e10vq
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 March 31, 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 ______
Commission file number 001-16189
NiSource Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
|
|
|
Delaware
|
|
35-2108964 |
|
|
|
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
|
|
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.) |
|
|
|
801 East 86th Avenue |
|
|
Merrillville, Indiana
|
|
46410 |
|
|
|
(Address of principal executive offices)
|
|
(Zip Code) |
(877) 647-5990
(Registrants telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has 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 registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been
subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its
corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted
pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or
for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files.)
Yes o No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a
non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.
|
|
|
Large accelerated filer þ
|
|
Accelerated filer o |
|
|
|
Non-accelerated filer o
|
|
Smaller reporting company o |
(Do
not check if a smaller reporting company)
|
|
|
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
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuers classes of common stock, as of
the latest practicable date: Common Stock, $0.01 Par
Value: 277,442,244
shares outstanding at April 30, 2010.
NISOURCE INC.
FORM 10-Q QUARTERLY REPORT
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED March 31, 2010
Table of Contents
2
DEFINED TERMS
The following is a list of frequently used abbreviations or acronyms that are found in this report:
|
|
|
NiSource Subsidiaries and Affiliates |
|
|
Bay State
|
|
Bay State Gas Company |
Capital Markets
|
|
NiSource Capital Markets, Inc. |
CER
|
|
Columbia Energy Resources, Inc. |
CGORC
|
|
Columbia Gas of Ohio Receivables Corporation |
CNR
|
|
Columbia Natural Resources, Inc. |
Columbia
|
|
Columbia Energy Group |
Columbia Gulf
|
|
Columbia Gulf Transmission Company |
Columbia of Kentucky
|
|
Columbia Gas of Kentucky, Inc. |
Columbia of Maryland
|
|
Columbia Gas of Maryland, Inc. |
Columbia of Ohio
|
|
Columbia Gas of Ohio, Inc. |
Columbia of Pennsylvania
|
|
Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, Inc. |
Columbia of Virginia
|
|
Columbia Gas of Virginia, Inc. |
Columbia Transmission
|
|
Columbia Gas Transmission, LLC |
CPRC
|
|
Columbia of Pennsylvania Receivables Corporation |
Crossroads Pipeline
|
|
Crossroads Pipeline Company |
Granite State Gas
|
|
Granite State Gas Transmission, Inc. |
Hardy Storage
|
|
Hardy Storage Company, L.L.C. |
Kokomo Gas
|
|
Kokomo Gas and Fuel Company |
Millennium
|
|
Millennium Pipeline Company, L.L.C. |
NARC
|
|
NIPSCO Accounts Receivable Corporation |
NDC Douglas Properties
|
|
NDC Douglas Properties, Inc. |
NiSource
|
|
NiSource Inc. |
NiSource Corporate Services
|
|
NiSource Corporate Services Company |
NiSource Development Company
|
|
NiSource Development Company, Inc. |
NiSource Finance
|
|
NiSource Finance Corp. |
Northern Indiana
|
|
Northern Indiana Public Service Company |
Northern Indiana Fuel and Light
|
|
Northern Indiana Fuel and Light Company |
Northern Utilities
|
|
Northern Utilities, Inc. |
PEI
|
|
PEI Holdings, Inc. |
Whiting Clean Energy
|
|
Whiting Clean Energy, Inc. |
|
|
|
Abbreviations |
|
|
2010 Health Care Act
|
|
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education
Reconciliation Act of 2010 signed into law by the President on March 23, 2010 and
March 30, 2010, respectively |
ACES
|
|
American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 |
AFUDC
|
|
Allowance for funds used during construction |
Ameren
|
|
Ameren Services Company |
AMRP
|
|
Accelerated Main Replacement Program |
AOC
|
|
Administrative Order by Consent |
AOCI
|
|
Accumulated other comprehensive income |
ARRs
|
|
Auction Revenue Rights |
ASC
|
|
Accounting Standards Codification |
BBA
|
|
British Banker Association |
Bcf
|
|
Billion cubic feet |
Board
|
|
Board of Directors |
BPAE
|
|
BP Alternative Energy North America Inc |
BTMU
|
|
The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, LTD. |
CAA
|
|
Clean Air Act |
CAIR
|
|
Clean Air Interstate Rule |
CAMR
|
|
Clean Air Mercury Rule |
CARE
|
|
Conservation and Ratemaking Efficiency |
3
DEFINED TERMS (continued)
|
|
|
CCGT
|
|
Combined Cycle Gas Turbine |
CERCLA
|
|
Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and
Liability Act (also known as Superfund) |
Chesapeake
|
|
Chesapeake Appalachia, L.L.C. |
Day 2
|
|
Began April 1, 2005 and refers to the operational control of
the energy markets by MISO, including the dispatching of
wholesale electricity and generation, managing transmission
constraints, and managing the day-ahead, real-time and
financial transmission rights markets |
DPU
|
|
Department of Public Utilities |
DSM
|
|
Demand Side Management |
Dth
|
|
Dekatherm |
ECR
|
|
Environmental Cost Recovery |
ECRM
|
|
Environmental Cost Recovery Mechanism |
ECT
|
|
Environmental cost tracker |
EERM
|
|
Environmental Expense Recovery Mechanism |
EPA
|
|
United States Environmental Protection Agency |
EPS
|
|
Earnings per share |
FAC
|
|
Fuel adjustment clause |
FASB
|
|
Financial Accounting Standards Board |
FERC
|
|
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission |
FTRs
|
|
Financial Transmission Rights |
GAAP
|
|
U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles |
GCR
|
|
Gas cost recovery |
GHG
|
|
greenhouse gases |
gwh
|
|
Gigawatt hours |
IDEM
|
|
Indiana Department of Environmental Management |
IFRS
|
|
International Financial Reporting
Standards |
IRP
|
|
Infrastructure Replacement Program |
IURC
|
|
Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission |
LDCs
|
|
Local distribution companies |
LIBOR
|
|
London InterBank Offered Rate |
LIFO
|
|
Last in first out |
Mcf
|
|
Million cubic feet |
MISO
|
|
Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator |
Mitchell
|
|
Dean H. Mitchell Coal Fired Generating Station |
MMDth
|
|
Million dekatherms |
mw
|
|
Megawatts |
NAAQS
|
|
National Ambient Air Quality Standards |
NOV
|
|
Notice of Violation |
NO2
|
|
Nitrogen dioxide |
NOx
|
|
Nitrogen oxide |
NYMEX
|
|
New York Mercantile Exchange |
OCI
|
|
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) |
OUCC
|
|
Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor |
PADEP
|
|
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection |
Piedmont
|
|
Piedmont Natural Gas Company, Inc. |
PIPP
|
|
Percentage of Income Plan |
PJM
|
|
PJM Interconnection is a regional
transmission organization (RTO) that coordinates the movement of
wholesale electricity in all or parts of 13 states and the District of
Columbia. |
PM
|
|
particulate matter |
PPUC
|
|
Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission |
PSC
|
|
Public Service Commission |
PUC
|
|
Public Utility Commission |
PUCO
|
|
Public Utilities Commission of Ohio |
RBS
|
|
Royal Bank of Scotland PLC |
RCRA
|
|
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act |
RSG
|
|
Revenue Sufficiency Guarantee |
SEC
|
|
Securities and Exchange Commission |
SIP
|
|
State Implementation Plan |
SO2
|
|
Sulfur dioxide |
VaR
|
|
Value-at-risk and instrument sensitivity to market factors |
VIE
|
|
Variable Interest Entities |
VSCC
|
|
Virginia State Corporation Commission |
4
PART I
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NiSource Inc.
