growth (decline) |
|
|
9.8 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
49.9 |
|
|
|
0.9 |
|
Weather |
|
|
104.3 |
|
|
|
5.0 |
|
|
|
181.9 |
|
|
|
3.4 |
|
Fuel cost recovery |
|
|
161.1 |
|
|
|
7.7 |
|
|
|
414.5 |
|
|
|
7.7 |
|
|
Retail current year |
|
$ |
2,418.2 |
|
|
|
15.5 |
% |
|
$ |
6,036.2 |
|
|
|
12.4 |
% |
|
Revenues associated with changes in rates and pricing increased in the third quarter and
year-to-date 2010 when compared to the corresponding periods in 2009 due to higher contributions
from market-driven rates for sales to industrial customers and increased recognition of
environmental compliance cost recovery revenues in accordance with the 2007 Retail Rate Plan.
Revenues attributable to changes in sales increased for all customer classes in the third quarter
and year-to-date 2010 when compared to the corresponding periods in 2009. Weather-adjusted KWH
energy sales increased 2.0%, decreased 1.8%, and increased 4.3% in the third quarter 2010 when
compared to the corresponding period in 2009 for residential, commercial, and industrial classes,
respectively. Weather-adjusted KWH energy sales increased 1.7%, decreased 0.4%, and increased 6.3%
for year-to-date 2010 when compared to the corresponding period in 2009 for residential,
commercial, and industrial classes, respectively.
Revenues resulting from changes in weather increased in the third quarter 2010 as a result of
warmer weather when compared to the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, revenues
resulting from changes in weather increased as a result of warmer weather in the second and third
quarters 2010 and significantly colder weather in the first quarter 2010 when compared to the
corresponding periods in 2009.
Fuel revenues and costs are allocated between retail and wholesale jurisdictions. Retail fuel cost
recovery revenues increased $161.1 million in the third quarter 2010 and $414.5 million for
year-to-date 2010 when compared to the corresponding periods in 2009 due to increased KWH energy
sales and higher fuel costs. See Note (B) to the Condensed Financial Statements under State PSC Matters Georgia Power Fuel Cost Recovery herein for additional information.
Electric rates include provisions to adjust billings for fluctuations in fuel costs, including the
energy component of purchased power costs. Under these provisions, fuel revenues generally equal
fuel expenses, including the fuel component of purchased power costs, and do not affect net income.
Wholesale Revenues Affiliates
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(36.8)
|
|
(68.6)
|
|
$(55.4)
|
|
(56.2) |
|
Wholesale revenues from affiliates will vary depending on demand and the availability and cost of
generating resources at each company within the Southern Company system. These affiliate sales are
made in accordance with the IIC, as approved by the FERC. These transactions do not have a
significant impact on earnings since the energy is generally sold at marginal cost.
67
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
In the third quarter 2010, wholesale revenues from affiliates were $16.9 million compared to $53.7
million for the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, wholesale revenues from
affiliates were $43.1 million compared to $98.5 million for the corresponding period in 2009.
These decreases were due to an 80.6% decrease and a 63.6% decrease in KWH sales due to lower demand
in the third quarter and year-to-date 2010, respectively, because the market cost of available
energy was lower than the cost of Georgia Power-owned generation.
Other Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$12.7
|
|
17.7
|
|
$25.7
|
|
12.9 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other revenues were $84.2 million compared to $71.5 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. This increase was primarily due to a $10.4 million increase in
transmission revenues due to the increased usage of Georgia Powers transmission system by
non-affiliated companies and an increase of $0.9 million in outdoor lighting revenues.
For year-to-date 2010, other revenues were $225.3 million compared to $199.6 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to a $16.7 million increase in transmission
revenues due to the increased usage of Georgia Powers transmission system by non-affiliated
companies, a $5.1 million increase in late payment fees and customer maintenance request revenues,
an increase of $2.0 million in pole attachment and equipment rental revenue primarily as a result
of a new transmission line rental agreement that began in June 2009, and an increase of $2.3
million in outdoor lighting revenues primarily as a result of new customer sales associated with
government stimulus programs.
Fuel and Purchased Power Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 |
|
|
vs. |
|
vs. |
|
|
Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
Fuel* |
|
$ |
97.7 |
|
|
|
11.8 |
|
|
$ |
359.2 |
|
|
|
17.2 |
|
Purchased power non-affiliates |
|
|
42.1 |
|
|
|
48.7 |
|
|
|
74.9 |
|
|
|
34.2 |
|
Purchased power affiliates |
|
|
(16.4 |
) |
|
|
(10.3 |
) |
|
|
(92.0 |
) |
|
|
(17.4 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total fuel and purchased power expenses |
|
$ |
123.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
342.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
Fuel includes fuel purchased by Georgia Power for tolling agreements where power is
generated by the provider and is
included in purchased power when determining the average cost of purchased power. |
In the third quarter 2010, total fuel and purchased power expenses were $1.2 billion compared
to $1.1 billion in the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was primarily due to an $87.7
million increase related to higher KWHs generated primarily due to higher customer demand as a
result of warmer weather in the third quarter 2010 and a $35.7 million increase in the average cost
of fuel and purchased power.
For year-to-date 2010, total fuel and purchased power expenses were $3.2 billion compared to $2.8
billion in the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to a $218.4 million increase in
the average cost of fossil and nuclear fuel and a $123.7 million increase related to higher KWHs
generated primarily due to higher customer demand as a result of significantly colder weather in
the first quarter 2010 and warmer weather in the second and third quarters 2010.
Fuel and purchased power transactions do not have a significant impact on earnings since energy
expenses are generally offset by energy revenues through Georgia Powers fuel cost recovery clause.
See FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Georgia PSC Matters Retail Fuel Cost Recovery herein for
additional information.
68
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Details of Georgia Powers cost of generation and purchased power are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Third Quarter |
|
Percent |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
Percent |
Average Cost |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
Change |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
Change |
|
|
(cents per net KWH) |
|
|
|
|
|
(cents per net KWH) |
|
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
3.97 |
|
|
|
3.50 |
|
|
|
13.4 |
|
|
|
3.84 |
|
|
|
3.39 |
|
|
|
13.3 |
|
Purchased power |
|
|
5.50 |
|
|
|
6.43 |
|
|
|
(14.5 |
) |
|
|
5.90 |
|
|
|
6.14 |
|
|
|
(3.9 |
) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, fuel expense was $928.0 million compared to $830.3 million in the
corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to a 13.4% increase in the average cost of
fuel per KWH and a 1.4% increase of KWHs generated as a result of higher KWH demand. The average
cost of coal and natural gas increased 8.1% and 44.6%, respectively.
For year-to-date 2010, fuel expense was $2.4 billion compared to $2.1 billion in the corresponding
period in 2009. This increase was due to a 13.3% increase in the average cost of fuel per KWH and
a 6.6% increase of KWHs generated as a result of higher KWH demand. The average cost of coal and
natural gas increased 9.3% and 32.8%, respectively.
Non-Affiliates
In the third quarter 2010, purchased power expense from non-affiliates was $128.6 million compared
to $86.5 million in the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to a 13.6% increase in
the average cost per KWH purchased reflecting higher fuel costs and a 49.3% increase in the volume
of KWHs purchased due to higher KWH demand as a result of warmer weather in the third quarter 2010
as compared to the corresponding period in 2009.
For year-to-date 2010, purchased power expense from non-affiliates was $294.1 million compared to
$219.2 million in the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to a 29.4% increase in
the average cost per KWH purchased reflecting additional tolling agreements associated with PPAs
that went into effect in June 2009, higher fuel costs, and a 14.3% increase in the volume of KWHs
purchased due to higher KWH demand as a result of significantly colder weather in the first quarter
2010 and warmer weather in the second and third quarters 2010 as compared to the corresponding
periods in 2009.
Energy purchases from non-affiliates will vary depending on the market cost of available energy
compared to the cost of Southern Company system-generated energy, demand for energy within the
Southern Company system service territory, and availability of Southern Company system generation.
Affiliates
In the third quarter 2010, purchased power expense from affiliates was $142.5 million compared to
$158.9 million in the corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was due to a 26.9% decrease in
the average cost per KWH purchased following the expiration of a PPA in December 2009, partially
offset by a 13.8% increase in the volume of KWHs purchased due to higher KWH demand.
For year-to-date 2010, purchased power expense from affiliates was $436.5 million compared to
$528.5 million in the corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was due to a 15.1% decrease in
the average cost per KWH purchased and a 3.8% decrease in the volume of KWHs purchased following
the expiration of a PPA in December 2009.
Energy purchases from affiliates will vary depending on demand and the availability and cost of
generating resources at each company within the Southern Company system. These purchases are made
in accordance with the IIC or other contractual agreements, as approved by the FERC.
69
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Other
Operations and Maintenance Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$76.1
|
|
21.2
|
|
$121.3
|
|
11.0 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $434.9 million compared
to $358.8 million in the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to increases of $34.2
million in power generation, $19.0 million in transmission and distribution, $14.8 million in
administrative and general expenses, and $8.5 million in customer accounting, service, and sales
primarily due to cost containment efforts in 2009 as a result of economic conditions and higher
generation levels to meet increased customer demand in 2010.
For year-to-date 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $1.2 billion compared to $1.1
billion in the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to increases of $80.0 million
in power generation and $39.1 million in transmission and distribution due to cost containment
efforts in 2009 as a result of economic conditions and higher generation levels to meet increased
customer demand in 2010.
Depreciation and Amortization
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$59.1
|
|
48.2
|
|
$(38.8)
|
|
(8.4) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, depreciation and amortization was $181.8 million compared to $122.7
million in the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to the amortization of $5.0
million in the third quarter 2010 compared to $54.0 million for the corresponding period in 2009 of
the regulatory liability related to the other cost of removal obligations as authorized by the
Georgia PSC and depreciation on additional plant in service related to transmission, distribution,
and environmental projects.
For year-to-date 2010, depreciation and amortization was $426.1 million compared to $464.9 million
in the corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was due to the amortization of $119.3 million
for year-to-date 2010 compared to $54.0 million for the corresponding period in 2009 of the
regulatory liability related to the other cost of removal obligations, as authorized by the Georgia
PSC, partially offset by depreciation on additional plant in service related to transmission,
distribution, and environmental projects.
See Note 3 to the financial statements of Georgia Power under Retail Regulatory Matters Rate
Plans in Item 8 of the Form 10-K and FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Georgia PSC Matters Rate
Plans herein for additional information on the amortization of the other cost of removal
regulatory liability, which became effective in July 2009.
Taxes Other Than Income Taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$12.1
|
|
14.0
|
|
$20.5
|
|
8.4 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, taxes other than income taxes were $98.7 million compared to $86.6
million in the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, taxes other than income taxes
were $264.4 million compared to $243.9 million in the corresponding period in 2009. These
increases were due to higher municipal franchise fees resulting from increased retail revenues in
the third quarter and year-to-date 2010.
70
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Allowance for Equity Funds Used During Construction
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$10.8
|
|
46.7
|
|
$38.4
|
|
58.0 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, AFUDC equity was $34.0 million compared to $23.2 million in the
corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, AFUDC equity was $104.7 million compared to
$66.3 million in the corresponding period in 2009. These increases were due to the increase in
construction related to three new combined cycle units at Plant McDonough, two new nuclear
generating units at Plant Vogtle, and ongoing environmental and transmission projects.
Income Taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$7.9
|
|
3.7
|
|
$54.8
|
|
14.5 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, income taxes were $223.6 million compared to $215.7 million in the
corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to higher pre-tax earnings, partially offset
by the intra-period tax allocation impact, which maintains an effective tax rate each quarter
consistent with the estimated annual effective tax rate. The estimated annual effective tax rate
declined from 2009 to 2010 primarily as a result of increased state investment tax credits.
For year-to-date 2010, income taxes were $432.8 million compared to $378.0 million in the
corresponding period in 2009. This increase was due to higher pre-tax earnings, partially offset
by a decrease in uncertain tax positions related to state income tax credits that remain subject to
litigation and an increase in non-taxable AFUDC equity and state investment tax credits.
See FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Income Tax Matters herein and Notes 3 and 5 to the financial
statements of Georgia Power under Income Tax Matters and Unrecognized Tax Benefits,
respectively, in Item 8 of the Form 10-K, Note (B) to the Condensed Financial Statements under
Income Tax Matters Georgia State Income Tax Credits herein, and Note (G) to the Condensed
Financial Statements under Effective Tax Rate and Unrecognized Tax Benefits herein for
additional information.
FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL
The results of operations discussed above are not necessarily indicative of Georgia Powers future
earnings potential. The level of Georgia Powers future earnings depends on numerous factors that
affect the opportunities, challenges, and risks of Georgia Powers business of selling electricity.
These factors include Georgia Powers ability to maintain a constructive regulatory environment
that continues to allow for the recovery of all prudently incurred costs during a time of
increasing costs. Future earnings in the near term will depend, in part, upon maintaining energy
sales which is subject to a number of factors. These factors include weather, competition, new
energy contracts with neighboring utilities, energy conservation practiced by customers, the price
of electricity, the price elasticity of demand, and the rate of economic growth or decline in
Georgia Powers service area. Changes in economic conditions impact sales for Georgia Power and
the pace of the economic recovery remains uncertain. The timing and extent of the economic
recovery will impact growth and may impact future earnings. For additional information relating to
these issues, see RISK FACTORS in Item 1A and MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE
EARNINGS POTENTIAL of Georgia Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
71
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Environmental Matters
Compliance costs related to the Clean Air Act and other environmental statutes and regulations
could affect earnings if such costs cannot continue to be fully recovered in rates on a timely
basis. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental
Matters of Georgia Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Georgia Power under
Environmental Matters in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
New Source Review Actions
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters New
Source Review Actions of Georgia Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Georgia
Power under Environmental Matters New Source Review Actions in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for
additional information regarding civil actions brought by the EPA alleging that Georgia Power and
Alabama Power violated the NSR provisions of the Clean Air Act and related state laws with respect
to certain of their coal-fired generating facilities. The action against Georgia Power has been
administratively closed since 2001, and the case has not been reopened.
Georgia Power is not a party to the case involving Alabama Power. On September 2, 2010, following
the end of discovery, the EPA dismissed five of its eight remaining claims in the case against
Alabama Power, leaving only three claims for summary disposition or trial. The parties each filed
motions for summary judgment on September 30, 2010. The court has set a trial date for October
2011 for any remaining claims. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot now be determined.
Carbon Dioxide Litigation
New York Case
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Carbon Dioxide Litigation New York Case of Georgia Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial
statements of Georgia Power under Environmental Matters Carbon Dioxide Litigation New York
Case in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding carbon dioxide litigation.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit denied the defendants petition for rehearing en
banc on March 5, 2010. On August 2, 2010, the defendants filed a petition for writ of certiorari
with the U.S. Supreme Court. The ultimate outcome of these matters cannot be determined at this
time.
Other Litigation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Carbon Dioxide Litigation Other Litigation of Georgia Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the
financial statements of Georgia Power under Environmental Matters Carbon Dioxide Litigation
Other Litigation in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding carbon dioxide
litigation related to Hurricane Katrina. On May 28, 2010, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth
Circuit dismissed the plaintiffs appeal of the case based on procedural grounds relating to the
loss of a quorum by the full court on reconsideration, reinstating the district court decision in
favor of the defendants. On August 27, 2010, the plaintiffs petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court for
a writ of mandamus directing the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to reinstate the
plaintiffs appeal. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at this time.
72
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Air Quality
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Georgia Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K
for information regarding the Industrial Boiler Maximum Achievable Control Technology regulations.
On April 29, 2010,
the EPA issued a proposed rule that would establish emissions limits for various hazardous air
pollutants typically emitted from industrial boilers, including biomass boilers. The EPA is
required to finalize the rules by January 16, 2011. The impact of these proposed regulations will
depend on their final form and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at
this time.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Georgia Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K
for information regarding proposed sulfur dioxide (SO2) regulations. On August 23,
2010, the EPAs final revisions to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for SO2,
which included the establishment of a new short-term standard, became effective. The ultimate
impact of the revised standard will depend on additional regulatory action, state implementation,
and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
On January 22, 2010, the EPA finalized revisions to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) by setting a new one-hour standard that became effective on April
12, 2010. The impact of this regulation will depend on additional regulatory action, state
implementation, and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
Although none of the areas within Georgia Powers service territory are expected to be designated
as nonattainment for the standard, based on current ambient air quality monitoring data, the new
NO2 standard could result in significant additional compliance and operational costs
for units that require new source permitting.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Georgia Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K
for information regarding the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR). On August 2, 2010, the EPA
published a proposed rule to replace CAIR, which was overturned by the U.S. Court of Appeals for
the D.C. Circuit in 2008 but left in place pending the promulgation of a replacement rule. This
proposed rule, referred to as the Transport Rule, would require 31 eastern states and the District
of Columbia (D.C.) to reduce power plant emissions of SO2 and nitrogen oxides
(NOx) that contribute to downwind states nonattainment of federal ozone and/or fine
particulate matter ambient air quality standards. To address fine particulate matter standards,
the proposed Transport Rule would require D.C. and 27 eastern states, including Georgia, to reduce
annual emissions of SO2 and NOx from power plants. To address ozone
standards, the proposed Transport Rule would also require D.C. and 25 states, including Georgia, to
achieve additional reductions in NOx emissions from power plants during the ozone
season. The proposed Transport Rule contains a preferred option that would allow limited
interstate trading of emissions allowances; however, the EPA also requests comment on two
alternative approaches that would not allow interstate trading of emissions allowances. The EPA
states that it also intends to develop a second phase of the Transport Rule next year to address
the more stringent ozone air quality standards as they are finalized. The EPA expects to finalize
the Transport Rule in late spring of 2011 and to set the initial compliance deadline starting in
2012. The impact of this proposed regulation and potential future regulation will depend on its
final form, state implementation, and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined
at this time.
These regulations could result in significant additional compliance and operational costs that
could affect future unit retirement and replacement decisions and results of operations, cash
flows, and financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated rates.
73
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Coal Combustion Byproducts
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Coal Combustion Byproducts of Georgia Power in Item 7 of
the Form 10-K for information regarding potential additional regulation of coal combustion
byproducts. On June 21, 2010, the EPA published a rulemaking proposal which requested comments on
two potential regulatory options for management and disposal of coal combustion byproducts:
regulation as a solid waste or regulation as if the materials
technically constituted a hazardous waste. Adoption of either option could
require closure of or significant change to existing storage units and construction of lined
landfills, as well as additional waste management and groundwater monitoring requirements. Under
both options, the EPA proposes to exempt the beneficial reuse of coal combustion byproducts from
regulation; however, a hazardous or other designation indicative of heightened risk could limit or
eliminate beneficial reuse options. Comments on the proposed rules
are due by November 19, 2010. Although its analysis is preliminary,
Southern Company believes the EPA has significantly underestimated compliance costs in the proposed rule.
The outcome of these proposed regulations will depend on their
final form and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
However, additional regulation of coal combustion byproducts could have a significant impact on
Georgia Powers management, beneficial use, and disposal of such byproducts. These changes could
result in significant additional compliance and operational costs that could affect future unit
retirement and replacement decisions and results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition
if such costs are not recovered through regulated rates. Further,
higher costs that are recovered through regulated rates could
contribute to reduced demand for electricity, which could negatively
impact results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition.
Global Climate Issues
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Global Climate Issues of Georgia Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for information regarding the
potential for legislation and regulation addressing greenhouse gas and other emissions. On April
1, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule regulating greenhouse gas emissions from new motor vehicles
under the Clean Air Act. The EPA has stated that, once this rule becomes effective on January 2,
2011, carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases will become regulated pollutants under the
Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) preconstruction permit program and the Title V
operating permit program, which both apply to power plants. As a result, the construction of new
facilities or the major modification of existing facilities could trigger the requirement for a PSD
permit and the installation of the best available control technology for carbon dioxide and other
greenhouse gases. On May 13, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule, referred to as the Tailoring Rule,
governing how these programs would be applied to stationary sources, including power plants. This
rule establishes two phases for applying PSD and Title V requirements to greenhouse gas emissions
sources. The first phase, beginning on January 2, 2011, will apply to sources and projects that
would already be covered under PSD or Title V, whereas the second phase, beginning July 1, 2011,
will apply to sources and projects that would not otherwise trigger those programs but for their
greenhouse gas emissions. The final rules could result in significant additional compliance and
operational costs that could affect future unit retirement and replacement decisions and results of
operations, cash flows, and financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated
rates. The ultimate outcome of these final rules cannot be determined at this time and will depend
on the outcome of any legal challenges.
74
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Georgia PSC Matters
Retail Fuel Cost Recovery
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Fuel Cost
Recovery of Georgia Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Georgia Power under
Retail Regulatory Matters Fuel Cost Recovery in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for information
regarding Georgia Powers fuel cost recovery. As of September 30, 2010, Georgia Power had a total
under recovered fuel cost balance of approximately $488 million compared to $665 million at
December 31, 2009. Fuel cost recovery revenues, as recorded on the financial statements, are
adjusted for differences in actual recoverable fuel costs and amounts billed in current regulated
rates. Accordingly, any changes in the billing factor will not have a significant effect on
Georgia Powers revenues or net income, but will affect cash flow.
On March 11, 2010, the Georgia PSC voted to approve the stipulation among Georgia Power, the
Georgia PSC Staff, and three customer groups with the exception that the under recovered fuel
balance be collected over 42 months. The new rates, which became effective April 1, 2010, will
result in an increase of approximately $373 million to Georgia Powers total annual fuel cost
recovery billings. Georgia Power is required to file its next fuel case by March 1, 2011.
Rate Plans
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Rate Plans
of Georgia Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Georgia Power under Retail
Regulatory Matters Rate Plans in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
On August 27, 2009, the Georgia PSC approved an accounting order that would allow Georgia Power to
amortize up to $324 million of its regulatory liability related to other cost of removal
obligations. Under the terms of the accounting order, Georgia Power was entitled to amortize up to
one-third of the regulatory liability ($108 million) in 2009, limited to the amount needed to earn
no more than a 9.75% retail return on equity (ROE). In addition, Georgia Power may amortize up to
two-thirds of the regulatory liability ($216 million) in 2010, limited to the amount needed to earn
no more than a 10.15% retail ROE. From July 1, 2009 through September 30, 2010, Georgia Power had
amortized $161 million of the regulatory liability. Georgia Power currently expects to amortize
approximately $40 million of the regulatory liability in the fourth quarter 2010; however, the
final amount is subject to the limitations described previously and cannot be determined at this
time.
In accordance with the 2007 Retail Rate Plan, Georgia Power filed a base rate case with the Georgia
PSC on July 1, 2010. The filing includes a requested rate increase totaling $615 million, or 8.2%
of retail revenues, to be effective January 1, 2011 based on a proposed retail ROE of 11.95%. The
requested increase will be recovered through Georgia Powers existing base rate tariffs as follows:
$451 million, or 6.0%, through the traditional base rate tariffs; $115 million, or 1.5%, through
the Environmental Compliance Cost Recovery (ECCR) tariff; $32 million through the Demand Side
Management (DSM) tariffs; and $17 million through the Municipal Franchise Fee (MFF) tariff. The
majority of the increase in retail revenues is being requested to cover the costs of environmental
compliance and continued investment in new generation, transmission, and distribution facilities to
support growth and ensure reliability. The remainder of the increase includes recovery of higher
operation, maintenance, and other investment costs to meet the current and future demand for
electricity.
Unlike rate plans based on traditional one-year test periods, the 2007 Retail Rate Plan was
designed to operate for the three-year period ending December 31, 2010. The 2010 rate case request
includes proposed enhancements to the structure of the 2007 Retail Rate Plan to fit the current
economic climate, including a process of annual tariff compliance reviews that would allow it to
continue to operate for multiple years (Proposed Alternate Rate Plan). The primary points of the
Proposed Alternate Rate Plan include:
75
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
|
§ |
|
Continuation of a plus or minus 100 basis point range for ROE. |
|
|
§ |
|
Creation of an Adjustable Cost Recovery (ACR) tariff. If approved, beginning with an
effective date of January 1, 2012, the ACR will work to maintain Georgia Powers earnings
within the ROE band established by the Georgia PSC in this case. If Georgia Powers
earnings projected for the upcoming year are within the ROE band, no adjustment under the
ACR tariff will be requested. If Georgia Powers earnings projected for the upcoming year
are outside (either above or below) the approved ROE band, the ACR tariff will be used to
adjust projected earnings back to the mid-point of the approved ROE band. |
|
|
|
|
The ACR tariff would also return to the sharing mechanism used prior to the 2007 Retail Rate
Plan whereby two-thirds of any actual earnings for the previous year above the approved ROE
band would be refunded to customers, with the remaining one-third retained by Georgia Power
as incentive to manage expenses and operate as efficiently as possible. In addition, if
earnings are below the approved ROE band, Georgia Power would accept one-third of the
shortfall and retail customers would be responsible for the remaining two-thirds. |
|
|
§ |
|
Creation of a new Certified Capacity Cost Recovery (CCCR) tariff to recover costs
related to new capacity additions certified by the Georgia PSC and updated through
applicable project construction monitoring reports and hearings. |
|
|
§ |
|
Continuation and enhancement of the ECCR and DSM-Residential tariffs from the 2007
Retail Rate Plan and creation of a DSM-Commercial tariff to recover environmental capital
and operating costs resulting from governmental mandates and DSM costs approved and
certified by the Georgia PSC. |
|
|
§ |
|
Implementation of an annual review of the MFF tariff to adjust for changes in relative
gross receipts between customers served inside and outside municipal boundaries. |
These proposed enhancements would become effective in 2012 with revenue requirements for each
tariff updated through separate compliance filings based on Georgia Powers budget for the upcoming
year. Based on Georgia Powers 2010 budget, earnings are currently projected to be slightly below
the proposed ROE band in 2012 and within the band in 2013. However, updated budgets and revenue
forecasts may eliminate, increase, or decrease the need for an ACR tariff adjustment in either
year. In addition, Georgia Power currently estimates the ECCR tariff would increase by $120
million in 2012 and would decrease by $12 million in 2013. The CCCR tariff would begin recovering
the costs of Plant McDonough Units 4, 5, and 6 with increases of $99 million in February 2012, $77
million in June 2012, and $76 million in February 2013. The DSM tariffs would increase by $17
million in 2012 and $18 million in 2013 to reflect the terms of the stipulated agreement in Georgia
Powers 2010 DSM Certification proceeding. Amounts recovered under the MFF tariff are based on
amounts recovered under all other tariffs.
Hearings on Georgia Powers direct testimony were held in October 2010. In direct testimony filed
on October 22, 2010, the Georgia PSC Staff proposed various adjustments based on a traditional
one-year test period that would result in a proposed increase of $436 million in 2011 using a 10.5%
ROE. The Georgia PSC Staff recommendation would also allow additional increases of $181 million
and $88 million in 2012 and 2013, respectively, to recover the costs associated with Plant
McDonough Units 4, 5, and 6. These additional increases would be recovered through Georgia Powers
traditional base rate tariffs. While supporting the proposed DSM and MFF tariffs, the Georgia PSC
Staff recommended against approval of the proposed ECCR, CCCR, and ACR tariffs. Georgia Power
disagrees with the Georgia PSC Staffs positions. Hearings on the Georgia PSC Staff and intervenor
direct testimony will be held in November 2010. Georgia Powers rebuttal hearings will occur in
early December 2010. The Georgia PSC is scheduled to issue a final order in this matter on
December 21, 2010.
The final outcome of these matters cannot now be determined.
76
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Legislation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Legislation of Georgia
Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
Healthcare Reform
On March 23, 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) was signed into law and,
on March 30, 2010, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (HCERA and, together
with PPACA, the Acts), which makes various amendments to certain aspects of the PPACA, was signed
into law. The Acts effectively change the tax treatment of federal subsidies paid to sponsors of
retiree health benefit plans that provide prescription drug benefits that are at least actuarially
equivalent to the corresponding benefits provided under Medicare Part D. The federal subsidy paid
to employers was introduced as part of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and
Modernization Act of 2003 (MPDIMA). Since the 2006 tax year, Georgia Power has been receiving the
federal subsidy related to certain retiree prescription drug plans that were determined to be
actuarially equivalent to the benefit provided under Medicare Part D. Under the MPDIMA, the
federal subsidy does not reduce an employers income tax deduction for the costs of providing such
prescription drug plans nor is it subject to income tax individually. Under the Acts, beginning in
2013, an employers income tax deduction for the costs of providing Medicare Part D-equivalent
prescription drug benefits to retirees will be reduced by the amount of the federal subsidy. Under
GAAP, any impact from a change in tax law must be recognized in the period enacted regardless of
the effective date; however, as a result of state regulatory treatment, this change had no material
impact on the financial statements of Georgia Power. Southern Company is in the process of
assessing the extent to which the legislation may affect its future health care and related
employee benefit plan costs. Any future impact on the financial statements of Georgia Power cannot
be determined at this time.
Stimulus Funding
On April 28, 2010, Southern Company signed a Smart Grid Investment Grant agreement with the DOE,
formally accepting a $165 million grant under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
This funding will be used for transmission and distribution automation and modernization projects
that must be completed by April 28, 2013. Georgia Power will receive, and will match, $51 million
under this agreement.
Income Tax Matters
Georgia State Income Tax Credits
Georgia Powers 2005 through 2009 income tax filings for the State of Georgia include state income
tax credits for increased activity through Georgia ports. Georgia Power had also filed similar
claims for the years 2002 through 2004. The Georgia Department of Revenue has not responded to
these claims. In July 2007, Georgia Power filed a complaint in the Superior Court of Fulton County
to recover the credits claimed for the years 2002 through 2004. On March 22, 2010, the Superior
Court of Fulton County ruled in favor of Georgia Powers motion for summary judgment. The Georgia
Department of Revenue has appealed to the Georgia Court of Appeals. An unrecognized tax benefit
has been recorded related to these credits. If Georgia Power prevails, no material impact on net
income is expected as a significant portion of any tax benefit is expected to be returned to retail
customers. If Georgia Power is not successful, payment of the related state tax could have a
significant, and possibly material, negative effect on Georgia Powers cash flow. See Note 5 to
the financial statements of Georgia Power under Unrecognized Tax Benefits in Item 8 of the Form
10-K and Note (G) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for additional information. The
ultimate outcome of this matter cannot now be determined.
77
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Tax Method of Accounting for Repairs
Southern Company submitted a change in the tax accounting method for repair costs associated with
Southern Companys generation, transmission, and distribution systems with the filing of the 2009
federal income tax return in September 2010. The new tax method is expected to result in net
positive cash flow for 2010 of approximately $110 million for Georgia Power. Although IRS approval
of this change is considered automatic, the amount claimed is subject to review because the IRS
will be issuing final guidance on this issue. Currently, the IRS is working with the utility
industry in an effort to resolve this matter in a consistent manner for all utilities. Due to
uncertainty concerning the ultimate resolution of this issue, an unrecognized tax benefit has been
recorded for the change in the tax accounting method for repair costs. See Note (G) to the
Condensed Financial Statements herein for additional information. The ultimate outcome of this
matter cannot be determined at this time.
Bonus Depreciation
On September 27, 2010, the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010 (SBJCA) was signed into law.
The SBJCA includes an extension of the 50% bonus depreciation for certain property acquired in 2010
and placed in service in 2010 or, in certain limited cases, 2011. Georgia Power has estimated the
cash flow reduction to tax payments for 2010 to be approximately $130 million.
Construction
Nuclear
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Construction Nuclear of
Georgia Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for information regarding construction of two additional
nuclear generating units on the site of Plant Vogtle (Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4).
In June 2009, the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE) filed a petition in the Superior Court
of Fulton County, Georgia seeking review of the Georgia PSCs certification order and challenging
the constitutionality of the Georgia Nuclear Financing Act. On May 5, 2010, the court dismissed as
premature the plaintiffs claim challenging the Georgia Nuclear Energy Financing Act. The
dismissal of the claim related to the Georgia Nuclear Energy Financing Act is subject to appeal and
the plaintiffs are expected to re-file this claim in the future. In addition, on May 5, 2010, the
court issued an order remanding the Georgia PSCs certification order for inclusion of further
findings of fact and conclusions of law by the Georgia PSC. In compliance with the courts order,
the Georgia PSC issued its order on remand to include further findings of fact and conclusions of
law on June 23, 2010. On July 5, 2010, the SACE and the Fulton County Taxpayers Foundation, Inc.
filed separate motions with the Georgia PSC for reconsideration of the order on remand. On August
17, 2010, the Georgia PSC voted to reaffirm its order. The SACE subsequently appealed to the
Superior Court of Fulton County.
In August 2009 and June 2010, the NRC issued letters to Westinghouse revising the review schedules
needed to certify the AP1000 standard design for new reactors in response to concerns related to
the availability of adequate information and the shield building design. The shield building
protects the containment and provides structural support to the containment cooling water supply.
Georgia Power is continuing to work with Westinghouse and the NRC to resolve these concerns. Any
possible delays in the AP1000 design certification schedule, including those addressed by the NRC
in their letters, are not currently expected to affect the projected commercial operation dates for
Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4.
On August 17, 2010, the Georgia PSC voted to approve Georgia Powers semi-annual construction
monitoring report including all construction and capital costs of $583 million made on Plant Vogtle
Units 3 and 4 through December 31,
78
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
2009. The Georgia PSC also approved an amendment to the engineering, procurement, and construction
agreement for Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 that replaced certain index-based adjustments with fixed
escalation factors. Georgia Power will continue to file construction monitoring reports by
February 28 and August 31 of each year during the construction period.
On September 3, 2010, Georgia Power filed with the Georgia PSC the Nuclear Construction Cost
Recovery tariff, as authorized in April 2009 under the Georgia Nuclear Energy Financing Act. The
filing includes a rate increase of approximately $218 million to recover financing costs associated
with the construction of Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4, effective January 1, 2011.
There are pending technical and procedural challenges to the construction and licensing of Plant
Vogtle Units 3 and 4. Similar additional challenges at the state and federal level are expected as
construction proceeds.
The ultimate outcome of these matters cannot be determined at this time.
Other
In August 2009, Georgia Power filed its quarterly construction monitoring report for Plant
McDonough Units 4, 5, and 6 for the quarter ended June 30, 2009. In September 2009, Georgia Power
amended the report. As amended, the report included a request for an increase in the certified
costs to construct Plant McDonough. On February 24, 2010, Georgia
Power reached a stipulation agreement with the Georgia PSC staff that was approved by the Georgia
PSC on March 16, 2010. The stipulation resolved the June 30, 2009 construction monitoring report,
including the approval of actual expenditures and the requested increase in the certified amount.
On May 6, 2010, the Georgia PSC approved Georgia Powers request to extend the construction
schedule for Plant McDonough Units 4, 5, and 6 as a result of the short-term reduction in
forecasted demand, as well as the requested increase in the certified amount.
In addition, on September 7, 2010, the Georgia PSC approved the March 31, 2010 construction
monitoring report including actual project expenditures incurred through March 31, 2010.
Other Matters
Georgia Power is involved in various other matters being litigated, regulatory matters, and certain
tax-related issues that could affect future earnings. In addition, Georgia Power is subject to
certain claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. Georgia Powers
business activities are subject to extensive governmental regulation related to public health and
the environment, such as regulation of air emissions and water discharges. Litigation over
environmental issues and claims of various types, including property damage, personal injury,
common law nuisance, and citizen enforcement of environmental requirements such as opacity and air
and water quality standards, has increased generally throughout the United States. In particular,
personal injury and other claims for damages caused by alleged exposure to hazardous materials, and
common law nuisance claims for injunctive relief and property damage allegedly caused by greenhouse
gas and other emissions, have become more frequent. The ultimate outcome of such pending or
potential litigation against Georgia Power cannot be predicted at this time; however, for current
proceedings not specifically reported herein or in Note 3 to the financial statements of Georgia
Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K, management does not anticipate that the liabilities, if any,
arising from such current proceedings would have a material adverse effect on Georgia Powers
financial statements.
See the Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for discussion of various other
contingencies, regulatory matters, and other matters being litigated which may affect future
earnings potential.
79
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Georgia Power prepares its financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States. Significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 to the
financial statements of Georgia Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K. In the application of these
policies, certain estimates are made that may have a material impact on Georgia Powers results of
operations and related disclosures. Different assumptions and measurements could produce estimates
that are significantly different from those recorded in the financial statements. See MANAGEMENTS
DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS ACCOUNTING POLICIES Application of Critical Accounting Policies and
Estimates of Georgia Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for a complete discussion of Georgia Powers
critical accounting policies and estimates related to Electric Utility Regulation, Contingent
Obligations, Unbilled Revenues, and Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits.
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
Overview
Georgia Powers financial condition remained stable at September 30, 2010. Georgia Power intends
to continue to monitor its access to short-term and long-term capital markets as well as its bank
credit arrangements to meet future capital and liquidity needs. See Sources of Capital and
Financing Activities herein for additional information.
Net cash provided from operating activities totaled $1.7 billion for the first nine months of 2010,
compared to $1.1 billion for the corresponding period in 2009. The $574.7 million increase in cash
provided from operating activities in the first nine months of 2010 is primarily due to a $196.3
million increase in net income, fuel inventory reductions in 2010, and an increase in deferred
income taxes primarily due to the change in the tax accounting method for repair costs as
previously discussed. Net cash used for investing activities totaled $1.7 billion for the first
nine months of 2010 and 2009 primarily due to gross property additions to utility plant. Net cash
provided from financing activities totaled $535.3 million for the first nine months of 2010,
compared to $497.7 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The $37.6 million increase is
primarily due to higher issuance of long-term debt in 2010 partially offset by higher common stock
dividends in 2010. Fluctuations in cash flow from financing activities vary from year to year
based on capital needs and the maturity or redemption of securities.
Significant balance sheet changes for the first nine months of 2010 include an increase of $1.2
billion in total property, plant, and equipment and an increase in paid in capital of $689.4
million reflecting equity contributions from Southern Company.
Capital Requirements and Contractual Obligations
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Capital
Requirements and Contractual Obligations of Georgia Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for a
description of Georgia Powers capital requirements for its construction program, scheduled
maturities of long-term debt, interest, derivative obligations, preferred and preference stock
dividends, leases, purchase commitments, trust funding requirements, and unrecognized tax benefits.
Approximately $874.8 million will be required through September 30, 2011 to fund maturities and
announced repurchases of long-term debt. Georgia Power met its obligations to repurchase $462.5
million in pollution control revenue bonds subsequent to September 30, 2010 with a portion of its
current cash and cash equivalents balance at September 30, 2010. No mandatory contributions to
Georgia Powers pension plan are expected for the years ending December 31, 2010 and 2011, although
management may consider making discretionary contributions. The construction program is subject to
periodic review and revision, and actual construction costs may vary from these estimates because
of numerous factors. These factors include: changes in business conditions; changes in load
80
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
projections; changes in environmental statutes and regulations; changes in generating plants to
meet new regulatory requirements; changes in FERC rules and regulations; Georgia PSC approvals;
changes in legislation; the cost and efficiency of construction labor, equipment, and materials;
project scope and design changes; and the cost of capital. In addition, there can be no assurance
that costs related to capital expenditures will be fully recovered.
Sources of Capital
Georgia Power plans to obtain the funds required for construction and other purposes from sources
similar to those utilized in the past. Recently, Georgia Power has primarily utilized funds from
operating cash flows, short-term debt, security issuances, term loans, and equity contributions
from Southern Company. However, the amount, type, and timing of any future financings, if needed,
will depend upon prevailing market conditions, regulatory approval, and other factors. See
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Sources of Capital of
Georgia Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
On June 18, 2010, Georgia Power reached an agreement with the DOE to accept terms for a conditional
commitment for federal loan guarantees that would apply to future Georgia Power borrowings related
to Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4. Any borrowings guaranteed by the DOE would be full recourse to
Georgia Power and secured by a first priority lien on Georgia Powers 45.7% undivided ownership
interest in Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4. Total guaranteed borrowings would not exceed the lesser of
70% of eligible project costs or approximately $3.4 billion, and are expected to be funded by the
Federal Financing Bank. Final approval and issuance of loan guarantees by the DOE are subject to
receipt of the combined construction and operating license for Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 from the
NRC, negotiation of definitive agreements, completion of due diligence by the DOE, receipt of any
necessary regulatory approvals, and satisfaction of other conditions. There can be no assurance
that the DOE will issue loan guarantees for Georgia Power.