Condensed Statements of Consolidated Income (unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three
Months Ended March 31, (in millions, except per share
amounts) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Net Revenues |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gas Distribution |
|
$ |
1,341.1 |
|
|
$ |
1,716.9 |
|
Gas Transportation and Storage |
|
|
370.4 |
|
|
|
396.2 |
|
Electric |
|
|
317.9 |
|
|
|
296.8 |
|
Other |
|
|
328.9 |
|
|
|
311.8 |
|
|
Gross Revenues |
|
|
2,358.3 |
|
|
|
2,721.7 |
|
Cost of Sales (excluding depreciation and amortization) |
|
|
1,286.3 |
|
|
|
1,655.5 |
|
|
Total Net Revenues |
|
|
1,072.0 |
|
|
|
1,066.2 |
|
|
Operating Expenses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operation and maintenance |
|
|
439.4 |
|
|
|
479.1 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
149.8 |
|
|
|
143.7 |
|
Impairment and loss/(gain) on sale of assets, net |
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
(2.0 |
) |
Other taxes |
|
|
86.9 |
|
|
|
103.4 |
|
|
Total Operating Expenses |
|
|
676.2 |
|
|
|
724.2 |
|
|
Equity Earnings in Unconsolidated Affiliates |
|
|
7.4 |
|
|
|
6.4 |
|
|
Operating Income |
|
|
403.2 |
|
|
|
348.4 |
|
|
Other Income (Deductions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense, net |
|
|
(98.7 |
) |
|
|
(90.4 |
) |
Other, net |
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
(4.2 |
) |
Gain on early extinguishment of long-term debt |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
3.2 |
|
|
Total Other Income (Deductions) |
|
|
(96.1 |
) |
|
|
(91.4 |
) |
|
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes |
|
|
307.1 |
|
|
|
257.0 |
|
Income Taxes |
|
|
109.8 |
|
|
|
97.6 |
|
|
Income from Continuing Operations |
|
|
197.3 |
|
|
|
159.4 |
|
|
Loss from Discontinued Operations - net of taxes |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
(10.8 |
) |
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Discontinued Operations - net of taxes |
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
(0.2 |
) |
|
Net Income |
|
$ |
197.3 |
|
|
$ |
148.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Continuing operations |
|
$ |
0.71 |
|
|
$ |
0.58 |
|
Discontinued operations |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(0.04 |
) |
|
Basic Earnings Per Share |
|
$ |
0.71 |
|
|
$ |
0.54 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Continuing operations |
|
$ |
0.71 |
|
|
$ |
0.58 |
|
Discontinued operations |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(0.04 |
) |
|
Diluted Earnings Per Share |
|
$ |
0.71 |
|
|
$ |
0.54 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dividends Declared Per Common Share |
|
$ |
0.46 |
|
|
$ |
0.46 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic Average Common Shares Outstanding |
|
|
276.9 |
|
|
|
274.2 |
|
Diluted Average Common Shares |
|
|
277.5 |
|
|
|
276.7 |
|
|
The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) are an
integral part of these statements.
5
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
March 31, |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in
millions) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ASSETS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property, Plant and Equipment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Utility Plant |
|
$ |
19,049.3 |
|
|
$ |
18,946.1 |
|
Accumulated depreciation and amortization |
|
|
(8,443.5 |
) |
|
|
(8,353.7 |
) |
|
Net utility plant |
|
|
10,605.8 |
|
|
|
10,592.4 |
|
|
Other property, at cost, less accumulated depreciation |
|
|
91.4 |
|
|
|
91.5 |
|
|
Net Property, Plant and Equipment |
|
|
10,697.2 |
|
|
|
10,683.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investments and Other Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets of discontinued operations and assets held for sale |
|
|
12.9 |
|
|
|
18.7 |
|
Unconsolidated affiliates |
|
|
166.8 |
|
|
|
165.8 |
|
Other investments |
|
|
129.1 |
|
|
|
129.2 |
|
|
Total Investments and Other Assets |
|
|
308.8 |
|
|
|
313.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
|
110.6 |
|
|
|
16.4 |
|
Restricted cash |
|
|
220.8 |
|
|
|
174.7 |
|
Accounts receivable (less reserve of $68.6 and $39.6, respectively) |
|
|
949.9 |
|
|
|
808.6 |
|
Income tax receivable |
|
|
2.9 |
|
|
|
24.9 |
|
Gas inventory |
|
|
79.0 |
|
|
|
384.8 |
|
Underrecovered gas and fuel costs |
|
|
114.4 |
|
|
|
40.2 |
|
Materials and supplies, at average cost |
|
|
98.5 |
|
|
|
102.3 |
|
Electric production fuel, at average cost |
|
|
52.4 |
|
|
|
59.9 |
|
Price risk management assets |
|
|
190.4 |
|
|
|
173.3 |
|
Exchange gas receivable |
|
|
71.3 |
|
|
|
72.5 |
|
Regulatory assets |
|
|
169.6 |
|
|
|
238.3 |
|
Assets of discontinued operations and assets held for sale |
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
Prepayments and other |
|
|
136.7 |
|
|
|
125.5 |
|
|
Total Current Assets |
|
|
2,197.2 |
|
|
|
2,223.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Price risk management assets |
|
|
271.3 |
|
|
|
237.6 |
|
Regulatory assets |
|
|
1,720.0 |
|
|
|
1,644.1 |
|
Goodwill |
|
|
3,677.3 |
|
|
|
3,677.3 |
|
Intangible assets |
|
|
316.8 |
|
|
|
319.6 |
|
Postretirement and postemployment benefits assets |
|
|
22.8 |
|
|
|
19.8 |
|
Deferred charges and other |
|
|
140.2 |
|
|
|
152.1 |
|
|
Total Other Assets |
|
|
6,148.4 |
|
|
|
6,050.5 |
|
|
Total Assets |
|
$ |
19,351.6 |
|
|
$ |
19,271.7 |
|
|
The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) are an
integral part of these statements.