Georgia Powers current liabilities frequently exceed current assets because of the continued use
of short-term debt as a funding source to meet scheduled maturities of long-term debt, as well as
cash needs, which can fluctuate significantly due to the seasonality of the business. To meet
short-term cash needs and contingencies, Georgia Power had at
September 30, 2010 cash and cash equivalents of approximately $589.8 million and unused committed
credit arrangements with banks of approximately $1.7 billion. Of the cash and cash equivalents,
approximately $574 million was held in various money market mutual funds. The money market mutual
funds invest in a portfolio of highly-rated, short-term securities, and redemptions from the funds
are available on a same day basis up to the full amount of the investment. Of the unused credit
arrangements, $595 million expire in 2011 and $1.1 billion expire in 2012. Of the credit
arrangements that expire in 2011, $40 million contain provisions allowing two-year term loans
executable at expiration and $220 million contain provisions allowing one-year term loans
executable at expiration. Georgia Power expects to renew its credit arrangements, as needed, prior
to expiration. The credit arrangements provide liquidity support to Georgia Powers commercial
paper program at September 30, 2010, and approximately $901 million was dedicated to funding
purchase obligations related to variable rate pollution control revenue bonds. Subsequent to
September 30, 2010, purchase obligations related to variable rate pollution control revenue bonds
outstanding were reduced to $438 million as described under Financing Activities herein. See
Note 6 to the financial statements of Georgia Power under Bank Credit Arrangements in Item 8 of
the Form 10-K and Note (E) to the Condensed Financial Statements under Bank Credit Arrangements
herein for additional information. Georgia Power may also meet short-term cash needs through a
Southern Company subsidiary organized to issue and sell commercial paper at the request and for the
benefit of Georgia Power and other Southern Company subsidiaries. At September 30, 2010, Georgia
Power had no commercial paper outstanding. During the third quarter 2010, Georgia Power had an
average of $120 million of commercial paper outstanding at a weighted average interest rate of 0.3%
per annum and the maximum amount outstanding was $283 million. Management believes that the need
for working capital can be adequately met by utilizing commercial paper programs, lines of credit,
and cash.
81
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Credit Rating Risk
Georgia Power does not have any credit arrangements that would require material changes in payment
schedules or terminations as a result of a credit rating downgrade. There are certain contracts
that could require collateral, but not accelerated payment, in the event of a credit rating change
to BBB- and/or Baa3 or below. These contracts are for physical electricity purchases and sales,
fuel purchases, fuel transportation and storage, emissions allowances, energy price risk
management, and construction of new generation. At September 30, 2010, the maximum potential
collateral requirements under these contracts at a BBB- and/or Baa3 rating were approximately $27
million. At September 30, 2010, the maximum potential collateral requirements under these
contracts at a rating below BBB- and/or Baa3 were approximately $1.4 billion. Included in these
amounts are certain agreements that could require collateral in the event that one or more Power
Pool participants has a credit rating change to below investment grade. Generally, collateral may
be provided by a Southern Company guaranty, letter of credit, or cash. Additionally, any credit
rating downgrade could impact Georgia Powers ability to access capital markets, particularly the
short-term debt market.
On January 22, 2010, Fitch applied new guidelines regarding the ratings of various hybrid capital
instruments and preferred securities of companies in all sectors, including banks, insurers,
non-bank financial institutions, and non-financial corporate entities, including utilities. As a
result, the Fitch ratings of Georgia Powers preferred stock, preference stock, and long-term debt
payable to affiliated trusts decreased from A to A-. These ratings are not applicable to the
collateral requirements described above.
On August 12, 2010, Moodys downgraded the issuer and long-term debt ratings of Georgia Power
(senior unsecured to A3 from A2). Moodys also announced that it had downgraded the short-term
ratings of a financing subsidiary of Southern Company that issues commercial paper for the benefit
of Southern Company subsidiaries (including Georgia Power) to P-2 from P-1. In addition, Moodys
announced that it had downgraded the variable rate demand obligation ratings of Georgia Power to
VMIG-2 from VMIG-1 and the preferred and preference stock ratings of Georgia Power (to Baa2 from
Baa1). Moodys also downgraded the trust preferred securities rating of Georgia Power to Baa1 from
A3. Moodys announced that the ratings outlook for Georgia Power is stable.
Market Price Risk
Georgia Powers market risk exposure relative to interest rate changes for the third quarter 2010
has not changed materially compared with the December 31, 2009 reporting period. Since a
significant portion of outstanding indebtedness is at fixed rates, Georgia Power is not aware of
any facts or circumstances that would significantly affect exposures on existing indebtedness in
the near term. However, the impact on future financing costs cannot now be determined.
Due to cost-based rate regulation, Georgia Power continues to have limited exposure to market
volatility in interest rates, commodity fuel prices, and prices of electricity. To mitigate
residual risks relative to movements in electricity prices, Georgia Power enters into physical
fixed-price contracts for the purchase and sale of electricity through the wholesale electricity
market. Georgia Power continues to manage a fuel-hedging program implemented per the guidelines of
the Georgia PSC. As such, Georgia Power had no material change in market risk exposure for the
third quarter 2010 when compared with the December 31, 2009 reporting period.
82
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The changes in fair value of energy-related derivative contracts, the majority of which are
composed of regulatory hedges, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 were as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
Changes |
|
Changes |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
(in millions) |
Contracts outstanding at the beginning of the period, assets
(liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(93 |
) |
|
$ |
(75 |
) |
Contracts realized or settled |
|
|
19 |
|
|
|
69 |
|
Current period changes(a) |
|
|
(47 |
) |
|
|
(115 |
) |
|
Contracts outstanding at the end of the period, assets (liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(121 |
) |
|
$ |
(121 |
) |
|
(a) |
|
Current period changes also include the changes in fair value of new contracts entered into
during the period, if any. |
The change in the fair value positions of the energy-related derivative contracts for the
three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 was a decrease of $28 million and a decrease of $46
million, respectively, substantially all of which is due to natural gas positions. The change is
attributable to both the volume and prices of natural gas. At September 30, 2010, Georgia Power
had a net hedge volume of 61 million mmBtu with a weighted average contract cost of approximately
$1.99 per mmBtu above market prices, compared to 67 million mmBtu at June 30, 2010 with a weighted
average contract cost of approximately $1.40 per mmBtu above market prices and compared to 65
million mmBtu at December 31, 2009 with a weighted average contract cost of approximately $1.16 per
mmBtu above market prices. The natural gas hedges are recovered through the fuel cost recovery
mechanism.
Regulatory hedges relate to Georgia Powers fuel-hedging program where gains and losses are
initially recorded as regulatory liabilities and assets, respectively, and then are included in
fuel expense as the underlying fuel is used in operations and ultimately recovered through the fuel
cost recovery mechanism.
Unrealized pre-tax gains and losses recognized in income for the three and nine months ended
September 30, 2010 and 2009 for energy-related derivative contracts that are not hedges were not
material.
Georgia Power uses over-the-counter contracts that are not exchange-traded but are fair valued
using prices which are actively quoted, and thus fall into Level 2.
The maturities of the energy-related derivative contracts at September 30, 2010 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
September 30, 2010 |
|
|
Fair Value Measurements |
|
|
Total |
|
Maturity |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
Year 1 |
|
Years 2&3 |
|
Years 4&5 |
|
|
(in millions) |
Level 1 |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Level 2 |
|
|
(121 |
) |
|
|
(84 |
) |
|
|
(37 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Level 3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair value of
contracts
outstanding at end
of period |
|
$ |
(121 |
) |
|
$ |
(84 |
) |
|
$ |
(37 |
) |
|
$ |
|
|
|
See Note (C) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for further discussion on fair value
measurements.
For additional information, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
LIQUIDITY Market Price Risk of Georgia Power in Item 7 and Note 1 under Financial Instruments
and Note 11 to the financial statements of Georgia Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K and Note (H) to
the Condensed Financial Statements herein.
83
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Financing Activities
In March 2010, Georgia Power issued $350 million aggregate principal amount of Series 2010A
Floating Rate Senior Notes due March 15, 2013. The net proceeds were used to repay at maturity
$250 million aggregate principal amount of Series 2008A Floating Rate Senior Notes due March 17,
2010, to repay a portion of its outstanding short-term indebtedness, and for general corporate
purposes, including Georgia Powers continuous construction program.
In June 2010, Georgia Power issued $600 million aggregate principal amount of Series 2010B 5.40%
Senior Notes due June 1, 2040. The net proceeds from the sale of the Series 2010B Senior Notes
were used for the redemption of all of the $200 million aggregate principal amount of Georgia
Powers Series R 6.00% Senior Notes due October 15, 2033 and all of the $150 million aggregate
principal amount of Georgia Powers Series O 5.90% Senior Notes due April 15, 2033, to repay a
portion of its outstanding short-term indebtedness, and for general corporate purposes, including
Georgia Powers continuous construction program.
In September 2010, Georgia Power issued $500 million aggregate principal amount Series 2010C 4.75%
Senior Notes due September 1, 2040. The net proceeds were used to redeem all of the $250 million
aggregate principal amount of Georgia Powers Series X 5.70% Senior Notes due January 15, 2045,
$125 million aggregate principal amount of Georgia Powers Series W 6% Senior Notes due August 15,
2044, $100 million aggregate principal amount of Georgia Powers Series T 5.75% Senior Public
Income Notes due January 15, 2044, and $35 million aggregate principal amount of Savannah Electric
and Power Companys (Savannah Electric) Series G 5.75% Senior Notes due December 1, 2044 (which
were assumed by Georgia Power upon its merger with Savannah Electric).
Also in September 2010, Georgia Power issued $500 million aggregate principal amount Series 2010D
1.30% Senior Notes due September 15, 2013. Subsequent to September 30, 2010, the net proceeds were
used for the repurchase of all of the $114.3 million aggregate principal amount of outstanding
Development Authority of Burke County Pollution Control Revenue Bonds (Georgia Power Plant Vogtle
Project), First Series 2009, due January 1, 2049; $40 million aggregate principal amount of the
outstanding Development Authority of Monroe County Pollution Control Revenue Bonds (Georgia Power
Plant Scherer Project), First Series 2009, due January 1, 2049; $173 million aggregate principal
amount of the outstanding Development Authority of Bartow County (Georgia) Pollution Control
Revenue Bonds (Georgia Power Plant Bowen Project), First Series 2009, due December 1, 2032; $89.2
million aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Development Authority of Monroe County
Pollution Control Revenue Bonds (Georgia Power Plant Scherer Project), Second Series 2009, due
October 1, 2048; and $46 million aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Development
Authority of Burke County Pollution Control Revenue Bonds (Georgia Power Plant Vogtle Project),
First Series 1996, due October 1, 2032, and for other general corporate purposes, including Georgia
Powers continuous construction program. The pollution control revenue bonds repurchased by
Georgia Power are being held by Georgia Power and may be remarketed to investors in the future.
In addition to any financings that may be necessary to meet capital requirements and contractual
obligations, Georgia Power plans to continue, when economically feasible, a program to retire
higher-cost securities and replace these obligations with lower-cost capital if market conditions
permit.
84
GULF POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Operating Revenues: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Retail revenues |
|
$ |
396,671 |
|
|
$ |
329,597 |
|
|
$ |
1,021,530 |
|
|
$ |
858,038 |
|
Wholesale revenues, non-affiliates |
|
|
31,211 |
|
|
|
25,752 |
|
|
|
86,041 |
|
|
|
70,418 |
|
Wholesale revenues, affiliates |
|
|
37,995 |
|
|
|
3,661 |
|
|
|
88,386 |
|
|
|
19,748 |
|
Other revenues |
|
|
17,578 |
|
|
|
18,631 |
|
|
|
47,381 |
|
|
|
54,816 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating revenues |
|
|
483,455 |
|
|
|
377,641 |
|
|
|
1,243,338 |
|
|
|
1,003,020 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Expenses: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
237,003 |
|
|
|
163,302 |
|
|
|
585,167 |
|
|
|
435,050 |
|
Purchased power, non-affiliates |
|
|
12,771 |
|
|
|
9,991 |
|
|
|
34,615 |
|
|
|
20,480 |
|
Purchased power, affiliates |
|
|
20,282 |
|
|
|
29,399 |
|
|
|
51,725 |
|
|
|
58,020 |
|
Other operations and maintenance |
|
|
67,178 |
|
|
|
57,422 |
|
|
|
202,202 |
|
|
|
194,896 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
34,032 |
|
|
|
23,452 |
|
|
|
90,651 |
|
|
|
69,828 |
|
Taxes other than income taxes |
|
|
29,293 |
|
|
|
26,683 |
|
|
|
78,586 |
|
|
|
72,120 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating expenses |
|
|
400,559 |
|
|
|
310,249 |
|
|
|
1,042,946 |
|
|
|
850,394 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Income |
|
|
82,896 |
|
|
|
67,392 |
|
|
|
200,392 |
|
|
|
152,626 |
|
Other Income and (Expense): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Allowance for equity funds used during construction |
|
|
1,424 |
|
|
|
6,810 |
|
|
|
4,504 |
|
|
|
17,335 |
|
Interest income |
|
|
31 |
|
|
|
129 |
|
|
|
87 |
|
|
|
423 |
|
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
|
|
(13,764 |
) |
|
|
(9,264 |
) |
|
|
(38,286 |
) |
|
|
(29,003 |
) |
Other income (expense), net |
|
|
(471 |
) |
|
|
(266 |
) |
|
|
(1,355 |
) |
|
|
(1,369 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other income and (expense) |
|
|
(12,780 |
) |
|
|
(2,591 |
) |
|
|
(35,050 |
) |
|
|
(12,614 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings Before Income Taxes |
|
|
70,116 |
|
|
|
64,801 |
|
|
|
165,342 |
|
|
|
140,012 |
|
Income taxes |
|
|
25,658 |
|
|
|
22,042 |
|
|
|
60,166 |
|
|
|
45,341 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Income |
|
|
44,458 |
|
|
|
42,759 |
|
|
|
105,176 |
|
|
|
94,671 |
|
Dividends on Preference Stock |
|
|
1,551 |
|
|
|
1,551 |
|
|
|
4,652 |
|
|
|
4,652 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Income After Dividends on Preference Stock |
|
$ |
42,907 |
|
|
$ |
41,208 |
|
|
$ |
100,524 |
|
|
$ |
90,019 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Net Income After Dividends on Preference Stock |
|
$ |
42,907 |
|
|
$ |
41,208 |
|
|
$ |
100,524 |
|
|
$ |
90,019 |
|
Other comprehensive income (loss): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Qualifying hedges: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Changes in fair value, net of tax of $-, $(414), $(542), and
$(414), respectively |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(659 |
) |
|
|
(863 |
) |
|
|
(659 |
) |
Reclassification adjustment for amounts included in net
income, net of tax of $90, $105, $286, and $314, respectively |
|
|
143 |
|
|
|
166 |
|
|
|
455 |
|
|
|
500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other comprehensive income (loss) |
|
|
143 |
|
|
|
(493 |
) |
|
|
(408 |
) |
|
|
(159 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive Income |
|
$ |
43,050 |
|
|
$ |
40,715 |
|
|
$ |
100,116 |
|
|
$ |
89,860 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Gulf Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
86
GULF POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Operating Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income |
|
$ |
105,176 |
|
|
$ |
94,671 |
|
Adjustments to reconcile net income
to net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization, total |
|
|
95,491 |
|
|
|
74,407 |
|
Deferred income taxes |
|
|
55,355 |
|
|
|
(2,177 |
) |
Allowance for equity funds used during construction |
|
|
(4,504 |
) |
|
|
(17,335 |
) |
Pension, postretirement, and other employee benefits |
|
|
2,883 |
|
|
|
1,123 |
|
Stock based compensation expense |
|
|
959 |
|
|
|
793 |
|
Hedge settlements |
|
|
1,530 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other, net |
|
|
1,040 |
|
|
|
(4,009 |
) |
Changes in certain current assets and liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-Receivables |
|
|
(67,814 |
) |
|
|
40,388 |
|
-Fossil fuel stock |
|
|
29,483 |
|
|
|
(54,511 |
) |
-Materials and supplies |
|
|
(1,363 |
) |
|
|
(1,411 |
) |
-Prepaid income taxes |
|
|
(9,558 |
) |
|
|
416 |
|
-Property damage cost recovery |
|
|
34 |
|
|
|
10,831 |
|
-Other current assets |
|
|
2,667 |
|
|
|
2,178 |
|
-Accounts payable |
|
|
12,003 |
|
|
|
(13,022 |
) |
-Accrued taxes |
|
|
18,166 |
|
|
|
14,593 |
|
-Accrued compensation |
|
|
2,695 |
|
|
|
(7,364 |
) |
-Other current liabilities |
|
|
10,776 |
|
|
|
8,627 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
255,019 |
|
|
|
148,198 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property additions |
|
|
(203,911 |
) |
|
|
(330,776 |
) |
Investment in restricted cash from pollution control revenue bonds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(49,188 |
) |
Distribution of restricted cash from pollution control revenue bonds |
|
|
6,347 |
|
|
|
28,144 |
|
Cost of removal, net of salvage |
|
|
(750 |
) |
|
|
(6,758 |
) |
Construction payables |
|
|
(17,792 |
) |
|
|
(11,721 |
) |
Payments pursuant to long-term service agreements |
|
|
(4,211 |
) |
|
|
(5,462 |
) |
Other investing activities |
|
|
(295 |
) |
|
|
17 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used for investing activities |
|
|
(220,612 |
) |
|
|
(375,744 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Financing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Decrease in notes payable, net |
|
|
(88,733 |
) |
|
|
(101,589 |
) |
Proceeds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock issued to parent |
|
|
50,000 |
|
|
|
135,000 |
|
Capital contributions from parent company |
|
|
3,571 |
|
|
|
3,461 |
|
Pollution control revenue bonds |
|
|
21,000 |
|
|
|
130,400 |
|
Senior notes |
|
|
300,000 |
|
|
|
140,000 |
|
Redemptions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Senior notes |
|
|
(140,413 |
) |
|
|
(1,033 |
) |
Payment of preference stock dividends |
|
|
(4,652 |
) |
|
|
(4,652 |
) |
Payment of common stock dividends |
|
|
(78,225 |
) |
|
|
(66,975 |
) |
Other financing activities |
|
|
(3,280 |
) |
|
|
(1,613 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided from financing activities |
|
|
59,268 |
|
|
|
232,999 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents |
|
|
93,675 |
|
|
|
5,453 |
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period |
|
|
8,677 |
|
|
|
3,443 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period |
|
$ |
102,352 |
|
|
$ |
8,896 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Supplemental Cash Flow Information: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash paid during the period for |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest (net of $1,795 and $6,909 capitalized for 2010 and 2009, respectively) |
|
$ |
28,394 |
|
|
$ |
29,123 |
|
Income taxes (net of refunds) |
|
$ |
13,862 |
|
|
$ |
43,423 |
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Gulf Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
87
GULF POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Assets |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
$ |
102,352 |
|
|
$ |
8,677 |
|
Restricted cash and cash equivalents |
|
|
|
|
|
|
6,347 |
|
Receivables |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Customer accounts receivable |
|
|
98,295 |
|
|
|
64,257 |
|
Unbilled revenues |
|
|
64,894 |
|
|
|
60,414 |
|
Under recovered regulatory clause revenues |
|
|
18,606 |
|
|
|
4,285 |
|
Other accounts and notes receivable |
|
|
7,748 |
|
|
|
4,107 |
|
Affiliated companies |
|
|
17,832 |
|
|
|
7,503 |
|
Accumulated provision for uncollectible accounts |
|
|
(2,226 |
) |
|
|
(1,913 |
) |
Fossil fuel stock, at average cost |
|
|
153,230 |
|
|
|
183,619 |
|
Materials and supplies, at average cost |
|
|
40,049 |
|
|
|
38,478 |
|
Other regulatory assets, current |
|
|
23,560 |
|
|
|
19,172 |
|
Prepaid expenses |
|
|
29,874 |
|
|
|
44,760 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
927 |
|
|
|
3,634 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current assets |
|
|
555,141 |
|
|
|
443,340 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property, Plant, and Equipment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In service |
|
|
3,552,116 |
|
|
|
3,430,503 |
|
Less accumulated provision for depreciation |
|
|
1,052,758 |
|
|
|
1,009,807 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plant in service, net of depreciation |
|
|
2,499,358 |
|
|
|
2,420,696 |
|
Construction work in progress |
|
|
227,643 |
|
|
|
159,499 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total property, plant, and equipment |
|
|
2,727,001 |
|
|
|
2,580,195 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other Property and Investments |
|
|
16,219 |
|
|
|
15,923 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Charges and Other Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred charges related to income taxes |
|
|
44,947 |
|
|
|
39,018 |
|
Other regulatory assets, deferred |
|
|
221,691 |
|
|
|
190,971 |
|
Other deferred charges and assets |
|
|
31,940 |
|
|
|
24,160 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred charges and other assets |
|
|
298,578 |
|
|
|
254,149 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets |
|
$ |
3,596,939 |
|
|
$ |
3,293,607 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Gulf Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
88
GULF POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Securities due within one year |
|
$ |
185,000 |
|
|
$ |
140,000 |
|
Notes payable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
90,331 |
|
Accounts payable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Affiliated |
|
|
59,361 |
|
|
|
47,421 |
|
Other |
|
|
66,993 |
|
|
|
80,184 |
|
Customer deposits |
|
|
35,695 |
|
|
|
32,361 |
|
Accrued taxes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued income taxes |
|
|
2,816 |
|
|
|
1,955 |
|
Other accrued taxes |
|
|
25,319 |
|
|
|
7,297 |
|
Accrued interest |
|
|
14,959 |
|
|
|
10,222 |
|
Accrued compensation |
|
|
12,032 |
|
|
|
9,337 |
|
Other regulatory liabilities, current |
|
|
31,597 |
|
|
|
22,416 |
|
Liabilities from risk management activities |
|
|
12,807 |
|
|
|
9,442 |
|
Other current liabilities |
|
|
21,335 |
|
|
|
20,092 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current liabilities |
|
|
467,914 |
|
|
|
471,058 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term Debt |
|
|
1,112,478 |
|
|
|
978,914 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated deferred income taxes |
|
|
353,886 |
|
|
|
297,405 |
|
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits |
|
|
8,495 |
|
|
|
9,652 |
|
Employee benefit obligations |
|
|
110,708 |
|
|
|
109,271 |
|
Other cost of removal obligations |
|
|
199,154 |
|
|
|
191,248 |
|
Other regulatory liabilities, deferred |
|
|
42,481 |
|
|
|
41,399 |
|
Other deferred credits and liabilities |
|
|
122,754 |
|
|
|
92,370 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred credits and other liabilities |
|
|
837,478 |
|
|
|
741,345 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities |
|
|
2,417,870 |
|
|
|
2,191,317 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Preference Stock |
|
|
97,998 |
|
|
|
97,998 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Stockholders Equity: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock, without par value |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Authorized - 20,000,000 shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Outstanding - September 30, 2010: 3,642,717 shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
- December 31, 2009: 3,142,717 shares |
|
|
303,060 |
|
|
|
253,060 |
|
Paid-in capital |
|
|
539,466 |
|
|
|
534,577 |
|
Retained earnings |
|
|
241,415 |
|
|
|
219,117 |
|
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
|
|
(2,870 |
) |
|
|
(2,462 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total common stockholders equity |
|
|
1,081,071 |
|
|
|
1,004,292 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
$ |
3,596,939 |
|
|
$ |
3,293,607 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Gulf Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
89
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
THIRD QUARTER 2010 vs. THIRD QUARTER 2009
AND
YEAR-TO-DATE 2010 vs. YEAR-TO-DATE 2009
OVERVIEW
Gulf Power operates as a vertically integrated utility providing electricity to retail customers
within its traditional service area located in northwest Florida and to wholesale customers in the
Southeast. Many factors affect the opportunities, challenges, and risks of Gulf Powers business
of selling electricity. These factors include the ability to maintain a constructive regulatory
environment, to maintain energy sales given current economic conditions, and to effectively manage
and secure timely recovery of rising costs. These costs include those related to projected
long-term demand growth, increasingly stringent environmental standards, and fuel prices.
Appropriately balancing the need to recover these increasing costs with customer prices will
continue to challenge Gulf Power for the foreseeable future.
Gulf Power continues to focus on several key performance indicators. These indicators include
customer satisfaction, plant availability, system reliability, and net income after dividends on
preference stock. For additional information on these indicators, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND
ANALYSIS OVERVIEW Key Performance Indicators of Gulf Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
$1.7
|
|
4.1
|
|
$10.5
|
|
11.7 |
|
Gulf Powers net income after dividends on preference stock for the third quarter 2010 was $42.9
million compared to $41.2 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily
due to warmer weather in the third quarter 2010.
Gulf Powers net income after dividends on preference stock for year-to-date 2010 was $100.5
million compared to $90.0 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily
due to significantly colder weather in the first quarter 2010 and warmer weather in the third
quarter 2010.
Retail Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
$67.1
|
|
20.4
|
|
$163.5
|
|
19.1 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, retail revenues were $396.7 million compared to $329.6 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, retail revenues were $1,021.5 million compared to $858.0 million for
the corresponding period in 2009.
90
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Details of the change to retail revenues are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
(in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(in millions) |
|
(% change) |
Retail prior year |
|
$ |
329.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
858.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated change in |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rates and pricing |
|
|
22.2 |
|
|
|
6.7 |
|
|
|
56.0 |
|
|
|
6.5 |
|
Sales growth (decline) |
|
|
0.8 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
|
(2.8 |
) |
|
|
(0.2 |
) |
Weather |
|
|
6.5 |
|
|
|
2.0 |
|
|
|
18.3 |
|
|
|
2.1 |
|
Fuel and other cost recovery |
|
|
37.6 |
|
|
|
11.4 |
|
|
|
92.0 |
|
|
|
10.7 |
|
|
Retail current year |
|
$ |
396.7 |
|
|
|
20.4 |
|
|
$ |
1,021.5 |
|
|
|
19.1 |
|
|
Revenues associated with changes in rates and pricing increased in the third quarter and
year-to-date 2010 when compared to the corresponding periods in 2009 primarily due to revenues
associated with higher projected environmental compliance costs in 2010.
Annually, Gulf Power petitions the Florida PSC for recovery of projected environmental compliance
costs including any true-up amounts from prior periods, and approved rates are implemented each
January. These recovery provisions include related expenses and a return on average net
investment. See Note 1 to the financial statements of Gulf Power under Revenues and Note 3 to
the financial statements of Gulf Power under Environmental Matters Environmental Remediation
and Retail Regulatory Matters Environmental Cost Recovery in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for
additional information.
Revenues attributable to changes in sales increased in the third quarter 2010 when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009. KWH energy sales to industrial customers increased 5.2% primarily
due to an increase in production for one large customer. Weather-adjusted KWH energy sales to
commercial customers increased 3.0% primarily due to increased sales to certain large customers.
Weather-adjusted KWH energy sales to residential customers remained flat.
Revenues attributable to changes in sales decreased for year-to-date 2010 when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in KWH usage in the
residential class. KWH energy sales to industrial customers and weather-adjusted KWH energy sales
to commercial customers remained relatively flat.
Revenues resulting from changes in weather increased in the third quarter 2010 as a result of
warmer weather when compared to the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, revenues
resulting from changes in weather increased as a result of warmer weather in the third quarter 2010
and significantly colder weather in the first quarter 2010 when compared to the corresponding
periods in 2009.
Fuel and other cost recovery revenues increased in the third quarter and year-to-date 2010 when
compared to the corresponding periods for 2009 primarily due to higher fuel and purchased power
expenses in the third quarter of 2010. Fuel and other cost recovery revenues include fuel
expenses, the energy component of purchased power costs, purchased power capacity costs, and
revenues related to the recovery of storm damage restoration costs.
Annually, Gulf Power petitions the Florida PSC for recovery of projected fuel and purchased power
costs including any true-up amount from prior periods, and approved rates are implemented each
January. The recovery provisions generally equal the related expenses and have no material effect
on net income. See FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Florida PSC Matters Retail Regulatory Matters
herein and MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Fuel
Cost Recovery of Gulf Power in Item 7 and Note 1 to the financial statements of Gulf Power under
Revenues and Property Damage Reserve and Note 3 to the financial
91
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
statements of Gulf Power under Retail Regulatory Matters Fuel Cost Recovery in Item 8 of the
Form 10-K for additional information.
Wholesale Revenues Non-Affiliates
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
$5.4
|
|
21.2
|
|
$15.6
|
|
22.2 |
|
Wholesale revenues from non-affiliates will vary depending on the market cost of available energy
compared to the cost of Gulf Power and Southern Company system-owned generation, demand for energy
within the Southern Company service territory, and availability of Southern Company system
generation. Wholesale revenues from non-affiliates are predominantly unit power sales under
long-term contracts to other Florida and Georgia utilities. Revenues from these contracts have
both capacity and energy components. Capacity revenues reflect the recovery of fixed costs and a
return on investment under the contracts. Energy is generally sold at variable cost. Increases
and decreases in revenues that are driven by fuel prices are accompanied by an increase or decrease
in fuel costs and do not have a significant impact on net income.
In the third quarter 2010, wholesale revenues from non-affiliates were $31.2 million compared to
$25.8 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to increased
energy revenues related to an 8.1% increase in KWH energy sales to serve weather-related increases
in non-territorial demand and a 6.8% increase in price related to energy rates.
For year-to-date 2010, wholesale revenues from non-affiliates were $86.0 million compared to $70.4
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to increased energy
revenues related to an 11.8% increase in KWH energy sales to serve weather-related increases in
non-territorial demand and a 9.0% increase in price related to energy rates.
Wholesale Revenues Affiliates
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
$34.4
|
|
937.8
|
|
$68.7
|
|
347.6 |
|
Wholesale revenues from affiliates will vary depending on demand and the availability and cost of
generating resources at each company within the Southern Company system. These affiliate sales are
made in accordance with the IIC, as approved by the FERC. These transactions do not have a
significant impact on earnings since the energy is generally sold at marginal cost.
In the third quarter 2010, wholesale revenues from affiliates were $38.0 million compared to $3.6
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to increased energy
revenues related to a 661.7% increase in KWH energy sales resulting from the dispatch of available
Gulf Power resources to serve affiliate demand and a 36.3% increase in price related to energy
rates.
For year-to-date 2010, wholesale revenues from affiliates were $88.4 million compared to $19.7
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to increased energy
revenues related to a 257.8% increase in KWH energy sales resulting from the dispatch of available
Gulf Power resources to serve affiliate demand and a 25.1% increase in price related to energy
rates.
92
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Other Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
$(1.0)
|
|
(5.7)
|
|
$(7.4)
|
|
(13.6) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other revenues were $17.6 million compared to $18.6 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a $2.0 million decrease in
revenues from other energy services, partially offset by higher franchise fees of $1.0 million.
For year-to-date 2010, other revenues were $47.4 million compared to $54.8 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a $9.7 million decrease in
revenues from other energy services, partially offset by higher franchise fees of $2.4 million.
The decreased revenues from other energy services did not have a significant effect on net income
since they were generally offset by related expenses. Franchise fees have no impact on net income.
Fuel and Purchased Power Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 |
|
|
vs. |
|
vs. |
|
|
Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
Fuel* |
|
$ |
73.7 |
|
|
|
45.1 |
|
|
$ |
150.2 |
|
|
|
34.5 |
|
Purchased power non-affiliates |
|
|
2.8 |
|
|
|
27.8 |
|
|
|
14.1 |
|
|
|
69.0 |
|
Purchased power affiliates |
|
|
(9.1 |
) |
|
|
(31.0 |
) |
|
|
(6.3 |
) |
|
|
(10.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total fuel and purchased power expenses |
|
$ |
67.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
158.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
Fuel includes fuel purchased by Gulf Power for tolling agreements where power is
generated by the provider and is included in purchased power when determining the average cost of purchased
power. |
In the third quarter 2010, total fuel and purchased power expenses were $270.0 million
compared to $202.6 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The net increase in fuel and
purchased power expenses was due to a $47.0 million increase related to total KWHs generated and
purchased and a $20.4 million increase in the average cost of fuel and purchased power.
For year-to-date 2010, total fuel and purchased power expenses were $671.5 million compared to
$513.5 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The net increase in fuel and purchased power
expenses was due to a $116.9 million increase related to total KWHs generated and purchased and a
$41.1 million increase as a result of an increase in the average cost of fuel and purchased power.
Fuel and purchased power transactions do not have a significant impact on earnings since energy and
capacity expenses are generally offset by energy and capacity revenues through Gulf Powers fuel
cost recovery and purchased power capacity cost recovery clauses. See FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL
Florida PSC Matters Retail Regulatory Matters herein for additional information. See also
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Purchased Power
Capacity Recovery of Gulf Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Gulf Power
under Retail Regulatory Matters Purchased Power Capacity Recovery in Item 8 of the Form 10-K
for additional information.
93
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Details of Gulf Powers cost of generation and purchased power are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Third Quarter |
|
Percent |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
Percent |
Average Cost |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
Change |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
Change |
|
|
(cents per net KWH) |
|
|
|
|
|
(cents per net KWH) |
|
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
5.09 |
|
|
|
4.59 |
|
|
|
10.9 |
|
|
|
5.04 |
|
|
|
4.46 |
|
|
|
13.0 |
|
Purchased power |
|
|
7.93 |
|
|
|
7.98 |
|
|
|
(0.6 |
) |
|
|
5.99 |
|
|
|
6.78 |
|
|
|
(11.7 |
) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, fuel expense was $237.0 million compared to $163.3 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to a 16.4% increase in the average
cost of coal and an 18.4% increase in KWHs generated as a result of increased demand, partially
offset by a 4.4% decrease in the average cost of natural gas prices.
For year-to-date 2010, fuel expense was $585.2 million compared to $435.0 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to an 18.6% increase in the average
cost of coal and a 7.4% increase in KWHs generated as a result of increased demand.
Non-Affiliates
In the third quarter 2010, purchased power expense from non-affiliates was $12.7 million compared
to $9.9 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to a 752.9%
increase in the volume of KWHs purchased, which was primarily due to a PPA which began in the
fourth quarter 2009, partially offset by a 64.9% decrease in the average cost per KWH purchased.
For year-to-date 2010, purchased power expense from non-affiliates was $34.6 million compared to
$20.5 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to a 576.9%
increase in the volume of KWHs purchased, which was primarily due to a PPA which began in the
fourth quarter 2009, partially offset by a 42.2% decrease in the average cost per KWH purchased.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Purchased
Power Capacity Recovery of Gulf Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Gulf
Power under Retail Regulatory Matters Purchased Power Capacity Recovery in Item 8 of the Form
10-K for additional information regarding the PPA that began in the fourth quarter 2009.
Energy purchases from non-affiliates will vary depending on the market cost of available energy
compared to the cost of Southern Company system-generated energy, demand for energy within the
Southern Company system service territory, and the availability of Southern Company system
generation.
Affiliates
In the third quarter 2010, purchased power expense from affiliates was $20.3 million compared to
$29.4 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a 74.9%
decrease in the volume of KWHs purchased, partially offset by a 204.7% increase in the average cost
per KWH purchased.
For year-to-date 2010, purchased power expense from affiliates was $51.7 million compared to $58.0
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a 31.0% decrease
in the volume of KWHs purchased, partially offset by a 35.7% increase in the average cost per KWH
purchased.
94
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Energy purchases from affiliates will vary depending on demand and the availability and cost of
generating resources at each company within the Southern Company system. These purchases are made
in accordance with the IIC or other contractual agreements, as approved by the FERC.
Other
Operations and Maintenance Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
$9.8
|
|
17.0
|
|
$7.3
|
|
3.7 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $67.2 million compared to
$57.4 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to increases in
maintenance expense and labor.
For year-to-date 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $202.2 million compared to
$194.9 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to increases in
maintenance expense and labor, partially offset by a decrease in storm recovery costs.
Depreciation and Amortization
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$10.5
|
|
45.1
|
|
$20.8
|
|
29.8 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, depreciation and amortization was $34.0 million compared to $23.5
million for the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, depreciation and amortization
was $90.6 million compared to $69.8 million for the corresponding period in 2009. These increases
were primarily due to the addition of an environmental control project at Plant Crist being placed
into service in December 2009 and other net additions to generation.
Taxes Other Than Income Taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
$2.6
|
|
9.8
|
|
$6.5
|
|
9.0 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, taxes other than income taxes were $29.3 million compared to $26.7
million for the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, taxes other than income taxes
were $78.6 million compared to $72.1 million for the corresponding period in 2009. These increases
were primarily due to increases in property taxes, gross receipt taxes, and franchise fees. Gross
receipt taxes and franchise fees have no impact on net income.
Allowance for Equity Funds Used During Construction
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
$(5.4)
|
|
(79.1)
|
|
$(12.8)
|
|
(74.0) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, AFUDC equity was $1.4 million compared to $6.8 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, AFUDC equity was $4.5 million compared to
$17.3 million for the corresponding period in 2009. These decreases were primarily due to an
environmental control project at Plant Crist being placed into service in December 2009.
95
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Interest Expense, Net of Amounts Capitalized
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
$4.5
|
|
48.6
|
|
$9.3
|
|
32.0 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, interest expense, net of amounts capitalized was $13.8 million compared
to $9.3 million for the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, interest expense, net
of amounts capitalized was $38.3 million compared to $29.0 million for the corresponding period in
2009. These increases were primarily due to the change in capitalization of the AFUDC debt related
to an environmental control project at Plant Crist being placed into service in December 2009 and
an increase in long-term debt levels resulting from the issuance of additional senior notes in the
first quarter 2010 to fund general corporate purposes, including Gulf Powers continuous
construction program.
Income Taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
$3.6
|
|
16.4
|
|
$14.8
|
|
32.7 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, income taxes were $25.7 million compared to $22.1 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, income taxes were $60.1 million compared to
$45.3 million for the corresponding period in 2009. These increases were primarily due to higher
pre-tax earnings.
FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL
The results of operations discussed above are not necessarily indicative of Gulf Powers future
earnings potential. The level of Gulf Powers future earnings depends on numerous factors that
affect the opportunities, challenges, and risks of Gulf Powers business of selling electricity.
These factors include Gulf Powers ability to maintain a constructive regulatory environment that
continues to allow for the recovery of all prudently incurred costs during a time of increasing
costs. Future earnings in the near term will depend, in part, upon maintaining energy sales which
is subject to a number of factors. These factors include weather, competition, new energy
contracts with neighboring utilities, energy conservation practiced by customers, the price of
electricity, the price elasticity of demand, and the rate of economic growth or decline in Gulf
Powers service area. Changes in economic conditions impact sales for Gulf Power and the pace of
the economic recovery remains uncertain. The timing and extent of the economic recovery will
impact growth and may impact future earnings. For additional information relating to these issues,
see RISK FACTORS in Item 1A and MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL of
Gulf Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
Environmental Matters
Compliance costs related to the Clean Air Act and other environmental statutes and regulations
could affect earnings if such costs cannot continue to be fully recovered in rates on a timely
basis. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental
Matters of Gulf Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Gulf Power under
Environmental Matters in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
96
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
New Source Review Actions
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters New
Source Review Actions of Gulf Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Gulf Power
under Environmental Matters New Source Review Actions in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional
information regarding notices of violation issued by the EPA relating to Gulf Powers Plant Crist
and a unit partially owned by Gulf Power at Plant Scherer and civil actions brought by the EPA
against Alabama Power and Georgia Power alleging that these companies violated the NSR provisions
of the Clean Air Act and related state laws with respect to certain of their coal-fired generating
facilities. Gulf Power is not a party to the cases involving Alabama Power and Georgia Power. On
September 2, 2010, following the end of discovery, the EPA dismissed five of its eight remaining
claims in the case against Alabama Power, leaving only three claims for summary disposition or
trial. The parties each filed motions for summary judgment on September 30, 2010. The court has
set a trial date for October 2011 for any remaining claims. The ultimate outcome of this matter
cannot now be determined.
Carbon Dioxide Litigation
New York Case
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Carbon Dioxide Litigation New York Case of Gulf Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial
statements of Gulf Power under Environmental Matters Carbon Dioxide Litigation New York Case
in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding carbon dioxide litigation. The
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit denied the defendants petition for rehearing en banc
on March 5, 2010. On August 2, 2010, the defendants filed a petition for writ of certiorari with
the U.S. Supreme Court. The ultimate outcome of these matters cannot be determined at this time.
Other Litigation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Carbon Dioxide Litigation Other Litigation of Gulf Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial
statements of Gulf Power under Environmental Matters Carbon Dioxide Litigation Other
Litigation in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding carbon dioxide
litigation related to Hurricane Katrina. On May 28, 2010, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth
Circuit dismissed the plaintiffs appeal of the case based on procedural grounds relating to the
loss of a quorum by the full court on reconsideration, reinstating the district court decision in
favor of the defendants. On August 27, 2010, the plaintiffs petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court for
a writ of mandamus directing the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to reinstate the
plaintiffs appeal. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at this time.
Air Quality
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Gulf Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for
information regarding proposed sulfur dioxide (SO2) regulations. On August 23, 2010,
the EPAs final revisions to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for SO2, which
included the establishment of a new short-term standard, became effective. The ultimate impact of
the revised standard will depend on additional regulatory action, state implementation, and the
outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
97
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
On January 22, 2010, the EPA finalized revisions to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) by setting a new one-hour standard that became effective on April
12, 2010. The impact of this regulation will depend on additional regulatory action, state
implementation, and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
Although none of the areas within Gulf Powers service territory are expected to be designated as
nonattainment for the standard, based on current ambient air quality monitoring data, the new
NO2 standard could result in significant additional compliance and operational costs
for units that require new source permitting.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Gulf Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for
information regarding the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR). On August 2, 2010, the EPA published a
proposed rule to replace CAIR, which was overturned by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C.
Circuit in 2008 but left in place pending the promulgation of a replacement rule. This proposed
rule, referred to as the Transport Rule, would require 31 eastern states and the District of
Columbia (D.C.) to reduce power plant emissions of SO2 and nitrogen oxides
(NOx) that contribute to downwind states nonattainment of federal ozone and/or fine
particulate matter ambient air quality standards. To address fine particulate matter standards,
the proposed Transport Rule would require D.C. and 27 eastern states, including Florida and
Georgia, to reduce annual emissions of SO2 and NOx from power plants. To
address ozone standards, the proposed Transport Rule would also require D.C. and 25 states,
including Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi, to achieve additional reductions in NOx
emissions from power plants during the ozone season. The proposed Transport Rule contains a
preferred option that would allow limited interstate trading of emissions allowances; however,
the EPA also requests comment on two alternative approaches that would not allow interstate trading
of emissions allowances. The EPA states that it also intends to develop a second phase of the
Transport Rule next year to address the more stringent ozone air quality standards as they are
finalized. The EPA expects to finalize the Transport Rule in late spring of 2011 and to set the
initial compliance deadline starting in 2012. The impact of this proposed regulation and potential
future regulation will depend on its final form, state implementation, and the outcome of any legal
challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
These regulations could result in significant additional compliance and operational costs that
could affect future unit retirement and replacement decisions and results of operations, cash
flows, and financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated rates.
Coal Combustion Byproducts
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Coal Combustion Byproducts of Gulf Power in Item 7 of the
Form 10-K for information regarding potential additional regulation of coal combustion byproducts.
On June 21, 2010, the EPA published a rulemaking proposal which requested comments on two potential
regulatory options for management and disposal of coal combustion byproducts: regulation as a solid
waste or regulation as if the materials technically constituted a hazardous waste. Adoption of either option could require closure of or
significant change to existing storage units and construction of lined landfills, as well as
additional waste management and groundwater monitoring requirements. Under both options, the EPA
proposes to exempt the beneficial reuse of coal combustion byproducts from regulation; however, a
hazardous or other designation indicative of heightened risk could limit or eliminate beneficial
reuse options. Comments on the proposed rules
are due by November 19, 2010. Although its analysis is preliminary,
Southern Company believes the EPA has significantly underestimated compliance costs in the proposed rule.
The outcome of these proposed regulations will depend on their final form and the
outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time. However, additional
regulation of coal combustion byproducts could have a significant impact on Gulf Powers
management, beneficial use, and disposal of such byproducts. These changes could result in
significant additional compliance and operational costs that could affect future unit retirement
and replacement decisions and results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition if such
costs are not recovered through regulated rates. Further,
higher costs that are recovered through regulated rates could
contribute to reduced demand for electricity, which could negatively
impact results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition.
98
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Global Climate Issues
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Global Climate Issues of Gulf Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for information regarding the
potential for legislation and regulation addressing greenhouse gas and other emissions. On April
1, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule regulating greenhouse gas emissions from new motor vehicles
under the Clean Air Act. The EPA has stated that, once this rule becomes effective on January 2,
2011, carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases will become regulated pollutants under the
Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) preconstruction permit program and the Title V
operating permit program, which both apply to power plants. As a result, the construction of new
facilities or the major modification of existing facilities could trigger the requirement for a PSD
permit and the installation of the best available control technology for carbon dioxide and other
greenhouse gases. On May 13, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule, referred to as the Tailoring Rule,
governing how these programs would be applied to stationary sources, including power plants. This
rule establishes two phases for applying PSD and Title V requirements to greenhouse gas emissions
sources. The first phase, beginning on January 2, 2011, will apply to sources and projects that
would already be covered under PSD or Title V, whereas the second phase, beginning July 1, 2011,
will apply to sources and projects that would not otherwise trigger those programs but for their
greenhouse gas emissions. The final rules could result in significant additional compliance and
operational costs that could affect future unit retirement and replacement decisions and results of
operations, cash flows, and financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated
rates. The ultimate outcome of these final rules cannot be determined at this time and will depend
on the outcome of any legal challenges.
Florida PSC Matters
Retail Regulatory Matters
Gulf Power has established fuel cost recovery rates approved by the Florida PSC. In recent years,
Gulf Power has experienced volatility in pricing of fuel commodities with higher than expected
pricing for coal and volatile price swings in natural gas. If, at
anytime during the year, the projected year-end fuel cost over or
under recovery balance exceeds 10% of the projected fuel revenue applicable for the
year, Gulf Power is required to notify the Florida PSC and indicate if an adjustment to the fuel
cost recovery factor is being requested.
Under recovered fuel costs at September 30, 2010 totaled $16.6 million, compared to $2.4 million at
December 31, 2009. This amount is included in under recovered regulatory clause revenues on Gulf
Powers Condensed Balance Sheets herein. Fuel cost recovery revenues, as recorded on the financial
statements, are adjusted for differences in actual recoverable costs and amounts billed in current
regulated rates. Accordingly, any changes in the billing factor will not have a significant effect
on Gulf Powers revenues or net income, but will affect cash flow.
In November 2010, the Florida PSC approved Gulf
Powers annual rate clause requests for its fuel, purchased power capacity, conservation, and
environmental compliance cost recovery factors for 2011. The net effect of the approved changes is a 2.8% rate decrease for
residential customers using 1,000 KWHs per month.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND
ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Fuel Cost Recovery of Gulf Power in Item 7
and Notes 1 and 3 to the financial statements of Gulf Power under Revenues and Retail Regulatory
Matters Fuel Cost Recovery, respectively, in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
99
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Environmental Compliance Recovery
On July 22, 2010, Mississippi Power filed a request for a certificate of public convenience and
necessity to construct a flue gas desulfurization system on Plant Daniel Units 1 and 2. These
units are jointly owned by Mississippi Power and Gulf Power, with 50% ownership, respectively. The
estimated total cost of the project is approximately $625 million and is scheduled for completion
in the fourth quarter 2014. Gulf Powers portion of the cost, if approved by the Florida PSC, is
expected to be recovered through its environmental compliance recovery clause. Hearings on the
certificate request are scheduled to be held with the Mississippi PSC on January 25, 2011 with a
final order expected by February 28, 2011. The final outcome of this matter cannot now be
determined.
Legislation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Legislation of Gulf Power
in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
Healthcare Reform
On March 23, 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) was signed into law and,
on March 30, 2010, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (HCERA and, together
with PPACA, the Acts), which makes various amendments to certain aspects of the PPACA, was signed
into law. The Acts effectively change the tax treatment of federal subsidies paid to sponsors of
retiree health benefit plans that provide prescription drug benefits that are at least actuarially
equivalent to the corresponding benefits provided under Medicare Part D. The federal subsidy paid
to employers was introduced as part of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and
Modernization Act of 2003 (MPDIMA). Since the 2006 tax year, Gulf Power has been receiving the
federal subsidy related to certain retiree prescription drug plans that were determined to be
actuarially equivalent to the benefit provided under Medicare Part D. Under the MPDIMA, the
federal subsidy does not reduce an employers income tax deduction for the costs of providing such
prescription drug plans nor is it subject to income tax individually. Under the Acts, beginning in
2013, an employers income tax deduction for the costs of providing Medicare Part D-equivalent
prescription drug benefits to retirees will be reduced by the amount of the federal subsidy. Under
GAAP, any impact from a change in tax law must be recognized in the period enacted regardless of
the effective date; however, as a result of state regulatory treatment, this change had no material
impact on the financial statements of Gulf Power. Southern Company is in the process of assessing
the extent to which the legislation may affect its future health care and related employee benefit
plan costs. Any future impact on the financial statements of Gulf Power cannot be determined at
this time.
Stimulus Funding
On April 28, 2010, Southern Company signed a Smart Grid Investment Grant agreement with the DOE,
formally accepting a $165 million grant under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
This funding will be used for transmission and distribution automation and modernization projects
that must be completed by April 28, 2013. Gulf Power will receive, and will match, $15.5 million
under this agreement.
Income Tax Matters
Tax Method of Accounting for Repairs
Southern Company submitted a change in the tax accounting method for repair costs associated with
Southern Companys generation, transmission, and distribution systems with the filing of the 2009
federal income tax return in September 2010. The new tax method is expected to result in net
positive cash flow for 2010 of approximately $6 million for Gulf Power. Although IRS approval of
this change is considered automatic, the amount claimed is subject to review because the IRS will
be issuing final guidance on this issue. Currently, the IRS is working with the utility
100
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
industry in an effort to resolve this matter in a consistent manner for all utilities. Due to
uncertainty concerning the ultimate resolution of this issue, an unrecognized tax benefit has been
recorded for the change in the tax accounting method for repair costs. See Note (G) to the
Condensed Financial Statements herein for additional information. The ultimate outcome of this
matter cannot be determined at this time.
Bonus Depreciation
On September 27, 2010, the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010 (SBJCA) was signed into law.
The SBJCA includes an extension of the 50% bonus depreciation for certain property acquired in 2010
and placed in service in 2010 or, in certain limited cases, 2011. Gulf Power has estimated the
cash flow reduction to tax payments for 2010 to be approximately $37 million.
Other Matters
Gulf Power is involved in various other matters being litigated and regulatory matters that
could affect future earnings. In addition, Gulf Power is subject to certain claims and legal
actions arising in the ordinary course of business. Gulf Powers business activities are
subject to extensive governmental regulation related to public health and the environment, such
as regulation of air emissions and water discharges. Litigation over environmental issues and
claims of various types, including property damage, personal injury, common law nuisance, and
citizen enforcement of environmental requirements such as opacity and air and water quality
standards, has increased generally throughout the United States. In particular, personal injury
and other claims for damages caused by alleged exposure to hazardous materials, and common law
nuisance claims for injunctive relief and property damage allegedly caused by greenhouse gas and
other emissions, have become more frequent. The ultimate outcome of such pending or potential
litigation against Gulf Power cannot be predicted at this time; however, for current proceedings
not specifically reported herein or in Note 3 to the financial statements of Gulf Power in Item
8 of the Form 10-K, management does not anticipate that the liabilities, if any, arising from
such current proceedings would have a material adverse effect on Gulf Powers financial
statements.
The coastal contamination resulting from the oil spill that began in April 2010 in the Gulf of
Mexico has not significantly impacted operations, but has had and may continue to have significant
economic impacts on the affected areas within Gulf Powers service territory.
See the Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for discussion of various other
contingencies, regulatory matters, and other matters being litigated which may affect future
earnings potential.
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Gulf Power prepares its financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States. Significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 to the
financial statements of Gulf Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K. In the application of these
policies, certain estimates are made that may have a material impact on Gulf Powers results of
operations and related disclosures. Different assumptions and measurements could produce estimates
that are significantly different from those recorded in the financial statements. See MANAGEMENTS
DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS ACCOUNTING POLICIES Application of Critical Accounting Policies and
Estimates of Gulf Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for a complete discussion of Gulf Powers
critical accounting policies and estimates related to Electric Utility Regulation, Contingent
Obligations, Unbilled Revenues, and Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits.
101
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
Overview
Gulf Powers financial condition remained stable at September 30, 2010. Gulf Power intends to
continue to monitor its access to short-term and long-term capital markets as well as its bank
credit arrangements to meet future capital and liquidity needs. See Sources of Capital and
Financing Activities herein for additional information.
Net cash provided from operating activities totaled $255.0 million for the first nine months of
2010 compared to $148.2 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The $106.8 million increase
in cash provided from operating activities was primarily due to an increase in cash from fossil
fuel stock resulting from an increase in generation and a decrease in cash payments related to fuel
inventory as well as an increase in deferred income taxes related to
fuel cost recovery. The increase was
partially offset by a decrease in collections attributable to regulatory fuel clause revenues. Net
cash used for investing activities totaled $220.6 million in the first nine months of 2010 compared
to $375.7 million for the corresponding period in 2009. Net cash provided from financing
activities totaled $59.3 million for the first nine months of 2010 compared to $233.0 million for
the corresponding period in 2009. The decreases of $155.1 million in investing activities and
$173.7 million in financing activities were primarily due to an environmental control project at
Plant Crist being placed into service in December 2009. Fluctuations in cash flow from financing
activities vary from year to year based on capital needs and the maturity or redemption of
securities.
Significant balance sheet changes for the first nine months of 2010 include increases in cash and
cash equivalents of $93.7 million, customer accounts receivable of $34.0 million, and accumulated
deferred income taxes of $56.5 million. Total property, plant, and equipment increased by $146.8
million, primarily due to environmental control projects. Notes payable decreased by $90.3
million. Securities due within one year increased by $45.0 million due to the redemption of
long-term debt.
Capital Requirements and Contractual Obligations
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Capital
Requirements and Contractual Obligations of Gulf Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for a
description of Gulf Powers capital requirements for its construction program, scheduled maturities
of long-term debt, interest, derivative obligations, preference stock dividends, leases, purchase
commitments, and trust funding requirements. Approximately $185 million will be required through
September 30, 2011 to fund maturities and announced redemptions of long-term debt. Gulf Power met
its obligations to redeem $75 million in senior notes subsequent to September 30, 2010 with a
portion of its current cash and cash equivalents balance at September 30, 2010. No mandatory
contributions to Gulf Powers pension plan are expected for the years ending December 31, 2010 and
2011, although management may consider making discretionary contributions. The construction
program is subject to periodic review and revision, and actual construction costs may vary from
these estimates because of numerous factors. These factors include: changes in business
conditions; changes in load projections; storm impacts; changes in environmental statutes and
regulations; changes in generating plants to meet new regulatory requirements; changes in FERC
rules and regulations; Florida PSC approvals; changes in legislation; the cost and efficiency of
construction labor, equipment, and materials; project scope and design changes; and the cost of
capital. In addition, there can be no assurance that costs related to capital expenditures will be
fully recovered.
102
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Sources of Capital
Gulf Power plans to obtain the funds required for construction and other purposes from sources
similar to those utilized in the past. Recently, Gulf Power has primarily utilized funds from
operating cash flows, short-term debt, security issuances, a long-term bank note, and equity
contributions from Southern Company. However, the amount, type, and timing of any future
financings, if needed, will depend upon prevailing market conditions, regulatory approval, and
other factors. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
Sources of Capital of Gulf Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
Gulf Powers current liabilities frequently exceed current assets because of the continued use of
short-term debt as a funding source to meet scheduled maturities of long-term debt, as well as cash
needs, which can fluctuate significantly due to the seasonality of the business. To meet
short-term cash needs and contingencies, Gulf Power had at September 30, 2010 cash and cash
equivalents of approximately $102.3 million and unused committed credit arrangements with banks of
$235 million. Of the cash and cash equivalents, approximately $12 million was held in various
money market mutual funds. The money market mutual funds invest in a portfolio of highly-rated,
short-term securities, and redemptions from the funds are available on a same day basis up to the
full amount of the investment. Of the unused credit arrangements, $50 million expire in 2010 and
$185 million expire in 2011. Of these credit arrangements, $205 million contain provisions
allowing one-year term loans executable at expiration. Gulf Power expects to renew its credit
arrangements, as needed, prior to expiration. The credit arrangements provide liquidity support to
Gulf Powers commercial paper borrowings and $69 million are dedicated to funding purchase
obligations related to variable rate pollution control revenue bonds. Subsequent to September 30,
2010, Gulf Power renewed an existing credit agreement totaling $30 million and increased an
existing credit agreement by $5 million; both agreements contain provisions allowing a one-year
term loan executable at expiration and extended the expiration date to 2011. See Note 6 to the
financial statements of Gulf Power under Bank Credit Arrangements in Item 8 of the Form 10-K and
Note (E) to the Condensed Financial Statements under Bank Credit Arrangements herein for
additional information. Gulf Power may also meet short-term cash needs through a Southern Company
subsidiary organized to issue and sell commercial paper at the request and for the benefit of Gulf
Power and other Southern Company subsidiaries. At September 30, 2010, Gulf Power had no commercial
paper borrowings outstanding. During the third quarter 2010, Gulf Power had an average of $70
million of commercial paper outstanding at a weighted average interest rate of 0.3% per annum and
the maximum amount outstanding was $100 million. Management believes that the need for working
capital can be adequately met by utilizing the commercial paper program, lines of credit, and cash.
Credit Rating Risk
Gulf Power does not have any credit arrangements that would require material changes in payment
schedules or terminations as a result of a credit rating downgrade. There are certain contracts
that could require collateral, but not accelerated payment, in the event of a credit rating change
to BBB- and/or Baa3 or below. These contracts are for physical electricity purchases and sales,
fuel transportation and storage, and energy price risk management. At September 30, 2010, the
maximum potential collateral requirements under these contracts at a BBB- and/or Baa3 rating were
approximately $125 million. At September 30, 2010, the maximum potential collateral requirements
under these contracts at a rating below BBB- and/or Baa3 were approximately $574 million. Included
in these amounts are certain agreements that could require collateral in the event that one or more
Power Pool participants has a credit rating change to below investment grade. Generally,
collateral may be provided by a Southern Company guaranty, letter of credit, or cash.
Additionally, any credit rating downgrade could impact Gulf Powers ability to access capital
markets, particularly the short-term debt market.
103
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
On January 22, 2010, Fitch applied new guidelines regarding the ratings of various hybrid capital
instruments and preferred securities of companies in all sectors, including banks, insurers,
non-bank financial institutions, and non-financial corporate entities, including utilities. As a
result, the Fitch rating of Gulf Powers preferred and preference stock decreased from A- to BBB+.
These ratings are not applicable to the collateral requirements described above.
On August 12, 2010, Moodys downgraded the issuer and long-term debt ratings of Gulf Power (senior
unsecured to A3 from A2). Moodys also announced that it had downgraded the short-term ratings of
a financing subsidiary of Southern Company that issues commercial paper for the benefit of Southern
Company subsidiaries (including Gulf Power) to P-2 from P-1. In addition, Moodys announced that
it had downgraded the variable rate demand obligation ratings of Gulf Power to VMIG-2 from VMIG-1
and the preferred and preference stock ratings of Gulf Power (to Baa2 from Baa1). Moodys
announced that the ratings outlook for Gulf Power is stable.
Market Price Risk
Gulf Powers market risk exposure relative to interest rate changes for the third quarter 2010 has
not changed materially compared with the December 31, 2009 reporting period. Since a significant
portion of outstanding indebtedness is at fixed rates, Gulf Power is not aware of any facts or
circumstances that would significantly affect exposures on existing indebtedness in the near term.
However, the impact on future financing costs cannot now be determined.
Due to cost-based rate regulation, Gulf Power continues to have limited exposure to market
volatility in interest rates, commodity fuel prices, and prices of electricity. To mitigate
residual risks relative to movements in electricity prices, Gulf Power enters into physical
fixed-price contracts for the purchase and sale of electricity through the wholesale electricity
market. Gulf Power continues to manage a fuel-hedging program implemented per the guidelines of
the Florida PSC. As such, Gulf Power had no material change in market risk exposure for the third
quarter 2010 when compared with the December 31, 2009 reporting period.
The changes in fair value of energy-related derivative contracts, the majority of which are
composed of regulatory hedges, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 were as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
Changes |
|
Changes |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
(in millions) |
Contracts outstanding at the beginning of the period, assets
(liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(15 |
) |
|
$ |
(14 |
) |
Contracts realized or settled |
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
14 |
|
Current period changes(a) |
|
|
(7 |
) |
|
|
(18 |
) |
|
Contracts outstanding at the end of the period, assets (liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(18 |
) |
|
$ |
(18 |
) |
|
|
|
|
(a) |
|
Current period changes also include the changes in fair value of new contracts entered into
during the period, if any. |
The change in the fair value positions of the energy-related derivative contracts for the
three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 was a decrease of $3 million and a decrease of $4
million, respectively, substantially all of which is due to natural gas positions. The change is
attributable to both the volume and prices of natural gas. At September 30, 2010, Gulf Power had a
net hedge volume of 14 million mmBtu with a weighted average contract cost of approximately $1.26
per mmBtu above market prices, compared to 9 million mmBtu at June 30, 2010 with a weighted average
contract cost of approximately $1.61 per mmBtu above market prices and compared to 11 million mmBtu
at December 31, 2009 with a weighted average contract cost of approximately $1.29 per mmBtu above
market prices. Natural gas hedges are recovered through the fuel cost recovery clause.
104
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Regulatory hedges relate to Gulf Powers fuel-hedging program where gains and losses are initially
recorded as regulatory liabilities and assets, respectively, and then are included in fuel expense
as they are recovered through the fuel cost recovery clause.
Unrealized pre-tax gains and losses recognized in income for the three and nine months ended
September 30, 2010 and 2009 for energy-related derivative contracts that are not hedges were not
material.
Gulf Power uses over-the-counter contracts that are not exchange-traded but are fair valued using
prices which are actively quoted, and thus fall into Level 2. The maturities of the energy-related
derivative contracts at September 30, 2010 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
September 30, 2010 |
|
|
Fair Value Measurements |
|
|
Total |
|
Maturity |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
Year 1 |
|
Years 2&3 |
|
Years 4&5 |
|
|
(in millions) |
Level 1 |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Level 2 |
|
|
(18 |
) |
|
|
(13 |
) |
|
|
(5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Level 3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair value of
contracts
outstanding at end
of period |
|
$ |
(18 |
) |
|
$ |
(13 |
) |
|
$ |
(5 |
) |
|
$ |
|
|
|
See Note (C) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for further discussion on fair value
measurements.
For additional information, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
LIQUIDITY Market Price Risk of Gulf Power in Item 7 and Note 1 under Financial Instruments
and Note 10 to the financial statements of Gulf Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K and Note (H) to
the Condensed Financial Statements herein.
Financing Activities
In the first nine months of 2010, Gulf Power issued to Southern Company 500,000 shares of common
stock, without par value, and realized proceeds of $50 million. The proceeds were used to repay a
portion of Gulf Powers short-term debt and for other general corporate purposes.
In April 2010, Gulf Power issued $175 million aggregate principal amount of Series 2010A 4.75%
Senior Notes due April 15, 2020. The net proceeds were used to repay at maturity $140 million
aggregate principal amount of Series 2009A Floating Rate Senior Notes due June 28, 2010, to repay a
portion of its outstanding short-term debt, and for general corporate purposes, including Gulf
Powers continuous construction program. Gulf Power settled $100 million of interest rate hedges
related to the Series 2010A Senior Note issuance at a gain of approximately $1.5 million. The gain
will be amortized to interest expense over 10 years.
In June 2010, Gulf Power incurred obligations in connection with the issuance of $21 million
aggregate principal amount of the Development Authority of Monroe County (Georgia) Pollution
Control Revenue Bonds (Gulf Power Plant Scherer Project), First Series 2010. The proceeds were
used to fund pollution control and environmental improvement facilities at Plant Scherer.
In September 2010, Gulf Power issued $125 million aggregate principal amount of its Series 2010B
5.10% Senior Notes due October 1, 2040. The net proceeds were used to repay a portion of its
outstanding short-term indebtedness, for general corporate purposes, including Gulf Powers
continuous construction program, and, subsequent to September 30, 2010, for the redemption of all
of the $40 million aggregate principal amount of Gulf Powers Series I 5.75% Senior
105
GULF POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Notes due
September 15, 2033 and $35 million aggregate principal amount of Gulf Powers Series J 5.875%
Senior Notes due April 1, 2044.
In addition to any financings that may be necessary to meet capital requirements, contractual
obligations, and storm-recovery, Gulf Power plans to continue, when economically feasible, a
program to retire higher-cost securities and replace these obligations with lower-cost capital if
market conditions permit.
106
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
107
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Operating Revenues: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Retail revenues |
|
$ |
230,977 |
|
|
$ |
231,894 |
|
|
$ |
620,658 |
|
|
$ |
608,761 |
|
Wholesale revenues, non-affiliates |
|
|
78,409 |
|
|
|
81,242 |
|
|
|
223,499 |
|
|
|
235,089 |
|
Wholesale revenues, affiliates |
|
|
13,025 |
|
|
|
13,404 |
|
|
|
31,636 |
|
|
|
30,785 |
|
Other revenues |
|
|
4,672 |
|
|
|
4,140 |
|
|
|
11,749 |
|
|
|
11,449 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating revenues |
|
|
327,083 |
|
|
|
330,680 |
|
|
|
887,542 |
|
|
|
886,084 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Expenses: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
154,607 |
|
|
|
148,115 |
|
|
|
388,979 |
|
|
|
393,912 |
|
Purchased power, non-affiliates |
|
|
2,547 |
|
|
|
1,666 |
|
|
|
7,666 |
|
|
|
7,374 |
|
Purchased power, affiliates |
|
|
10,902 |
|
|
|
21,946 |
|
|
|
60,113 |
|
|
|
65,346 |
|
Other operations and maintenance |
|
|
65,953 |
|
|
|
61,138 |
|
|
|
205,055 |
|
|
|
182,500 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
20,106 |
|
|
|
17,707 |
|
|
|
57,567 |
|
|
|
53,382 |
|
Taxes other than income taxes |
|
|
17,935 |
|
|
|
17,033 |
|
|
|
53,568 |
|
|
|
48,178 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating expenses |
|
|
272,050 |
|
|
|
267,605 |
|
|
|
772,948 |
|
|
|
750,692 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Income |
|
|
55,033 |
|
|
|
63,075 |
|
|
|
114,594 |
|
|
|
135,392 |
|
Other Income and (Expense): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Allowance for equity funds used during construction |
|
|
1,490 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,018 |
|
|
|
387 |
|
Interest income |
|
|
49 |
|
|
|
34 |
|
|
|
122 |
|
|
|
829 |
|
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
|
|
(4,886 |
) |
|
|
(6,075 |
) |
|
|
(17,011 |
) |
|
|
(17,091 |
) |
Other income (expense), net |
|
|
1,099 |
|
|
|
474 |
|
|
|
3,272 |
|
|
|
2,852 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other income and (expense) |
|
|
(2,248 |
) |
|
|
(5,567 |
) |
|
|
(11,599 |
) |
|
|
(13,023 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings Before Income Taxes |
|
|
52,785 |
|
|
|
57,508 |
|
|
|
102,995 |
|
|
|
122,369 |
|
Income taxes |
|
|
18,759 |
|
|
|
22,177 |
|
|
|
37,631 |
|
|
|
46,268 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Income |
|
|
34,026 |
|
|
|
35,331 |
|
|
|
65,364 |
|
|
|
76,101 |
|
Dividends on Preferred Stock |
|
|
433 |
|
|
|
433 |
|
|
|
1,299 |
|
|
|
1,299 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Income After Dividends on Preferred Stock |
|
$ |
33,593 |
|
|
$ |
34,898 |
|
|
$ |
64,065 |
|
|
$ |
74,802 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Net Income After Dividends on Preferred Stock |
|
$ |
33,593 |
|
|
$ |
34,898 |
|
|
$ |
64,065 |
|
|
$ |
74,802 |
|
Other comprehensive income (loss): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Qualifying hedges: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Changes in fair value, net of tax of $4, $(27), $8, and
$-, respectively |
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
(44 |
) |
|
|
13 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive Income |
|
$ |
33,600 |
|
|
$ |
34,854 |
|
|
$ |
64,078 |
|
|
$ |
74,802 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Mississippi Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
108
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Operating Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income |
|
$ |
65,364 |
|
|
$ |
76,101 |
|
Adjustments to reconcile net income
to net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization, total |
|
|
60,959 |
|
|
|
58,929 |
|
Deferred income taxes |
|
|
(4,557 |
) |
|
|
(27,430 |
) |
Investment tax credits received |
|
|
14,352 |
|
|
|
|
|
Allowance for equity funds used during construction |
|
|
(2,018 |
) |
|
|
(387 |
) |
Pension, postretirement, and other employee benefits |
|
|
6,657 |
|
|
|
5,817 |
|
Stock based compensation expense |
|
|
1,053 |
|
|
|
822 |
|
Generation construction screening costs |
|
|
(50,554 |
) |
|
|
(21,955 |
) |
Other, net |
|
|
(720 |
) |
|
|
618 |
|
Changes in certain current assets and liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-Receivables |
|
|
(21,003 |
) |
|
|
(6,482 |
) |
-Under recovered regulatory clause revenues |
|
|
|
|
|
|
54,994 |
|
-Fossil fuel stock |
|
|
10,163 |
|
|
|
(42,838 |
) |
-Materials and supplies |
|
|
(222 |
) |
|
|
(1,782 |
) |
-Prepaid income taxes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,061 |
|
-Other current assets |
|
|
(2,503 |
) |
|
|
(9,783 |
) |
-Accounts payable |
|
|
25,819 |
|
|
|
(26,354 |
) |
-Accrued taxes |
|
|
7,630 |
|
|
|
13,430 |
|
-Accrued compensation |
|
|
427 |
|
|
|
(10,238 |
) |
-Over recovered regulatory clause revenues |
|
|
14,939 |
|
|
|
20,466 |
|
-Other current liabilities |
|
|
(442 |
) |
|
|
228 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
125,344 |
|
|
|
85,217 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property additions |
|
|
(125,980 |
) |
|
|
(72,661 |
) |
Cost of removal, net of salvage |
|
|
(7,613 |
) |
|
|
(9,911 |
) |
Construction payables |
|
|
6,903 |
|
|
|
(3,949 |
) |
Other investing activities |
|
|
(6,693 |
) |
|
|
(2,150 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used for investing activities |
|
|
(133,383 |
) |
|
|
(88,671 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Financing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Decrease in notes payable, net |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(24,891 |
) |
Proceeds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital contributions from parent company |
|
|
3,920 |
|
|
|
3,330 |
|
Senior notes issuances |
|
|
|
|
|
|
125,000 |
|
Other long-term debt issuances |
|
|
125,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
Redemptions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital leases |
|
|
(988 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Senior notes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(40,000 |
) |
Payment of preferred stock dividends |
|
|
(1,299 |
) |
|
|
(1,299 |
) |
Payment of common stock dividends |
|
|
(51,450 |
) |
|
|
(51,375 |
) |
Other financing activities |
|
|
(614 |
) |
|
|
(1,714 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided from financing activities |
|
|
74,569 |
|
|
|
9,051 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents |
|
|
66,530 |
|
|
|
5,597 |
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period |
|
|
65,025 |
|
|
|
22,413 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period |
|
$ |
131,555 |
|
|
$ |
28,010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Supplemental Cash Flow Information: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash paid during the period for |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest (net of $1,482 and $117 capitalized for 2010
and 2009, respectively) |
|
$ |
16,726 |
|
|
$ |
15,824 |
|
Income taxes (net of refunds) |
|
$ |
11,345 |
|
|
$ |
48,008 |
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Mississippi Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
109
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Assets |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
$ |
131,555 |
|
|
$ |
65,025 |
|
Receivables |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Customer accounts receivable |
|
|
45,923 |
|
|
|
36,766 |
|
Unbilled revenues |
|
|
30,233 |
|
|
|
27,168 |
|
Other accounts and notes receivable |
|
|
7,131 |
|
|
|
11,337 |
|
Affiliated companies |
|
|
51,368 |
|
|
|
13,215 |
|
Accumulated provision for uncollectible accounts |
|
|
(1,006 |
) |
|
|
(940 |
) |
Fossil fuel stock, at average cost |
|
|
117,074 |
|
|
|
127,237 |
|
Materials and supplies, at average cost |
|
|
28,014 |
|
|
|
27,793 |
|
Other regulatory assets, current |
|
|
64,823 |
|
|
|
53,273 |
|
Prepaid income taxes |
|
|
37,925 |
|
|
|
32,237 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
16,094 |
|
|
|
12,625 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current assets |
|
|
529,134 |
|
|
|
405,736 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property, Plant, and Equipment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In service |
|
|
2,370,635 |
|
|
|
2,316,494 |
|
Less accumulated provision for depreciation |
|
|
975,536 |
|
|
|
950,373 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plant in service, net of depreciation |
|
|
1,395,099 |
|
|
|
1,366,121 |
|
Construction work in progress |
|
|
198,977 |
|
|
|
48,219 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total property, plant, and equipment |
|
|
1,594,076 |
|
|
|
1,414,340 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other Property and Investments |
|
|
6,120 |
|
|
|
7,018 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Charges and Other Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred charges related to income taxes |
|
|
13,638 |
|
|
|
8,536 |
|
Other regulatory assets, deferred |
|
|
149,175 |
|
|
|
209,100 |
|
Other deferred charges and assets |
|
|
30,767 |
|
|
|
27,951 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred charges and other assets |
|
|
193,580 |
|
|
|
245,587 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets |
|
$ |
2,322,910 |
|
|
$ |
2,072,681 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Mississippi Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
110
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Securities due within one year |
|
$ |
206,409 |
|
|
$ |
1,330 |
|
Accounts payable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Affiliated |
|
|
58,410 |
|
|
|
49,209 |
|
Other |
|
|
64,925 |
|
|
|
38,662 |
|
Customer deposits |
|
|
12,142 |
|
|
|
11,143 |
|
Accrued taxes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued income taxes |
|
|
25,823 |
|
|
|
10,590 |
|
Other accrued taxes |
|
|
42,021 |
|
|
|
49,547 |
|
Accrued interest |
|
|
4,405 |
|
|
|
5,739 |
|
Accrued compensation |
|
|
14,212 |
|
|
|
13,785 |
|
Other regulatory liabilities, current |
|
|
5,655 |
|
|
|
7,610 |
|
Over recovered regulatory clause liabilities |
|
|
63,534 |
|
|
|
48,596 |
|
Liabilities from risk management activities |
|
|
29,762 |
|
|
|
19,454 |
|
Other current liabilities |
|
|
24,780 |
|
|
|
21,142 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current liabilities |
|
|
552,078 |
|
|
|
276,807 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term Debt |
|
|
412,539 |
|
|
|
493,480 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated deferred income taxes |
|
|
230,058 |
|
|
|
223,066 |
|
Deferred credits related to income taxes |
|
|
12,121 |
|
|
|
13,937 |
|
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits |
|
|
26,286 |
|
|
|
12,825 |
|
Employee benefit obligations |
|
|
166,495 |
|
|
|
161,778 |
|
Other cost of removal obligations |
|
|
107,615 |
|
|
|
97,820 |
|
Other regulatory liabilities, deferred |
|
|
57,014 |
|
|
|
54,576 |
|
Other deferred credits and liabilities |
|
|
49,214 |
|
|
|
47,090 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred credits and other liabilities |
|
|
648,803 |
|
|
|
611,092 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities |
|
|
1,613,420 |
|
|
|
1,381,379 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Redeemable Preferred Stock |
|
|
32,780 |
|
|
|
32,780 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Stockholders Equity: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock, without par value |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Authorized - 1,130,000 shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Outstanding - 1,121,000 shares |
|
|
37,691 |
|
|
|
37,691 |
|
Paid-in capital |
|
|
331,122 |
|
|
|
325,562 |
|
Retained earnings |
|
|
307,884 |
|
|
|
295,269 |
|
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) |
|
|
13 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total common stockholders equity |
|
|
676,710 |
|
|
|
658,522 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
$ |
2,322,910 |
|
|
$ |
2,072,681 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Mississippi Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
111
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
THIRD QUARTER 2010 vs. THIRD QUARTER 2009
AND
YEAR-TO-DATE 2010 vs. YEAR-TO-DATE 2009
OVERVIEW
Mississippi Power operates as a vertically integrated utility providing electricity to retail
customers within its traditional service area located within the State of Mississippi and to
wholesale customers in the Southeast. Many factors affect the opportunities, challenges, and risks
of Mississippi Powers business of selling electricity. These factors include the ability to
maintain a constructive regulatory environment, to maintain energy sales given current economic
conditions, and to effectively manage and secure timely recovery of rising costs. These costs
include those related to projected long-term demand growth, increasingly stringent environmental
standards, fuel, capital expenditures, and restoration following major storms. Mississippi Power
has various regulatory mechanisms that operate to address cost recovery. Appropriately balancing
required costs and capital expenditures with customer prices will continue to challenge Mississippi
Power for the foreseeable future.
On June 3, 2010, the Mississippi PSC issued a certification of public convenience and necessity
authorizing the acquisition, construction, and operation of a new electric generating plant located
in Kemper County, Mississippi, which is scheduled to be placed into service in 2014.
Mississippi Power continues to focus on several key performance indicators. In recognition that
Mississippi Powers long-term financial success is dependent upon how well it satisfies its
customers needs, Mississippi Powers retail base rate mechanism, PEP, includes performance
indicators that directly tie customer service indicators to Mississippi Powers allowed return. In
addition to the PEP performance indicators, Mississippi Power focuses on other performance
measures, including broader measures of customer satisfaction, plant availability, system
reliability, and net income after dividends on preferred stock. For additional information on
these indicators, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OVERVIEW Key Performance
Indicators of Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(1.3)
|
|
(3.7)
|
|
$(10.7)
|
|
(14.4) |
|
Mississippi Powers net income after dividends on preferred stock for the third quarter 2010 was
$33.6 million compared to $34.9 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease in net
income after dividends on preferred stock for the third quarter 2010 was primarily due to a
decrease in wholesale energy and capacity revenues from customers served outside Mississippi
Powers service territory and increases in operations and maintenance expenses and depreciation and
amortization. The decrease in net income after dividends on preferred stock for the third quarter
2010 was partially offset by increases in AFUDC equity and territorial base revenues primarily
resulting from warmer weather in the third quarter 2010 compared to the third quarter 2009 and a
decrease in interest expense, net of amounts capitalized.
Mississippi Powers net income after dividends on preferred stock for year-to-date 2010 was $64.1
million compared to $74.8 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease in net income
after dividends on preferred stock for year-to-date 2010 was primarily due to a decrease in wholesale energy and capacity revenues from
customers served outside Mississippi Powers service territory and increases in operations and
maintenance expenses and depreciation and amortization. The decrease in net income after dividends
on preferred stock for year-to-date 2010 was partially offset by increases in AFUDC equity and
territorial base revenues primarily resulting from warmer weather in the second and third quarters
2010 and significantly colder weather in the first quarter 2010 compared to the corresponding
period in 2009.
112
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Retail Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009
|
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(0.9)
|
|
(0.4)
|
|
$11.9
|
|
2.0 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, retail revenues were $231.0 million compared to $231.9 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, retail revenues were $620.7 million compared
to $608.8 million for the corresponding period in 2009.
Details of the change to retail revenues are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
(in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
Retail prior year |
|
$ |
231.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
608.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated change in |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rates and pricing |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
Sales growth (decline) |
|
|
(1.0 |
) |
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
|
|
(3.1 |
) |
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
Weather |
|
|
3.9 |
|
|
|
1.7 |
|
|
|
13.2 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
Fuel and other cost recovery |
|
|
(3.8 |
) |
|
|
(1.6 |
) |
|
|
1.6 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
Retail current year |
|
$ |
231.0 |
|
|
|
(0.4 |
)% |
|
$ |
620.7 |
|
|
|
2.0 |
% |
|
Revenues associated with changes in rates and pricing in the third quarter 2010 when compared to
the corresponding period in 2009 were not material.