6
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited) (continued)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
March 31, |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in
millions, except share amounts) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capitalization |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Stockholders Equity |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock - $0.01 par value, 400,000,000 shares authorized; 277,290,886
and 276,638,021 shares issued and outstanding, respectively |
|
$ |
2.8 |
|
|
$ |
2.8 |
|
Additional paid-in capital |
|
|
4,068.5 |
|
|
|
4,057.6 |
|
Retained earnings |
|
|
935.3 |
|
|
|
865.5 |
|
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
|
|
(50.4 |
) |
|
|
(45.9 |
) |
Treasury stock |
|
|
(27.4 |
) |
|
|
(25.9 |
) |
|
Total Common Stockholders Equity |
|
|
4,928.8 |
|
|
|
4,854.1 |
|
Long-term debt, excluding amounts due within one year |
|
|
5,963.9 |
|
|
|
5,965.1 |
|
|
Total Capitalization |
|
|
10,892.7 |
|
|
|
10,819.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current Liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current portion of long-term debt |
|
|
723.1 |
|
|
|
719.3 |
|
Short-term borrowings |
|
|
370.7 |
|
|
|
103.0 |
|
Accounts payable |
|
|
407.1 |
|
|
|
502.1 |
|
Dividends payable |
|
|
64.0 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
Customer deposits and credits |
|
|
176.5 |
|
|
|
301.2 |
|
Taxes accrued |
|
|
296.8 |
|
|
|
212.9 |
|
Interest accrued |
|
|
84.1 |
|
|
|
125.4 |
|
Overrecovered gas and fuel costs |
|
|
43.5 |
|
|
|
220.4 |
|
Price risk management liabilities |
|
|
211.1 |
|
|
|
190.1 |
|
Exchange gas payable |
|
|
151.4 |
|
|
|
222.2 |
|
Deferred revenue |
|
|
11.5 |
|
|
|
27.3 |
|
Regulatory liabilities |
|
|
51.7 |
|
|
|
43.8 |
|
Accrued liability for postretirement and postemployment benefits |
|
|
7.6 |
|
|
|
23.6 |
|
Liabilities of discontinued operations and liabilities held for sale |
|
|
0.9 |
|
|
|
1.7 |
|
Temporary LIFO liquidation credit |
|
|
42.2 |
|
|
|
- |
|
Legal and environmental reserves |
|
|
97.5 |
|
|
|
146.1 |
|
Other accruals |
|
|
257.5 |
|
|
|
310.3 |
|
|
Total Current Liabilities |
|
|
2,997.2 |
|
|
|
3,149.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other Liabilities and Deferred Credits |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Price risk management liabilities |
|
|
200.6 |
|
|
|
170.2 |
|
Deferred income taxes |
|
|
2,053.3 |
|
|
|
2,018.2 |
|
Deferred investment tax credits |
|
|
38.1 |
|
|
|
39.6 |
|
Deferred credits |
|
|
71.9 |
|
|
|
72.4 |
|
Deferred revenue |
|
|
9.0 |
|
|
|
8.5 |
|
Accrued liability for postretirement and postemployment benefits |
|
|
1,190.8 |
|
|
|
1,134.2 |
|
Liabilities of discontinued operations and liabilities held for sale |
|
|
3.9 |
|
|
|
10.2 |
|
Regulatory liabilities and other removal costs |
|
|
1,571.4 |
|
|
|
1,558.8 |
|
Asset retirement obligations |
|
|
139.7 |
|
|
|
138.2 |
|
Other noncurrent liabilities |
|
|
183.0 |
|
|
|
152.6 |
|
|
Total Other Liabilities and Deferred Credits |
|
|
5,461.7 |
|
|
|
5,302.9 |
|
|
Total Capitalization and Liabilities |
|
$ |
19,351.6 |
|
|
$ |
19,271.7 |
|
|
The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) are an
integral part of these statements.
7
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Condensed Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows (unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three
Months Ended March 31, (in millions) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Operating Activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Income |
|
$ |
197.3 |
|
|
$ |
148.4 |
|
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to Net Cash from Continuing Operations: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gain on Early Extinguishment of Debt |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(3.2 |
) |
Depreciation and Amortization |
|
|
149.8 |
|
|
|
143.7 |
|
Net Changes in Price Risk Management Assets and Liabilities |
|
|
(7.4 |
) |
|
|
(1.7 |
) |
Deferred Income Taxes and Investment Tax Credits |
|
|
27.2 |
|
|
|
23.1 |
|
Deferred Revenue |
|
|
(15.8 |
) |
|
|
(3.7 |
) |
Stock Compensation Expense |
|
|
2.2 |
|
|
|
1.6 |
|
Gain on Sale of Assets |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
(2.0 |
) |
Income from Unconsolidated Affiliates |
|
|
(7.4 |
) |
|
|
(6.4 |
) |
(Gain) Loss on Disposition of Discontinued Operations - Net of Taxes |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
0.2 |
|
Loss from Discontinued Operations - Net of Taxes |
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
10.8 |
|
Amortization of Discount/Premium on Debt |
|
|
2.7 |
|
|
|
2.1 |
|
AFUDC Equity |
|
|
(1.4 |
) |
|
|
0.9 |
|
Changes in Assets and Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts Receivable |
|
|
(138.4 |
) |
|
|
172.0 |
|
Income Tax Receivable |
|
|
22.1 |
|
|
|
- |
|
Inventories |
|
|
332.7 |
|
|
|
487.7 |
|
Accounts Payable |
|
|
(103.0 |
) |
|
|
(161.0 |
) |
Customer Deposits and Credits |
|
|
(124.7 |
) |
|
|
(114.6 |
) |
Taxes Accrued |
|
|
96.4 |
|
|
|
81.9 |
|
Interest Accrued |
|
|
(38.9 |
) |
|
|
(23.4 |
) |
(Under) Overrecovered Gas and Fuel Costs |
|
|
(251.1 |
) |
|
|
446.3 |
|
Exchange Gas Receivable/Payable |
|
|
(66.7 |
) |
|
|
(80.1 |
) |
Other Accruals |
|
|
(17.2 |
) |
|
|
(69.3 |
) |
Prepayments and Other Current Assets |
|
|
5.4 |
|
|
|
8.8 |
|
Regulatory Assets/Liabilities |
|
|
47.8 |
|
|
|
32.3 |
|
Postretirement and Postemployment Benefits |
|
|
1.3 |
|
|
|
11.3 |
|
Deferred Credits |
|
|
(1.1 |
) |
|
|
(3.4 |
) |
Deferred Charges and Other NonCurrent Assets |
|
|
(2.6 |
) |
|
|
11.8 |
|
Other Noncurrent Liabilities |
|
|
5.3 |
|
|
|
5.7 |
|
|
Net Operating Activities from Continuing Operations |
|
|
114.4 |
|
|
|
1,119.8 |
|
Net Operating Activities used for Discontinued Operations |
|
|
(31.1 |
) |
|
|
(61.9 |
) |
|
Net Cash Flows from Operating Activities |
|
|
83.3 |
|
|
|
1,057.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investing Activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital Expenditures |
|
|
(138.8 |
) |
|
|
(206.9 |
) |
Insurance Recoveries |
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
52.0 |
|
Proceeds from Disposition of Assets |
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
2.1 |
|
Restricted Cash |
|
|
(46.1 |
) |
|
|
(30.2 |
) |
Contributions to Equity Investments |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(10.7 |
) |
Other Investing Activities |
|
|
(10.6 |
) |
|
|
(10.2 |
) |
|
Net Investing Activities used for Continuing Operations |
|
|
(194.8 |
) |
|
|
(203.9 |
) |
Net Investing Activities from Discontinued Operations |
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
7.5 |
|
|
Net Cash Flows used for Investing Activities |
|
|
(194.4 |
) |
|
|
(196.4 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Financing Activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Issuance of Long-Term Debt |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
581.7 |
|
Retirement of Long-Term Debt |
|
|
(0.9 |
) |
|
|
(101.4 |
) |
Change in Short-Term Debt, Net |
|
|
267.7 |
|
|
|
(1,163.5 |
) |
Issuance of Common Stock |
|
|
3.6 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
Acquisition of Treasury Stock |
|
|
(1.4 |
) |
|
|
(0.8 |
) |
Dividends Paid - Common Stock |
|
|
(63.7 |
) |
|
|
(63.1 |
) |
|
Net Cash Flows used for Financing Activities |
|
|
205.3 |
|
|
|
(746.9 |
) |
|
Change in cash and cash equivalents from continuing operations |
|
|
124.9 |
|
|
|
169.0 |
|
Cash contributions to discontinued operations |
|
|
(30.7 |
) |
|
|
(54.4 |
) |
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period |
|
|
16.4 |
|
|
|
20.6 |
|
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period |
|
$ |
110.6 |
|
|
$ |
135.2 |
|
|
The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) are an
integral part of these statements.