Revenues associated with changes in rates and pricing increased year-to-date 2010 when compared to
the corresponding period in 2009 primarily due to an increase of $1.0 million related to the ECO
Plan rate, partially offset by a decrease of $0.8 million related to System Restoration Rider (SRR)
revenues pursuant to an order from the Mississippi PSC.
For additional information on SRR, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS
POTENTIAL PSC Matters System Restoration Rider of Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form
10-K.
Revenues attributable to changes in sales decreased in the third quarter 2010 when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009. Weather-adjusted KWH energy sales to residential customers decreased
2.2% primarily due to the lack of growth in the number of residential customers in Mississippi
Powers service territory. KWH energy sales to industrial customers decreased 0.2% as a result of
a change in operations for one of the larger industrial customers and a maintenance outage for
another large customer.
Revenues attributable to changes in sales decreased for year-to-date 2010 when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009. Weather-adjusted KWH energy sales to residential customers slightly
increased due to increases in customer usage. Weather-adjusted KWH energy sales to commercial
customers decreased 3.0% primarily due to the declining number of commercial customers in
Mississippi Powers service territory. KWH energy sales to industrial customers increased 3.7% as
a result of increased production for several large industrial customers due to improving economic
conditions.
Revenues resulting from changes in weather increased in the third quarter 2010 as a result of
warmer weather when compared to the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, revenues
resulting from changes in weather increased as a result of warmer weather in the second and third
quarters 2010 and significantly colder weather in the first quarter 2010 when compared to the
corresponding periods in 2009.
113
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Fuel and other cost recovery revenues decreased in the third quarter 2010 when compared to the
corresponding period in 2009 primarily as a result of lower recoverable fuel costs, partially
offset by an increase in revenues related to ad valorem taxes. Fuel and other cost recovery
revenues increased year-to-date 2010 when compared to the corresponding period in 2009 primarily as
a result of an increase in revenues related to ad valorem taxes, partially offset by lower
recoverable fuel costs. Recoverable fuel costs include fuel and purchased power expenses reduced
by the fuel portion of wholesale revenues from energy sold to customers outside Mississippi Powers
service territory. Electric rates include provisions to adjust billings for fluctuations in fuel
costs, including the energy component of purchased power costs. Under these provisions, fuel
revenues generally equal fuel expenses, including the fuel component of purchased power costs, and
do not affect net income.
Wholesale Revenues Non-Affiliates
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(2.8)
|
|
(3.5)
|
|
$(11.6)
|
|
(4.9) |
|
Wholesale revenues from non-affiliates will vary depending on the market cost of available energy
compared to the cost of Mississippi Power and Southern Company system-owned generation, demand for
energy within the Southern Company service territory, and the availability of Southern Company
system generation. Increases and decreases in revenues that are driven by fuel prices are
accompanied by an increase or decrease in fuel costs and do not have a significant impact on net
income.
In the third quarter 2010, wholesale revenues from non-affiliates were $78.4 million compared to
$81.2 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was due to decreased revenues
from customers outside Mississippi Powers service territory of $5.0 million, partially offset by a
$2.2 million increase in revenues from customers inside Mississippi Powers service territory. The
$5.0 million decrease in revenues from customers outside Mississippi Powers service territory was
primarily due to a $6.3 million decrease in sales volume, partially offset by a $1.2 million
increase associated with higher prices resulting from the higher marginal cost of fuel and a $0.1
million increase in capacity revenues. The $2.2 million increase in revenues from customers inside
Mississippi Powers service territory was primarily due to a $0.1 million increase in fuel revenues
and a $2.1 million increase in wholesale base revenues resulting from warmer weather in the third
quarter 2010 when compared to the corresponding period in 2009.
For year-to-date 2010, wholesale revenues from non-affiliates were $223.5 million compared to
$235.1 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was due to decreased revenues
from customers outside Mississippi Powers service territory of $21.3 million, partially offset by
a $9.7 million increase in revenues from customers inside Mississippi Powers service territory.
The $21.3 million decrease in revenues from customers outside Mississippi Powers service territory
was primarily due to a $25.1 million decrease in sales volume, partially offset by a $3.5 million
increase associated with higher prices resulting from the higher marginal cost of fuel and a $0.3
million increase in capacity revenues. The $9.7 million increase in revenues from customers inside
Mississippi Powers service territory was primarily due to a $4.4 million increase in fuel revenues
and a $5.3 million increase in wholesale base revenues resulting from warmer weather in the second
and third quarters 2010 and significantly colder weather in the first quarter 2010 when compared to
the corresponding periods in 2009.
Wholesale Revenues Affiliates
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(0.4)
|
|
(2.8)
|
|
$0.9
|
|
2.8 |
|
Wholesale revenues from affiliates will vary depending on demand and the availability and cost of
generating resources at each company within the Southern Company system. These affiliate sales are
made in accordance with the IIC, as
approved by the FERC. These transactions do not have a significant impact on earnings since the
energy is generally sold at marginal cost.
114
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
In the third quarter 2010, wholesale revenues from affiliates were $13.0 million compared to $13.4
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a $5.1 million
decrease in capacity revenues primarily due to affiliated companies purchasing capacity from third
parties rather than from Mississippi Power, partially offset by a $4.7 million increase in energy
revenues, of which $3.3 million was associated with higher prices and an increase of $1.4 million
associated with increased sales volume.
For year-to-date 2010, wholesale revenues from affiliates were $31.6 million compared to $30.8
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to a $5.5 million
increase in energy revenues, of which $4.4 million was associated with higher prices and $1.1
million associated with increased sales volume. This increase was partially offset as capacity
revenues decreased $4.6 million primarily due to affiliated companies purchasing capacity from
third parties rather than from Mississippi Power.
Fuel and Purchased Power Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 |
|
|
vs. |
|
vs. |
|
|
Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
Fuel |
|
$ |
6.5 |
|
|
|
4.4 |
|
|
$ |
(4.9 |
) |
|
|
(1.3 |
) |
Purchased power non-affiliates |
|
|
0.8 |
|
|
|
52.8 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
|
4.0 |
|
Purchased power affiliates |
|
|
(11.0 |
) |
|
|
(50.3 |
) |
|
|
(5.2 |
) |
|
|
(8.0 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total fuel and purchased power expenses |
|
$ |
(3.7 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
(9.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In the third quarter 2010, total fuel and purchased power expenses were $168.0 million compared to
$171.7 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a $9.9
million decrease in the cost of fuel and purchased power, partially offset by a $6.2 million
increase related to the total KWHs generated and purchased.
For year-to-date 2010, total fuel and purchased power expenses were $456.8 million compared to
$466.6 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a $10.0
million decrease in the cost of fuel and purchased power, partially offset by a $0.2 million
increase related to the total KWHs generated and purchased.
Fuel and purchased power transactions do not have a significant impact on earnings since energy
expenses are generally offset by energy revenues through Mississippi Powers fuel cost recovery
clause. See FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL FERC and Mississippi PSC Matters Retail Regulatory
Matters herein for additional information.
115
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Details of Mississippi Powers cost of generation and purchased power are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Third Quarter |
|
Percent |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
Percent |
Average Cost |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
Change |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
Change |
|
|
(cents per net KWH) |
|
|
|
|
|
(cents per net KWH) |
|
|
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
4.08 |
|
|
|
4.38 |
|
|
|
(6.8 |
) |
|
|
4.21 |
|
|
|
4.34 |
|
|
|
(3.0 |
) |
Purchased power |
|
|
4.04 |
|
|
|
3.62 |
|
|
|
11.6 |
|
|
|
3.72 |
|
|
|
3.62 |
|
|
|
2.8 |
|
|
In the third quarter 2010, fuel expense was $154.6 million compared to $148.1 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to a 12.0% increase in generation
from Mississippi Power facilities resulting from higher system load, partially offset by a 6.8%
decrease in the price of fuel resulting from lower coal prices.
For year-to-date 2010, fuel expense was $388.9 million compared to $393.9 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a 3.0% decrease in the price of
fuel resulting from lower coal prices, partially offset by a 1.8% increase in generation from
Mississippi Power facilities resulting from higher system load.
Non-Affiliates
In the third quarter 2010, purchased power expense from non-affiliates was $2.5 million compared to
$1.7 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily the result of a
249.5% increase in the average cost per KWH purchased, partially offset by a 56.3% decrease in the
volume of KWH purchased. The decrease in the volume of KWH purchased was the result of higher cost
opportunity purchases, while the increase in prices was due to a higher marginal cost of fuel.
For year-to-date 2010, purchased power expense from non-affiliates was $7.7 million compared to
$7.4 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily the result of a
205.3% increase in the average cost per KWH purchased, partially offset by a 66.0% decrease in the
volume of KWH purchased. The decrease in the volume of KWH purchased was a result of higher cost
opportunity purchases, while the increase in prices was due to a higher marginal cost of fuel.
Energy purchases from non-affiliates will vary depending on the market cost of available energy
compared to the cost of Southern Company system-generated energy, demand for energy within the
Southern Company system service territory, and availability of Southern Company system generation.
Affiliates
In the third quarter 2010, purchased power expense from affiliates was $10.9 million compared to
$21.9 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a 48.1%
decrease in the volume of KWH purchased and a 4.3% decrease in the average cost per KWH purchased.
For year-to-date 2010, purchased power expense from affiliates was $60.1 million compared to $65.3
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a 14.3% decrease
in the average cost per KWH purchased, partially offset by a 7.3% increase in the volume of KWH
purchased.
Energy purchases from affiliates will vary depending on demand and the availability and cost of
generating resources at each company within the Southern Company system. These purchases are made
in accordance with the IIC, as approved by the FERC.
116
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Other Operations and Maintenance Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$4.8
|
|
7.9
|
|
$22.5
|
|
12.4 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $65.9 million compared to
$61.1 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to increases in
labor costs of $2.8 million, distribution maintenance for vegetation management costs of $0.4
million, and administrative and general expenses of $1.4 million.
For year-to-date 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $205.0 million compared to
$182.5 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to a $7.8
million increase in generation maintenance expenses for several major outages, a $3.3 million
increase in routine generation expenses, a $3.8 million increase in transmission and distribution
expenses related to substation and overhead line maintenance and vegetation management costs, a
$3.1 million increase in administrative and general expenses, and a $5.3 million increase in labor
costs.
Depreciation and Amortization
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$2.4
|
|
13.5
|
|
$4.2
|
|
7.8 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, depreciation and amortization was $20.1 million compared to $17.7
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to a $1.6 million
increase in ECO Plan amortization from the prior year and a $0.8 million increase in depreciation
resulting from an increase in plant in service.
For year-to-date 2010, depreciation and amortization was $57.6 million compared to $53.4 million
for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to a $2.2 million increase in
ECO Plan amortization from the prior year and a $2.0 million increase in depreciation resulting
from an increase in plant in service.
Taxes Other Than Income Taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$0.9
|
|
5.3
|
|
$5.4
|
|
11.2 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, taxes other than income taxes were $17.9 million compared to $17.0
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to a $0.8 million
increase in ad valorem taxes and a $0.1 million increase in payroll taxes.
For year-to-date 2010, taxes other than income taxes were $53.6 million compared to $48.2 million
for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily due to increases in ad valorem
taxes of $4.8 million, payroll taxes of $0.4 million, and franchise taxes of $0.2 million.
The retail portion of the increase in ad valorem taxes is recoverable under Mississippi Powers ad
valorem tax cost recovery clause and, therefore, does not affect net income.
117
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Allowance for Equity Funds Used During Construction
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$1.5
|
|
N/M
|
|
$1.6
|
|
N/M |
|
In the third quarter 2010, AFUDC equity was $1.5 million compared to $0 for the corresponding
period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, AFUDC equity was $2.0 million compared to $0.4 million for
the corresponding period in 2009. These increases were due to the Kemper IGCC project.
Interest Expense, Net of Amounts Capitalized
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(1.2)
|
|
(19.6)
|
|
$(0.1)
|
|
(0.5) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, interest expense, net of amounts capitalized was $4.9 million compared
to $6.1 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a $1.3
million increase in AFUDC debt primarily associated with the Kemper IGCC project, partially offset
by a $0.2 million increase primarily related to higher interest expense related to a regulatory
recovery mechanism for fuel and energy cost hedging and the issuance of new debt in September 2010.
For year-to-date 2010, interest expense, net of amounts capitalized was $17.0 million compared to
$17.1 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The slight decrease was primarily due to a
$1.4 million increase in AFUDC debt primarily associated with the Kemper IGCC project, partially
offset by a $0.9 million increase in interest expense associated with the issuance of new debt in
March 2009 and September 2010 and a $0.4 million increase in interest expense related to a
regulatory recovery mechanism for fuel and energy cost hedging.
For additional information, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
LIQUIDITY Financing Activities of Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
Income Taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(3.4)
|
|
(15.4)
|
|
$(8.7)
|
|
(18.7) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, income taxes were $18.8 million compared to $22.2 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The decrease in income taxes was primarily due to a $1.7 million
decrease resulting from lower pre-tax income, a
$1.1 million decrease due to actualization of the 2009 tax return in the third quarter 2010, and a
$0.6 million decrease due to an increase in AFUDC equity.
For year-to-date 2010, income taxes were $37.6 million compared to $46.3 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to a $6.9 million decrease resulting
from lower pre-tax income, a $1.1 million decrease due to actualization of the 2009 tax return in
the third quarter 2010, a $1.1 million decrease in unrecognized tax benefits, a $0.8 million
decrease due to an increase in AFUDC equity, partially offset by a $0.5 million increase due to a
lower production activities deduction, and a $0.9 million increase due to a lower Mississippi
manufacturing investment tax credit.
118
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL
The results of operations discussed above are not necessarily indicative of Mississippi Powers
future earnings potential. The level of Mississippi Powers future earnings depends on numerous
factors that affect the opportunities, challenges, and risks of Mississippi Powers business of
selling electricity. These factors include Mississippi Powers ability to maintain a constructive
regulatory environment that continues to allow for the recovery of all prudently incurred costs
during a time of increasing costs. Future earnings in the near term will depend, in part, upon
maintaining energy sales which is subject to a number of factors. These factors include weather,
competition, new energy contracts with neighboring utilities, energy conservation practiced by
customers, the price of electricity, the price elasticity of demand, and the rate of economic
growth or decline in Mississippi Powers service area. Changes in economic conditions impact sales
for Mississippi Power and the pace of the economic recovery remains uncertain. The timing and
extent of the economic recovery will impact growth and may impact future earnings. For additional
information relating to these issues, see RISK FACTORS in Item 1A and MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND
ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL of Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
Environmental Matters
Compliance costs related to the Clean Air Act and other environmental statutes and regulations
could affect earnings if such costs cannot continue to be fully recovered in rates on a timely
basis. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental
Matters of Mississippi Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Mississippi Power
under Environmental Matters in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
New Source Review Actions
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters New
Source Review Actions of Mississippi Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of
Mississippi Power under Environmental Matters New Source Review Actions in Item 8 of the Form
10-K for additional information regarding a civil action brought by the EPA alleging that Alabama
Power violated the NSR provisions of the Clean Air Act and related state laws with respect to
certain of its coal-fired generating facilities. On September 2, 2010, following the end of
discovery, the EPA dismissed five of its eight remaining claims against Alabama Power, leaving only
three claims for summary disposition or trial, including one facility co-owned by Mississippi
Power. The parties each filed motions for summary judgment on September 30, 2010. The court has
set a trial date for October 2011 for any remaining claims. The ultimate outcome of this matter
cannot now be determined.
Carbon Dioxide Litigation
New York Case
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Carbon Dioxide Litigation New York Case of Mississippi Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the
financial statements of Mississippi Power under Environmental Matters Carbon Dioxide Litigation
New York Case in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding carbon dioxide
litigation. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit denied the defendants petition for
rehearing en banc on March 5, 2010. On August 2, 2010, the defendants filed a petition for writ of
certiorari with the U.S. Supreme Court. The ultimate outcome of these matters cannot be determined
at this time.
119
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Other Litigation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Carbon Dioxide Litigation Other Litigation of Mississippi Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the
financial statements of Mississippi Power under Environmental Matters Carbon Dioxide Litigation
Other Litigation in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding carbon dioxide
litigation related to Hurricane Katrina. On May 28, 2010, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth
Circuit dismissed the plaintiffs appeal of the case based on procedural grounds relating to the
loss of a quorum by the full court on reconsideration, reinstating the district court decision in
favor of the defendants. On August 27, 2010, the plaintiffs petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court for
a writ of mandamus directing the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to reinstate the
plaintiffs appeal. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at this time.
Air Quality
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form
10-K for information regarding proposed sulfur dioxide (SO2) regulations. On August 23,
2010, the EPAs final revisions to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for SO2,
which included the establishment of a new short-term standard, became effective. The ultimate
impact of the revised standard will depend on additional regulatory action, state implementation,
and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
On January 22, 2010, the EPA finalized revisions to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) by setting a new one-hour standard that became effective on April
12, 2010. The impact of this regulation will depend on additional regulatory action, state
implementation, and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
Although none of the areas within Mississippi Powers service territory are expected to be
designated as nonattainment for the standard, based on current ambient air quality monitoring data,
the new NO2 standard could result in significant additional compliance and operational
costs for units that require new source permitting.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Air Quality of Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form
10-K for information regarding the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR). On August 2, 2010, the EPA
published a proposed rule to replace CAIR, which was overturned by the U.S. Court of Appeals for
the D.C. Circuit in 2008 but left in place pending the promulgation of a replacement rule. This
proposed rule, referred to as the Transport Rule, would require 31 eastern states and the District
of Columbia (D.C.) to reduce power plant emissions of SO2 and nitrogen oxides
(NOx) that contribute to downwind states nonattainment of federal ozone and/or fine
particulate matter ambient air quality standards. To address fine particulate matter standards,
the proposed Transport Rule would require D.C. and 27 eastern states, including Alabama, to reduce
annual emissions of SO2 and NOx from power plants. To address ozone
standards, the proposed Transport Rule would also require D.C. and 25 states, including Alabama and
Mississippi, to achieve additional reductions in NOx emissions from power plants during
the ozone season. The proposed Transport Rule contains a preferred option that would allow
limited interstate trading of emissions allowances; however, the EPA also requests comment on two
alternative approaches that would not allow interstate trading of emissions allowances. The EPA
states that it also intends to develop a second phase of the Transport Rule next year to address
the more stringent ozone air quality standards as they are finalized. The EPA expects to finalize
the Transport Rule in late spring of 2011 and to set the initial compliance deadline starting in
2012. The impact of this proposed regulation and potential future regulation will depend on its
final form, state implementation, and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined
at this time.
These regulations could result in significant additional compliance and operational costs that
could affect future unit retirement and replacement decisions and results of operations, cash
flows, and financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated rates.
120
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Coal Combustion Byproducts
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Environmental Statutes and Regulations Coal Combustion Byproducts of Mississippi Power in Item 7
of the Form 10-K for information regarding potential additional regulation of coal combustion
byproducts. On June 21, 2010, the EPA published a rulemaking proposal which requested comments on
two potential regulatory options for management and disposal of coal combustion byproducts:
regulation as a solid waste or regulation as if the materials
technically constituted a hazardous waste. Adoption of either option could
require closure of or significant change to existing storage units and construction of lined
landfills, as well as additional waste management and groundwater monitoring requirements. Under
both options, the EPA proposes to exempt the beneficial reuse of coal combustion byproducts from
regulation; however, a hazardous or other designation indicative of heightened risk could limit or
eliminate beneficial reuse options. Comments on the proposed rules
are due by November 19, 2010. Although its analysis is preliminary,
Southern Company believes the EPA has significantly underestimated compliance costs in the proposed rule.
The outcome of these proposed regulations will depend on their
final form and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
However, additional regulation of coal combustion byproducts could have a significant impact on
Mississippi Powers management, beneficial use, and disposal of such byproducts. These changes
could result in significant additional compliance and operational costs that could affect future
unit retirement and replacement decisions and results of operations, cash flows, and financial
condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated rates. Further,
higher costs that are recovered through regulated rates could
contribute to reduced demand for electricity, which could negatively
impact results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition.
Global Climate Issues
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Global Climate Issues of Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for information regarding
the potential for legislation and regulation addressing greenhouse gas and other emissions. On
April 1, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule regulating greenhouse gas emissions from new motor
vehicles under the Clean Air Act. The EPA has stated that, once this rule becomes effective on
January 2, 2011, carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases will become regulated pollutants under
the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) preconstruction permit program and the Title V
operating permit program, which both apply to power plants. As a result, the construction of new
facilities or the major modification of existing facilities could trigger the requirement for a PSD
permit and the installation of the best available control technology for carbon dioxide and other
greenhouse gases. On May 13, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule, referred to as the Tailoring Rule,
governing how these programs would be applied to stationary sources, including power plants. This
rule establishes two phases for applying PSD and Title V requirements to greenhouse gas emissions
sources. The first phase, beginning on January 2, 2011, will apply to sources and projects that
would already be covered under PSD or Title V, whereas the second phase, beginning July 1, 2011,
will apply to sources and projects that would not otherwise trigger those programs but for their
greenhouse gas emissions. The final rules could result in significant additional compliance and
operational costs that could affect future unit retirement and replacement decisions and results of
operations, cash flows, and financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated
rates. The ultimate outcome of these final rules cannot be determined at this time and will depend
on the outcome of any legal challenges.
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FERC and Mississippi PSC Matters
Wholesale Rate Filing
On October 22, 2010, Mississippi Power filed a request with the FERC for a revised wholesale
electric tariff and revised rates. Prior to making this filing, Mississippi Power reached a
settlement with all of its customers who take service under the tariff. This settlement agreement
was filed with the FERC as part of the request. The settlement agreement provides for an increase
in annual base wholesale revenues in the amount of approximately $4.1 million, effective January 1,
2011. In addition, the settlement agreement allows Mississippi Power to implement an emissions
allowance cost clause, effective January 1, 2011. The emissions allowance cost clause contains an
over and under recovery provision similar to the fuel recovery clause and is projected to collect
$6.9 million in 2011. The settlement agreement also provides for collection of up to $2.8 million
of 2010 emissions allowance expense for the period of September 1, 2010 through December 31, 2010
and allows Mississippi Power to defer the wholesale portion of the income tax expense associated
with the change in taxability of the federal subsidy under the Patient Protection and Affordable
Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010. The ultimate outcome of
this matter cannot be determined at this time.
Retail Regulatory Matters
Performance Evaluation Plan
See Note 3 to the financial statements of Mississippi Power under Retail Regulatory Matters
Performance Evaluation Plan in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding
Mississippi Powers base rates.
In November 2009, the revised PEP was approved by the Mississippi PSC and Mississippi Power resumed
annual evaluations. Mississippi Power filed its annual PEP filing for 2010 under the revised PEP,
which resulted in a lower allowed return on investment but no rate change.
On March 15, 2010, Mississippi Power submitted its annual PEP lookback filing for 2009, which
recommended no surcharge or refund. On October 26, 2010, Mississippi Power and the Mississippi
Public Utilities Staff agreed and stipulated that no surcharge or refund is required. On November
2, 2010, the Mississippi PSC accepted the stipulation.
System Restoration Rider
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters System
Restoration Rider of Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
In September 2009, the Mississippi PSC issued an order requiring Mississippi Power to develop SRR
factors designed to reduce SRR revenue by approximately $1.5 million. The revised factors were in
effect from November 2009 to March 2010. Beginning in April 2010, the SRR factors were reset to
zero. On January 29, 2010, Mississippi Power submitted its 2010 SRR rate filing with the
Mississippi PSC and expects to accrue approximately $3.0 million to the property damage reserve in
2010.
Environmental Compliance Overview Plan
See Note 3 to the financial statements of Mississippi Power under Retail Regulatory Matters
Environmental Compliance Overview Plan in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for information on Mississippi
Powers annual environmental filing with the Mississippi PSC.
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On February 12, 2010, Mississippi Power submitted its 2010 ECO Plan notice which proposed an
increase in annual revenues for Mississippi Power of approximately $3.9 million. Due to changes in
ECO Plan cost projections, on August 20, 2010, Mississippi Power submitted a revised 2010 ECO Plan
which reduced the requested increase in annual revenues to $1.7 million. In its 2010 ECO Plan
filing, Mississippi Power proposed to change the true-up provision of the ECO Plan rate schedule to
consider actual revenues collected in addition to actual costs. Hearings on the ECO Plan were held
with the Mississippi PSC on October 5, 2010. On October 25, 2010, the Mississippi PSC held a
public meeting to discuss the 2010 ECO Plan and issued an order approving the revised 2010 ECO Plan
with the new rates effective in November 2010. Mississippi Power and the Mississippi Public
Utilities Staff jointly agreed to defer the decision on the change in the true-up provision of the
ECO Plan rate schedule. The ultimate outcome of the proposed changes to the true-up provision
cannot be determined at this time.
On July 22, 2010, Mississippi Power filed a request for a certificate of public convenience and
necessity to construct a flue gas desulfurization system on Plant Daniel Units 1 and 2. These
units are jointly owned by Mississippi Power and Gulf Power, with 50% ownership, respectively. The
estimated total cost of the project is approximately $625 million and is scheduled for completion
in the fourth quarter 2014. Mississippi Powers portion of the cost, if approved by the
Mississippi PSC, is expected to be recovered through its ECO Plan. On October 25, 2010, the
Mississippi PSC held a public meeting to discuss Mississippi Powers filing and issued a scheduling
order for the request for a certificate of public convenience and necessity for the project.
Hearings on the certificate request are scheduled to be held on January 25, 2011 with a final order
expected by February 28, 2011. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at this
time.
Fuel Cost Recovery
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL PSC Matters Fuel Cost
Recovery of Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for information regarding Mississippi
Powers fuel cost recovery. Mississippi Power establishes an annual retail fuel cost recovery
factor that is approved by the Mississippi PSC. Mississippi Power is required to file for an
adjustment to the retail fuel cost recovery factor annually; such filing occurred in November 2009.
The Mississippi PSC approved the retail fuel cost recovery factor on December 15, 2009 with the
new rates effective January 2010. The retail fuel cost recovery factor will result in an annual
decrease in an amount equal to 11.3% of total 2009 retail revenues. As of September 30, 2010, the
amount of over recovered retail fuel costs included in the balance sheet was $44.1 million compared
to $29.4 million at December 31, 2009. Mississippi Power also has a wholesale Municipal and Rural
Associations (MRA) and a Market Based (MB) fuel cost recovery factor. Effective January 1, 2010,
the wholesale MRA fuel rate decreased, resulting in an annual decrease in an amount equal to 20.9%
of total 2009 MRA revenue. Effective February 1, 2010, the wholesale MB fuel rate decreased,
resulting in an annual decrease in an amount equal to 16.9% of total 2009 MB revenue. As of
September 30, 2010, the amount of over recovered wholesale MRA and MB fuel costs included in the
balance sheet was $15.9 million and $3.5 million, respectively, compared to $16.8 million and $2.4
million, respectively, at December 31, 2009. Mississippi Powers operating revenues are adjusted
for differences in actual recoverable fuel cost and amounts billed in accordance with the currently
approved cost recovery rate. Accordingly, this decrease to the billing factor will not have a
significant effect on Mississippi Powers revenues or net income, but will decrease annual cash
flow.
In October 2010, the Mississippi PSC engaged an independent professional audit firm to conduct an
audit of Mississippi Powers fuel-related expenditures included in the retail fuel adjustment
clause and energy cost management clause for 2010. The audit is scheduled to be completed in early
2011. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at this time.
Depreciation Study
See Note 1 to the financial statements of Mississippi Power under Depreciation and Amortization
in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information. In September 2009, Mississippi Power filed
a depreciation study, as of December 31,
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2008, with the Mississippi PSC and the FERC. The FERC accepted this study in October 2009. On
April 20, 2010, the Mississippi PSC issued an order approving the depreciation rates effective
January 1, 2010.
Integrated Coal Gasification Combined Cycle
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Integrated Coal
Gasification Combined Cycle and PSC Matters Mississippi Baseload Construction Legislation
of Mississippi Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the financial statements of Mississippi Power under
Integrated Coal Gasification Combined Cycle in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for information
regarding the Kemper IGCC.
On March 9, 2010, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality issued the PSD air permit
modification for the Kemper IGCC, which modifies the original PSD air permit issued in October
2008. The Mississippi Chapter of the Sierra Club has requested a formal evidentiary hearing
regarding the issuance of the modified permit.
In addition to the Internal Revenue Code Section 48A Phase I tax credits of $133 million certified
by the IRS in May 2009, Mississippi Power filed an application in November 2009 with the DOE and in
December 2009 with the IRS for certain tax credits available to projects using advanced coal
technologies under the Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008. The DOE subsequently
certified the Kemper IGCC, and on April 30, 2010, the IRS allocated $279 million of Phase II tax
credits under Section 48A of the Internal Revenue Code to Mississippi Power. On September 30,
2010, Mississippi Power and the IRS executed the closing agreement for the Phase II tax credits.
The utilization of these credits is dependent upon meeting the IRS certification requirements and
completing the Kemper IGCC in a timely manner. Mississippi Power has secured all environmental
reviews and permits necessary to commence construction of the Kemper IGCC and has entered into a
binding contract for the steam turbine generator, completing two milestone requirements for these
credits. In order to remain eligible for the Phase II tax credits, Mississippi Power must capture
and sequester at least 65% of the carbon dioxide produced by the plant during operations in
accordance with the recapture rules for Section 48A investment tax credits, and must meet the
required in-service date, satisfy environmental and other permitting requirements, and have in
place a binding contract for the steam turbine generator.
On April 29, 2010, the Mississippi PSC issued an order finding that Mississippi Powers
application to acquire, construct, and operate the Kemper IGCC did not satisfy the requirement
of public convenience and necessity in the form that the project and the related cost recovery
were originally proposed by Mississippi Power. The April 2010 order also approved recovery of
$46 million of $50.5 million in prudent pre-construction costs incurred through March 2009. The
remaining $4.5 million is associated with overhead costs and variable pay of SCS, which were
recommended for exclusion from pre-construction costs by a consultant hired by the Mississippi
Public Utilities Staff. An additional $3.5 million has been incurred for costs of this type
from March 2009 through May 2010. The remaining $4.5 million, as well as additional
pre-construction amounts incurred during the generation screening and evaluation process through
May 2010 will be reviewed and addressed in a future proceeding.
On May 10, 2010, Mississippi Power filed a motion in response to the April 29, 2010 order of the
Mississippi PSC relating to the Kemper IGCC, or in the alternative, for alteration or rehearing
of such order.
On May 26, 2010, the Mississippi PSC issued an order revising its findings from the April 29,
2010 order. Among other things, the Mississippi PSCs May 26, 2010 order (1) approved the
alternate construction cost cap of up to $2.88 billion (and any amounts that fall within
specified exemptions from the cost cap; such exemptions include the costs of the lignite mine
and equipment), subject to determinations by the Mississippi PSC that such costs in excess of
$2.4 billion are prudent and required by the public convenience and necessity; (2) provided for
the establishment of operational cost and revenue parameters based upon assumptions in
Mississippi Powers proposal; and (3) approved financing cost recovery on construction work in
progress (CWIP) balances under the State of Mississippi Baseload Act of 2008 (Baseload Act),
which provides for the accrual of allowance for funds used during construction in 2010 and
2011 and recovery of financing costs on 100% of CWIP in 2012, 2013, and through May 1, 2014
(provided that the amount of CWIP allowed is (i) reduced by the amount of government
construction cost incentives received by
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Mississippi Power in excess of $296 million to the
extent that such amount increases cash flow for the pertinent regulatory period and (ii)
justified by a showing that such CWIP allowance will benefit customers over the life of the
plant). The Mississippi PSC order established periodic prudence reviews during the annual CWIP
review process. More frequent prudence determinations may be requested at a later time. On May
27, 2010, Mississippi Power filed a motion with the Mississippi PSC accepting the conditions
contained in the order. On June 3, 2010, the Mississippi PSC issued the final certificate order
which granted Mississippi Powers motion and issued a certificate of public convenience and
necessity authorizing acquisition, construction, and operation of the Kemper IGCC.
In conjunction with the Kemper IGCC, Mississippi Power will own the lignite mine and equipment
and will acquire mineral reserves located at the plant site in Kemper County. The estimated
capital cost of the mine is approximately $214 million. On May 27, 2010, Mississippi Power
executed a 40-year management fee contract with Liberty Fuels Company, LLC, a subsidiary of The
North American Coal Corporation, which will develop, construct, and manage the mining
operations. The agreement is effective June 1, 2010 through the end of the mine reclamation.
On June 17, 2010, the Sierra Club filed an appeal of the Mississippi PSCs June 3, 2010 decision
to grant a certificate of public convenience and necessity for the Kemper IGCC with the Chancery
Court of Harrison County, Mississippi (Chancery Court). Subsequently, on July 6, 2010, the
Sierra Club also filed an appeal directly with the Mississippi Supreme Court. On July 20, 2010,
the Chancery Court issued a stay of the proceeding pending the resolution of the jurisdictional
issues raised in a motion filed by Mississippi Power on July 16, 2010 to confirm jurisdiction in
the Mississippi Supreme Court. On October 7, 2010, the Mississippi Supreme Court denied
Mississippi Powers motion and dismissed the Sierra Clubs direct appeal. The appeal will now
proceed in the Chancery Court.
On July 27, 2010, Mississippi Power and South Mississippi Electric Power Association (SMEPA)
entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement whereby SMEPA will purchase an undivided 17.5% interest
in the Kemper IGCC. The closing of this transaction is conditioned upon execution of a joint
ownership and operating agreement, receipt of all construction permits, appropriate regulatory
approvals, financing, and other conditions.
On August 19, 2010, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Record of Decision (ROD) by the
DOE for the Clean Coal Power Initiative Round 2 (CCPI2) grants was noted in the Federal
Register. The NEPA ROD and its accompanying final environmental impact statement were the final
major hurdles necessary for Mississippi Power to receive grant funds of $245 million during the
construction of the Kemper IGCC and $25 million during the initial operation of the Kemper IGCC.
As of September 30, 2010, Mississippi Power had spent a total of $195.5 million on the Kemper
IGCC, including regulatory filing costs. Of this total, $156.4 million was included in CWIP
(net of $24.8 million recorded as a receivable of CCPI2 grant funds), $11.5 million was recorded
in other regulatory assets, $1.3 million was recorded in other deferred charges and assets, and
$1.5 million was expensed. Upon receipt of the issuance of the final certificate order in May
2010, construction screening costs including regulatory filing costs totaled $129.0 million. As
of May 31, 2010, construction related screening costs of $116.2 million were reclassified to
CWIP while the non-capital related costs of $11.2 million and $0.6 million were classified in
other regulatory assets and other deferred charges, respectively, and $1.0 million was
previously expensed.
The ultimate outcome of these matters cannot be determined at this time.
Legislation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Legislation of Mississippi
Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
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Healthcare Reform
On March 23, 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) was signed into law and,
on March 30, 2010, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (HCERA and, together
with PPACA, the Acts), which makes various amendments to certain aspects of the PPACA, was signed
into law. The Acts effectively change the tax treatment of federal subsidies paid to sponsors of
retiree health benefit plans that provide prescription drug benefits that are at least actuarially
equivalent to the corresponding benefits provided under Medicare Part D. The federal subsidy paid
to employers was introduced as part of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and
Modernization Act of 2003 (MPDIMA). Since the 2006 tax year, Mississippi Power has been receiving
the federal subsidy related to certain retiree prescription drug plans that were determined to be
actuarially equivalent to the benefit provided under Medicare Part D. Under the MPDIMA, the
federal subsidy does not reduce an employers income tax deduction for the costs of providing such
prescription drug plans nor is it subject to income tax individually. Under the Acts, beginning in
2013, an employers income tax deduction for the costs of providing Medicare Part D-equivalent
prescription drug benefits to retirees will be reduced by the amount of the federal subsidy. Under
GAAP, any impact from a change in tax law must be recognized in the period enacted regardless of
the effective date; however, as a result of regulatory treatment, this change had no material
impact on the financial statements of Mississippi Power. Southern Company is in the process of
assessing the extent to which the legislation may affect its future health care and related
employee benefit plan costs. Any future impact on the financial statements of Mississippi Power
cannot be determined at this time.
Stimulus Funding
On April 8, 2010, Mississippi Power received notice that an award had been granted under the
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) grant application for smart grid workforce
training. Under this agreement, Mississippi Power was to receive, and match, $2.6 million.
Mississippi Power withdrew its application on September 17, 2010.
On April 28, 2010, Southern Company signed a Smart Grid Investment Grant agreement with the DOE,
formally accepting a $165 million grant under the ARRA. This funding will be used for transmission
and distribution automation and modernization projects that must be completed by April 28, 2013.
Mississippi Power will receive, and will match, $25 million under this agreement.
Income Tax Matters
Tax Method of Accounting for Repairs
Southern Company submitted a change in the tax accounting method for repair costs associated with
Southern Companys generation, transmission, and distribution systems with the filing of the 2009
federal income tax return in September 2010. The new tax method is expected to result in net
positive cash flow for 2010 of approximately $3 million for Mississippi Power. Although IRS
approval of this change is considered automatic, the amount claimed is subject to review because
the IRS will be issuing final guidance on this issue. Currently, the IRS is working with the
utility industry in an effort to resolve this matter in a consistent manner for all utilities. Due
to uncertainty concerning the ultimate resolution of this issue, an unrecognized tax benefit has
been recorded for the change in the tax accounting method for repair costs. See Note (G) to the
Condensed Financial Statements herein for additional information. The ultimate outcome of this
matter cannot be determined at this time.
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Bonus Depreciation
On September 27, 2010, the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010 (SBJCA) was signed into law.
The SBJCA includes an extension of the 50% bonus depreciation for certain property acquired in 2010
and placed in service in 2010 or, in certain limited cases, 2011. Mississippi Power has estimated
the cash flow reduction to tax payments for 2010 to be approximately $16 million.
Other Matters
Mississippi Power is involved in various other matters being litigated and regulatory matters that
could affect future earnings. In addition, Mississippi Power is subject to certain claims and
legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. Mississippi Powers business activities
are subject to extensive governmental regulation related to public health and the environment, such
as regulation of air emissions and water discharges. Litigation over environmental issues and
claims of various types, including property damage, personal injury, common law nuisance, and
citizen enforcement of environmental requirements such as opacity and air and water quality
standards, has increased generally throughout the United States. In particular, personal injury
and other claims for damages caused by alleged exposure to hazardous materials, and common law
nuisance claims for injunctive relief and property damage allegedly caused by greenhouse gas and
other emissions, have become more frequent. The ultimate outcome of such pending or potential
litigation against Mississippi Power cannot be predicted at this time; however, for current
proceedings not specifically reported herein or in Note 3 to the financial statements of
Mississippi Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K, management does not anticipate that the liabilities,
if any, arising from such current proceedings would have a material adverse effect on Mississippi
Powers financial statements.
The coastal contamination resulting from the oil spill that began in April 2010 in the Gulf of
Mexico has not significantly impacted operations, but has had and may continue to have significant
economic impacts on the affected areas within Mississippi Powers service territory.
See the Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for discussion of various other
contingencies, regulatory matters, and other matters being litigated which may affect future
earnings potential.
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Mississippi Power prepares its financial statements in accordance with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States. Significant accounting policies are described in Note 1
to the financial statements of Mississippi Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K. In the application of
these policies, certain estimates are made that may have a material impact on Mississippi Powers
results of operations and related disclosures. Different assumptions and measurements could
produce estimates that are significantly different from those recorded in the financial statements.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS ACCOUNTING POLICIES Application of Critical
Accounting Policies and Estimates of Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for a complete
discussion of Mississippi Powers critical accounting policies and estimates related to Electric
Utility Regulation, Contingent Obligations, Unbilled Revenues, Plant Daniel Operating Lease, and
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits.
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
Overview
Mississippi Powers financial condition remained stable at September 30, 2010. Mississippi Power
intends to continue to monitor its access to short-term and long-term capital markets as well as
its bank credit arrangements to meet future capital and liquidity needs. See Sources of Capital
and Financing Activities herein for additional information.
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Net cash provided from operating activities totaled $125.3 million for the first nine months of
2010, compared to $85.2 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The $40.1 million increase
in cash provided from operating activities was primarily due to an increase in cash from fossil
fuel stock of $53.0 million primarily resulting from a decrease in cash payments related to fuel
inventory, an increase in accounts payable of $52.1 million primarily due to timing of cash
payments, an increase of $22.9 million in deferred income taxes
primarily due to fuel cost recovery and a change in the tax
method of accounting for repair costs, and an increase of $14.4 million related to an investment tax
credit on the Kemper IGCC. These increases in cash were partially offset by an increase in
spending related to the Kemper IGCC generation construction screening costs of $28.6 million and a
decrease in cash related to lower fuel rates effective in the first quarter 2010. Net cash used
for investing activities totaled $133.4 million for the first nine months of 2010, compared to
$88.7 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The $44.7 million increase in net cash used
for investing activities was primarily due to an increase in property additions primarily related
to the Kemper IGCC. Net cash provided from financing activities totaled $74.6 million for the
first nine months of 2010, compared to $9.1 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The
$65.5 million increase in net cash provided from financing activities was primarily due to a $24.9
million decrease in notes payable and the repayment of $40.0 million of senior notes both of which
occurred in the third quarter 2009. Fluctuations in cash flow from financing activities vary from
year to year based on capital needs and the maturity or redemption of securities.
Significant balance sheet changes for the first nine months of 2010 include an increase in cash and
cash equivalents of $66.5 million. Affiliated companies receivables increased $38.2 million
primarily due to funds to be received from the DOE related to the Kemper IGCC. See Note 3 to the
financial statements of Mississippi Power under Integrated Coal Gasification Combined Cycle in
Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information. Total property, plant, and equipment increased
by $179.7 million primarily due to the increase in construction work in progress related to the
Kemper IGCC. The expenditures associated with the Kemper IGCC project were reclassified from other
regulatory assets, deferred to construction work in progress during the second quarter 2010 upon
the Mississippi PSC issuance of the final certificate order for the project. Securities due within
one year increased by $205.1 million primarily due to the reclassification of a long-term bank loan
maturing in March 2011 and a new $125.0 million bank loan maturing in September 2011. Accounts
payable, other increased $26.3 million primarily due to the timing of payments and accrued income
taxes increased $15.2 million primarily due to the tax accrual for 2010.
Capital Requirements and Contractual Obligations
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Capital
Requirements and Contractual Obligations of Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for a
description of Mississippi Powers capital requirements for its construction program, scheduled
maturities of long-term debt, interest, lease obligations, purchase commitments, derivative
obligations, preferred stock dividends, and trust funding requirements. Approximately $206.4
million will be required through September 30, 2011 to fund maturities of long-term debt. No
mandatory contributions to Mississippi Powers pension plan are expected for the years ending
December 31, 2010 and 2011, although management may consider making discretionary contributions.
The construction program is subject to periodic review and revision, and actual construction costs
may vary from these estimates because of numerous factors. These factors include: changes in
business conditions; changes in load projections; storm impacts; changes in environmental statutes
and regulations; changes in generating plants to meet new regulatory requirements; changes in FERC
rules and regulations; Mississippi PSC approvals; changes in legislation; the cost and efficiency
of construction labor, equipment, and materials; project scope and design changes; and the cost of
capital. In addition, there can be no assurance that costs related to capital expenditures will be
fully recovered.
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Sources of Capital
Mississippi Power plans to obtain the funds required for construction and other purposes from
sources similar to those utilized in the past. Mississippi Power has primarily utilized funds from
operating cash flows, short-term debt, security issuances, term loans, and equity contributions
from Southern Company. However, the amount, type, and timing of any future financings, if needed,
will depend upon regulatory approval, prevailing market conditions, and other factors. See
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Sources of Capital of
Mississippi Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
Mississippi Power has applied to the DOE for federal loan guarantees to finance a portion of the
eligible construction costs of the Kemper IGCC. Mississippi Power is in advanced due diligence
with the DOE but has yet to begin discussions with the DOE regarding the terms and conditions of
any loan guarantee. There can be no assurance the DOE will issue federal loan guarantees to
Mississippi Power. In addition, Mississippi Power has been awarded DOE CCPI2 grant funds of $245
million to be used for the construction of the Kemper IGCC and $25 million to be used for the
initial operation of the Kemper IGCC. In the third quarter 2010, Mississippi Power recorded a
receivable of $24.8 million associated with this grant.
Mississippi Powers current liabilities sometimes exceed current assets because of the continued
use of short-term debt as a funding source to meet scheduled maturities of long-term debt, as well
as cash needs, which can fluctuate significantly due to the seasonality of the business. To meet
short-term cash needs and contingencies, Mississippi Power had at September 30, 2010 cash and cash
equivalents of $131.6 million and unused committed credit arrangements with banks of $161 million.
Of the cash and cash equivalents, approximately $125 million was held in various money market
mutual funds. The money market mutual funds invest in a portfolio of highly-rated, short-term
securities, and redemptions from the funds are available on a same day basis up to the full amount
of the investment. Of the unused credit arrangements, $16 million expire in 2010 and $145 million
expire in 2011. Of these credit arrangements, $41 million contain provisions allowing two-year
term loans executable at expiration and $65 million contain provisions allowing one-year term loans
executable at expiration. Mississippi Power expects to renew its credit arrangements, as needed,
prior to expiration. The credit arrangements provide liquidity support to Mississippi Powers
commercial paper program and $40 million are dedicated to funding purchase obligations related to
variable rate pollution control revenue bonds. See Note 6 to the financial statements of
Mississippi Power under Bank Credit Arrangements in Item 8 of the Form 10-K and Note (E) to the
Condensed Financial Statements under Bank Credit Arrangements herein for additional information.
Mississippi Power may also meet short-term cash needs through a Southern Company subsidiary
organized to issue and sell commercial paper at the request and for the benefit of Mississippi
Power and other Southern Company subsidiaries. At September 30, 2010, Mississippi Power had no
commercial paper borrowings outstanding. During the third quarter 2010, Mississippi Power had an
average of $37 million of commercial paper outstanding at a weighted average interest rate of 0.3%
per annum and the maximum amount outstanding was $63 million. Management believes that the need
for working capital can be adequately met by utilizing commercial paper, lines of credit, and cash.
Off-Balance Sheet Financing Arrangements
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Off-Balance Sheet
Financing Arrangements of Mississippi Power in Item 7 and Note 7 to the financial statements of
Mississippi Power under Operating Leases in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for information related to
Mississippi Powers lease of a combined cycle generating facility at Plant Daniel. In April 2010,
Mississippi Power was required to notify the lessor, Juniper Capital L.P., if it intended to
terminate the lease at the end of the initial term expiring in October 2011. Mississippi Power
chose not to give notice to terminate the lease. Mississippi Power has the option to purchase the
units or renew the lease. Mississippi Power will have to provide notice of its intent to either
renew the lease or purchase the facility by July 2011. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot
be determined at this time.
129
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Credit Rating Risk
Mississippi Power does not have any credit arrangements that would require material changes in
payment schedules or terminations as a result of a credit rating downgrade. There are certain
contracts that could require collateral, but not accelerated payment, in the event of a credit
rating change to below BBB- and/or Baa3. These contracts are for physical electricity sales, fuel
purchases, fuel transportation and storage, emissions allowances, and energy price risk management.
At September 30, 2010, the maximum potential collateral requirements under these contracts at a
rating below BBB- and/or Baa3 were approximately $381 million. Included in these amounts are
certain agreements that could require collateral in the event that one or more Power Pool
participants has a credit rating change to below investment grade. Generally, collateral may be
provided by a Southern Company guaranty, letter of credit, or cash. Additionally, any credit
rating downgrade could impact Mississippi Powers ability to access capital markets, particularly
the short-term debt market.
On January 22, 2010, Fitch applied new guidelines regarding the ratings of various hybrid capital
instruments and preferred securities of companies in all sectors, including banks, insurers,
non-bank financial institutions, and non-financial corporate entities, including utilities. As a
result, the Fitch rating of Mississippi Powers preferred stock decreased from A+ to A. These
ratings are not applicable to the collateral requirements described above.
On August 12, 2010, Moodys downgraded the issuer and long-term debt ratings of Mississippi Power
(senior unsecured to A2 from A1). Moodys also announced that it had downgraded the short-term
ratings of a financing subsidiary of Southern Company that issues commercial paper for the benefit
of Southern Company subsidiaries (including Mississippi Power) to P-2 from P-1. In addition,
Moodys announced that it had downgraded the variable rate demand obligation ratings of Mississippi
Power to VMIG-2 from VMIG-1 and the preferred stock ratings of Mississippi Power (to Baa1 from
A3). Moodys announced that the ratings outlook for Mississippi Power is stable.
On September 3, 2010, Fitch downgraded the issuer and long-term debt ratings of Mississippi Power
(senior unsecured to A+ from AA- and issuer default rating to A from A+). Fitch also announced
that it had downgraded the short-term ratings of Mississippi Power to F1 from F1+. In addition,
Fitch announced that it had downgraded the pollution control revenue bond ratings of Mississippi
Power to A+ from AA- and the preferred stock ratings of Mississippi Power (to A- from A). Fitch
announced that the ratings outlook for Mississippi Power is stable.
Market Price Risk
Mississippi Powers market risk exposure relative to interest rate changes for the third quarter
2010 has not changed materially compared with the December 31, 2009 reporting period. Since a
significant portion of outstanding indebtedness is at fixed rates, Mississippi Power is not aware
of any facts or circumstances that would significantly affect exposures on existing indebtedness in
the near term. However, the impact on future financing costs cannot now be determined.
In the second quarter 2010, Mississippi Power entered into foreign currency derivatives to hedge
exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates arising from purchases of equipment
denominated in a currency other than U.S. dollars. Mississippi Power had no material change in
market risk exposure in the third quarter 2010 as a result of entering into these contracts.
Due to cost-based rate regulation, Mississippi Power continues to have limited exposure to market
volatility in interest rates, commodity fuel prices, and prices of electricity. To mitigate
residual risks relative to movements in electricity prices, Mississippi Power enters into physical
fixed-price contracts for the purchase and sale of electricity through the wholesale electricity
market. Mississippi Power continues to manage retail fuel-hedging programs implemented per the
guidelines of the Mississippi PSC and wholesale fuel-hedging programs under agreements with
wholesale customers. As such, Mississippi Power had no material change in market risk exposure for
the third quarter 2010 when compared with the December 31, 2009 reporting period.
130
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The changes in fair value of energy-related derivative contracts, the majority of which are
composed of regulatory hedges, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 were as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
Changes |
|
Changes |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
(in millions) |
Contracts outstanding at the beginning of the period, assets (liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(48 |
) |
|
$ |
(42 |
) |
Contracts realized or settled |
|
|
9 |
|
|
|
26 |
|
Current period changes(a) |
|
|
(15 |
) |
|
|
(38 |
) |
|
Contracts outstanding at the end of the period, assets (liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(54 |
) |
|
$ |
(54 |
) |
|
|
|
|
(a) |
|
Current period changes also include the changes in fair value of new contracts
entered into during the period, if any. |
The change in the fair value positions of the energy-related derivative contracts for the
three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 was a decrease of $6 million and a decrease of $12
million, respectively, substantially all of which is due to natural gas positions. The change is
attributable to the price of natural gas. At September 30, 2010, Mississippi Power had a net hedge
volume of 20 million mmBtu with a weighted average contract cost of approximately $2.80 per mmBtu
above market prices, compared to 22 million mmBtu at June 30, 2010 with a weighted average contract
cost of approximately $2.24 per mmBtu above market prices and compared to 23 million mmBtu at
December 31, 2009 with a weighted average contract cost of approximately $1.83 per mmBtu above
market prices. The majority of the natural gas hedges are recovered through the energy cost
management clause.
Regulatory hedges relate to Mississippi Powers fuel-hedging program where gains and losses are
initially recorded as regulatory liabilities and assets, respectively, and then are included in
fuel expense as they are recovered through the energy cost management clause.
Unrealized pre-tax gains and losses recognized in income for the three and nine months ended
September 30, 2010 and 2009 for energy-related derivative contracts that are not hedges were not
material.
Mississippi Power uses over-the-counter contracts that are not exchange-traded but are fair valued
using prices which are actively quoted, and thus fall into Level 2. The maturities of the
energy-related derivative contracts at September 30, 2010 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
September 30, 2010 |
|
|
|
Fair Value Measurements |
|
|
|
Total |
|
Maturity |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
Year 1 |
|
Years 2&3 |
|
Years 4&5 |
|
|
(in millions) |
Level 1 |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Level 2 |
|
|
(54 |
) |
|
|
(30 |
) |
|
|
(24 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Level 3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair value of
contracts
outstanding at end
of period |
|
$ |
(54 |
) |
|
$ |
(30 |
) |
|
$ |
(24 |
) |
|
$ |
|
|
|
See Note (C) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for further discussion on fair value
measurements.
For additional information, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
LIQUIDITY Market Price Risk of Mississippi Power in Item 7 and Note 1 under Financial
Instruments and Note 10 to the financial statements of Mississippi Power in Item 8 of the Form
10-K and Note (H) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein.
131
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Financing Activities
In September 2010, Mississippi Power entered into a one-year $125 million aggregate principal
amount long-term floating rate bank loan that bears interest based on one-month LIBOR. The
proceeds were used to repay a portion of Mississippi Powers short-term indebtedness and for
general corporate purposes, including Mississippi Powers continuous construction program.
In addition to any financings that may be necessary to meet capital requirements, contractual
obligations, and storm restoration costs, Mississippi Power plans to continue, when economically
feasible, a program to retire higher-cost securities and replace these obligations with lower-cost
capital if market conditions permit.
132
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY
AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
133
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Operating Revenues: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wholesale revenues, non-affiliates |
|
$ |
261,551 |
|
|
$ |
133,032 |
|
|
$ |
568,877 |
|
|
$ |
318,521 |
|
Wholesale revenues, affiliates |
|
|
93,062 |
|
|
|
147,921 |
|
|
|
287,603 |
|
|
|
420,923 |
|
Other revenues |
|
|
2,217 |
|
|
|
2,416 |
|
|
|
5,314 |
|
|
|
6,040 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating revenues |
|
|
356,830 |
|
|
|
283,369 |
|
|
|
861,794 |
|
|
|
745,484 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Expenses: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
120,466 |
|
|
|
58,820 |
|
|
|
294,658 |
|
|
|
176,332 |
|
Purchased power, non-affiliates |
|
|
24,939 |
|
|
|
20,019 |
|
|
|
59,103 |
|
|
|
66,279 |
|
Purchased power, affiliates |
|
|
31,454 |
|
|
|
20,915 |
|
|
|
79,874 |
|
|
|
49,977 |
|
Other operations and maintenance |
|
|
34,614 |
|
|
|
29,094 |
|
|
|
111,499 |
|
|
|
97,033 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
29,361 |
|
|
|
23,190 |
|
|
|
87,362 |
|
|
|
74,727 |
|
Taxes other than income taxes |
|
|
4,071 |
|
|
|
4,166 |
|
|
|
14,314 |
|
|
|
13,714 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total operating expenses |
|
|
244,905 |
|
|
|
156,204 |
|
|
|
646,810 |
|
|
|
478,062 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Income |
|
|
111,925 |
|
|
|
127,165 |
|
|
|
214,984 |
|
|
|
267,422 |
|
Other Income and (Expense): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
|
|
(18,801 |
) |
|
|
(21,438 |
) |
|
|
(58,408 |
) |
|
|
(64,589 |
) |
Other income (expense), net |
|
|
(113 |
) |
|
|
2,699 |
|
|
|
198 |
|
|
|
2,465 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other income and (expense) |
|
|
(18,914 |
) |
|
|
(18,739 |
) |
|
|
(58,210 |
) |
|
|
(62,124 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings Before Income Taxes |
|
|
93,011 |
|
|
|
108,426 |
|
|
|
156,774 |
|
|
|
205,298 |
|
Income taxes |
|
|
31,317 |
|
|
|
41,146 |
|
|
|
50,566 |
|
|
|
79,048 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Income |
|
$ |
61,694 |
|
|
$ |
67,280 |
|
|
$ |
106,208 |
|
|
$ |
126,250 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
Net Income |
|
$ |
61,694 |
|
|
$ |
67,280 |
|
|
$ |
106,208 |
|
|
$ |
126,250 |
|
Other comprehensive income (loss): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Qualifying hedges: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Changes in fair value, net of tax of $1,125, $(298), $1,536, and
$4, respectively |
|
|
1,759 |
|
|
|
(459 |
) |
|
|
2,400 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
Reclassification adjustment for amounts included in net
income, net of tax of $1,018, $948, $3,011, and $2,814, respectively |
|
|
1,590 |
|
|
|
1,461 |
|
|
|
4,703 |
|
|
|
4,336 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other comprehensive income (loss) |
|
|
3,349 |
|
|
|
1,002 |
|
|
|
7,103 |
|
|
|
4,343 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive Income |
|
$ |
65,043 |
|
|
$ |
68,282 |
|
|
$ |
113,311 |
|
|
$ |
130,593 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Southern Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
134
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Operating Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income |
|
$ |
106,208 |
|
|
$ |
126,250 |
|
Adjustments to reconcile net income
to net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization, total |
|
|
97,469 |
|
|
|
83,890 |
|
Deferred income taxes |
|
|
13,251 |
|
|
|
8,020 |
|
Convertible investment tax credits received |
|
|
22,150 |
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred revenues |
|
|
18,846 |
|
|
|
33,290 |
|
Mark-to-market adjustments |
|
|
2,435 |
|
|
|
(406 |
) |
Accumulated billings on construction contract |
|
|
401 |
|
|
|
35,565 |
|
Accumulated costs on construction contract |
|
|
(49 |
) |
|
|
(39,890 |
) |
Other, net |
|
|
2,014 |
|
|
|
2,611 |
|
Changes in certain current assets and liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-Receivables |
|
|
(35,537 |
) |
|
|
(44,195 |
) |
-Fossil fuel stock |
|
|
6,097 |
|
|
|
2,215 |
|
-Materials and supplies |
|
|
3,216 |
|
|
|
(4,110 |
) |
-Prepaid income taxes |
|
|
2,013 |
|
|
|
|
|
-Other current assets |
|
|
598 |
|
|
|
396 |
|
-Accounts payable |
|
|
(2,194 |
) |
|
|
(20,777 |
) |
-Accrued taxes |
|
|
31,069 |
|
|
|
62,260 |
|
-Accrued interest |
|
|
(12,194 |
) |
|
|
(12,152 |
) |
-Other current liabilities |
|
|
21 |
|
|
|
(199 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided from operating activities |
|
|
255,814 |
|
|
|
232,768 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property additions |
|
|
(210,599 |
) |
|
|
(47,696 |
) |
Sale of property |
|
|
4,000 |
|
|
|
52 |
|
Change in construction payables |
|
|
31,021 |
|
|
|
6,915 |
|
Payments pursuant to long-term service agreements |
|
|
(30,936 |
) |
|
|
(26,118 |
) |
Other investing activities |
|
|
(248 |
) |
|
|
(184 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used for investing activities |
|
|
(206,762 |
) |
|
|
(67,031 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Financing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Increase in notes payable, net |
|
|
20,216 |
|
|
|
|
|
Proceeds Capital contributions |
|
|
3,908 |
|
|
|
2,068 |
|
Payment of common stock dividends |
|
|
(80,325 |
) |
|
|
(79,575 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used for financing activities |
|
|
(56,201 |
) |
|
|
(77,507 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents |
|
|
(7,149 |
) |
|
|
88,230 |
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period |
|
|
7,152 |
|
|
|
37,894 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period |
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
$ |
126,124 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Supplemental Cash Flow Information: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash paid during the period for |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest (net of $7,704 and $441 capitalized for 2010 and 2009, respectively) |
|
$ |
63,560 |
|
|
$ |
68,652 |
|
Income taxes (net of refunds) |
|
$ |
(8,158 |
) |
|
$ |
20,467 |
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Southern Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
135
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Assets |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
$ |
7,152 |
|
Receivables |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Customer accounts receivable |
|
|
77,125 |
|
|
|
28,873 |
|
Other accounts receivable |
|
|
1,890 |
|
|
|
2,064 |
|
Affiliated companies |
|
|
34,792 |
|
|
|
38,561 |
|
Fossil fuel stock, at average cost |
|
|
10,189 |
|
|
|
15,351 |
|
Materials and supplies, at average cost |
|
|
32,416 |
|
|
|
31,607 |
|
Prepaid service agreements current |
|
|
20,459 |
|
|
|
44,090 |
|
Prepaid income taxes |
|
|
3,245 |
|
|
|
5,177 |
|
Other prepaid expenses |
|
|
2,577 |
|
|
|
3,176 |
|
Assets from risk management activities |
|
|
6,103 |
|
|
|
4,901 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
6,754 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current assets |
|
|
188,799 |
|
|
|
187,706 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property, Plant, and Equipment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In service |
|
|
3,026,358 |
|
|
|
2,994,463 |
|
Less accumulated provision for depreciation |
|
|
507,266 |
|
|
|
439,457 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plant in service, net of depreciation |
|
|
2,519,092 |
|
|
|
2,555,006 |
|
Construction work in progress |
|
|
361,223 |
|
|
|
153,982 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total property, plant, and equipment |
|
|
2,880,315 |
|
|
|
2,708,988 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other Property and Investments: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Goodwill |
|
|
1,839 |
|
|
|
1,794 |
|
Other intangible assets, net of amortization of $498 and $17
at September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively |
|
|
48,622 |
|
|
|
49,102 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other property and investments |
|
|
50,461 |
|
|
|
50,896 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Charges and Other Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Prepaid long-term service agreements |
|
|
83,858 |
|
|
|
74,513 |
|
Other deferred charges and assets affiliated |
|
|
3,341 |
|
|
|
3,540 |
|
Other deferred charges and assets non-affiliated |
|
|
16,410 |
|
|
|
17,410 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred charges and other assets |
|
|
103,609 |
|
|
|
95,463 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets |
|
$ |
3,223,184 |
|
|
$ |
3,043,053 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Southern Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
136
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At September 30, |
|
|
At December 31, |
|
Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
Current Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Notes payable |
|
$ |
139,164 |
|
|
$ |
118,948 |
|
Accounts payable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Affiliated |
|
|
80,438 |
|
|
|
58,493 |
|
Other |
|
|
42,981 |
|
|
|
31,128 |
|
Accrued taxes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued income taxes |
|
|
15,163 |
|
|
|
1,449 |
|
Other accrued taxes |
|
|
14,248 |
|
|
|
2,576 |
|
Accrued interest |
|
|
17,729 |
|
|
|
29,923 |
|
Liabilities from risk management activities |
|
|
7,405 |
|
|
|
8,119 |
|
Other current liabilities |
|
|
22 |
|
|
|
323 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total current liabilities |
|
|
317,150 |
|
|
|
250,959 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term Debt |
|
|
1,297,797 |
|
|
|
1,297,607 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated deferred income taxes |
|
|
255,847 |
|
|
|
238,293 |
|
Deferred convertible investment tax credits |
|
|
44,958 |
|
|
|
16,800 |
|
Deferred capacity revenues affiliated |
|
|
52,798 |
|
|
|
36,369 |
|
Other deferred credits and liabilities affiliated |
|
|
4,873 |
|
|
|
5,651 |
|
Other deferred credits and liabilities non-affiliated |
|
|
17,745 |
|
|
|
2,252 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deferred credits and other liabilities |
|
|
376,221 |
|
|
|
299,365 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities |
|
|
1,991,168 |
|
|
|
1,847,931 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Stockholders Equity: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock, par value $.01 per share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Authorized - 1,000,000 shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Outstanding - 1,000 shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Paid-in capital |
|
|
868,370 |
|
|
|
864,462 |
|
Retained earnings |
|
|
377,944 |
|
|
|
352,061 |
|
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
|
|
(14,298 |
) |
|
|
(21,401 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total common stockholders equity |
|
|
1,232,016 |
|
|
|
1,195,122 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities and Stockholders Equity |
|
$ |
3,223,184 |
|
|
$ |
3,043,053 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes as they relate to Southern Power are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
137
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
THIRD QUARTER 2010 vs. THIRD QUARTER 2009
AND
YEAR-TO-DATE 2010 vs. YEAR-TO-DATE 2009
OVERVIEW
Southern Power and its wholly-owned subsidiaries construct, acquire, own, and manage generation
assets and sell electricity at market-based prices in the wholesale market. Southern Power
continues to execute its strategy through a combination of acquiring and constructing new power
plants and by entering into PPAs with investor owned utilities, independent power producers,
municipalities, and electric cooperatives.
To evaluate operating results and to ensure Southern Powers ability to meet its contractual
commitments to customers, Southern Power focuses on several key performance indicators. These
indicators include peak season equivalent forced outage rate (EFOR), return on invested capital
(ROIC), and net income. EFOR defines the hours during peak demand times when Southern Powers
generating units are not available due to forced outages (the lower the better). ROIC is focused
on earning a return on all invested capital that meets or exceeds Southern Powers weighted average
cost of capital. For additional information on these indicators, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND
ANALYSIS OVERVIEW Key Performance Indicators of Southern Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(5.6)
|
|
(8.3)
|
|
$(20.1)
|
|
(15.9) |
|
Southern Powers net income for the third quarter 2010 was $61.7 million compared to $67.3 million
for the corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was primarily due to lower revenues
associated with the expiration of affiliate PPAs in December 2009 and May 2010, higher operations
and maintenance expenses, and higher depreciation and amortization. These decreases were partially
offset by higher revenues on energy sales that were not covered by PPAs and lower interest expense,
net of amounts capitalized.
Southern Powers net income for year-to-date 2010 was $106.2 million compared to $126.3 million for
the corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was primarily due to lower revenues associated
with the expiration of affiliate PPAs in December 2009 and May 2010, higher operations and
maintenance expenses, and higher depreciation and amortization. These decreases were partially
offset by higher revenues on energy sales that were not covered by PPAs, higher tax benefits
associated with the construction of Plant Nacogdoches, and lower interest expense, net of amounts
capitalized.
Wholesale Revenues Non-Affiliates
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$128.6
|
|
96.6
|
|
$250.4
|
|
78.6 |
|
Wholesale energy sales to non-affiliates will vary depending on the energy demand of those
customers and their generation capacity, as well as the market cost of available energy compared to
the cost of Southern Powers energy. Increases and decreases in revenues that are driven by fuel
prices are accompanied by an increase or decrease in fuel costs and do not have a significant
impact on net income.
138
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Wholesale energy sales to non-affiliates for the third quarter 2010 were $261.6 million compared to
$133.0 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was mainly due to $132.8 million
of higher energy and capacity revenues under existing non-affiliate PPAs and new non-affiliate PPAs
that began in January, June, and July 2010 and $6.5 million of higher revenues from energy sales
that were not covered by PPAs due to more favorable weather in the third quarter 2010 compared to
the corresponding period in 2009. These increases were partially offset by $6.9 million of lower
energy and capacity revenues associated with the expiration of a non-affiliate PPA in December 2009
and a $3.8 million decrease in revenues from power sales under the IIC.
Wholesale energy sales to non-affiliates for year-to-date 2010 were $568.9 million compared to
$318.5 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was mainly due to $220.9 million
of higher energy and capacity revenues under existing non-affiliate PPAs and new non-affiliate PPAs
that began in January, June, and July 2010. Also contributing to the increase was $65.5 million of
higher revenues from energy sales that were not covered by PPAs due to more favorable weather
year-to-date 2010 compared to the corresponding period in 2009. These increases were partially
offset by $15.4 million of lower energy and capacity revenues associated with the expiration of a
non-affiliate PPA in December 2009 and a $20.6 million decrease in revenues from power sales under
the IIC.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Power Sales Agreements of
Southern Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
Wholesale Revenues Affiliates
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(54.8)
|
|
(37.1)
|
|
$(133.3)
|
|
(31.7) |
|
Wholesale energy sales to affiliated companies within the Southern Company system will vary
depending on demand and the availability and cost of generating resources at each company. Sales
to affiliate companies that are not covered by PPAs are made in accordance with the IIC, as
approved by the FERC. Increases and decreases in revenues that are driven by fuel prices are
accompanied by an increase or decrease in fuel costs and do not have a significant impact on net
income.
Wholesale revenues from affiliates for the third quarter 2010 were $93.1 million compared to $147.9
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily the result of $95.6
million of lower energy and capacity revenues associated with the expiration of affiliate PPAs in
December 2009 and May 2010. The decrease was partially offset by $22.6 million of higher energy
and capacity revenues under existing affiliate PPAs and new affiliate PPAs that began in June 2010
and $18.2 million related to increased revenues from power sales under the IIC.
Wholesale revenues from affiliates for year-to-date 2010 were $287.6 million compared to $420.9
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily the result of $222.6
million of lower energy and capacity revenues associated with the expiration of affiliate PPAs in
December 2009 and in May 2010. The decrease was partially offset by $36.4 million of higher energy
and capacity revenues under existing affiliate PPAs and new affiliate PPAs that began in June 2010
and $52.9 million related to increased revenues from power sales under the IIC.
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Power Sales Agreements of
Southern Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information.
139
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Fuel and Purchased Power Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 |
|
|
vs. |
|
vs. |
|
|
Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
|
(change in millions) |
|
(% change) |
Fuel |
|
$ |
61.7 |
|
|
|
104.8 |
|
|
$ |
118.4 |
|
|
|
67.1 |
|
Purchased power non-affiliates |
|
|
4.9 |
|
|
|
24.6 |
|
|
|
(7.2 |
) |
|
|
(10.8 |
) |
Purchased power affiliates |
|
|
10.5 |
|
|
|
50.4 |
|
|
|
29.8 |
|
|
|
59.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total fuel and purchased power expenses |
|
$ |
77.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
141.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Power PPAs generally provide that the purchasers are responsible for substantially all of
the cost of fuel. Consequently, any increase or decrease in fuel costs is generally accompanied by
an increase or decrease in related fuel revenues and does not have a significant impact on net
income. Southern Power is responsible for the cost of fuel for generating units that are not
covered under PPAs. Power from these generating units is sold into the market or sold to
affiliates under the IIC.
In the third quarter 2010, total fuel and purchased power expenses were $176.9 million compared to
$99.8 million for the corresponding period in 2009. Total fuel and purchased power expenses
increased $43.7 million due to a 21.0% increase in the average cost of natural gas and a 69.1%
increase in the average cost of purchased power. Additionally, total fuel and purchased power
expenses increased $33.4 million due to an increase in KWHs generated and purchased.
For year-to-date 2010, total fuel and purchased power expenses were $433.6 million compared to
$292.6 million for the corresponding period in 2009. Total fuel and purchased power expenses
increased $78.0 million due to a 14.2% increase in the average cost of natural gas and a 42.4%
increase in the average cost of purchased power. Additionally, total fuel and purchased power
expenses increased $63.0 million due to an increase in KWHs generated and purchased.
In the third quarter 2010, fuel expense was $120.5 million compared to $58.8 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. Fuel expense increased $20.7 million associated with a 21.0%
increase in the average cost of natural gas and $40.9 million due to an increase in KWHs generated.
For year-to-date 2010, fuel expense was $294.7 million compared to $176.3 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. Fuel expense increased $36.6 million associated with a 14.2%
increase in the average cost of natural gas and $81.7 million due to an increase in KWHs generated.
In the third quarter 2010, purchased power expense was $56.4 million compared to $40.9 million for
the corresponding period in 2009. Purchased power expenses increased $23.0 million due to an
increase in the average cost of purchased power, partially offset by a $7.5 million decrease due to
fewer KWHs purchased.
For year-to-date 2010, purchased power expense was $139.0 million compared to $116.3 million for
the corresponding period in 2009. Purchased power expenses increased $41.4 million due to an
increase in the average cost of purchased power, partially offset by an $18.7 million decrease due
to fewer KWHs purchased.
Other Operations and Maintenance Expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$5.5
|
|
19.0
|
|
$14.5
|
|
14.9 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $34.6 million compared to
$29.1 million for the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was primarily due to $3.6
million related to generating plant outages and maintenance, $0.5 million associated with a loss on
the sale of property, and $0.5 million associated with an increase in information technology costs.
140
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
For year-to-date 2010, other operations and maintenance expenses were $111.5 million compared to
$97.0 million for the corresponding period in 2009. This increase was primarily due to $4.1
million of additional expense associated with the passage of healthcare legislation in March 2010,
$6.9 million related to generating plant outages and maintenance, $0.6 million associated with a
loss on the sale of property, $0.5 million associated with an increase in information technology
costs, and $1.1 million associated with employee benefits.
See FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Legislation herein for additional information regarding
healthcare legislation.
Depreciation and Amortization
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$6.2
|
|
26.6
|
|
$12.7
|
|
16.9 |
|
In the third quarter 2010, depreciation and amortization was $29.4 million compared to $23.2
million for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily related to $1.6 million
associated with the acquisition of West Georgia Generating Company LLC (West Georgia) and the
divestiture of DeSoto County Generating Company LLC (DeSoto) which resulted in an increase in
property, plant, and equipment of approximately $120.2 million. The increase was also due to $1.8
million of equipment retirements, $2.3 million associated with changes in depreciation rates, and
$0.5 million related to other increases in property, plant, and equipment.
For year-to-date 2010, depreciation and amortization was $87.4 million compared to $74.7 million
for the corresponding period in 2009. The increase was primarily related to $4.8 million
associated with the West Georgia/DeSoto acquisition/divestiture described above, $6.6 million of
equipment retirements, and $1.2 million related to other increases in property, plant, and
equipment.
See Note 1 to the financial statements of Southern Power under Depreciation and Note 2 to the
financial statements of Southern Power under West Georgia Generating Company, LLC Acquisition and
DeSoto County Generating Company, LLC Divestiture in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional
information.
Interest Expense, Net of Amounts Capitalized
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(2.6)
|
|
(12.3)
|
|
$(6.2)
|
|
(9.6) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, interest expense, net of amounts capitalized was $18.8 million compared
to $21.4 million for the corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was primarily related to $3.1
million of additional capitalized interest associated with the construction of the Cleveland County
combustion turbine units and the Nacogdoches biomass plant, partially offset by $0.2 million
associated with an increase in interest expense on commercial paper and $0.2 million associated
with interest rate swaps on senior notes.
For year-to-date 2010, interest expense, net of amounts capitalized was $58.4 million compared to
$64.6 million for the corresponding period in 2009. This decrease was primarily related to $7.3
million of additional capitalized interest associated with the construction of the Cleveland County
combustion turbine units and the Nacogdoches biomass plant, partially offset by $0.5 million
associated with an increase in interest expense on commercial paper and $0.5 million associated
with interest rate swaps on senior notes.
See FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Construction Projects herein for additional information.
141
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Other Income (Expense), Net
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(2.8)
|
|
(104.2)
|
|
$(2.3)
|
|
(92.0) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, other income (expense), net was $(0.1) million compared to $2.7 million
for the corresponding period in 2009. For year-to-date 2010, other income (expense), net was $0.2
million compared to $2.5 million for the corresponding period in 2009. These decreases were
primarily related to profit recognized in 2009 under a construction contract with the Orlando
Utilities Commission (OUC) whereby Southern Power provided engineering, procurement, and
construction services to build a combined cycle unit for the OUC.
Income Taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter 2010 vs. Third Quarter 2009 |
|
Year-to-Date 2010 vs. Year-to-Date 2009 |
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change)
|
|
(change in millions)
|
|
(% change) |
$(9.8)
|
|
(23.9)
|
|
$(28.4)
|
|
(36.0) |
|
In the third quarter 2010, income taxes were $31.3 million compared to $41.1 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to $5.9 million associated with lower
pre-tax earnings, $1.4 million related to an increase in the federal production activities
deduction, and $0.8 million of tax benefits associated with the construction of Plant Nacogdoches.
For year-to-date 2010, income taxes were $50.6 million compared to $79.0 million for the
corresponding period in 2009. The decrease was primarily due to $19.0 million associated with
lower pre-tax earnings, $5.9 million of tax benefits associated with the construction of Plant
Nacogdoches, and $1.8 million related to an increase in the federal production activities
deduction.
See Note 1 to the financial statements of Southern Power under Convertible Investment Tax Credits
in Item 8 of the Form 10-K and Note (G) to the Condensed Financial Statements under Effective Tax
Rate herein for additional information.
FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL
The results of operations discussed above are not necessarily indicative of Southern Powers future
earnings potential. The level of Southern Powers future earnings depends on numerous factors that
affect the opportunities, challenges, and risks of Southern Powers competitive wholesale business.
These factors include Southern Powers ability to achieve sales growth while containing costs.
The level of future earnings also depends on numerous factors including regulatory matters,
creditworthiness of customers, total generating capacity available in the Southeast, the successful
remarketing of capacity as current contracts expire, and Southern Powers ability to execute its
acquisition strategy and to construct generating facilities. Other factors that could influence
future earnings include weather, demand, generation patterns, and operational limitations.
Recessionary conditions have lowered demand and have negatively impacted capacity revenues under
Southern Powers PPAs where the amounts purchased are based on demand. Southern Power is unable to
predict whether demand under these PPAs will return to pre-recession levels. The timing and extent
of the economic recovery will impact future earnings. For additional information relating to these
issues, see RISK FACTORS in Item 1A and MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS
POTENTIAL of Southern Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
142
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Environmental Matters
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters of
Southern Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for information on the development by federal and state
environmental regulatory agencies of additional control strategies for emissions of air pollution
from industrial sources, including electric generating facilities. Compliance with possible
additional federal or state legislation or regulations related to global climate change, air
quality, or other environmental and health concerns could also affect earnings. While Southern
Powers PPAs generally contain provisions that permit charging the counterparty with some of the
new costs incurred as a result of changes in environmental laws and regulations, the full impact of
any such regulatory or legislative changes cannot be determined at this time.
Air Quality
On January 22, 2010, the EPA finalized revisions to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) by setting a new one-hour standard that became effective on April
12, 2010. The impact of this regulation will depend on additional regulatory action, state
implementation, and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be determined at this time.
Although none of the areas in which Southern Power operates generating assets are expected to be
designated as nonattainment for the standard, based on current ambient air quality monitoring data,
the new NO2 standard could result in significant additional compliance and operational
costs for units that require new source permitting.
Carbon Dioxide Litigation
Other Litigation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters
Carbon Dioxide Litigation Other Litigation of Southern Power in Item 7 and Note 3 to the
financial statements of Southern Power under Carbon Dioxide Litigation Other Litigation in Item
8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding carbon dioxide litigation related to
Hurricane Katrina. On May 28, 2010, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit dismissed the
plaintiffs appeal of the case based on procedural grounds relating to the loss of a quorum by the
full court on reconsideration, reinstating the district court decision in favor of the defendants.
On August 27, 2010, the plaintiffs petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus
directing the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to reinstate the plaintiffs appeal. The
ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at this time.
Environmental Statutes and Regulations
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters -
Environmental Statutes and Regulations of Southern Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for
information regarding the Industrial Boiler Maximum Achievable Control Technology regulations. On
April 29, 2010, the EPA issued a proposed rule that would establish emissions limits for various
hazardous air pollutants typically emitted from industrial boilers, including biomass boilers. The
EPA is required to finalize the rules by January 16, 2011. The impact of these proposed
regulations will depend on their final form and the outcome of any legal challenges, and cannot be
determined at this time.
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SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Global Climate Issues
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Environmental Matters -
Global Climate Issues of Southern Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for information regarding the
potential for legislation and regulation addressing greenhouse gas and other emissions. On April
1, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule regulating greenhouse gas emissions from new motor vehicles
under the Clean Air Act. The EPA has stated that, once this rule becomes effective on January 2,
2011, carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases will become regulated pollutants under the
Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) preconstruction permit program and the Title V
operating permit program, which both apply to power plants. As a result, the construction of new
facilities or the major modification of existing facilities could trigger the requirement for a PSD
permit and the installation of the best available control technology for carbon dioxide and other
greenhouse gases. On May 13, 2010, the EPA issued a final rule, referred to as the Tailoring Rule,
governing how these programs would be applied to stationary sources, including power plants. This
rule establishes two phases for applying PSD and Title V requirements to greenhouse gas emissions
sources. The first phase, beginning on January 2, 2011, will apply to sources and projects that
would already be covered under PSD or Title V, whereas the second phase, beginning July 1, 2011,
will apply to sources and projects that would not otherwise trigger those programs but for their
greenhouse gas emissions. The final rules could result in significant additional compliance and
operational costs that could affect results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition.