8
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Condensed Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions, net of taxes) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Net Income |
|
$ |
197.3 |
|
|
$ |
148.4 |
|
Other comprehensive income (loss) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net gain (loss) on available for sale securities (a) |
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
(1.3 |
) |
Net unrealized losses on cash flow hedges (b) |
|
|
(2.9 |
) |
|
|
(14.5 |
) |
Unrecognized pension benefit and OPEB costs (c) |
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.6 |
|
|
Total other comprehensive loss |
|
|
(1.9 |
) |
|
|
(15.2 |
) |
|
Total Comprehensive Income |
|
$ |
195.4 |
|
|
$ |
133.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
(a) |
|
Net unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of $0.3 million tax expense
and $0.8 million tax benefit in the first quarter of 2010 and 2009, respectively. |
|
(b) |
|
Net unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives qualifying as cash flow hedges, net of $1.8
million and $10.2 million tax benefit in the first quarter of 2010 and 2009, respectively. |
|
(c) |
|
Unrecognized pension benefit and OPEB costs, net of $0.3 million tax expense in both the first
quarter of 2010 and 2009. |
The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) are an
integral part of these statements.
9
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
1. Basis of Accounting Presentation
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for NiSource reflect all
normal recurring adjustments that are necessary, in the opinion of management, to present fairly
the results of operations in accordance with GAAP in the United States of America.
The accompanying financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial
statements and notes thereto included in NiSources Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended December 31, 2009. Income for interim periods may not be indicative of results for the
calendar year due to weather variations and other factors.
The following unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to
the rules and regulations of the SEC. Certain information and note disclosures normally included
in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted
pursuant to those rules and regulations, although NiSource believes that the disclosures made are
adequate to make the information not misleading.
2. Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
Transfer of Financial Assets. In June 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance to amend
derecognition criteria guidance in ASC 860 to improve the relevance, representational faithfulness,
and comparability of the information that a reporting entity provides in its financial statements
about a transfer of financial assets; the effects of a transfer on its financial position,
financial performance, and cash flows; and a transferors continuing involvement, if any, in
transferred financial assets. NiSource adopted the guidance on January 1, 2010. This guidance
requires transfers of accounts receivable that previously qualified for sales accounting to be
accounted for as secured borrowings resulting in the recognition of short-term debt on the
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited). Refer to Note 11, Transfers of Financial
Assets, for additional information.
Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities. In June 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance
to amend the manner in which entities evaluate whether consolidation is required for VIEs. The
model for determining which enterprise has a controlling financial interest and is the primary
beneficiary of a VIE has changed significantly under the new guidance. Previously, variable
interest holders were required to determine whether they retained a controlling financial interest
in a VIE based on a quantitative analysis of the expected gains and/or losses of the entity. In
contrast, the new guidance requires an enterprise with a variable interest in a VIE to
qualitatively assess whether it has a controlling financial interest in the entity, and if so,
whether it is the primary beneficiary. Furthermore, this guidance requires that companies
continually evaluate VIEs for consolidation, rather than assessing based upon the occurrence of
triggering events. This revised guidance also requires enhanced disclosures about how a companys
involvement with a VIE affects its financial statements and exposure to risks. NiSource adopted the
guidance on January 1, 2010. Refer to Note 15, Variable Interests and Variable Interest
Entities, for additional information.
10
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures. In January 2010, the FASB issued authoritative
guidance that amends the disclosures about transfers into and out of Level 1 and 2 and requires
separate disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements relating to Level 3
measurements. This guidance also clarifies existing fair value disclosures about the level of
disaggregation and about inputs and valuation techniques used to measure fair value. This guidance
is effective for the first reporting period, including interim periods, beginning after December
15, 2009, except for the requirement to provide Level 3 activity of purchases, sales, issuances,
and settlements on a gross basis, which will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December
15, 2010. Early adoption is permitted. NiSource adopted the additional guidance on January 1, 2010
with the exception of the requirement to provide Level 3 activity of purchases, sales, issuances,
and settlements on a gross basis. NiSource is currently reviewing the additional Level 3
disclosure requirements to determine the impact on the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited) and Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited). Refer to Note
10, Fair Value Disclosures, for additional information.
3. Earnings Per Share
Basic EPS is computed by dividing income available to common stockholders by the weighted-average
number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. The weighted average shares
outstanding for diluted EPS includes the incremental effects of the various long-term incentive
compensation plans. The calculation of diluted earnings per share for March 31, 2010 and 2009
excludes out-of-the-money stock options that had an anti-dilutive effect. The numerator in
calculating both basic and diluted EPS for each period is reported net income. The computation of
diluted average common shares follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended March 31, (in thousands) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Denominator |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic average common shares outstanding |
|
|
276,947 |
|
|
|
274,196 |
|
Dilutive potential common shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shares contingently issuable under employee stock plans |
|
|
281 |
|
|
|
2,413 |
|
Shares restricted under employee stock plans |
|
|
287 |
|
|
|
108 |
|
|
Diluted Average Common Shares |
|
|
277,515 |
|
|
|
276,717 |
|
|
4. Restructuring Activities
During the first quarter of 2009, NiSource began an organizational restructuring initiative in
response to the decline in overall economic conditions.
In February 2009, NiSource announced the restructuring of the Gas Transmission and Storage
Operations segment. NiSource has eliminated positions across the 16 state operating territory of
Gas Transmission and Storage. The reductions have occurred through voluntary programs and
involuntary separations. In addition to employee reductions, the Gas Transmission and Storage
Operations segment took steps to achieve additional cost savings by efficiently managing its
various business locations, reducing its fleet operations, creating alliances with third party
service providers, and implementing other changes in line with its strategic plan for growth and
maximizing value of existing assets. During the first quarter of 2009, NiSource recorded a pre-tax
restructuring charge of $19.8 million and no additional charge for the first quarter of 2010. As
of March 31, 2010, 316 employees had been terminated from employment. This program was
substantially completed in 2009. The remaining employees impacted by the restructuring will be
severed and will receive benefits in 2010.
In September 2009, NiSource announced the restructuring of Northern Indiana, which aims to redefine
business and operations strategies and achieve cost reductions, and impacts both Electric
Operations and Gas Distribution Operations. During 2009, NiSource
recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge related to this initiative,
net of adjustments, of $5.4 million, which primarily includes costs
related to severance and other employee related costs for
approximately 43 employees and outside services costs. During the first quarter of 2010, NiSource recorded a
pre-tax restructuring charge related to this initiative of $1.0 million to Operation and
maintenance expense on the Condensed Statements of Consolidated Income (unaudited), which
primarily includes costs related to outside service costs. As of March 31, 2010, 36 employees had
been terminated from employment. This program is expected to be completed in 2010.
11
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Changes in the restructuring reserve, included in Other accruals on the Condensed Consolidated
Balance Sheets (unaudited), were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at |
|
(in millions) |
|
December 31, 2009 |
|
|
Additions |
|
|
Benefits Paid |
|
|
Adjustments |
|
|
March 31, 2010 |
|
|
2009 Initiative: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gas Transmission
and Storage |
|
$ |
1.5 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
(0.9 |
) |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
0.6 |
|
Northern Indiana |
|
|
1.1 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
|
(1.1 |
) |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
2.6 |
|
|
$ |
1.0 |
|
|
$ |
(2.0 |
) |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
1.6 |
|
|
5. Gas in Storage
Gas Distribution Operations price natural gas storage injections at the average of the costs of
natural gas supply purchased during the year. For interim periods, the difference between current
projected replacement cost and the LIFO cost for quantities of gas temporarily withdrawn from
storage is recorded as a temporary LIFO liquidation credit or debit within the Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited). Due to seasonality requirements, NiSource expects interim
variances in LIFO layers to be replenished by year-end. Changes between the temporary LIFO
liquidation credits in the amounts of $42.2 million and $111.3 million during the first quarter of
2010 and 2009, respectively, are considered a non-cash activity for the Condensed Statements of
Consolidated Cash Flows (unaudited). In addition to the temporary LIFO liquidation credit
described above, NiSource also has a temporary LIFO liquidation debit of $21.3 million recorded for
the first quarter of 2010 for certain gas distribution companies recorded within, Prepayments and
other, on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited).
6. Discontinued Operations and Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale
The assets and liabilities of discontinued operations and held for sale on the Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheet (unaudited) at March 31, 2010 were:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property, plant and |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets of discontinued operations and held for sale: |
|
|
|
|
|
equipment, net |
|
|
Other assets |
|
|
Total |
|
|
NiSource Corporate Services |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
6.2 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
6.2 |
|
NDC Douglas Properties |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.1 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
4.8 |
|
Columbia Transmission |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
12.9 |
|
|
$ |
0.7 |
|
|
$ |
13.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities of discontinued operations and held for sale: |
|
Debt |
|
|
Accounts payable |
|
|
Other liabilities |
|
|
Total |
|
|
NDC Douglas Properties |
|
$ |
4.4 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
$ |
4.8 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
4.4 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
$ |
4.8 |
|
|
12
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
The assets and liabilities of discontinued operations and held for sale on the Consolidated Balance
Sheet at December 31, 2009 were:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property, plant and |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets of discontinued operations and held for sale: |
|
|
|
|
|
equipment, net |
|
|
Other assets |
|
|
Total |
|
|
NiSource Corporate Services |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
6.2 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
6.2 |
|
NDC Douglas Properties |
|
|
|
|
|
|
9.9 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
|
|
12.1 |
|
Columbia Transmission |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
18.7 |
|
|
$ |
2.2 |
|
|
$ |
20.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities of discontinued operations and held for sale: |
|
Debt |
|
|
Accounts payable |
|
|
Other liabilities |
|
|
Total |
|
|
NDC Douglas Properties |
|
$ |
11.0 |
|
|
$ |
0.6 |
|
|
$ |
0.3 |
|
|
$ |
11.9 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
11.0 |
|
|
$ |
0.6 |
|
|
$ |
0.3 |
|
|
$ |
11.9 |
|
|
Assets classified as discontinued operations or held for sale are no longer depreciated.
NiSource Corporate Services is continuing to work with a potential buyer to sell its Marble Cliff
facility. A third party appraisal was performed in December 2009 with an estimated market value of
the property slightly higher than the book value. NiSource has accounted for this facility as
assets held for sale.
NDC Douglas Properties, a subsidiary of NiSource Development Company, is in the process of exiting
some of its low income housing investments. Three of these properties were sold during the first
quarter of 2010 and two of these properties remain classified as assets and liabilities held for
sale. Results of operations and cash flows for these properties are classified as discontinued
operations. Based on the expected proceeds from the sale of the five properties being less than
the net book value, an impairment charge of $2.7 million, net of tax, was included in Loss on
Disposition of Discontinued Operations in the Statements of Consolidated Income for the year ended
December 31, 2009. Upon sale of three of the properties in the first quarter of 2010, a gain on
sale of $0.1 million, net of taxes, was recorded in Discontinued Operations. The remaining two
properties are expected to be sold in the second half of 2010.
On June 18, 2009, Columbia Transmission received approval from the FERC to abandon by sale to an
unaffiliated third party its Line R System in West Virginia, which includes certain natural gas
pipeline and compression facilities. These assets held for sale have a net book value of $2.4
million. The sale transaction is expected to close in 2010.
Results from discontinued operations from Granite State Gas, Northern Utilities, NDC Douglas
Properties low income housing investments, and reserve changes for NiSources former exploration
and production subsidiary, CER, are provided in the following table:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Revenues from Discontinued Operations |
|
$ |
1.1 |
|
|
$ |
0.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss from discontinued operations |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
(17.6 |
) |
Income tax benefit |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(6.8 |
) |
|
Loss from Discontinued Operations - net of taxes |
|
$ |
(0.1 |
) |
|
$ |
(10.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Discontinued Operations -
net of taxes |
|
$ |
0.1 |
|
|
$ |
(0.2 |
) |
|
13
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
7. Asset Retirement Obligations
Certain costs of removal that have been, and continue to be, included in depreciation rates and
collected in the service rates of the rate-regulated subsidiaries are classified as regulatory
liabilities and other removal costs on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited).
Changes in NiSources liability for asset retirement obligations for the first three months of 2010
and 2009 are presented in the table below:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in
millions) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Balance as of January 1, |
|
$ |
138.2 |
|
|
$ |
126.0 |
|
Accretion expense |
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
Accretion recorded as a regulatory asset |
|
|
1.8 |
|
|
|
1.7 |
|
Settlements |
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
|
|
(2.2 |
) |
|
Balance as of March 31, |
|
$ |
139.7 |
|
|
$ |
125.7 |
|
|
8. Regulatory Matters
Gas Distribution Operations Regulatory Matters
Significant Rate Developments. On May 3, 2010, Northern Indiana filed a natural gas rate
case with the IURC, the first since 1987, proposing enhanced low income assistance and extending
energy-efficiency programs for customers, as well as a change in rate design. Among other things,
the filing also proposes a mechanism for the deferral of certain pension and other postretirement
costs and for adjustments to depreciation rates and expense. New
rates are targeted to be
effective by early 2011 or sooner.