The ultimate outcome of these final rules cannot be determined at this time and will depend on the
outcome of any legal challenges.
Legislation
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FUTURE EARNINGS POTENTIAL Income Tax Matters -
Legislation of Southern Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional information. On March 23,
2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) was signed into law and, on March 30,
2010, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (HCERA and, together with PPACA, the
Acts), which makes various amendments to certain aspects of the PPACA, was signed into law. The
Acts effectively change the tax treatment of federal subsidies paid to sponsors of retiree health
benefit plans that provide prescription drug benefits that are at least actuarially equivalent to
the corresponding benefits provided under Medicare Part D. The federal subsidy paid to employers
was introduced as part of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of
2003 (MPDIMA). Since the 2006 tax year, Southern Company has been receiving the federal subsidy
related to certain retiree prescription drug plans that were determined to be actuarially
equivalent to the benefit provided under Medicare Part D. Under the MPDIMA, the federal subsidy
does not reduce an employers income tax deduction for the costs of providing such prescription
drug plans nor is it subject to income tax individually. Under the Acts, beginning in 2013, an
employers income tax deduction for the costs of providing Medicare Part D-equivalent prescription
drug benefits to retirees will be reduced by the amount of the federal subsidy. Under GAAP, any
impact from a change in tax law must be recognized in the period enacted regardless of the
effective date. Southern Power incurred a non-cash write-off of approximately $4 million to
expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2010. Southern Company is in the process of
assessing the extent to which the legislation may affect its future health care and related
employee benefit plan costs. Any future impact on the financial statements of Southern Power cannot
be determined at this time.
Income Tax Matters
Tax Method of Accounting for Repairs
Southern Company submitted a change in the tax accounting method for repair costs associated with
Southern Companys generation, transmission, and distribution systems with the filing of the 2009
federal income tax return in September 2010. The new tax method is expected to result in net
positive cash flow for 2010 of approximately $5 million for Southern Power. Although IRS approval
of this change is considered automatic, the amount claimed is subject to review because the IRS
will be issuing final guidance on this issue. Currently, the IRS is working with the
144
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
utility industry in an effort to resolve this matter in a consistent manner for all utilities. Due
to uncertainty concerning the ultimate resolution of this issue, an unrecognized tax benefit has
been recorded for the change in the tax accounting method for repair costs. See Note (G) to the
Condensed Financial Statements herein for additional information. The ultimate outcome of this
matter cannot be determined at this time.
Bonus Depreciation
On September 27, 2010, the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010 (SBJCA) was signed into law.
The SBJCA includes an extension of the 50% bonus depreciation for certain property acquired in 2010
and placed in service in 2010 or, in certain limited cases, 2011. Southern Power has estimated the
cash flow reduction to tax payments for 2010 to be approximately $3 million.
Construction Projects
Cleveland County Units 1-4
In December 2008, Southern Power announced that it would build an electric generating plant in
Cleveland County, North Carolina. The plant will consist of four combustion turbine natural gas
generating units with a total capacity of 720 MWs. The units are expected to go into commercial
operation in 2012. Costs incurred through September 30, 2010 were $138.6 million. The total
estimated construction cost is expected to be between $350 million and $400 million.
Nacogdoches
In October 2009, Southern Power acquired all of the outstanding membership interests of Nacogdoches
Power LLC from American Renewables LLC, the original developer of the project. Nacogdoches is
constructing a biomass generating plant in Sacul, Texas with an estimated capacity of 100 MWs. The
generating plant will be fueled from wood waste. Construction commenced in 2009 and the plant is
expected to begin commercial operation in 2012. Costs incurred through September 30, 2010 were
$211.8 million. The total estimated cost of the project is expected to be between $475 million and
$500 million.
Power Sales Agreements
On October 15, 2010, Southern Power signed contract extensions with 10 Georgia Electric Membership
Corporations (EMCs). These contracts are an extension of requirements service under agreements
that were signed in 2008. The extensions have a requirements term of 10 years beginning in 2015
for eight EMCs, 10 years beginning in 2018 for one EMC, and seven years beginning in 2018 for one
EMC. The EMCs are projected to purchase an incremental 625 MWs of capacity over the terms of the
extensions.
Other Matters
Southern Power is involved in various other matters being litigated and regulatory matters that
could affect future earnings. In addition, Southern Power is subject to certain claims and legal
actions arising in the ordinary course of business. Southern Powers business activities are
subject to extensive governmental regulation related to public health and the environment.
Litigation over environmental issues and claims of various types, including property damage,
personal injury, common law nuisance, and citizen enforcement of environmental requirements such as
opacity and air and water quality standards, has increased generally throughout the United States.
In particular, personal injury and other claims for damages caused by alleged exposure to hazardous
materials, and common law nuisance claims for injunctive
145
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
relief and property damage allegedly caused by greenhouse gas and other emissions, have become more
frequent. The ultimate outcome of such potential litigation against Southern Power and its
subsidiaries cannot be predicted at this time; however, for current proceedings not specifically
reported herein or in Note 3 to the financial statements of Southern Power in Item 8 of the Form
10-K, management does not anticipate that the liabilities, if any, arising from any such
proceedings would have a material adverse effect on Southern Powers financial statements.
See Note (B) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for discussion of various other
contingencies, regulatory matters, and other matters being litigated which may affect future
earnings potential.
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Southern Power prepares its consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States. Significant accounting policies are described
in Note 1 to the financial statements of Southern Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K. In the
application of these policies, certain estimates are made that may have a material impact on
Southern Powers results of operations and related disclosures. Different assumptions and
measurements could produce estimates that are significantly different from those recorded in the
financial statements. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates of Southern Power in Item 7 of the Form
10-K for a complete discussion of Southern Powers critical accounting policies and estimates
related to Revenue Recognition, Percentage of Completion, Impairment of Long Lived Assets and
Intangibles, Acquisition Accounting, Contingent Obligations, Depreciation, and Convertible
Investment Tax Credits.
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
Overview
Southern Powers financial condition remained stable at September 30, 2010. Southern Power intends
to continue to monitor its access to short-term and long-term capital markets as well as its bank
credit arrangements as needed to meet future capital and liquidity needs. See Sources of Capital
herein for additional information on lines of credit.
Net cash provided from operating activities totaled $255.8 million for the first nine months of
2010, compared to $232.8 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The $23.0 million increase
was mainly due to an increase in convertible investment tax credits. Net cash used for investing
activities totaled $206.8 million for the first nine months of 2010, compared to $67.0 million for
the corresponding period in 2009. The $139.8 million increase was primarily due to an increase in
construction work in progress related to construction activities at Cleveland County and
Nacogdoches. Net cash used for financing activities totaled $56.2 million for the first nine
months of 2010, compared to $77.5 million for the corresponding period in 2009. The decrease in
cash used for financing activities was primarily due to an increase in short-term borrowings in
2010. Fluctuations in cash flow from financing activities vary from year to year based on capital
needs and the maturity or redemption of securities.
Significant asset changes in the balance sheet for the first nine months of 2010 include an
increase in customer accounts receivable due to seasonality and new PPAs that began in January,
June, and July 2010, and an increase in construction work in progress due to Cleveland County and
Nacogdoches construction activities.
Significant liability and stockholders equity changes in the balance sheet for the first nine
months of 2010 include an increase in notes payable mainly related to Cleveland County and
Nacogdoches construction activities and an increase in deferred convertible investment tax credits
associated with the construction of Plant Nacogdoches.
146
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Capital Requirements and Contractual Obligations
See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Capital
Requirements and Contractual Obligations of Southern Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for a
description of Southern Powers capital requirements for its construction program, scheduled
maturities of long-term debt, interest, leases, derivative obligations, purchase commitments, and
long-term service agreements. The construction program is subject to periodic review and revision;
these amounts include estimates for potential plant acquisitions and new construction as well as
ongoing capital improvements. Planned expenditures for plant acquisitions may vary due to market
opportunities and Southern Powers ability to execute its growth strategy. Actual construction
costs may vary from these estimates because of changes in factors such as: business conditions;
environmental statutes and regulations; new regulatory requirements for generating plants; FERC
rules and regulations; load projections; legislation; the cost and efficiency of construction
labor, equipment, and materials; project scope and design changes; and the cost of capital.
Sources of Capital
Southern Power may use operating cash flows, external funds, equity capital, or loans from Southern
Company to finance any new projects, acquisitions, and ongoing capital requirements. Southern
Power expects to generate external funds from the issuance of unsecured senior debt and commercial
paper or utilization of credit arrangements from banks. However, the amount, type, and timing of
any future financings, if needed, will depend upon prevailing market conditions, regulatory
approval, and other factors. See MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
LIQUIDITY Sources of Capital of Southern Power in Item 7 of the Form 10-K for additional
information.
Southern Powers current liabilities frequently exceed current assets due to the use of short-term
indebtedness as a funding source to meet cash needs which can fluctuate significantly due to the
seasonality of the business. To meet liquidity and capital resource requirements, Southern Power
had at September 30, 2010 committed credit arrangements with banks of $400 million, all of which
expire in 2012. Proceeds from these credit arrangements may be used for working capital and
general corporate purposes as well as liquidity support for Southern Powers commercial paper
program. See Note 6 to the financial statements of Southern Power under Bank Credit Arrangements
in Item 8 of the Form 10-K and Note (E) to the Condensed Financial Statements under Bank Credit
Arrangements herein for additional information. Southern Powers commercial paper program is used
to finance acquisition and construction costs related to electric generating facilities and for
general corporate purposes. At September 30, 2010, Southern Power had $139 million of commercial
paper borrowings outstanding with a weighted average interest rate of 0.4% per annum. During the
third quarter 2010, Southern Power had an average of $186 million of commercial paper outstanding
at a weighted average interest rate of 0.4% per annum and the maximum amount outstanding was $259
million. Management believes that the need for working capital can be adequately met by utilizing
commercial paper programs, lines of credit, and cash.
Credit Rating Risk
Southern Power does not have any credit arrangements that would require material changes in payment
schedules or terminations as a result of a credit rating downgrade. There are certain contracts
that could require collateral, but not accelerated payment, in the event of a credit rating change
to BBB and Baa2, or BBB- and/or Baa3 or below. These contracts are for physical electricity
purchases and sales, fuel transportation and storage, and energy price risk management. At
September 30, 2010, the maximum potential collateral requirements under these contracts at a BBB
and Baa2 rating were approximately $9 million and at a BBB- and/or Baa3 rating were approximately
$355 million. At September 30, 2010, the maximum potential collateral requirements under these
contracts at a rating below BBB- and/or Baa3 were approximately $1.1 billion. Included in these
amounts are certain agreements that could require collateral in the event that one or more Power
Pool participants has a credit rating change to below investment grade. Generally, collateral may
be provided by a Southern Company guaranty, letter of credit, or cash. Additionally, any credit
rating downgrade could impact Southern Powers ability to access capital markets, particularly the
short-term debt market.
147
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
In addition, through the acquisition of Plant Rowan, Southern Power assumed PPAs with Duke Energy
and North Carolina Municipal Power Agency No. 1 (NCMPA1) that could require collateral, but not
accelerated payment, in the event of a downgrade of Southern Powers credit. The Duke Energy PPA
defines the downgrade to be below BBB- or Baa3. The NCMPA1 PPA requires credit assurances without
stating a specific credit rating. The amount of collateral required would depend upon actual
losses, if any, resulting from a credit downgrade for both PPAs.
Market Price Risk
Southern Power is exposed to market risks, including changes in interest rates and certain
energy-related commodity prices and, occasionally, currency exchange rates. To manage the
volatility attributable to these exposures, Southern Power takes advantage of natural offsets and
enters into various derivative transactions for the remaining exposures pursuant to Southern
Powers policies in areas such as counterparty exposure and hedging practices. It is Southern
Powers policy that derivatives be used primarily for hedging purposes. Derivative positions are
monitored using techniques that include market valuation and sensitivity analysis.
Southern Powers market risk exposure relative to interest rate changes for the third quarter 2010
has not changed materially compared with the December 31, 2009 reporting period. Since a
significant portion of outstanding indebtedness is at fixed rates, Southern Power is not aware of
any facts or circumstances that would significantly affect exposure on existing indebtedness in the
near term. However, the impact on future financing costs cannot now be determined.
Because energy from Southern Powers facilities is primarily sold under long-term PPAs with tolling
agreements and provisions shifting substantially all of the responsibility for fuel cost to the
counterparties, Southern Powers exposure to market volatility in commodity fuel prices and prices
of electricity is generally limited. However, Southern Power has been and may continue to be
exposed to market volatility in energy-related commodity prices as a result of sales of
uncontracted generating capacity.
The changes in fair value of energy-related derivative contracts for the three and nine months
ended September 30, 2010 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
Year-to-Date |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
Changes |
|
Changes |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
(in millions) |
Contracts outstanding at the beginning of the period, assets
(liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(1.2 |
) |
|
$ |
(3.5 |
) |
Contracts realized or settled |
|
|
3.3 |
|
|
|
3.8 |
|
Current period changes(a) |
|
|
(4.1 |
) |
|
|
(2.3 |
) |
|
Contracts outstanding at the end of the period, assets (liabilities), net |
|
$ |
(2.0 |
) |
|
$ |
(2.0 |
) |
|
|
|
|
(a) |
|
Current period changes also include the changes in fair value of new contracts
entered into during the period, if any. |
148
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The changes in the fair value positions of the energy-related derivative contracts for the
three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 were a decrease of $0.8 million and an increase of
$1.5 million, respectively, which is due to both power and natural gas positions. This change is
attributable to both the volume and prices of power and natural gas as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
June 30, |
|
December 31, |
|
|
2010 |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
Power (net sold) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MWHs (in millions) |
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
2.7 |
|
Weighted average contract
cost per MWH
above (below) market
prices (in dollars) |
|
$ |
5.22 |
|
|
$ |
6.77 |
|
|
$ |
(0.36 |
) |
|
Natural gas (net purchase) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodity million mmBtu |
|
|
9.3 |
|
|
|
5.6 |
|
|
|
8.3 |
|
Location basis million mmBtu |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.0 |
|
|
Commodity Weighted average
contract cost per mmBtu above
(below) market prices (in
dollars) |
|
$ |
0.69 |
|
|
$ |
1.31 |
|
|
$ |
0.29 |
|
|
Location basis Weighted
average contract cost per
mmBtu above (below) market
prices (in dollars) |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
(0.04 |
) |
|
The fair value of energy-related derivative contracts by hedge designation reflected in the
financial statements as assets (liabilities) consists of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
December 31, |
Asset (Liability) Derivatives |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
|
(in millions) |
Cash flow hedges |
|
$ |
1.5 |
|
|
$ |
(2.5 |
) |
Not designated |
|
|
(3.5 |
) |
|
|
(1.0 |
) |
|
Total fair value |
|
$ |
(2.0 |
) |
|
$ |
(3.5 |
) |
|
Gains and losses on energy-related derivatives used by Southern Power to hedge anticipated
purchases and sales are initially deferred in OCI before being recognized in income in the same
period as the hedged transaction. Gains and losses on energy-related derivative contracts that are
not designated as hedges are recognized in the statements of income as incurred.
Total net unrealized pre-tax gains (losses) recognized in income for the three and nine months
ended September 30, 2010 for energy-related derivative contracts that are not hedges were $(3.7)
million and $(2.4) million, respectively, and will continue to be marked to market until the
settlement date. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, the total net unrealized
pre-tax gains (losses) recognized in the statements of income were $2 million and $1 million,
respectively.
Southern Power uses over-the-counter contracts that are not exchange-traded but are fair valued
using prices which are actively quoted, and thus fall into Level 2. The maturities of the
energy-related derivative contracts at September 30, 2010 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
September 30, 2010 |
|
|
Fair Value Measurements |
|
|
Total |
|
Maturity |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
Year 1 |
|
Years 2&3 |
|
Years 4&5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
|
|
Level 1 |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Level 2 |
|
|
(2.0 |
) |
|
|
(1.3 |
) |
|
|
(1.0 |
) |
|
|
0.3 |
|
Level 3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair value of contracts
outstanding at end
of period |
|
$ |
(2.0 |
) |
|
$ |
(1.3 |
) |
|
$ |
(1.0 |
) |
|
$ |
0.3 |
|
|
149
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
See Note (C) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for further discussion on fair value
measurements.
For additional information, see MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
LIQUIDITY Market Price Risk of Southern Power in Item 7 and Note 1 under Financial
Instruments and Note 9 to the financial statements of Southern Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K
and Note (H) to the Condensed Financial Statements herein.
Financing Activities
Southern Power did not issue or redeem any long-term securities during the nine months ended
September 30, 2010.
150
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
GULF POWER COMPANY
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
INDEX TO APPLICABLE NOTES TO
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS BY REGISTRANT
|
|
|
Registrant
|
|
Applicable Notes |
|
|
|
Southern Company
|
|
A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I |
|
|
|
Alabama Power
|
|
A, B, C, E, F, G, H |
|
|
|
Georgia Power
|
|
A, B, C, E, F, G, H |
|
|
|
Gulf Power
|
|
A, B, C, E, F, G, H |
|
|
|
Mississippi Power
|
|
A, B, C, E, F, G, H |
|
|
|
Southern Power
|
|
A, B, C, E, G, H |
151
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
GULF POWER COMPANY
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
|
|
|
The condensed quarterly financial statements of each registrant included herein have been prepared
by such registrant, without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. The Condensed
Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2009 have been derived from the audited financial statements of
each registrant. In the opinion of each registrants management, the information regarding such
registrant furnished herein reflects all adjustments, which, except as otherwise disclosed, are of
a normal recurring nature, necessary to present fairly the results of operations for the periods
ended September 30, 2010 and 2009. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included
in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted
in the United States have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations,
although each registrant believes that the disclosures regarding such registrant are adequate to
make the information presented not misleading. Disclosures which would substantially duplicate the
disclosures in the Form 10-K and details which have not changed significantly in amount or
composition since the filing of the Form 10-K are generally omitted from this Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q. Therefore, these Condensed Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the
financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Form 10-K. Due to the seasonal
variations in the demand for energy, operating results for the periods presented are not
necessarily indicative of the operating results to be expected for the full year. |
|
|
|
|
Certain prior years data presented in the financial statements have been reclassified to conform
to the current year presentation. |
|
|
|
|
Affiliate Transactions |
|
|
|
|
In January 2010, Gulf Power purchased turbine rotor assembly parts owned by Georgia Power and
Southern Power for approximately $4 million and $6 million, respectively. In June 2010,
Mississippi Power purchased a turbine rotor assembly part from Gulf Power for approximately $6
million. In September 2010, Georgia Power purchased a compressor rotor assembly part owned by Gulf
Power for approximately $4 million. In September 2010, Southern Power purchased turbine rotor
assembly parts owned by Georgia Power, Gulf Power, and Mississippi Power for approximately $6
million, $1 million, and $7 million, respectively. These affiliate transactions were in accordance
with FERC and state PSC rules and guidelines. |
|
|
|
Variable Interest Entities |
|
|
|
|
Effective January 1, 2010, the traditional operating companies and Southern Power adopted new
accounting guidance which modified the consolidation model and expanded disclosures related to
variable interest entities (VIE). The primary beneficiary of a VIE is required to consolidate the
VIE when it has both the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact
the VIEs economic performance and the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits
from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The adoption of this new accounting
guidance did not result in the traditional operating companies or Southern Power consolidating any
VIEs that were not already consolidated under previous guidance, nor deconsolidating any VIEs. |
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Mississippi Power is required to provide financing for all costs associated with the mine
development and operation under a contract with Liberty Fuels Company, LLC (Liberty Fuels) in
conjunction with the construction of Kemper IGCC described in Note (B) under State PSC Matters Mississippi Power Integrated Coal
Gasification Combined Cycle herein. Liberty Fuels qualifies as a VIE for which Mississippi Power
is the primary beneficiary. As of September 30, 2010, Liberty Fuels has not had a material impact
on the financial position and results of operations of Mississippi Power. |
152
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
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Southern Power has certain wholly-owned subsidiaries that are determined to be VIEs. Southern
Power is considered the primary beneficiary of these VIEs because it controls the most significant
activities of the VIEs, including operating and maintaining the respective assets, and has the
obligation to absorb expected losses of these VIEs to the extent of its equity interests. |
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(B) |
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CONTINGENCIES AND REGULATORY MATTERS |
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See Note 3 to the financial statements of the registrants in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for
information relating to various lawsuits, other contingencies, and regulatory matters. |
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General Litigation Matters |
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Each registrant is subject to certain claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of
business. In addition, each registrants business activities are subject to extensive governmental
regulation related to public health and the environment, such as regulation of air emissions and
water discharges. Litigation over environmental issues and claims of various types, including
property damage, personal injury, common law nuisance, and citizen enforcement of environmental
requirements such as opacity and air and water quality standards, has increased generally
throughout the United States. In particular, personal injury and other claims for damages caused
by alleged exposure to hazardous materials, and common law nuisance claims for injunctive relief
and property damage allegedly caused by greenhouse gas and other emissions, have become more
frequent. The ultimate outcome of such pending or potential litigation against the registrants and
any of their subsidiaries cannot be predicted at this time; however, for current proceedings not
specifically reported herein or in Note 3 to the financial statements of each registrant in Item 8
of the Form 10-K, management does not anticipate that the liabilities, if any, arising from such
current proceedings would have a material adverse effect on such registrants financial statements. |
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Mirant Matters |
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Mirant was an energy company with businesses that included independent power projects and energy
trading and risk management companies in the U.S. and selected other countries. It was a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Southern Company until its initial public offering in October 2000. In
April 2001, Southern Company completed a spin-off to its shareholders of its remaining ownership,
and Mirant became an independent corporate entity. |
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In July 2003, Mirant and certain of its affiliates filed voluntary petitions for relief under
Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas.
The Bankruptcy Court entered an order confirming Mirants plan of reorganization in December 2005,
and Mirant announced that this plan became effective in January 2006. As part of the plan, Mirant
transferred substantially all of its assets and its restructured debt to a new corporation that
adopted the name Mirant Corporation (Reorganized Mirant). |
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Under the terms of the separation agreements entered into in connection with the spin-off, Mirant
agreed to indemnify Southern Company for certain costs. As a result of Mirants bankruptcy,
Southern Company sought reimbursement as an unsecured creditor in Mirants Chapter 11 proceeding.
If Southern Companys claims for indemnification with respect to these costs are allowed, then
Mirants indemnity obligations to Southern Company would constitute unsecured claims against Mirant
entitled to stock in Reorganized Mirant. As a result of the $202 million settlement in March 2009
of another suit related to Mirant (MC Asset Recovery litigation), the maximum amount Southern
Company can assert by proof of claim in the Mirant bankruptcy is capped at $9.5 million. See Note
5 to the financial statements of Southern Company under Effective Tax Rate in Item 8 of the Form
10-K for more information regarding the MC Asset Recovery litigation settlement. By settlement
agreement, dated as of July 7, 2010, substantially all the claims filed by Southern Company against
Mirant have been resolved. Pursuant to the agreement, Southern Company was given allowed unsecured
claims against Mirant in the aggregate amount of approximately $8.8 million, which claims will be
treated pursuant to the terms of the Mirant plan of reorganization. The parties also released each
other from any other claims arising from events or conduct prior to the effective date of Mirants
plan of reorganization, with certain limited exceptions. The settlement has been approved by the
bankruptcy court. This matter is now concluded. |
153
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
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Environmental Matters |
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New Source Review Actions |
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In November 1999, the EPA brought a civil action in the U.S. District Court for the Northern
District of Georgia against certain Southern Company subsidiaries, including Alabama Power and
Georgia Power, alleging that these subsidiaries had violated the NSR provisions of the Clean Air
Act and related state laws at certain coal-fired generating facilities. After
Alabama Power was dismissed from the original action, the EPA filed a separate action in January
2001 against Alabama Power in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama. In
these lawsuits, the EPA alleges that NSR violations occurred at eight coal-fired generating
facilities operated by Alabama Power and Georgia Power, including facilities co-owned by
Mississippi Power and Gulf Power. The civil actions request penalties and injunctive relief,
including an order requiring installation of the best available control technology at the affected
units. The EPA concurrently issued notices of violation to Gulf Power and Mississippi Power
relating to Gulf Powers Plant Crist and Mississippi Powers Plant Watson. In early 2000, the EPA
filed a motion to amend its complaint to add Gulf Power and Mississippi Power as defendants based
on the allegations in the notices of violation. However, in March 2001, the court denied the
motion based on lack of jurisdiction, and the EPA has not re-filed. The original action, now
solely against Georgia Power, has been administratively closed since the spring of 2001, and the
case has not been reopened. |
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In June 2006, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama entered a consent decree
between Alabama Power and the EPA, resolving a portion of the Alabama Power lawsuit relating to the
alleged NSR violations at Plant Miller. In July 2008, the U.S. District Court for the Northern
District of Alabama granted partial summary judgment in favor of Alabama Power with respect to its
other affected units regarding the proper legal test for determining whether projects are routine
maintenance, repair, and replacement and therefore are excluded from NSR permitting. |
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On September 2, 2010, following the end of discovery, the EPA dismissed five of its eight remaining
claims against Alabama Power, leaving only three claims for summary disposition or trial, including
the claim relating to the facility co-owned by Mississippi Power. The parties each filed motions
for summary judgment on September 30, 2010. The court has set a trial date for October 2011 for
any remaining claims. |
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Southern Company and the traditional operating companies believe that they complied with applicable
laws and the EPA regulations and interpretations in effect at the time the work in question took
place. The Clean Air Act authorizes maximum civil penalties of $25,000 to $37,500 per day, per
violation at each generating unit, depending on the date of the alleged violation. An adverse
outcome could require substantial capital expenditures or affect the timing of currently budgeted
capital expenditures that cannot be determined at this time and could possibly require payment of
substantial penalties. Such expenditures could affect future results of operations, cash flows,
and financial condition if such costs are not recovered through regulated rates; however, the
ultimate outcome of this matter cannot now be determined. |
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Carbon Dioxide Litigation |
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New York Case |
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In July 2004, three environmental groups and attorneys general from eight states, each outside of
Southern Companys service territory, and the corporation counsel for New York City filed
complaints in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against Southern
Company and four other electric power companies. The complaints allege that the companies
emissions of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, contribute to global warming, which the plaintiffs
assert is a public nuisance. Under common law public and private nuisance theories, the plaintiffs
seek a judicial order (1) holding each defendant jointly and severally liable for creating,
contributing to, and/or maintaining global warming and (2) requiring each of the defendants to cap
its emissions of carbon dioxide and then reduce those emissions by a specified percentage each year
for at least a decade. The plaintiffs have not, however, requested that damages be awarded in
connection with their claims. Southern Company believes these claims are without merit and notes
that the complaint cites no statutory or regulatory basis for the claims. In September 2005, the
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York granted Southern Companys and the other
defendants motions to dismiss these cases. The plaintiffs filed an appeal to the U.S. Court of
Appeals for the Second Circuit in October 2005 and, in September 2009, the U.S. Court of Appeals
for the Second Circuit reversed the district courts ruling, vacating the |
154
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
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dismissal of the plaintiffs claim, and remanding the case to the district court. In November
2009, the defendants, including Southern Company, sought rehearing en banc. The U.S. Court of
Appeals for the Second Circuit denied the defendants petition for rehearing en banc on March 5,
2010. On August 2, 2010, the defendants filed a petition for writ of certiorari with the U.S.
Supreme Court. The ultimate outcome of these matters cannot be determined at this time. |
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Kivalina Case |
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In February 2008, the Native Village of Kivalina and the City of Kivalina filed a suit in the U.S.
District Court for the Northern District of California against several electric utilities
(including Southern Company), several oil companies, and a coal company. The plaintiffs are the
governing bodies of an Inupiat village in Alaska. The plaintiffs contend that the village is being
destroyed by erosion allegedly caused by global warming that the plaintiffs attribute to emissions
of greenhouse gases by the defendants. The plaintiffs assert claims for public and private
nuisance and contend that some of the defendants have acted in concert and are therefore jointly
and severally liable for the plaintiffs damages. The suit seeks damages for lost property values
and for the cost of relocating the village, which is alleged to be $95 million to $400 million.
Southern Company believes that these claims are without merit and notes that the complaint cites no
statutory or regulatory basis for the claims. In September 2009, the U.S. District Court for the
Northern District of California granted the defendants motions to dismiss the case based on lack
of jurisdiction and ruled the claims were barred by the political question doctrine and by the
plaintiffs failure to establish the standard for determining that the defendants conduct caused
the injury alleged. In November 2009, the plaintiffs filed an appeal with the U.S. Court of
Appeals for the Ninth Circuit challenging the district courts order dismissing the case. The
ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at this time. |
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Other Litigation |
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Common law nuisance claims for injunctive relief and property damage allegedly caused by greenhouse
gas emissions have become more frequent, and courts have recently determined that private parties
and states have standing to bring such claims. For example, in October 2009, the U.S. Court of
Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reversed the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of
Mississippis dismissal of private party claims against certain oil, coal, chemical, and utility
companies alleging damages as a result of Hurricane Katrina. In reversing the dismissal, the U.S.
Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit held that plaintiffs have standing to assert their nuisance,
trespass, and negligence claims and none of these claims are barred by the political question
doctrine. On May 28, 2010, however, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit dismissed the
plaintiffs appeal of the case based on procedural grounds relating to the loss of a quorum by the
full court on reconsideration, reinstating the district court decision in favor of the defendants.
On August 27, 2010, the plaintiffs petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus
directing the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to reinstate the plaintiffs appeal.
Southern Company is not currently a party to this litigation, but the traditional operating
companies and Southern Power were named as defendants in an amended complaint which was rendered
moot in August 2007 by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi when such
court dismissed the original matter. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at
this time. |
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Environmental Remediation |
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The registrants must comply with environmental laws and regulations that cover the handling and
disposal of waste and releases of hazardous substances. Under these various laws and regulations,
the subsidiaries may also incur substantial costs to clean up properties. The traditional
operating companies have each received authority from their respective state PSCs to recover
approved environmental compliance costs through regulatory mechanisms. Within limits approved by
the state PSCs, these rates are adjusted annually or as necessary. |
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Georgia Powers environmental remediation liability as of September 30, 2010 was $13.8 million.
Georgia Power has been designated or identified as a potentially responsible party (PRP) at sites
governed by the Georgia Hazardous Site Response Act and/or by the federal Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), including a large site in
Brunswick, Georgia on the CERCLA National Priorities List (NPL). The parties have completed the
removal of wastes from the Brunswick site as ordered by the EPA. Additional claims for recovery of
natural resource damages at this site or for the assessment and potential cleanup of other sites on
the Georgia Hazardous |
155
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
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Sites Inventory and CERCLA NPL are anticipated; however, they are not expected to have a material
impact on Georgia Powers financial statements. |
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By letter dated September 30, 2008, the EPA advised Georgia Power that it has been designated as a
PRP at the Ward Transformer Superfund site located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Numerous other
entities have also received notices from the EPA. Georgia Power, along with other named PRPs, is
negotiating with the EPA to address cleanup of the site and reimbursement for past expenditures
related to work performed at the site. In addition, in April 2009, two PRPs filed separate actions
in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina against numerous other PRPs,
including Georgia Power, seeking contribution from the defendants for expenses incurred by the
plaintiffs related to work performed at a portion of the site. The ultimate outcome of these
matters will depend upon further environmental assessment and the ultimate number of PRPs and
cannot be determined at this time; however, it is not expected to have a material impact on Georgia
Powers financial statements. |
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Gulf Powers environmental remediation liability includes estimated costs of environmental
remediation projects of approximately $62.2 million as of September 30, 2010. These estimated
costs relate to site closure criteria by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP)
for potential impacts to soil and groundwater from herbicide applications at Gulf Power
substations. The schedule for completion of the remediation projects will be subject to FDEP
approval. The projects have been approved by the Florida PSC for recovery through Gulf Powers
environmental cost recovery clause; therefore, there was no impact on net income as a result of
these estimates. |
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In 2003, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) designated Mississippi Power as a PRP
at a site in Texas. The site was owned by an electric transformer company that handled Mississippi
Powers transformers as well as those of many other entities. The site owner is bankrupt and the
State of Texas has entered into an agreement with Mississippi Power and several other utilities to
investigate and remediate the site. Amounts expensed related to this work were not material.
Hundreds of entities have received notices from the TCEQ requesting their participation in the
anticipated site remediation. The final impact of this matter on Mississippi Power will depend
upon further environmental assessment and the ultimate number of PRPs. The remediation expenses
incurred by Mississippi Power are expected to be recovered through the ECO Plan. |
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The final outcome of these matters cannot now be determined. However, based on the currently known
conditions at these sites and the nature and extent of activities relating to these sites, Southern
Company, Georgia Power, Gulf Power, and Mississippi Power do not believe that additional
liabilities, if any, at these sites would be material to their respective financial statements. |
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FERC Matters |
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Market-Based Rate Authority |
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Each of the traditional operating companies and Southern Power has authorization from the FERC to
sell power to non-affiliates, including short-term opportunity sales, at market-based prices.
Specific FERC approval must be obtained with respect to a market-based contract with an affiliate. |
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In December 2004, the FERC initiated a proceeding to assess Southern Companys generation market
power within its retail service territory. The ability to charge market-based rates in other
markets was not an issue in the proceeding. Any new market-based rate sales by any subsidiary of
Southern Company in Southern Companys retail service territory entered into during a 15-month
refund period that ended in May 2006 could have been subject to refund to a cost-based rate level. |
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In December 2009, Southern Company and the FERC trial staff reached an agreement in principle that
would resolve the proceeding in its entirety. The agreement does not reflect any finding or
suggestion that any subsidiary of Southern Company possesses or has exercised any market power.
The agreement likewise does not require Southern Company to make any refunds related to sales
during the 15-month refund period. The agreement does provide for the traditional operating
companies and Southern Power to donate a total of $1.7 million to nonprofit organizations in the
states in which they operate for the purpose of offsetting the electricity bills of low-income
retail customers. The joint offer of settlement |
156
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
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was filed on March 2, 2010. On July 13, 2010, the FERC issued an order approving the filed
settlement, finding it to be fair, reasonable, and in the public interest. The traditional
operating companies and Southern Power made the related donations. This matter is now concluded. |
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Intercompany Interchange Contract |
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Southern Companys generation fleet in its retail service territory is operated under the
Intercompany Interchange Contract (IIC), as approved by the FERC. In May 2005, the FERC initiated
a new proceeding to examine (1) the provisions of the IIC among the traditional operating
companies, Southern Power, and SCS, as agent, under the terms of which the Power Pool is operated,
(2) whether any parties to the IIC have violated the FERCs standards of conduct applicable to
utility companies that are transmission providers, and (3) whether Southern Companys code of
conduct defining Southern Power as a system company rather than a marketing affiliate is just
and reasonable. In connection with the formation of Southern Power, the FERC authorized Southern
Powers inclusion in the IIC in 2000. The FERC also previously approved Southern Companys code of
conduct. |
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In October 2006, the FERC issued an order accepting a settlement resolving the proceeding subject
to Southern Companys agreement to accept certain modifications to the settlements terms.
Southern Company notified the FERC that it accepted the modifications. The modifications largely
involve functional separation and information restrictions related to marketing activities
conducted on behalf of Southern Power. In November 2006, Southern Company filed with the FERC a
compliance plan in connection with the order. In April 2007, the FERC approved, with certain
modifications, the plan submitted by Southern Company. Implementation of the plan did not have a
material impact on Southern Companys or the traditional operating companies financial statements.
In November 2007, Southern Company notified the FERC that the plan had been implemented. In
December 2008, the FERC division of audits issued for public comment its final audit report
pertaining to compliance implementation and related matters. No comments were submitted
challenging the audit reports findings of Southern Companys compliance. The proceeding remains
open pending a decision from the FERC regarding the audit report. |
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Right of Way Litigation |
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Southern Company and certain of its subsidiaries, including Mississippi Power, have been named as
defendants in numerous lawsuits brought by landowners since 2001. The plaintiffs lawsuits claim
that defendants may not use, or sublease to third parties, some or all of the fiber optic
communications lines on the rights of way that cross the plaintiffs properties and that such
actions exceed the easements or other property rights held by defendants. The plaintiffs assert
claims for, among other things, trespass and unjust enrichment and seek compensatory and punitive
damages and injunctive relief. Management of Southern Company and Mississippi Power believe that
they have complied with applicable laws and that the plaintiffs claims are without merit. |
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Mississippi Power has entered into agreements with plaintiffs in approximately 95% of the actions
pending against Mississippi Power to clarify its easement rights in the State of Mississippi.
These agreements have been approved by the Circuit Courts of Harrison County and Jasper County,
Mississippi (First Judicial Circuit), and the related cases have been dismissed. These agreements
have not resulted in any material effects on Southern Companys or Mississippi Powers financial
statements. |
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In addition, in late 2001, certain subsidiaries of Southern Company, including Mississippi Power,
were named as defendants in a lawsuit brought in Troup County, Georgia, Superior Court by
Interstate Fiber Network, a subsidiary of telecommunications company ITC DeltaCom, Inc. that uses
rights of way. This lawsuit alleges, among other things, that the defendants are contractually
obligated to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the telecommunications company from any liability
that may be assessed against it in pending and future right of way litigation. Southern Company
and Mississippi Power believe that the plaintiffs claims are without merit. In the fall of 2004,
the trial court stayed the case until resolution of the underlying landowner litigation discussed
above. In January 2005, the Georgia Court of Appeals dismissed the telecommunications companys
appeal of the trial courts order for lack of jurisdiction.
On August 24, 2010, the defendants
filed a motion to dismiss the suit.
The plaintiff has opposed this motion.
An adverse outcome in this matter, combined with an adverse outcome
against the telecommunications company in one or more of the
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157
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
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right of
way lawsuits, could result in substantial judgments; however, the
final outcome of these matters cannot now be determined.
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Nuclear Fuel Disposal Cost Litigation |
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See Note 3 to the financial statements of Southern Company, Alabama Power, and Georgia Power under
Nuclear Fuel Disposal Costs in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for information regarding the litigation
brought by Alabama Power and Georgia Power against the government for breach of contracts related
to the disposal of spent nuclear fuel. In July 2007, the U.S. Court of Federal Claims awarded
Georgia Power approximately $30 million, based on its ownership interests, and awarded Alabama
Power approximately $17 million, representing substantially all of the direct costs of the
expansion of spent nuclear fuel storage facilities at Plants Farley, Hatch, and Vogtle from 1998
through 2004. In November 2007, the governments motion for reconsideration was denied. In
January 2008, the government filed an appeal and, in February 2008, filed a motion to stay the
appeal, which the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit granted in April 2008. On May 5,
2010, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit lifted the stay. |
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In April 2008, a second claim against the government was filed for damages incurred after December
31, 2004 (the court-mandated cut-off in the original claim), due to the governments alleged
continuing breach of contract. In October 2008, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
denied a similar request by the government to stay this proceeding. The complaint does not contain
any specific dollar amount for recovery of damages. Damages will continue to accumulate until the
issue is resolved or the storage is provided. No amounts have been recognized in the financial
statements as of September 30, 2010 for either claim. The final outcome of these matters cannot be
determined at this time, but no material impact on net income is expected as any damage amounts
collected from the government are expected to be returned to customers. |
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Income Tax Matters |
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Georgia State Income Tax Credits |
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Georgia Powers 2005 through 2009 income tax filings for the State of Georgia include state income
tax credits for increased activity through Georgia ports. Georgia Power had also filed similar
claims for the years 2002 through 2004. The Georgia Department of Revenue has not responded to
these claims. In July 2007, Georgia Power filed a complaint in the Superior Court of Fulton County
to recover the credits claimed for the years 2002 through 2004. On March 22, 2010, the Superior
Court of Fulton County ruled in favor of Georgia Powers motion for summary judgment. The Georgia
Department of Revenue has appealed to the Georgia Court of Appeals. An unrecognized tax benefit
has been recorded related to these credits. If Georgia Power prevails, no material impact on
Southern Companys or Georgia Powers net income is expected as a significant portion of any tax
benefit is expected to be returned to retail customers. If Georgia Power is not successful,
payment of the related state tax could have a significant, and possibly material, negative effect
on Southern Companys and Georgia Powers cash flow. See Note 5 to the financial statements of
Southern Company and Georgia Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K under Unrecognized Tax Benefits and
Note (G) herein for additional information. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot now be
determined. |
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Tax Method of Accounting for Repairs |
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Southern Company submitted a change in the tax accounting method for repair costs associated with
Southern Companys generation, transmission, and distribution systems with the filing of the 2009
federal income tax return in September 2010. The new tax method is expected to result in net
positive cash flow for 2010 of approximately $117 million for Alabama Power, $110 million for
Georgia Power, $6 million for Gulf Power, $3 million for Mississippi Power, $5 million for Southern
Power, and $243 million for Southern Company on a consolidated basis. Although IRS approval of
this change is considered automatic, the amount claimed is subject to review because the IRS will
be issuing final guidance on this issue. Currently, the IRS is working with the utility industry
in an effort to resolve this matter in a consistent manner for all utilities. Due to uncertainty
concerning the ultimate resolution of this issue, an unrecognized tax benefit has been recorded for
the change in the tax accounting method for repair costs. See Note (G) herein for additional
information. The ultimate outcome of this matter cannot be determined at this time. |
158
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
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Bonus Depreciation |
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On September 27, 2010, the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010 (SBJCA) was signed into law.