In March 2009, Indiana Governor Daniels signed Senate Bill 423 into law giving the Indiana
Finance Authority the ability to contract, on behalf of gas customers in the state of Indiana,
with developers capable of building facilities that manufacture Substitute Natural Gas from
coal. The Indiana Finance Authority received one bid, from Indiana Gasification, by the April
9, 2009 deadline to initiate a Substitute Natural Gas plant in Southern Indiana under a 30
year contract. Current law requires that all Indiana gas utilities, including Northern
Indiana, deliver a portion of Substitute Natural Gas from this facility, once it is built.
The IURC must approve the final contract between the Indiana Finance Authority and Indiana
Gasification.
On October 21, 2009, the IURC issued an Order in the proceeding concerning Northern Indianas
annual gas recovery, rejecting the use of a four-year average to compute unaccounted for gas.
This Order requires Northern Indiana to refund an estimated $5.8 million to customers based on
a calculation utilizing a one-year average of unaccounted for gas for the twelve month periods
ended July 31, 2008 and July 31, 2009. A reserve has been provided for the full amount of the
refund, which Northern Indiana began returning to customers in March 2010.
On December 9, 2009, Northern Indiana filed a Petition with the IURC to extend its alternative
regulatory programs which was scheduled to expire on May 1, 2010. On February 12, 2010, Northern
Indiana, the OUCC and gas marketers supplying gas to residential and small commercial customers
filed a Joint Stipulation and Agreement proposing an extension to the programs through March 31,
2012, which was approved by the IURC on March 31, 2010.
On January 15, 2009, Columbia of Ohio filed an application with the PUCO requesting authority to
increase Columbia of Ohios PIPP rider rate in order to collect $82.2 million in PIPP arrearages
over a period of three years, in addition to the projected level of arrearages expected to occur
during each of the succeeding twelve-month periods. On March 3, 2009, Columbia of Ohios proposal
was approved and became effective.
14
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
On January 30, 2009, Columbia of Ohio filed an application with the PUCO to implement a gas supply
auction. The auction will replace Columbia of Ohios current GCR mechanism for providing commodity
gas supplies to its sales customers. By order dated December 2, 2009, the PUCO approved a
stipulation that resolved all issues in the case. Pursuant to the stipulation, Columbia of Ohio
will conduct two consecutive one-year long standard service offer auction periods starting April
2010 and April 2011. On February 23, 2010, Columbia of Ohio held the first standard service offer
auction which resulted in a final retail price adjustment of $1.93 per mcf. On February 24, 2010,
the PUCO issued an Entry that approved the results of the auction and directed Columbia of Ohio to
proceed with the implementation of the standard service offer process.
On February 27, 2009, Columbia of Ohio filed an application to adjust rates associated with Rider
IRP. Rider IRP recovers costs associated with the replacement of natural gas risers that are prone
to failure; maintenance, repair and replacement of customers service lines; an Accelerated Mains
Replacement Program; and installation of Automatic Meter Reading Devices. On June 2, 2009, Columbia
of Ohio filed a Joint Stipulation and Recommendation that settled all issues. On June 24, 2009, the
PUCO issued an Order approving the Stipulation. Rates associated with Rider IRP were increased by
$13.8 million annually beginning in July 2009.
On February 26, 2010, Columbia of Ohio filed an application to adjust rates associated with Riders
IRP and DSM. Rider DSM tracks and recovers costs associated with Columbia of Ohios energy
efficiency and conservation programs. On April 14, 2010, Columbia of Ohio filed a Joint Stipulation
and Recommendation that settled all issues. On April 28, 2010, the PUCO issued an Order approving
the Stipulation. Rates associated with Riders IRP and DSM were increased by approximately $17.8
million annually, beginning April 29, 2010.
On January 28, 2010, Columbia of Pennsylvania filed a base rate case with the Pennsylvania PUC,
seeking a revenue increase of approximately $32 million annually. Columbia of Pennsylvania
anticipates a final order will be received and new rates will go into effect in the fourth quarter
of 2010.
On October 1, 2008, Columbia of Maryland filed a base rate case with the Maryland PSC. On February
20, 2009, Columbia of Maryland and all interested parties filed a unanimous settlement in the case,
recommending an annual revenue increase of $1.2 million. On March 27, 2009, the settlement was
approved as filed and new rates were effective March 31, 2009.
On January 28, 2010, Columbia of Maryland filed a base rate case with the Maryland PSC, seeking a
revenue increase of $2.2 million annually in order for Columbia of Maryland to earn the rate of
return authorized by the PSC in its 2008 rate case. Columbia of Maryland anticipates a final order
will be received and new rates will go into effect in the second quarter of 2010.
On April 16, 2009, Bay State filed a base rate case with the Massachusetts DPU, requesting an
annual increase of $34.2 million. In its initial filing, Bay State sought revenue decoupling, as
well as a mechanism for the recovery of costs associated with the replacement of its
infrastructure. On October 30, 2009, the Massachusetts DPU issued a decision granting the company
a $19.1 million base rate increase and approving the companys proposed revenue decoupling
mechanism and infrastructure replacement program. New rates went into effect November 1,
2009.
On May 1, 2009, Columbia of Kentucky filed a base rate case with the Kentucky PSC, requesting an
annual increase of $11.6 million. In its initial filing, Columbia of Kentucky sought enhancements
to rate design, as well as an expedited mechanism for the recovery of costs associated with the
replacement of its infrastructure. A settlement agreement with all parties was presented in a
hearing before the Kentucky PSC on September 18, 2009. The settlement agreement provided for a
base rate increase of approximately $6 million, the authorization of an increase to the monthly
customer charge, the implementation of an Accelerated Main Replacement Program rider and the
introduction of a residential energy efficiency program. On October 26, 2009, the Kentucky PSC
approved the settlement agreement as filed, with new rates taking effect on October 27, 2009.
15
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
On June 8, 2009, Columbia of Virginia filed an Application with the VSCC for approval of a CARE
Plan for a three-year period beginning January 1, 2010. The CARE Plan included incentives for
residential and small general service customers to actively pursue conservation and energy
efficiency measures, a surcharge designed to recover the costs of such measures on a real-time
basis, and a performance-based incentive for the delivery of conservation and energy efficiency
benefits. The CARE Plan also included a rate decoupling mechanism designed to mitigate the impact
of declining customer usage. On October 28, 2009, Columbia of Virginia and other parties to the
proceeding presented a unanimous settlement to the Hearing Examiner, which provided for approval of
the CARE Plan Application with modifications. The settlement was approved by the VSCC on December
4, 2009, with mechanisms becoming effective January 1, 2010.
On May 3, 2010, Columbia of Virginia filed a rate case for $13.0 million with the VSCC seeking to
increase customer rates to reflect current costs upon the expiration of its Performance Based
Regulation Plan that is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2010.
Cost Recovery and Trackers. A significant portion of the distribution companies revenue is
related to the recovery of gas costs, the review and recovery of which occurs via standard
regulatory proceedings. All states require periodic review of actual gas procurement activity to
determine prudence and to permit the recovery of prudently incurred costs related to the supply of
gas for customers. NiSource distribution companies have historically been found prudent in the
procurement of gas supplies to serve customers.
Certain operating costs of the NiSource distribution companies are significant, recurring in
nature, and generally outside the control of the distribution companies. Some states allow the
recovery of such costs via cost tracking mechanisms. Such tracking mechanisms allow for
abbreviated regulatory proceedings in order for the distribution companies to implement charges and
recover appropriate costs. Tracking mechanisms allow for more timely recovery of such costs as
compared with more traditional cost recovery mechanisms. Examples of such mechanisms include GCR
adjustment mechanisms, tax riders, and bad debt recovery mechanisms.
Comparability of Gas Distribution Operations line item operating results is impacted by these
regulatory trackers that allow for the recovery in rates of certain costs such as bad debt
expenses. Increases in the expenses that are the subject of trackers result in a corresponding
increase in net revenues and therefore have essentially no impact on total operating income
results.
Certain of the NiSource distribution companies have completed rate proceedings involving
infrastructure replacement or are embarking upon regulatory initiatives to replace significant
portions of their operating systems that are nearing the end of their useful lives. Each LDCs
approach to cost recovery may be unique, given the different laws, regulations and precedent that
exist in each jurisdiction. On February 27, 2009, Columbia of Ohio filed an application to adjust
its Rider IRP to recover costs for risers and accelerated main replacements. On June 24, 2009, the
PUCO approved a stipulation allowing Columbia of Ohio to implement the new rider rate on July 1,
2009, resulting in an annual revenue increase of $13.8 million. On February 26, 2010, Columbia of
Ohio filed an application to adjust rates associated with Riders IRP and DSM. Rider DSM tracks and
recovers costs associated with Columbia of Ohios energy efficiency and conservation programs. On
April 14, 2010, Columbia of Ohio filed a Joint Stipulation and Recommendation that settled all
issues. On April 28, 2010, the PUCO issued an Order approving the Stipulation. Rates associated
with Riders IRP and DSM were increased by approximately $17.8 million annually, beginning April 29,
2010. On October 26, 2009, the Kentucky PSC approved a mechanism for recovering the costs of
Columbia of Kentuckys Accelerated Main Replacement Program. In the same Order the Kentucky PSC
also approved a mechanism for the recovery of Columbia of Kentuckys uncollectible expenses
associated with the cost of gas. Columbia of Kentucky filed an application to increase its AMRP
Rider on March 31, 2010. On October 30, 2009, the Massachusetts DPU approved a mechanism for the
recovery of costs associated with the replacement of Bay States infrastructure. Bay State filed
an application to increase its Targeted Infrastructure Replacement Factor Rider on April 30, 2010.
16
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
On April 30, 2009, Columbia of Ohio filed an application with the PUCO to defer pension and other
postretirement benefits expenses above those currently subject to collection in rates, effective
January 1, 2009. On July 8, 2009, the PUCO issued an Order approving Columbia of Ohios
application, although the deferred balances will not accrue carrying charges and Columbia of Ohio
may not seek recovery of pension and other postretirement benefits deferrals in a base rate
proceeding for a period of five years from the date of the Order. Approximately $1.8 million has
been deferred in 2010 and $13.0 million was deferred for the year 2009.
Gas Transmission and Storage Operations Regulatory Matters
Majorsville, PA Project. The Gas Transmission and Storage Operations segment is in the process of
executing three separate projects totaling approximately $80 million in the Majorsville, PA
vicinity to aggregate Marcellus Shale gas production for downstream transmission. Precedent
Agreements were executed by anchor shippers in the fourth quarter of 2009. On January 20, 2010,
Columbia Transmission filed with the FERC an application to transfer certain pipeline facilities to
a newly formed affiliate, NiSource Midstream, LLC, that, once approved, will be part of the
facilities providing non-FERC jurisdiction gathering services to producers in the Majorsville, PA
vicinity. The Majorsville, PA project is expected to begin service during the third quarter 2010.
Electric Operations Regulatory Matters
Significant Rate Developments. On June 27, 2008, Northern Indiana filed a petition for new
electric base rates and charges. Northern Indiana filed its last electric base rate increase in
1986. The filing requested an increase in base rates calculated to produce additional gross margin
of $85.7 million. Several stakeholder groups have intervened in the case, representing customer
groups and various counties and towns within Northern Indianas electric service territory.
Evidentiary hearings concluded on August 6, 2009, and the briefing schedule concluded in January
2010. An Order is expected during the second quarter of 2010.
Northern Indiana received a favorable regulatory order on February 18, 2009 related to its actions
to increase its electric generating capacity and advance its electric rate case. Acting on a
settlement reached among Northern Indiana and its regulatory stakeholders, the IURC ruled that
Northern Indianas Sugar Creek electric generating plant was in service for ratemaking purposes as
of December 1, 2008. The IURC also approved the deferral of depreciation expenses and carrying
costs associated with the $330 million Sugar Creek investment. Northern Indiana purchased Sugar
Creek on May 30, 2008 and effective December 1, 2008, Sugar Creek was accepted as an internal
designated network resource within the MISO.
Northern Indiana anticipates filing another electric base rate case during 2010. Among other
things, the filing is expected to include the effect of increased pension expense, as well as usage
levels based on more recent operating experience.
During 2002, Northern Indiana settled certain regulatory matters related to an electric rate
review. On September 23, 2002, the IURC issued an Order adopting most aspects of the settlement.
The Order approving the settlement provides that certain electric customers of Northern Indiana
will receive bill credits of approximately $55.1 million each year. The credits will continue at
approximately the same annual level and per the same methodology, until new rates take effect based
on an IURC order in the 2008 electric rate case. Credits amounting to $14.2 million and $13.2
million were recognized for electric customers for the first quarters of 2010 and 2009,
respectively.
On December 9, 2009, the IURC issued an order in its generic DSM investigation proceeding
establishing an overall annual energy savings goal of 2% to be achieved by Indiana jurisdictional
electric utilities in 10 years, with interim savings goals established in years one through nine.
Northern Indiana and other jurisdictional electric utilities must file DSM plans on July 1, 2010,
2013, 2016, and 2019, with annual updates in the interim periods. The IURC requires that certain
core programs be established and administered by an independent third party. The IURC did not make
any specific findings with respect to cost recovery issues. On March 16, 2010 Northern Indiana
filed a proposal for a mechanism to recover the costs associated with these energy efficiency
programs, including lost revenue. In the second phase of this proceeding, Northern Indiana will
file for IURC approval of its energy efficiency programs.