The SBJCA includes an extension of the 50% bonus depreciation for certain property acquired in 2010
and placed in service in 2010 or, in certain limited cases, 2011. The estimated cash flow
reduction to tax payments for 2010 are approximately $102 million for Alabama Power, $130 million
for Georgia Power, $37 million for Gulf Power, $16 million for Mississippi Power, $3 million for
Southern Power, and $309 million for Southern Company on a consolidated basis. |
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State PSC Matters |
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Alabama Power |
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Nuclear Outage Accounting Order |
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On August 17, 2010, the Alabama PSC approved a change to the nuclear maintenance outage accounting
process associated with routine refueling activities. Currently, Alabama Power accrues nuclear
outage operations and maintenance expenses for the two units of Plant Farley during the 18-month
cycle for the outages. In accordance with the new order, nuclear outage expenses will be deferred
when the charges actually occur and then amortized over the subsequent 18-month period. |
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The initial result of implementation of the new accounting order is that no nuclear maintenance
outage expenses will be recognized from January 2011 through December 2011, which will decrease
nuclear outage operations and maintenance expenses in 2011 from 2010 by approximately $50 million.
During the fall of 2011, actual nuclear outage expenses associated with one unit of Plant Farley
will be deferred to a regulatory asset account; beginning in January 2012 these deferred costs will
be amortized to nuclear operations and maintenance expense over an 18-month period. During the
spring of 2012, actual nuclear outage expenses associated with the other unit of Plant Farley will
be deferred to a regulatory asset account; beginning in July 2012 these deferred costs will be
amortized to nuclear operations and maintenance expense over an 18-month period. Alabama Power
will continue the pattern of deferral of nuclear outage expenses as incurred and the recognition of
expenses over a subsequent 18-month period. |
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Natural Disaster Cost Recovery |
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See Note 3 to the financial statements of Alabama Power under Retail Regulatory Matters Natural
Disaster Reserve in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for information regarding natural disaster cost
recovery. |
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Based on an order from the Alabama PSC, Alabama Power maintains a reserve for operations and
maintenance expense to cover the cost of damages from major storms to its transmission and
distribution facilities, referred to as the NDR. |
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On August 20, 2010, the Alabama PSC approved an order enhancing the NDR that eliminated the $75
million authorized limit and allows Alabama Power to make additional accruals to the NDR. The
order also allows for reliability-related expenditures to be charged against the additional
accruals when the NDR balance exceeds $75 million. Alabama Power may designate a portion of the
NDR to reliability-related expenditures as a part of an annual budget process for the following
year or during the current year for identified unbudgeted reliability-related expenditures that are
incurred. Accruals that have not been designated can be used to offset storm charges. Additional
accruals to the NDR will enhance Alabama Powers ability to deal with the financial effects of
future natural disasters, promote system reliability, and offset costs retail customers would
otherwise bear. |
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The structure of the monthly Rate NDR charge to customers is not altered and continues to include a
component to maintain the $75 million base reserve. |
159
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
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In September 2010, Alabama Power accrued an additional $40 million to the NDR, resulting in an
accumulated balance of approximately $118 million, which is included in the Condensed Balance
Sheets herein under other regulatory liabilities, deferred. The additional accruals are reflected
as operations and maintenance expense in the Condensed Statements of Income herein. |
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Georgia Power |
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Rate Plans |
|
|
|
|
See Note 3 to the financial statements of Georgia Power under Retail Regulatory Matters Rate
Plans and of Southern Company under Retail Regulatory Matters Georgia Power Retail Rate
Plans and Cost of Removal in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for information regarding the 2007 Retail
Rate Plan. |
|
|
|
|
On August 27, 2009, the Georgia PSC approved an accounting order that would allow Georgia Power to
amortize up to $324 million of its regulatory liability related to other cost of removal
obligations. Under the terms of the accounting order, Georgia Power was entitled to amortize up to
one-third of the regulatory liability ($108 million) in 2009, limited to the amount needed to earn
no more than a 9.75% retail return on equity (ROE). In addition, Georgia Power may amortize up to
two-thirds of the regulatory liability ($216 million) in 2010, limited to the amount needed to earn
no more than a 10.15% retail ROE. From July 1, 2009 through September 30, 2010, Georgia Power had
amortized $161 million of the regulatory liability. Georgia Power currently expects to amortize
approximately $40 million of the regulatory liability in the fourth quarter 2010; however, the
final amount is subject to the limitations described previously and cannot be determined at this
time. |
|
|
|
|
In accordance with the 2007 Retail Rate Plan, Georgia Power filed a base rate case with the Georgia
PSC on July 1, 2010. The filing includes a requested rate increase totaling $615 million, or 8.2%
of retail revenues, to be effective January 1, 2011 based on a proposed retail ROE of 11.95%. The
requested increase will be recovered through Georgia Powers existing base rate tariffs as follows:
$451 million, or 6.0%, through the traditional base rate tariffs; $115 million, or 1.5%, through
the Environmental Compliance Cost Recovery (ECCR) tariff; $32 million through the Demand Side
Management (DSM) tariffs; and $17 million through the Municipal Franchise Fee (MFF) tariff. The
majority of the increase in retail revenues is being requested to cover the costs of environmental
compliance and continued investment in new generation, transmission, and distribution facilities to
support growth and ensure reliability. The remainder of the increase includes recovery of higher
operation, maintenance, and other investment costs to meet the current and future demand for
electricity. |
|
|
|
|
Unlike rate plans based on traditional one-year test periods, the 2007 Retail Rate Plan was
designed to operate for the three-year period ending December 31, 2010. The 2010 rate case request
includes proposed enhancements to the structure of the 2007 Retail Rate Plan to fit the current
economic climate, including a process of annual tariff compliance reviews that would allow it to
continue to operate for multiple years (Proposed Alternate Rate Plan). The primary points of the
Proposed Alternate Rate Plan include: |
|
§ |
|
Continuation of a plus or minus 100 basis point range for ROE. |
|
|
§ |
|
Creation of an Adjustable Cost Recovery (ACR) tariff. If approved, beginning with an
effective date of January 1, 2012, the ACR will work to maintain Georgia Powers earnings
within the ROE band established by the Georgia PSC in this case. If Georgia Powers
earnings projected for the upcoming year are within the ROE band, no adjustment under the
ACR tariff will be requested. If Georgia Powers earnings projected for the upcoming year
are outside (either above or below) the approved ROE band, the ACR tariff will be used to
adjust projected earnings back to the mid-point of the approved ROE band. |
|
|
|
|
The ACR tariff would also return to the sharing mechanism used prior to the 2007 Retail Rate
Plan whereby two-thirds of any actual earnings for the previous year above the approved ROE
band would be refunded to customers, with the remaining one-third retained by Georgia Power
as incentive to manage expenses and operate as efficiently as possible. In addition, if
earnings are below the approved ROE band, Georgia Power would accept one-third of the
shortfall and retail customers would be responsible for the remaining two-thirds. |
160
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
§ |
|
Creation of a new Certified Capacity Cost Recovery (CCCR) tariff to recover costs
related to new capacity additions certified by the Georgia PSC and updated through
applicable project construction monitoring reports and hearings. |
|
|
§ |
|
Continuation and enhancement of the ECCR and DSM-Residential tariffs from the 2007
Retail Rate Plan and creation of a DSM-Commercial tariff to recover environmental capital
and operating costs resulting from governmental mandates and DSM costs approved and
certified by the Georgia PSC. |
|
|
§ |
|
Implementation of an annual review of the MFF tariff to adjust for changes in relative
gross receipts between customers served inside and outside municipal boundaries. |
|
|
|
These proposed enhancements would become effective in 2012 with revenue requirements for each
tariff updated through separate compliance filings based on Georgia Powers budget for the upcoming
year. Based on Georgia Powers 2010 budget, earnings are currently projected to be slightly below
the proposed ROE band in 2012 and within the band in 2013. However, updated budgets and revenue
forecasts may eliminate, increase, or decrease the need for an ACR tariff adjustment in either
year. In addition, Georgia Power currently estimates the ECCR tariff would increase by $120
million in 2012 and would decrease by $12 million in 2013. The CCCR tariff would begin recovering
the costs of Plant McDonough Units 4, 5, and 6 with increases of $99 million in February 2012, $77
million in June 2012, and $76 million in February 2013. The DSM tariffs would increase by $17
million in 2012 and $18 million in 2013 to reflect the terms of the stipulated agreement in Georgia
Powers 2010 DSM Certification proceeding. Amounts recovered under the MFF tariff are based on
amounts recovered under all other tariffs. |
|
|
|
|
Hearings on Georgia Powers direct testimony were held in October 2010. In direct testimony filed
on October 22, 2010, the Georgia PSC Staff proposed various adjustments based on a traditional
one-year test period that would result in a proposed increase of $436 million in 2011 using a 10.5%
ROE. The Georgia PSC Staff recommendation would also allow additional increases of $181 million
and $88 million in 2012 and 2013, respectively, to recover the costs associated with Plant
McDonough Units 4, 5, and 6. These additional increases would be recovered through Georgia Powers
traditional base rate tariffs. While supporting the proposed DSM and MFF tariffs, the Georgia PSC
Staff recommended against approval of the proposed ECCR, CCCR, and ACR tariffs. Georgia Power
disagrees with the Georgia PSC Staffs positions. Hearings on the Georgia PSC Staff and intervenor
direct testimony will be held in November 2010. Georgia Powers rebuttal hearings will occur in
early December 2010. The Georgia PSC is scheduled to issue a final order in this matter on
December 21, 2010. |
|
|
|
|
The final outcome of these matters cannot now be determined. |
|
|
|
|
Fuel Cost Recovery |
|
|
|
|
See Note 3 to the financial statements of Southern Company under Retail Regulatory Matters
Georgia Power Fuel Cost Recovery and of Georgia Power under Retail Regulatory Matters Fuel
Cost Recovery in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information on Georgia Powers fuel cost
recovery. |
|
|
|
|
On March 11, 2010, the Georgia PSC voted to approve the stipulation among Georgia Power, the
Georgia PSC Staff, and three customer groups with the exception that the under recovered fuel
balance be collected over 42 months. The new rates, which became effective April 1, 2010, will
result in an increase of approximately $373 million to Georgia Powers total annual fuel cost
recovery billings. Georgia Power is required to file its next fuel case by March 1, 2011. |
|
|
|
|
Nuclear Construction |
|
|
|
|
See Note 3 to the financial statements of Southern Company and Georgia Power under Retail
Regulatory Matters Georgia Power Nuclear Construction and Construction Nuclear,
respectively, in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding Georgia Powers
construction of two additional nuclear generating units on the site of Plant Vogtle (Plant Vogtle
Units 3 and 4). |
161
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
In June 2009, the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE) filed a petition in the Superior Court
of Fulton County, Georgia seeking review of the Georgia PSCs certification order and challenging
the constitutionality of the Georgia Nuclear Financing Act. On May 5, 2010, the court dismissed as
premature the plaintiffs claim challenging the Georgia Nuclear Energy Financing Act. The
dismissal of the claim related to the Georgia Nuclear Energy Financing Act is subject to appeal and
the plaintiffs are expected to re-file this claim in the future. In addition, on May 5, 2010, the
court issued an order remanding the Georgia PSCs certification order for inclusion of further
findings of fact and conclusions of law by the Georgia PSC. In compliance with the courts order,
the Georgia PSC issued its order on remand to include further findings of fact and conclusions of
law on June 23, 2010. On July 5, 2010, the SACE and the Fulton County Taxpayers Foundation, Inc.
filed separate motions with the Georgia PSC for reconsideration of the order on remand. On August
17, 2010, the Georgia PSC voted to reaffirm its order. The SACE subsequently appealed to the
Superior Court of Fulton County. |
|
|
|
|
In August 2009 and June 2010, the NRC issued letters to Westinghouse revising the review schedules
needed to certify the AP1000 standard design for new reactors in response to concerns related to
the availability of adequate information and the shield building design. The shield building
protects the containment and provides structural support to the containment cooling water supply.
Georgia Power is continuing to work with Westinghouse and the NRC to resolve these concerns. Any
possible delays in the AP1000 design certification schedule, including those addressed by the NRC
in their letters, are not currently expected to affect the projected commercial operation dates for
Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4. |
|
|
|
|
On August 17, 2010, the Georgia PSC voted to approve Georgia Powers semi-annual construction
monitoring report including all construction and capital costs of $583 million made on Plant Vogtle
Units 3 and 4 through December 31, 2009. The Georgia PSC also approved an amendment to the
engineering, procurement, and construction agreement for Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 that replaced
certain index-based adjustments with fixed escalation factors. Georgia Power will continue to file
construction monitoring reports by February 28 and August 31 of each year during the construction
period. |
|
|
|
|
On September 3, 2010, Georgia Power filed with the Georgia PSC the Nuclear Construction Cost
Recovery tariff, as authorized in April 2009 under the Georgia Nuclear Energy Financing Act. The
filing includes a rate increase of approximately $218 million to recover financing costs associated
with the construction of Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4, effective January 1, 2011. |
|
|
|
|
There are pending technical and procedural challenges to the construction and licensing of Plant
Vogtle Units 3 and 4. Similar additional challenges at the state and federal level are expected as
construction proceeds. |
|
|
|
|
The ultimate outcome of these matters cannot be determined at this time. |
|
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
In August 2009, Georgia Power filed its quarterly construction monitoring report for Plant
McDonough Units 4, 5, and 6 for the quarter ended June 30, 2009. In September 2009, Georgia Power
amended the report. As amended, the report included a request for an increase in the certified
costs to construct Plant McDonough. On February 24, 2010, Georgia Power reached a stipulation
agreement with the Georgia PSC staff that was approved by the Georgia PSC on March 16, 2010. The
stipulation resolved the June 30, 2009 construction monitoring report, including the approval of
actual expenditures and the requested increase in the certified amount. |
|
|
|
|
On May 6, 2010, the Georgia PSC approved Georgia Powers request to extend the construction
schedule for Plant McDonough Units 4, 5, and 6 as a result of the short-term reduction in
forecasted demand, as well as the requested increase in the certified amount. In addition, on
September 7, 2010, the Georgia PSC approved the March 31, 2010 construction monitoring report
including actual project expenditures incurred through March 31, 2010. |
|
|
|
|
On September 21, 2010, the Georgia PSC approved Georgia Powers offer to place 562 MWs of wholesale
capacity into retail rate base. A portion of the capacity will go into retail rate base in January
2015, with the remainder going into retail rate base starting April 1, 2016. |
162
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
Mississippi Power |
|
|
|
|
Integrated Coal Gasification Combined Cycle |
|
|
|
|
See Note 3 to the financial statements of Southern Company under Retail Regulatory Matters
Integrated Coal Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) and of Mississippi Power under Integrated
Coal Gasification Combined Cycle in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for information regarding
Mississippi Powers construction of the Kemper IGCC. |
|
|
|
|
On March 9, 2010, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality issued the PSD air permit
modification for the Kemper IGCC, which modifies the original PSD air permit issued in October
2008. The Mississippi Chapter of the Sierra Club has requested a formal evidentiary hearing
regarding the issuance of the modified permit. |
|
|
|
|
In addition to the Internal Revenue Code Section 48A Phase I tax credits of $133 million certified
by the IRS in May 2009, Mississippi Power filed an application in November 2009 with the DOE and in
December 2009 with the IRS for certain tax credits available to projects using advanced coal
technologies under the Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008. The DOE subsequently
certified the Kemper IGCC, and on April 30, 2010, the IRS allocated $279 million of Phase II tax
credits under Section 48A of the Internal Revenue Code to Mississippi Power. On September 30,
2010, Mississippi Power and the IRS executed the closing agreement for the Phase II tax credits.
The utilization of these credits is dependent upon meeting the IRS certification requirements and
completing the Kemper IGCC in a timely manner. Mississippi Power has secured all environmental
reviews and permits necessary to commence construction of the Kemper IGCC and has entered into a
binding contract for the steam turbine generator, completing two milestone requirements for these
credits. In order to remain eligible for the Phase II tax credits, Mississippi Power must capture
and sequester at least 65% of the carbon dioxide produced by the plant during operations in
accordance with the recapture rules for Section 48A investment tax credits, and must meet the
required in-service date, satisfy environmental and other permitting requirements, and have in
place a binding contract for the steam turbine generator. |
|
|
|
|
On April 29, 2010, the Mississippi PSC issued an order finding that Mississippi Powers
application to acquire, construct, and operate the Kemper IGCC did not satisfy the requirement
of public convenience and necessity in the form that the project and the related cost recovery
were originally proposed by Mississippi Power. The April 2010 order also approved recovery of
$46 million of $50.5 million in prudent pre-construction costs incurred through March 2009. The
remaining $4.5 million is associated with overhead costs and variable pay of SCS, which were
recommended for exclusion from pre-construction costs by a consultant hired by the Mississippi
Public Utilities Staff. An additional $3.5 million has been incurred for costs of this type
from March 2009 through May 2010. The remaining $4.5 million, as well as additional
pre-construction amounts incurred during the generation screening and evaluation process through
May 2010 will be reviewed and addressed in a future proceeding. |
|
|
|
|
On May 10, 2010, Mississippi Power filed a motion in response to the April 29, 2010 order of the
Mississippi PSC relating to the Kemper IGCC, or in the alternative, for alteration or rehearing
of such order. |
|
|
|
|
On May 26, 2010, the Mississippi PSC issued an order revising its findings from the April 29,
2010 order. Among other things, the Mississippi PSCs May 26, 2010 order (1) approved the
alternate construction cost cap of up to $2.88 billion (and any amounts that fall within
specified exemptions from the cost cap; such exemptions include the costs of the lignite mine
and equipment), subject to determinations by the Mississippi PSC that such costs in excess of
$2.4 billion are prudent and required by the public convenience and necessity; (2) provided for
the establishment of operational cost and revenue parameters based upon assumptions in
Mississippi Powers proposal; and (3) approved financing cost recovery on construction work in
progress (CWIP) balances under the State of Mississippi Baseload Act of 2008 (Baseload Act),
which provides for the accrual of allowance for funds used during construction in 2010 and
2011 and recovery of financing costs on 100% of CWIP in 2012, 2013, and through May 1, 2014
(provided that the amount of CWIP allowed is (i) reduced by the amount of government
construction cost incentives received by Mississippi Power in excess of $296 million to the
extent that such amount increases cash flow for the pertinent regulatory period and (ii)
justified by a showing that such CWIP allowance will benefit customers over the life of the
plant). The Mississippi PSC order established periodic prudence reviews during the annual CWIP
review process. More frequent prudence determinations may be requested at a later time. On May
27, 2010, Mississippi |
163
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
Power filed a motion with the Mississippi PSC accepting the conditions
contained in the order. On June 3, 2010, the
Mississippi PSC issued the final certificate order which granted Mississippi Powers motion and
issued a certificate of public convenience and necessity authorizing acquisition, construction,
and operation of the Kemper IGCC. |
|
|
|
|
In conjunction with the Kemper IGCC, Mississippi Power will own the lignite mine and equipment
and will acquire mineral reserves located at the plant site in Kemper County. The estimated
capital cost of the mine is approximately $214 million. On May 27, 2010, Mississippi Power
executed a 40-year management fee contract with Liberty Fuels Company, LLC, a subsidiary of The
North American Coal Corporation, which will develop, construct, and manage the mining
operations. The agreement is effective June 1, 2010 through the end of the mine reclamation. |
|
|
|
|
On June 17, 2010, the Sierra Club filed an appeal of the Mississippi PSCs June 3, 2010 decision
to grant a certificate of public convenience and necessity for the Kemper IGCC with the Chancery
Court of Harrison County, Mississippi (Chancery Court). Subsequently, on July 6, 2010, the
Sierra Club also filed an appeal directly with the Mississippi Supreme Court. On July 20, 2010,
the Chancery Court issued a stay of the proceeding pending the resolution of the jurisdictional
issues raised in a motion filed by Mississippi Power on July 16, 2010 to confirm jurisdiction in
the Mississippi Supreme Court. On October 7, 2010, the Mississippi Supreme Court denied
Mississippi Powers motion and dismissed the Sierra Clubs direct appeal. The appeal will now
proceed in the Chancery Court. |
|
|
|
|
On July 27, 2010, Mississippi Power and South Mississippi Electric Power Association (SMEPA)
entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement whereby SMEPA will purchase an undivided 17.5% interest
in the Kemper IGCC. The closing of this transaction is conditioned upon execution of a joint
ownership and operating agreement, receipt of all construction permits, appropriate regulatory
approvals, financing, and other conditions. |
|
|
|
|
On August 19, 2010, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Record of Decision (ROD) by the
DOE for the Clean Coal Power Initiative Round 2 (CCPI2) grants was noted in the Federal
Register. The NEPA ROD and its accompanying final environmental impact statement were the final
major hurdles necessary for Mississippi Power to receive grant funds of $245 million during the
construction of the Kemper IGCC and $25 million during the initial operation of the Kemper IGCC. |
|
|
|
|
As of September 30, 2010, Mississippi Power had spent a total of $195.5 million on the Kemper
IGCC, including regulatory filing costs. Of this total, $156.4 million was included in CWIP
(net of $24.8 million recorded as a receivable of CCPI2 grant funds), $11.5 million was recorded
in other regulatory assets, $1.3 million was recorded in other deferred charges and assets, and
$1.5 million was expensed. Upon receipt of the issuance of the final certificate order in May
2010, construction screening costs including regulatory filing costs totaled $129.0 million. As
of May 31, 2010, construction related screening costs of $116.2 million were reclassified to
CWIP while the non-capital related costs of $11.2 million and $0.6 million were classified in
other regulatory assets and other deferred charges, respectively, and $1.0 million was
previously expensed. |
|
|
|
|
The ultimate outcome of these matters cannot now be determined. |
164
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
(C) |
|
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS |
|
|
|
As of September 30, 2010, assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis
during the period, together with the level of the fair value hierarchy in which they fall, were
as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair Value Measurements Using |
|
|
|
|
Quoted Prices |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
in Active |
|
Significant |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Markets for |
|
Other |
|
Significant |
|
|
|
|
Identical |
|
Observable |
|
Unobservable |
|
|
|
|
Assets |
|
Inputs |
|
Inputs |
|
|
As of September 30, 2010: |
|
(Level 1) |
|
(Level 2) |
|
(Level 3) |
|
Total |
|
|
(in millions) |
Southern Company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
8 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
8 |
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
|
|
|
|
|
17 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
17 |
|
Foreign currency derivatives |
|
|
|
|
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5 |
|
Nuclear decommissioning trusts(a)(b) |
|
|
758 |
|
|
|
390 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,148 |
|
Cash equivalents and restricted cash |
|
|
1,082 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,082 |
|
Other investments |
|
|
21 |
|
|
|
51 |
|
|
|
13 |
|
|
|
85 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
1,861 |
|
|
$ |
471 |
|
|
$ |
13 |
|
|
$ |
2,345 |
|
|
Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
256 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
256 |
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
258 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
258 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Alabama Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nuclear decommissioning trusts:(a) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Domestic equity |
|
$ |
304 |
|
|
$ |
55 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
359 |
|
U.S. Treasury and government agency securities |
|
|
20 |
|
|
|
8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
28 |
|
Corporate bonds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
86 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
86 |
|
Mortgage and asset backed securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
32 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
32 |
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
|
|
10 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10 |
|
Cash equivalents and restricted cash |
|
|
319 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
319 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
643 |
|
|
$ |
191 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
834 |
|
|
Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
54 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
54 |
|
|
165
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair Value Measurements Using |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Quoted Prices |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
in Active |
|
Significant |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Markets for |
|
Other |
|
Significant |
|
|
|
|
Identical |
|
Observable |
|
Unobservable |
|
|
|
|
Assets |
|
Inputs |
|
Inputs |
|
|
As of September 30, 2010: |
|
(Level 1) |
|
(Level 2) |
|
(Level 3) |
|
Total |
|
|
(in millions) |
Georgia Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nuclear decommissioning trusts:(a) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Domestic equity |
|
$ |
434 |
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
435 |
|
U.S. Treasury and government agency securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
26 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
26 |
|
Municipal bonds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
38 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
38 |
|
Corporate bonds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
76 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
76 |
|
Mortgage and asset backed securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
41 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
41 |
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
|
|
17 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
17 |
|
Cash equivalents |
|
|
574 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
574 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
1,008 |
|
|
$ |
199 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
1,207 |
|
|
Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
121 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
121 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gulf Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash equivalents |
|
$ |
12 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
12 |
|
|
Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
18 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
18 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mississippi Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign currency derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
Cash equivalents |
|
|
125 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
125 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
125 |
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
130 |
|
|
Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
54 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
54 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
7 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
7 |
|
|
Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
9 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
9 |
|
|
|
|
|
(a) |
|
Excludes receivables related to investment income, pending investment sales, and
payables related to pending investment purchases. |
(b) |
|
For additional detail, see the nuclear decommissioning trusts sections for Alabama
Power and Georgia Power in this table. |
|
|
|
Valuation Methodologies |
|
|
|
|
The energy-related derivatives primarily consist of over-the-counter financial products for
natural gas and physical power products, including from time to time, basis swaps. These are
standard products used within the energy industry and are valued using the market approach. The
inputs used are mainly from observable market sources, such as forward natural gas prices, power
prices, implied volatility, and LIBOR interest rates. Interest rate and foreign currency
derivatives are also standard over-the-counter financial products valued using the market
approach. Inputs for interest rate derivatives include LIBOR interest rates, interest rate
futures contracts, and occasionally implied volatility of interest rate options. Inputs for
foreign currency derivatives are from observable market sources. See Note (H) herein for
additional information on how these derivatives are used. |
166
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
Other investments include investments in funds that are valued using the market approach and
income approach. Securities that are traded in the open market are valued at the closing price
on their principal exchange as of the measurement date. Discounts are applied in accordance
with GAAP when certain trading restrictions exist. For investments that are not traded in the
open market, the price paid will have been determined based on market factors including
comparable multiples and the expectations regarding cash flows and business plan execution. As
the investments mature or if market conditions change materially, further analysis of the fair
market value of the investment is performed. This analysis is typically based on a metric, such
as multiple of earnings, revenues, earnings before interest and income taxes, or earnings
adjusted for certain cash changes. These multiples are based on comparable multiples for
publicly traded companies or other relevant prior transactions. |
|
|
|
|
For fair value measurements of investments within the nuclear decommissioning trusts and rabbi
trust funds, specifically the fixed income assets using significant other observable inputs and
significant unobservable inputs, the primary valuation technique used is the market approach.
External pricing vendors are designated for each of the asset classes in the nuclear
decommissioning trusts and rabbi trust funds with each security discriminately assigned a
primary pricing source, based on similar characteristics. |
|
|
|
|
A market price secured from the primary source vendor is then used in the valuation of the
assets within the trusts. As a general approach, market pricing vendors gather market data
(including indices and market research reports) and integrate relative credit information,
observed market movements, and sector news into proprietary pricing models, pricing systems, and
mathematical tools. Dealer quotes and other market information including live trading levels
and pricing analysts judgment are also obtained when available. |
|
|
|
As of September 30, 2010, the fair value measurements of investments calculated at net asset
value per share (or its equivalent), as well as the nature and risks of those investments, were
as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair |
|
Unfunded |
|
Redemption |
|
Redemption |
As of September 30, 2010: |
|
Value |
|
Commitments |
|
Frequency |
|
Notice Period |
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nuclear
decommissioning trusts: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate bonds commingled funds |
|
$ |
35 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
|
1 to 3 days |
|
Other commingled funds |
|
|
17 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
Not applicable |
Trust owned life insurance |
|
|
81 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
15 days |
Cash equivalents and restricted cash: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Money market funds |
|
|
1,082 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
Not applicable |
Other: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred compensation money market
funds |
|
|
1 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
Not applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Alabama Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nuclear
decommissioning trusts: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Trust owned life insurance |
|
$ |
81 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
15 days |
Cash equivalents and restricted cash: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Money market funds |
|
|
319 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
Not applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Georgia Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nuclear decommissioning trusts: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate bonds commingled funds |
|
$ |
35 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
|
1 to 3 days |
|
Other commingled funds |
|
|
17 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
Not applicable |
Cash equivalents: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Money market funds |
|
|
574 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
Not applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gulf Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash equivalents: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Money market funds |
|
$ |
12 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
Not applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mississippi Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash equivalents: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Money market funds |
|
$ |
125 |
|
|
None |
|
Daily |
|
Not applicable |
|
167
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
The commingled funds in the nuclear decommissioning trusts invest primarily in a
diversified portfolio of investment high grade money market instruments, including, but not
limited to, commercial paper, notes, repurchase agreements, and other evidences of indebtedness
with a maturity not exceeding 13 months from the date of purchase. The commingled funds will,
however, maintain a dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of 90 days or less. The assets
may be longer term investment grade fixed income obligations having a maximum five-year final
maturity with put features or floating rates with a reset rate date of 13 months or less. The
primary objective for the commingled funds is a high level of current income consistent with
stability of principal and liquidity. |
|
|
|
|
Alabama Powers nuclear decommissioning trusts include investments in Trust-Owned Life Insurance
(TOLI). The taxable nuclear decommissioning trust invests in the TOLI in order to minimize the
impact of taxes on the portfolio and can draw on the value of the TOLI through death proceeds,
loans against the cash surrender value, and/or the cash surrender value, subject to legal
restrictions. The amounts reported in the tables above reflect the fair value of investments
the insurer has made in relation to the TOLI agreements. The nuclear decommissioning trusts do
not own the underlying investments, but the fair value of the investments approximates the cash
surrender value of the TOLI policies. The investments made by the insurer are in commingled
funds. The commingled funds primarily include investments in domestic and international equity
securities and predominantly high-quality fixed income securities. These fixed income
securities include U.S. Treasury and government agency fixed income securities, non-U.S.
government and agency fixed income securities, domestic and foreign corporate fixed income
securities, and, to some degree, mortgage and asset backed securities. The passively managed
funds seek to replicate the performance of a related index. The actively managed funds seek to
exceed the performance of a related index through security analysis and selection. |
|
|
|
|
Southern Company, Alabama Power, and Georgia Power account for investment securities held in the
nuclear decommissioning trust funds at fair value. For the three months and nine months ended
September 30, 2010, the increase in fair value of the funds, which includes reinvested interest and
dividends, is recorded in the regulatory liability and was $43 million and $27 million,
respectively, for Alabama Power, $51 million and $25 million, respectively, for Georgia Power, and
$94 million and $52 million, respectively, for Southern Company. |
|
|
|
|
The money market funds are short-term investments of excess funds in various money market mutual
funds, which are portfolios of short-term debt securities. The money market funds are regulated
by the SEC and typically receive the highest rating from credit rating agencies. Regulatory and
rating agency requirements for money market funds include minimum credit ratings and maximum
maturities for individual securities and a maximum weighted average portfolio maturity.
Redemptions are available on a same day basis up to the full amount of the investments in the
money market funds. |
|
|
|
Changes in the fair value measurement of the Level 3 items using significant unobservable inputs
for Southern Company at September 30, 2010 were as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Level 3 |
|
|
Other |
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
|
September 30, 2010 |
|
September 30, 2010 |
|
|
(in millions) |
Beginning balance |
|
$ |
19 |
|
|
$ |
35 |
|
Total gains (losses) realized/unrealized: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Included in earnings |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
Included in OCI |
|
|
(5 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
Transfers out of Level 3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(20 |
) |
|
Ending balance at September 30, 2010 |
|
$ |
13 |
|
|
$ |
13 |
|
|
|
|
|
Transfers in and out of the levels of fair value hierarchy are recognized as of the end of the
reporting period. At March 31, 2010, the value of one of the investments was reclassified from
Level 3 to Level 1 because the securities began trading on the public market. The reclassification
is reflected in the table above as a transfer out of Level 3 at its fair value. |
168
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
At September 30, 2010, other financial instruments for which the carrying amount did not equal fair
value were as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Carrying Amount |
|
Fair Value |
|
|
(in millions) |
Long-term debt: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Company |
|
$ |
20,089 |
|
|
$ |
21,479 |
|
Alabama Power |
|
$ |
6,183 |
|
|
$ |
6,679 |
|
Georgia Power |
|
$ |
8,800 |
|
|
$ |
9,371 |
|
Gulf Power |
|
$ |
1,297 |
|
|
$ |
1,386 |
|
Mississippi Power |
|
$ |
617 |
|
|
$ |
657 |
|
Southern Power |
|
$ |
1,298 |
|
|
$ |
1,424 |
|
|
|
|
The fair values were based on closing market prices (Level 1) or closing prices of comparable
instruments (Level 2). |
|
|
|
Earnings per Share |
|
|
|
|
For Southern Company, the only difference in computing basic and diluted earnings per share is
attributable to exercised options and outstanding options under the stock option plan. See Note 8
to the financial statements of Southern Company in Item 8 of the Form 10-K for further information
on the stock option plan. The effect of the stock options was determined using the treasury stock
method. |
|
|
|
Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share were as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months |
|
Three Months |
|
Nine Months |
|
Nine Months |
|
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
|
September 30, 2010 |
|
September 30, 2009 |
|
September 30, 2010 |
|
September 30, 2009 |
|
|
(in thousands) |
As reported shares |
|
|
835,953 |
|
|
|
798,418 |
|
|
|
828,947 |
|
|
|
789,675 |
|
Effect of options |
|
|
5,882 |
|
|
|
1,760 |
|
|
|
4,273 |
|
|
|
1,584 |
|
|
|
|
Diluted shares |
|
|
841,835 |
|
|
|
800,178 |
|
|
|
833,220 |
|
|
|
791,259 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock options that were not included in the diluted earnings per share calculation because they
were anti-dilutive were 6.7 million and 25.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2010
and 2009, respectively, and 13.7 million and 37.7 million for the nine months ended September 30,
2010 and 2009, respectively. Assuming an average stock price of $38.01 (the highest exercise price
of the anti-dilutive options outstanding), the effect of options would have increased by 0.4
million and 2.2 million shares for the three months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009,
respectively, and 0.8 million and 3.3 million shares for the nine months ended September 30, 2010
and 2009, respectively. |
169
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
Changes in Stockholders Equity |
|
|
|
The following table presents year-to-date changes in stockholders equity of Southern Company: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Preferred and |
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
Common |
|
Preference |
|
Total |
|
|
Common Shares |
|
Stockholders |
|
Stock of |
|
Stockholders |
|
|
Issued |
|
Treasury |
|
Equity |
|
Subsidiaries |
|
Equity |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
(in millions) |
Balance at December 31, 2009 |
|
|
820,152 |
|
|
|
(505 |
) |
|
$ |
14,878 |
|
|
$ |
707 |
|
|
$ |
15,585 |
|
Net income after dividends on
preferred and preference stock |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,822 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,822 |
|
Other comprehensive income (loss) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
16 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
16 |
|
Stock issued |
|
|
18,994 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
650 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
650 |
|
Cash dividends on common stock |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,114 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,114 |
) |
Other |
|
|
|
|
|
|
30 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
Balance at September 30, 2010 |
|
|
839,146 |
|
|
|
(475 |
) |
|
$ |
16,255 |
|
|
$ |
707 |
|
|
$ |
16,962 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2008 |
|
|
777,616 |
|
|
|
(424 |
) |
|
$ |
13,276 |
|
|
$ |
707 |
|
|
$ |
13,983 |
|
Net income after dividends on
preferred and preference stock |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,394 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,394 |
|
Other comprehensive income (loss) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
20 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
20 |
|
Stock issued |
|
|
23,078 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
692 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
692 |
|
Cash dividends on common stock |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,018 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,018 |
) |
Other |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(58 |
) |
|
|
(2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(2 |
) |
|
Balance at September 30, 2009 |
|
|
800,694 |
|
|
|
(482 |
) |
|
$ |
14,362 |
|
|
$ |
707 |
|
|
$ |
15,069 |
|
|
|
|
|
Bank Credit Arrangements |
|
|
|
|
Bank credit arrangements provide liquidity support to the registrants commercial paper borrowings
and the traditional operating companies variable rate pollution control revenue bonds. See Note 6
to the financial statements of Southern Company, Alabama Power, Georgia Power, Gulf Power,
Mississippi Power, and Southern Power under Bank Credit Arrangements in Item 8 of the Form 10-K
for additional information. |
|
|
|
The following table outlines the credit arrangements by company as of September 30, 2010: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Executable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Expires Within One |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Term-Loans |
|
Expires |
|
Year(a) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
No |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
One |
|
Two |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Term |
|
Term |
Company |
|
Total |
|
Unused |
|
Year |
|
Years |
|
2010 |
|
2011 |
|
2012 |
|
Out |
|
Out |
|
|
(in millions) |
Southern
Company |
|
$ |
950 |
|
|
$ |
950 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
950 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Alabama Power |
|
|
1,271 |
|
|
|
1,271 |
|
|
|
372 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
|
446 |
|
|
|
765 |
|
|
|
372 |
|
|
|
134 |
|
Georgia Power |
|
|
1,715 |
|
|
|
1,703 |
|
|
|
220 |
|
|
|
40 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
595 |
|
|
|
1,120 |
|
|
|
260 |
|
|
|
335 |
|
Gulf Power |
|
|
235 |
|
|
|
235 |
|
|
|
205 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50 |
|
|
|
185 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
205 |
|
|
|
30 |
|
Mississippi Power |
|
|
161 |
|
|
|
161 |
|
|
|
65 |
|
|
|
41 |
|
|
|
16 |
|
|
|
145 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
106 |
|
|
|
55 |
|
Southern Power |
|
|
400 |
|
|
|
400 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
400 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
60 |
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
4,792 |
|
|
$ |
4,780 |
|
|
$ |
922 |
|
|
$ |
81 |
|
|
$ |
126 |
|
|
$ |
1,431 |
|
|
$ |
3,235 |
|
|
$ |
1,003 |
|
|
$ |
554 |
|
|
|
|
|
(a) |
|
Reflects facilities expiring on or before September 30, 2011. |
170
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
Subsequent to September 30, 2010, Gulf Power renewed an existing credit agreement totaling $30
million and increased an existing credit agreement by $5 million; both agreements contain
provisions allowing a one-year term loan executable at expiration and extended the expiration date
to 2011. |
|
|
|
Southern Company has a defined benefit, trusteed, pension plan covering substantially all
employees. The plan is funded in accordance with requirements of the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act of 1974, as amended (ERISA). No mandatory contributions to the plan are expected for
the years ending December 31, 2010 and 2011, although management may consider making discretionary
contributions. Southern Company also provides certain defined benefit pension plans for a selected
group of management and highly compensated employees. Benefits under these non-qualified pension
plans are funded on a cash basis. In addition, Southern Company provides certain medical care and
life insurance benefits for retired employees through other postretirement benefit plans. The
traditional operating companies fund related trusts to the extent required by their respective
regulatory commissions. |
|
|
|
|
See Note 2 to the financial statements of Southern Company, Alabama Power, Georgia Power, Gulf
Power, and Mississippi Power in Item 8 of the Form 10-K. |
|
|
|
Components of the net periodic benefit costs for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010
and 2009 were as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern |
|
Alabama |
|
Georgia |
|
Gulf |
|
Mississippi |
PENSION PLANS |
|
Company |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Three Months Ended September 30, 2010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Service cost |
|
$ |
43 |
|
|
$ |
10 |
|
|
$ |
13 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
Interest cost |
|
|
98 |
|
|
|
25 |
|
|
|
36 |
|
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
Expected return on plan assets |
|
|
(138 |
) |
|
|
(42 |
) |
|
|
(54 |
) |
|
|
(6 |
) |
|
|
(5 |
) |
Net amortization |
|
|
11 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
Net cost (income) |
|
$ |
14 |
|
|
$ |
(4 |
) |
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Service cost |
|
$ |
129 |
|
|
$ |
31 |
|
|
$ |
40 |
|
|
$ |
6 |
|
|
$ |
6 |
|
Interest cost |
|
|
293 |
|
|
|
73 |
|
|
|
109 |
|
|
|
13 |
|
|
|
13 |
|
Expected return on plan assets |
|
|
(413 |
) |
|
|
(126 |
) |
|
|
(164 |
) |
|
|
(18 |
) |
|
|
(16 |
) |
Net amortization |
|
|
32 |
|
|
|
8 |
|
|
|
11 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
Net cost (income) |
|
$ |
41 |
|
|
$ |
(14 |
) |
|
$ |
(4 |
) |
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended September 30, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Service cost |
|
$ |
36 |
|
|
$ |
8 |
|
|
$ |
12 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
Interest cost |
|
|
96 |
|
|
|
24 |
|
|
|
37 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
Expected return on plan assets |
|
|
(135 |
) |
|
|
(41 |
) |
|
|
(54 |
) |
|
|
(6 |
) |
|
|
(6 |
) |
Net amortization |
|
|
11 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
Net cost (income) |
|
$ |
8 |
|
|
$ |
(6 |
) |
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Service cost |
|
$ |
109 |
|
|
$ |
25 |
|
|
$ |
36 |
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
Interest cost |
|
|
290 |
|
|
|
72 |
|
|
|
110 |
|
|
|
13 |
|
|
|
13 |
|
Expected return on plan assets |
|
|
(406 |
) |
|
|
(123 |
) |
|
|
(162 |
) |
|
|
(18 |
) |
|
|
(16 |
) |
Net amortization |
|
|
32 |
|
|
|
8 |
|
|
|
12 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
Net cost (income) |
|
$ |
25 |
|
|
$ |
(18 |
) |
|
$ |
(4 |
) |
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
171
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern |
|
Alabama |
|
Georgia |
|
Gulf |
|
Mississippi |
POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS |
|
Company |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Three Months Ended September 30, 2010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Service cost |
|
$ |
6 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Interest cost |
|
|
25 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
11 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
Expected return on plan assets |
|
|
(15 |
) |
|
|
(7 |
) |
|
|
(8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net amortization |
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cost (income) |
|
$ |
21 |
|
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
$ |
8 |
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Service cost |
|
$ |
19 |
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
$ |
7 |
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
Interest cost |
|
|
75 |
|
|
|
20 |
|
|
|
33 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
Expected return on plan assets |
|
|
(47 |
) |
|
|
(19 |
) |
|
|
(23 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
Net amortization |
|
|
15 |
|
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cost (income) |
|
$ |
62 |
|
|
$ |
11 |
|
|
$ |
25 |
|
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended September 30, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Service cost |
|
$ |
7 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Interest cost |
|
|
28 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
13 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
Expected return on plan assets |
|
|
(16 |
) |
|
|
(6 |
) |
|
|
(8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net amortization |
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
Net cost (income) |
|
$ |
26 |
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
$ |
11 |
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Service cost |
|
$ |
20 |
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
$ |
7 |
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
Interest cost |
|
|
85 |
|
|
|
22 |
|
|
|
38 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
Expected return on plan assets |
|
|
(46 |
) |
|
|
(18 |
) |
|
|
(23 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
Net amortization |
|
|
21 |
|
|
|
6 |
|
|
|
11 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
Net cost (income) |
|
$ |
80 |
|
|
$ |
15 |
|
|
$ |
33 |
|
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
|
(G) |
|
EFFECTIVE TAX RATE AND UNRECOGNIZED TAX BENEFITS |
|
|
|
Effective Tax Rate |
|
|
|
|
Southern Companys effective tax rate was 33.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2010, as
compared to 36.5% for the corresponding period in 2009. Southern Companys effective tax rate is
lower than the statutory rate primarily due to its employee stock plans dividend deduction and
AFUDC equity, which is not taxable. See Note 5 to the financial statements of each registrant in
Item 8 of the Form 10-K for information on the effective income tax rate. Southern Companys
effective tax rate decreased for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 as compared to September
30, 2009 primarily due to the $202 million charge for the MC Asset Recovery settlement, which
occurred in the first quarter 2009. Southern Company is currently evaluating potential recovery of
the settlement payment through various means including insurance, claims in U.S. Bankruptcy Court,
and other avenues. The degree to which any recovery is realized will determine, in part, the final
income tax treatment of the settlement payment. Additionally, Georgia Powers effective tax rate
decreased for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 compared to September 30, 2009 from 34.7% to
32.3% primarily due to the recognition of additional Georgia state tax credits and additional AFUDC
equity. Southern Powers effective tax rate decreased for the nine months ended
September 30, 2010 compared to September 30, 2009 from 38.5% to 32.3% primarily due to tax benefits
associated with the construction of its biomass facility. |
172
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
Unrecognized Tax Benefits |
|
|
|
Changes during 2010 for unrecognized tax benefits were as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern |
|
Alabama |
|
Georgia |
|
Gulf |
|
Mississippi |
|
Southern |
|
|
Company |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Unrecognized tax benefits as of
December 31, 2009 |
|
$ |
199 |
|
|
$ |
6 |
|
|
$ |
181 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
Tax positions from current periods |
|
|
37 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
35 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
Tax position increases from prior periods |
|
|
67 |
|
|
|
31 |
|
|
|
32 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
Tax position decreases from prior periods |
|
|
(32 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(28 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Reductions due to expired statute of
limitations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of September 30, 2010 |
|
$ |
271 |
|
|
$ |
38 |
|
|
$ |
220 |
|
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
The tax positions increase from current periods relates primarily to the Georgia state tax
credits litigation and other miscellaneous uncertain tax positions. The tax positions increase
from prior periods relates primarily to the tax accounting method change for repairs and other
miscellaneous uncertain tax positions. The tax position decrease from prior periods relates
primarily to the Georgia state tax credits litigation. See Note (B) under Income Tax Matters
Georgia State Income Tax Credits and Tax Method of Accounting for Repairs herein for additional
information.
The impact on Southern Companys effective tax rate, if recognized, was as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, |
|
|
As of September 30, 2010 |
|
2009 |
|
|
Georgia |
|
|
|
Southern |
|
Southern |
|
|
Power |
|
Other |
|
Company |
|
Company |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Tax positions impacting the effective tax rate |
|
$ |
191 |
|
|
$ |
15 |
|
|
$ |
206 |
|
|
$ |
199 |
|
Tax positions not impacting the effective tax rate |
|
|
29 |
|
|
|
36 |
|
|
|
65 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance of unrecognized tax benefits |
|
$ |
220 |
|
|
$ |
51 |
|
|
$ |
271 |
|
|
$ |
199 |
|
|
|
|
|
The tax positions impacting the effective tax rate primarily relate to Georgia state tax
credit litigation at Georgia Power and the production activities deduction tax position. The tax
positions not impacting the effective tax rate relate to the timing difference associated with the
tax accounting method change for repairs. These amounts are presented on a gross basis without
considering the related federal or state income tax impact. See Note (B) under Income Tax Matters
Georgia State Income Tax Credits and Tax Method of Accounting for Repairs herein for
additional information. |
|
|
|
Accrued interest for unrecognized tax benefits was as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Georgia |
|
Other |
|
Southern |
|
|
Power |
|
Registrants |
|
Company |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Interest accrued as of December 31, 2009 |
|
$ |
20 |
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
21 |
|
Interest reclassified due to settlements |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest accrued during the period |
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
6 |
|
|
Balance as of September 30, 2010 |
|
$ |
25 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
27 |
|
|
|
|
|
None of the registrants accrued any penalties on uncertain tax positions. |
|
|
|
|
It is reasonably possible that the amount of the unrecognized tax benefits associated with a
majority of Southern Companys and Georgia Powers unrecognized tax positions will significantly
increase or decrease within the next 12 months. The resolution of the Georgia state tax credits
litigation would substantially reduce the balances. The conclusion or settlement of state audits
could also impact the balances significantly. At this time, an estimate of the range of reasonably
possible outcomes cannot be determined. |
173
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
Southern Company, the traditional operating companies, and Southern Power are exposed to market
risks, primarily commodity price risk and interest rate risk and occasionally foreign currency
risk. To manage the volatility attributable to these exposures, each company nets its exposures,
where possible, to take advantage of natural offsets and enters into various derivative
transactions for the remaining exposures pursuant to each companys policies in areas such as
counterparty exposure and risk management practices. Each companys policy is that derivatives are
to be used primarily for hedging purposes and mandates strict adherence to all applicable risk
management policies. Derivative positions are monitored using techniques including, but not
limited to, market valuation, value at risk, stress testing, and sensitivity analysis. Derivative
instruments are recognized at fair value in the balance sheets as either assets or liabilities. |
|
|
|
Energy-Related Derivatives |
|
|
|
|
The traditional operating companies and Southern Power enter into energy-related derivatives to
hedge exposures to electricity, gas, and other fuel price changes. However, due to cost-based rate
regulations, the traditional operating companies have limited exposure to market volatility in
commodity fuel prices and prices of electricity. Each of the traditional operating companies
manages fuel-hedging programs, implemented per the guidelines of their respective state PSCs,
through the use of financial derivative contracts. Southern Power has limited exposure to market
volatility in commodity fuel prices and prices of electricity because its long-term sales contracts
shift substantially all fuel cost responsibility to the purchaser. However, Southern Power has
been and may continue to be exposed to market volatility in energy-related commodity prices as a
result of sales of uncontracted generating capacity. |
|
|
|
|
To mitigate residual risks relative to movements in electricity prices, the traditional operating
companies and Southern Power may enter into physical fixed-price or heat rate contracts for the
purchase and sale of electricity through the wholesale electricity market. To mitigate residual
risks relative to movements in gas prices, the traditional operating companies and Southern Power
may enter into fixed-price contracts for natural gas purchases; however, a significant portion of
contracts are priced at market. |
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivative contracts are accounted for in one of three methods: |
|
|
|
Regulatory Hedges Energy-related derivative contracts which are designated as regulatory
hedges relate primarily to the traditional operating companies fuel-hedging programs, where
gains and losses are initially recorded as regulatory liabilities and assets, respectively,
and then are included in fuel expense as the underlying fuel is used in operations and
ultimately recovered through the respective fuel cost recovery clauses. |
|
|
|
|
Cash Flow Hedges Gains and losses on energy-related derivatives designated as cash flow
hedges, which are mainly used by Southern Power, to hedge anticipated purchases and sales are
initially deferred in OCI before being recognized in the statements of income in the same
period as the hedged transactions are reflected in earnings. |
|
|
|
|
Not Designated Gains and losses on energy-related derivative contracts that are not
designated or fail to qualify as hedges are recognized in the statements of income as
incurred. |
|
|
|
Some energy-related derivative contracts require physical delivery as opposed to financial
settlement, and this type of derivative is both common and prevalent within the electric industry.
When an energy-related derivative contract is settled physically, any cumulative unrealized gain or
loss is reversed and the contract price is recognized in the respective line item representing the
actual price of the underlying goods being delivered. |
174
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
At September 30, 2010, the net volume of energy-related derivative contracts for power and natural
gas positions for the registrants, together with the longest hedge date over which the respective
entity is hedging its exposure to the variability in future cash flows for forecasted transactions
and the longest date for derivatives not designated as hedges, were as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Power |
|
Gas |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Longest |
|
Longest |
|
Net |
|
Longest |
|
Longest |
|
|
Net Sold |
|
Hedge |
|
Non-Hedge |
|
Purchased |
|
Hedge |
|
Non-Hedge |
As of September 30, 2010: |
|
MWH |
|
Date |
|
Date |
|
mmBtu |
|
Date |
|
Date |
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Company |
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
|
2011 |
|
|
|
138 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
Alabama Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
34 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
|
|
|
|
Georgia Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
61 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
|
|
|
|
Gulf Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
14 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
|
|
|
|
Mississippi Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
20 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Power |
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
|
|
2011 |
|
|
|
9 |
|
|
|
2012 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
|
|
|
|
In addition to the volumes discussed in the table above, the traditional operating companies
and Southern Power enter into physical natural gas supply contracts that provide the option to sell
back excess gas due to operational constraints. The expected volume of natural gas subject to such
a feature is 5 million mmBtu for Southern Company, 3 million mmBtu for Georgia Power, and less than
1 million mmBtu for each of the other registrants. |
|
|
|
|
For the next 12-month period ending September 30, 2011, Southern Company and Southern Power expect
to reclassify $5 million in gains from OCI to revenue and $2 million in losses from OCI to fuel
expense with respect to cash flow hedges. Such amounts are immaterial for all other registrants. |
|
|
|
|
Interest Rate Derivatives |
|
|
|
|
Southern Company and certain subsidiaries also enter into interest rate derivatives, which include
forward-starting interest rate swaps, to hedge exposure to changes in interest rates. Derivatives
related to existing variable rate securities or forecasted transactions are accounted for as cash
flow hedges. Derivatives related to existing fixed rate securities are accounted for as fair value
hedges. The derivatives employed as hedging instruments are structured to minimize
ineffectiveness. |
|
|
|
|
For cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the derivatives fair value gains or losses is
recorded in OCI and is reclassified into earnings at the same time the hedged transactions affect
earnings. Any ineffectiveness is recorded directly to earnings. For fair value hedges, the
derivatives fair value gains or losses and hedged items fair value gains or losses are both
recorded directly to earnings,
providing an offset with any difference representing
ineffectiveness. |
|
|
|
At September 30, 2010, the following interest rate derivatives were outstanding: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hedge |
|
Gain (Loss) |
|
|
Notional |
|
Interest Rate |
|
Interest Rate |
|
Maturity |
|
September 30, |
|
|
Amount |
|
Received |
|
Paid |
|
Date |
|
2010 |
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
Cash flow hedges
of existing debt |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Company |
|
$ |
300 |
|
3-month LIBOR + 0.40% spread |
|
1.24 |
%* |
|
October 2011 |
|
$ |
(2 |
) |
Fair value hedges
of existing debt |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Company |
|
|
350 |
|
4.15% |
|
3-month LIBOR + 1.96%* spread |
|
May 2014 |
|
|
17 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
650 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
15 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
175
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
The following table reflects the estimated pre-tax gains (losses) that will be reclassified
from OCI to interest expense for the next 12-month period ending September 30, 2011, together with
the longest date that total deferred gains and losses are expected to be amortized into earnings. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated Gain (Loss) to |
|
|
|
|
be Reclassified for the |
|
Total Deferred |
|
|
12 Months Ending |
|
Gains (Losses) |
Registrant |
|
September 30, 2011 |
|
Amortized Through |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Company |
|
$ |
(18 |
) |
|
|
2037 |
|
Alabama Power |
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
2035 |
|
Georgia Power |
|
|
(5 |
) |
|
|
2037 |
|
Gulf Power |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
2020 |
|
Southern Power |
|
|
(11 |
) |
|
|
2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign Currency Derivatives |
|
|
|
|
Southern Company and certain subsidiaries may enter into foreign currency derivatives to hedge
exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates arising from purchases of equipment
denominated in a currency other than U.S. dollars. Derivatives related to a firm commitment in a
foreign currency transaction are accounted for as a fair value hedge where the derivatives fair
value gains or losses and hedged items fair value gains or losses are both recorded directly to
earnings. Derivatives related to a forecasted transaction are accounted for as a cash flow hedge
where the effective portion of the derivatives fair value gains or losses is recorded in OCI and
is reclassified into earnings at the same time the hedged transactions affect earnings. Any
ineffectiveness is recorded directly to earnings. The derivatives employed as hedging instruments
are structured to minimize ineffectiveness. |
|
|
|
At September 30, 2010, the following foreign currency derivatives were outstanding: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gain (Loss) |
|
|
Notional |
|
|
|
|
|
Hedge |
|
September 30, |
|
|
Amount |
|
Forward Rate |
|
Maturity Date |
|
2010 |
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
Cash flow hedges of
forecasted transactions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Company |
|
YEN780 |
|
85.45 Yen per Dollar* |
|
Various through May 2011 |
|
$ |
|
|
Fair value hedges
of firm commitments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mississippi Power |
|
EUR36.7 |
|
1.228 Dollars per Euro* |
|
Various through June 2012 |
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
176
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
Derivative Financial Statement Presentation and Amounts |
|
|
|
At September 30, 2010, the fair value of energy-related derivatives, interest rate derivatives and
foreign currency derivatives were reflected in the balance sheets as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Asset Derivatives at September 30, 2010 |
|
|
Fair Value |
Derivative Category and Balance Sheet |
|
Southern |
|
Alabama |
|
Georgia |
|
Gulf |
|
Mississippi |
|
Southern |
Location |
|
Company |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Derivatives designated as hedging
instruments in cash flow and fair value
hedges |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other current assets* |
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Assets from risk management activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5 |
|
Interest rate derivatives: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other current assets |
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other deferred charges and assets |
|
|
10 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign currency derivatives: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other current assets |
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other deferred charges and assets |
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total derivatives designated as hedging
instruments in cash flow and fair value
hedges |
|
$ |
27 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Derivatives not designated as hedging
instruments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other current assets* |
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Assets from risk management activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 |
|
Other deferred charges and assets |
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total derivatives not designated as
hedging instruments |
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total asset derivatives |
|
$ |
30 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
$ |
7 |
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
Southern Company includes Assets from risk management activities in Other current
assets where applicable. |
177
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liability Derivatives at September 30, 2010 |
|
|
Fair Value |
Derivative Category and Balance Sheet |
|
Southern |
|
Alabama |
|
Georgia |
|
Gulf |
|
Mississippi |
|
Southern |
Location |
|
Company |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Derivatives designated as hedging
instruments for regulatory purposes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities from risk management activities |
|
$ |
167 |
|
|
$ |
40 |
|
|
$ |
84 |
|
|
$ |
13 |
|
|
$ |
30 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other deferred credits and liabilities |
|
|
80 |
|
|
|
14 |
|
|
|
37 |
|
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
24 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total derivatives designated as hedging
instruments for regulatory purposes |
|
$ |
247 |
|
|
$ |
54 |
|
|
$ |
121 |
|
|
$ |
18 |
|
|
$ |
54 |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
in cash flow and fair value hedges |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities from risk management activities |
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
Other deferred credits and liabilities |
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
Interest rate derivatives: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities from risk management activities |
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total derivatives designated as hedging
instruments in cash flow and fair value hedges |
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Derivatives not designated as hedging
instruments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities from risk management activities |
|
$ |
5 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
5 |
|
Other deferred credits and liabilities |
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
Total derivatives not designated as hedging
instruments |
|
$ |
6 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total liability derivatives |
|
$ |
258 |
|
|
$ |
54 |
|
|
$ |
121 |
|
|
$ |
18 |
|
|
$ |
54 |
|
|
$ |
9 |
|
|
|
|
|
All derivative instruments are measured at fair value. See Note (C) herein for additional
information. |
|
|
|
At September 30, 2010, the pre-tax effect of unrealized derivative gains (losses) arising from
energy-related derivative instruments designated as regulatory hedging instruments and deferred on
the balance sheet were as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Regulatory Hedge Unrealized Gain (Loss) Recognized on the Balance Sheet |
Derivative Category and Balance Sheet |
|
Southern |
|
Alabama |
|
Georgia |
|
Gulf |
|
Mississippi |
Location |
|
Company |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Energy-related derivatives: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other regulatory assets, current |
|
$ |
(167 |
) |
|
$ |
(40 |
) |
|
$ |
(84 |
) |
|
$ |
(13 |
) |
|
$ |
(30 |
) |
Other regulatory assets, deferred |
|
|
(80 |
) |
|
|
(14 |
) |
|
|
(37 |
) |
|
|
(5 |
) |
|
|
(24 |
) |
|
Total energy-related derivative gains (losses) |
|
$ |
(247 |
) |
|
$ |
(54 |
) |
|
$ |
(121 |
) |
|
$ |
(18 |
) |
|
$ |
(54 |
) |
|
|
|
|
For the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2010, the pre-tax gains from interest
rate derivatives designated as fair value hedging instruments on Southern Companys statements of
income were $9 million and $17 million, respectively. These amounts were offset with changes in
the fair value of the hedged debt. |
|
|
|
|
For the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2010, the pre-tax gains from foreign
currency derivatives designated as fair value hedging instruments on Mississippi Powers statements
of income were $5 million. These amounts were offset with changes in the fair value of the
purchase commitment related to equipment purchases. |
178
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
For the three months ended September 30, 2010 and September 30, 2009, the pre-tax effect of
energy-related derivatives and interest rate derivatives designated as cash flow hedging
instruments on the statements of income were as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gain (Loss) |
|
|
|
|
Recognized in OCI |
|
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI |
Derivatives in Cash Flow |
|
on Derivative |
|
into Income (Effective Portion) |
Hedging Relationships |
|
(Effective Portion) |
|
Statements of Income Location |
|
Amount |
|
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Southern Company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
Fuel |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(3 |
) |
|
Interest expense |
|
|
(7 |
) |
|
|
(12 |
) |
|
Total |
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
(4 |
) |
|
|
|
$ |
(7 |
) |
|
$ |
(12 |
) |
|
Alabama Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
Interest expense |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
(3 |
) |
|
Georgia Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
Interest expense |
|
$ |
(3 |
) |
|
$ |
(6 |
) |
|
Gulf Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
Interest expense |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
Southern Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
Fuel |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense |
|
|
(3 |
) |
|
|
(2 |
) |
|
Total |
|
$ |
3 |
|
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
|
|
$ |
(3 |
) |
|
$ |
(2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
For the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and September 30, 2009, the pre-tax effect of
energy-related derivatives and interest rate derivatives designated as cash flow hedging
instruments on the statements of income were as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gain (Loss) |
|
|
|
|
Recognized in OCI |
|
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI |
Derivatives in Cash Flow |
|
on Derivative |
|
into Income (Effective Portion) |
Hedging Relationships |
|
(Effective Portion) |
|
Statements of Income Location |
|
Amount |
|
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Southern Company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
|
(3 |
) |
|
|
(6 |
) |
|
Interest expense |
|
|
(24 |
) |
|
|
(34 |
) |
|
Total |
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
$ |
(6 |
) |
|
|
|
$ |
(24 |
) |
|
$ |
(34 |
) |
|
Alabama Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
(5 |
) |
|
Interest expense |
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
$ |
(9 |
) |
|
Georgia Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
Interest expense |
|
$ |
(13 |
) |
|
$ |
(17 |
) |
|
Gulf Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
Interest expense |
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
Southern Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Interest rate derivatives |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense |
|
|
(8 |
) |
|
|
(7 |
) |
|
Total |
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
(8 |
) |
|
$ |
(7 |
) |
|
|
|
|
There was no material ineffectiveness recorded in earnings for any registrant for any period
presented. |
179
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
For the three months ended September 30, 2010 and September 30, 2009, the pre-tax effect of
energy-related derivatives not designated as hedging instruments on the statements of income were
as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Derivatives not Designated |
|
Unrealized Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income |
as Hedging Instruments |
|
Statements of Income Location |
|
Amount |
|
|
|
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Southern Company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
Wholesale revenues |
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
Purchased power |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
Total |
|
|
|
$ |
(3 |
) |
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
Southern Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
Wholesale revenues |
|
$ |
(1 |
) |
|
$ |
4 |
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
Purchased power |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
Total |
|
|
|
$ |
(3 |
) |
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
For the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and September 30, 2009, the pre-tax effect of
energy-related derivatives not designated as hedging instruments on the statements of income were
as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Derivatives not Designated |
|
Unrealized Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income |
as Hedging Instruments |
|
Statements of Income Location |
|
Amount |
|
|
|
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Southern Company |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
Wholesale revenues |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
9 |
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(4 |
) |
|
|
Purchased power |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(4 |
) |
|
Total |
|
|
|
$ |
(2 |
) |
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
Southern Power |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy-related derivatives |
|
Wholesale revenues |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
9 |
|
|
|
Fuel |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(4 |
) |
|
|
Purchased power |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
(4 |
) |
|
Total |
|
|
|
$ |
(2 |
) |
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
The registrants do not have any credit arrangements that would require material changes in payment
schedules or terminations as a result of a credit rating downgrade. There are certain derivatives
that could require collateral, but not accelerated payment, in the event of various credit rating
changes of certain Southern Company subsidiaries. At September 30, 2010, the fair value of
derivative liabilities with contingent features, by registrant, was as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Southern |
|
Alabama |
|
Georgia |
|
Gulf |
|
Mississippi |
|
Southern |
|
|
Company |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
Power |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Derivative liabilities |
|
$ |
51 |
|
|
$ |
9 |
|
|
$ |
33 |
|
|
$ |
2 |
|
|
$ |
6 |
|
|
$ |
1 |
|
|
|
|
At September 30, 2010, the registrants had no collateral posted with their derivative
counterparties; however, because of the joint and several liability features underlying these
derivatives, the maximum potential collateral requirements arising from the credit-risk-related
contingent features, at a rating below BBB- and/or Baa3, was $51 million for each registrant. |
180
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: (Continued)
|
|
|
Currently, each of the registrants has investment grade credit ratings from the major rating
agencies with respect to debt, preferred securities, preferred stock, and/or preference stock.
Generally, collateral may be provided by a Southern Company guaranty, letter of credit, or cash.
For the traditional operating companies and Southern Power, included in these amounts are certain
agreements that could require collateral in the event that one or more Power Pool participants has
a credit rating change to below investment grade. |
|
(I) |
|
SEGMENT AND RELATED INFORMATION |
|
|
|
Southern Companys reportable business segments are the sale of electricity in the Southeast by the
four traditional operating companies and Southern Power. Revenues from sales by Southern Power to
the traditional operating companies were $93 million and $288 million for the three months and nine
months ended September 30, 2010, respectively, and $148 million and $421 million for the three
months and nine months ended September 30, 2009, respectively. The All Other column includes
parent Southern Company, which does not allocate operating expenses to business segments. Also,
this category includes segments below the quantitative threshold for separate disclosure. These
segments include investments in telecommunications, renewable energy projects, and leveraged lease
projects. All other intersegment revenues are not material. Financial data for business segments
and products and services was as follows: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Electric Utilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Traditional |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating |
|
Southern |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
All |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Companies |
|
Power |
|
Eliminations |
|
Total |
|
Other |
|
Eliminations |
|
Consolidated |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Three Months Ended September
30, 2010: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating revenues |
|
$ |
5,066 |
|
|
$ |
357 |
|
|
$ |
(124 |
) |
|
$ |
5,299 |
|
|
$ |
40 |
|
|
$ |
(19 |
) |
|
$ |
5,320 |
|
Segment net income (loss)* |
|
|
757 |
|
|
|
61 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
818 |
|
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
817 |
|
Nine Months Ended
September
30,
2010: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating revenues |
|
$ |
13,127 |
|
|
$ |
862 |
|
|
$ |
(367 |
) |
|
$ |
13,622 |
|
|
$ |
122 |
|
|
$ |
(59 |
) |
|
$ |
13,685 |
|
Segment net income (loss)* |
|
|
1,713 |
|
|
|
106 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,819 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
1,822 |
|
Total assets at September 30, 2010 |
|
$ |
51,329 |
|
|
$ |
3,223 |
|
|
$ |
(176 |
) |
|
$ |
54,376 |
|
|
$ |
1,092 |
|
|
$ |
(573 |
) |
|
$ |
54,895 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended September
30,
2009: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating revenues |
|
$ |
4,543 |
|
|
$ |
283 |
|
|
$ |
(169 |
) |
|
$ |
4,657 |
|
|
$ |
43 |
|
|
$ |
(18 |
) |
|
$ |
4,682 |
|
Segment net income (loss)* |
|
|
726 |
|
|
|
67 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
793 |
|
|
|
(2 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
790 |
|
Nine Months Ended
September
30,
2009: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating revenues |
|
$ |
11,881 |
|
|
$ |
745 |
|
|
$ |
(471 |
) |
|
$ |
12,155 |
|
|
$ |
130 |
|
|
$ |
(52 |
) |
|
$ |
12,233 |
|
Segment net income (loss)* |
|
|
1,449 |
|
|
|
126 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,575 |
|
|
|
(182 |
) |
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
1,394 |
|
Total assets at December 31, 2009 |
|
$ |
48,403 |
|
|
$ |
3,043 |
|
|
$ |
(143 |
) |
|
$ |
51,303 |
|
|
$ |
1,223 |
|
|
$ |
(480 |
) |
|
$ |
52,046 |
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
After dividends on preferred and preference stock of subsidiaries |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Electric Utilities Revenues |
Period |
|
Retail |
|
Wholesale |
|
Other |
|
Total |
|
|
|
(in millions)
|
Three Months Ended September 30, 2010 |
|
$ |
4,573 |
|
|
$ |
566 |
|
|
$ |
160 |
|
|
$ |
5,299 |
|
Three Months Ended September 30, 2009 |
|
|
3,997 |
|
|
|
519 |
|
|
|
141 |
|
|
|
4,657 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010 |
|
$ |
11,603 |
|
|
$ |
1,581 |
|
|
$ |
438 |
|
|
$ |
13,622 |
|
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009 |
|
|
10,355 |
|
|
|
1,408 |
|
|
|
392 |
|
|
|
12,155 |
|
|
181
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings.
|
|
|
See the Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements herein for information regarding
certain legal and administrative proceedings in which the registrants are involved. |
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
|
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|
See RISK FACTORS in Item 1A of the Form 10-K for a discussion of the risk factors of the
registrants. There have been no material changes to these risk factors from those
previously disclosed in the Form 10-K. |
182
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(4) Instruments Describing Rights of Security Holders, Including Indentures |
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Southern Company |
|
|
|
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(a)1
|
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-
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|
Sixth Supplemental Indenture to the Senior Note Indenture dated as of
September 17, 2010, providing for the issuance of the Series 2010A 2.375%
Senior Notes due September 15, 2015. (Designated in Form 8-K dated September
13, 2010, File No. 1-3526, as Exhibit 4.2.) |
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Alabama Power |
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(b)1
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-
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|
Forty-Fourth Supplemental Indenture to Senior Note Indenture dated as of
October 5, 2010, providing for the issuance of the Series 2010A 3.375% Senior
Notes due October 1, 2020. (Designated in Form 8-K dated September 27, 2010,
File No. 1-3164, as Exhibit 4.2.) |
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Georgia Power |
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(c)1
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-
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|
Forty-Second Supplemental Indenture to Senior Note Indenture dated as of
August 31, 2010, providing for the issuance of the Series 2010C 4.75% Senior
Notes due September 1, 2040. (Designated in Form 8-K dated August 26, 2010,
File No. 1-6468, as Exhibit 4.2.) |
|
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(c)2
|
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-
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|
Forty-Third Supplemental Indenture to Senior Note Indenture dated as of
September 23, 2010, providing for the issuance of the Series 2010D 1.30%
Senior Notes due September 15, 2013. (Designated in Form 8-K dated September
20, 2010, File No. 1-6468, as Exhibit 4.2.) |
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Gulf Power |
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(d)1
|
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-
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|
Seventeenth Supplemental Indenture to Senior Note Indenture dated as of
September 17, 2010, providing for the issuance of the Series 2010B 5.10%
Senior Notes due October 1, 2040. (Designated in Form 8-K dated September 9,
2010, File No. 001-31737, as Exhibit 4.2.) |
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(10) Material Contracts |
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Southern Company |
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(a)1
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-
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Base Salaries of Named Executive Officers. |
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(a)2
|
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-
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Restricted Stock Award Agreement between Southern Company and W. Paul
Bowers dated July 27, 2010. |
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Alabama Power |
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(b)1
|
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-
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|
Base Salaries of Named Executive Officers. |
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(b)2
|
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-
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|
Deferred Compensation Agreement between Southern Company, Alabama Power,
Georgia Power, Gulf Power, Mississippi Power, and SCS and Philip C. Raymond
dated September 15, 2010. |
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(b)3
|
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-
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|
Consulting Agreement between Jerry L. Stewart and SCS dated October 11,
2010. |
183
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Gulf Power |
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(d)1
|
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-
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|
Base Salaries of Named Executive Officers. |
|
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(d)2
|
|
-
|
|
Deferred Compensation Agreement between Southern Company, Georgia Power,
Gulf Power, and Southern Nuclear and Bentina C. Terry dated August 1, 2010. |
|
|
|
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(d)3
|
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-
|
|
Deferred Compensation Agreement between Southern Company, Alabama Power,
Georgia Power, Gulf Power, Mississippi Power, and SCS and Philip C. Raymond
dated September 15, 2010. See Exhibit 10(b)2 herein. |
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Mississippi Power |
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(e)1
|
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-
|
|
Base Salaries of Named Executive Officers. |
|
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(e)2
|
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-
|
|
Retention Agreement between Edward Day, VI and SCS dated January 22, 2008,
Amendment to Retention Agreement dated December 12, 2008, and Amendment of
Retention Agreement dated July 29, 2010. |
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(24) Power of Attorney and Resolutions |
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|
Southern Company |
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(a)1
|
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-
|
|
Power of Attorney and resolution. (Designated in the Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2009, File No. 1-3526 as Exhibit 24(a) and
incorporated herein by reference.) |
|
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(a)2
|
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-
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|
Power of Attorney for Art P. Beattie. |
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|
Alabama Power |
|
|
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|
(b)1
|
|
-
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|
Power of Attorney and resolution. (Designated in the Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2009, File No. 1-3164 as Exhibit 24(b) and
incorporated herein by reference.) |
|
|
|
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(b)2
|
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-
|
|
Power of Attorney for Philip C. Raymond. |
|
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|
Georgia Power |
|
|
|
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|
(c)1
|
|
-
|
|
Power of Attorney and resolution. (Designated in the Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2009, File No. 1-6468 as Exhibit 24(c) and
incorporated herein by reference.) |
|
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|
Gulf Power |
|
|
|
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|
(d)1
|
|
-
|
|
Power of Attorney and resolution. (Designated in the Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2009, File No. 001-31737 as Exhibit 24(d) and
incorporated herein by reference.) |
|
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(d)2
|
|
-
|
|
Power of Attorney for Richard S. Teel. |
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|
Mississippi Power |
|
|
|
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|
(e)1
|
|
-
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|
Power of Attorney and resolution. (Designated in the Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2009, File No. 001-11229 as Exhibit 24(e) and
incorporated herein by reference.) |
|
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|
(e)2
|
|
-
|
|
Power of Attorney for Edward Day, VI. |
184
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(e)3
|
|
-
|
|
Power of Attorney for Moses H. Feagin. |
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|
|
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|
Southern Power |
|
|
|
|
|
(f)1
|
|
-
|
|
Power of Attorney and resolution. (Designated in the Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2009, File No. 333-98553 as Exhibit 24(f) and
incorporated herein by reference.) |
|
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(f)2
|
|
-
|
|
Power of Attorney for Oscar C. Harper. |
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|
(31) Section 302 Certifications |
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|
|
Southern Company |
|
|
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|
(a)1
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Southern Companys Chief Executive Officer required by
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
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|
(a)2
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Southern Companys Chief Financial Officer required by
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
Alabama Power |
|
|
|
|
|
(b)1
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Alabama Powers Chief Executive Officer required by Section
302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
(b)2
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Alabama Powers Chief Financial Officer required by Section
302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
Georgia Power |
|
|
|
|
|
(c)1
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Georgia Powers Chief Executive Officer required by Section
302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
(c)2
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Georgia Powers Chief Financial Officer required by Section
302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
Gulf Power |
|
|
|
|
|
(d)1
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Gulf Powers Chief Executive Officer required by Section 302
of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
(d)2
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Gulf Powers Chief Financial Officer required by Section 302
of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
Mississippi Power |
|
|
|
|
|
(e)1
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Mississippi Powers Chief Executive Officer required by
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
(e)2
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Mississippi Powers Chief Financial Officer required by
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
185
|
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|
|
|
Southern Power |
|
|
|
|
|
(f)1
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Southern Powers Chief
Executive Officer required by Section 302 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
(f)2
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Southern Powers Chief
Financial Officer required by Section 302 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
(32) Section 906 Certifications |
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Company |
|
|
|
|
|
(a)
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Southern Companys Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
Alabama Power |
|
|
|
|
|
(b)
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Alabama Powers Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
Georgia Power |
|
|
|
|
|
(c)
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Georgia Powers Chief Executive Officer and
Chief Financial Officer required by Section 906 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
Gulf Power |
|
|
|
|
|
(d)
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Gulf Powers Chief Executive Officer and
Chief Financial Officer required by Section 906 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
Mississippi Power |
|
|
|
|
|
(e)
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Mississippi Powers Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002. |
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Power |
|
|
|
|
|
(f)
|
|
-
|
|
Certificate of Southern Powers Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002. |
186
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(101) XBRL Related Documents |
|
|
|
|
|
Southern Company |
|
|
|
|
|
INS |
|
XBRL Instance Document |
SCH |
|
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document |
CAL |
|
XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document |
DEF |
|
XBRL Definition Linkbase Document |
LAB |
|
XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document |
PRE |
|
XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document |
187
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY
SIGNATURES
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. The
signature of the undersigned company shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference
to such company and any subsidiaries thereof.
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
THE SOUTHERN COMPANY |
|
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|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
By
|
|
David M. Ratcliffe |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
Art P. Beattie |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
/s/ Melissa K. Caen |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Melissa K. Caen, Attorney-in-fact)
|
|
|
Date: November 5, 2010
188
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY
SIGNATURES
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. The
signature of the undersigned company shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference
to such company and any subsidiaries thereof.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ALABAMA POWER COMPANY |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
Charles D. McCrary |
|
|
|
|
|
|
President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
Philip C. Raymond |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer
(Principal Financial Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
/s/ Melissa K. Caen |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Melissa K. Caen, Attorney-in-fact)
|
|
|
Date: November 5, 2010
189
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY
SIGNATURES
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. The
signature of the undersigned company shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference
to such company and any subsidiaries thereof.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GEORGIA POWER COMPANY |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
Michael D. Garrett |
|
|
|
|
|
|
President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
Ronnie R. Labrato |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer
(Principal Financial Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
/s/ Melissa K. Caen |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Melissa K. Caen, Attorney-in-fact)
|
|
|
Date: November 5, 2010
190
GULF POWER COMPANY
SIGNATURES
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. The
signature of the undersigned company shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference
to such company and any subsidiaries thereof.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GULF POWER COMPANY |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
Susan N. Story |
|
|
|
|
|
|
President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
Richard S. Teel |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
/s/ Melissa K. Caen |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Melissa K. Caen, Attorney-in-fact)
|
|
|
Date: November 5, 2010
191
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY
SIGNATURES
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. The
signature of the undersigned company shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference
to such company and any subsidiaries thereof.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MISSISSIPPI POWER COMPANY |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
Edward Day, VI |
|
|
|
|
|
|
President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
Moses H. Feagin |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Vice President, Treasurer, and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
/s/ Melissa K. Caen |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Melissa K. Caen, Attorney-in-fact)
|
|
|
Date: November 5, 2010
192
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY
SIGNATURES
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. The
signature of the undersigned company shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference
to such company and any subsidiaries thereof.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
Oscar C. Harper |
|
|
|
|
|
|
President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
Michael W. Southern |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Senior Vice President, Treasurer, and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By
|
|
/s/ Melissa K. Caen |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Melissa K. Caen, Attorney-in-fact)
|
|
|
Date: November 5, 2010
193