17
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
MISO. As part of Northern Indianas participation in the MISO transmission service, wholesale
energy and ancillary service markets, certain administrative fees and non-fuel costs have been
incurred. IURC orders have been issued authorizing the deferral for consideration in a future rate
case proceeding of certain non-fuel related costs incurred after Northern Indianas rate
moratorium, which expired on July 31, 2006. In its pending base rate case, Northern Indiana
proposes recovery of the cumulative amount of net non-fuel charges that were deferred as of
December 31, 2008, and to recover, through a tracker, charges deferred between December 31, 2008
and the date of effective rates in this case. During the first quarter of 2010, MISO costs of $1.9
million were deferred, while net credits of $0.9 million were deferred in the first quarter of
2009. As of March 31, 2010, Northern Indiana has deferred a total of $28.3 million of MISO costs.
On November 7, 2008, the FERC issued an Order clarifying the RSG First Pass calculation and
requiring the MISO to resettle the RSG market using the correct calculation and to pay refunds, or
assess surcharges, to market participants, as appropriate, to correct a misinterpretation of an
order issued by FERC in April 2006. Northern Indiana believes that the original Order would have
entitled Northern Indiana to a refund, with the amount subject to calculation by MISO. On June 12,
2009, however, FERC issued an Order on rehearing in which it affirmed its prior order clarifying
the method to calculate the RSG First Pass rate, but reversed its ruling requiring the MISO to pay
refunds, and collect surcharges, on equitable grounds. Northern Indiana has asked FERC to
reconsider its decision to deny refunds and that request remains pending. MISOs implementation of
FERCs April 2006 Order on the RSG First Pass calculation resulted in several million dollars of
surcharges to Northern Indiana through market resettlements implemented during the summer of 2007.
As a result, Northern Indiana and Ameren jointly filed a complaint with FERC on August 10, 2007,
contending that the RSG rates in effect were unjust and unreasonable. On November 10, 2008, the
FERC issued an Order granting these complaints and ordering the MISO to calculate refunds and
surcharges, as appropriate, back to the date of the complaint filed by Northern Indiana and Ameren,
as authorized by Section 206 of the Federal Power Act. On May 6, 2009, however, the FERC issued an
Order that upheld its decision granting the complaint, but largely reversed its directive requiring
MISO to pay refunds, and collect surcharges, on equitable grounds. The FERC affirmed the refund
and surcharge requirement only for those transactions that occurred after the date of the November
10, 2008 Order, instead of August 10, 2007, as it had previously required. Northern Indiana and
Ameren have requested rehearing of the FERCs May 6, 2009 Order, and that request remains pending.
MISO and PJM Interconnection undertook a joint effort in April and May 2009 to identify a source of
unaccounted for flows on several coordinated flowgates. The analysis found that certain PJM
Interconnection generating units that were once associated with unit-specific capacity sales were
erroneously excluded from PJM Interconnections market flows, which significantly affected the
congestion price on reciprocally coordinated flowgates on Northern Indiana systems. Higher PJM
Interconnection market flows on congested flowgates would have resulted in higher payments to MISO
by PJM Interconnection during market to market coordination since April 1, 2005. The model was
fixed on June 18, 2009 and MISO and PJM Interconnection are currently in settlement discussions
with the FERC that began on October 19, 2009 to determine the financial impact of any
resettlements. Initial amounts calculated by PJM Interconnection approximated $78 million, while
MISO has performed a preliminary estimate of $125 to $150 million. The impact to Northern Indiana
cannot be reasonably estimated until a settlement is reached between MISO and PJM Interconnection,
and MISO receives approval from the FERC on an allocation methodology to its market participants.
Any adjustment will be neutral or favorable to operations.
Cost Recovery and Trackers. A significant portion of Northern Indianas revenue is related to the
recovery of fuel costs to generate power and the fuel costs related to purchased power. These
costs are recovered through a FAC, a standard, quarterly, summary regulatory proceeding in
Indiana. Various intervenors, including the OUCC, had taken issue with the allocation of costs
included in Northern Indianas FAC-80, FAC-81 and FAC-82, which cover the reconciliation of April
December 2008. The IURC granted a sub-docket to consider such issues in those filings. The
intervening parties and Northern Indiana discussed procedures to eliminate these concerns and to
resolve them for the historical periods. On November 4, 2009 the IURC approved a settlement
agreement which calls for a credit of $8.2 million to be provided to FAC customers beginning in
November 2009, less any amount for attorneys fees and expenses.
18
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
On May 28, 2008, the IURC issued an order approving the purchase of Sugar Creek, and on May 30,
2008 Northern Indiana purchased the 535 mw CCGT for $330 million in order to help meet capacity
needs. On February 18, 2009, the IURC issued an order approving a settlement agreement filed in
this proceeding allowing Northern Indiana to begin deferring carrying costs and depreciation,
pending inclusion in rates, on Sugar Creek effective on December 1, 2008, when Sugar Creek was
dispatched into MISO, at the agreed to carrying cost rate of 6.5%. The annual deferral for Sugar
Creek is reduced by the annual depreciation on the Mitchell plant of $4.5 million, pursuant to the
FAC-71 settlement. The terms of recovery of the deferral and inclusion of Sugar Creek in rates will
be resolved in Northern Indianas current rate proceeding.
As part of a settlement agreement which resolved issues surrounding purchased power costs, Northern
Indiana implemented a new benchmarking standard, that became effective in October 2007, which
defines the price above which purchased power costs must be absorbed by Northern Indiana and are
not permitted to be passed on to ratepayers. The benchmark is based upon the costs of power
generated by a hypothetical natural gas fired unit using gas purchased and delivered to Northern
Indiana and a set sharing mechanism. The agreement also contemplated Northern Indiana adding
generating capacity to its existing portfolio by providing for the benchmark to be adjusted as new
capacity is added. The dispatch of Sugar Creek into MISO on December 1, 2008 triggered a change in
the benchmark, whereby the first 500 mw tier of the benchmark provision was eliminated. During the
first quarters of 2010 and 2009, the amount of purchased power costs exceeding the benchmark
amounted to $0.1 million and $0.8 million, respectively, which was recognized as a net reduction of
revenues.
Northern Indiana has approval from the IURC to recover certain environmental related costs through
an ECT. Under the ECT, Northern Indiana is permitted to recover (1) AFUDC and a return on the
capital investment expended by Northern Indiana to implement IDEMs NOx SIP and CAIR and CAMR
compliance plan projects through an ECRM and (2) related operation and maintenance and depreciation
expenses once the environmental facilities become operational through an EERM. Northern Indiana
anticipates a total capital investment of approximately $368 million. This revised cost estimate
is subject to and pending approval by the IURC. On April 30, 2010, the IURC approved ECR-15 for
recovery of items described above based upon a capital expenditure level (net of accumulated
depreciation) of $287.4 million.
9. Risk Management Activities
NiSource is exposed to certain risks relating to its ongoing business operations. The primary
risks managed by using derivative instruments are commodity price risk and interest rate risk.
Derivative natural gas contracts are entered into to manage the price risk associated with natural
gas price volatility and to secure forward natural gas prices. Interest rate swaps are entered
into to manage interest rate risk associated with NiSources fixed-rate borrowings. NiSource
designates many of its commodity forward contracts as cash flow hedges of forecasted purchases of
commodities and designates its interest rate swaps as fair value hedges of fixed-rate borrowings.
Additionally, certain NiSource subsidiaries enter into forward physical contracts with various
third parties to procure or sell natural gas or power. Certain forward physical contracts are
derivatives which qualify for the normal purchase and normal sales exception which would not
require mark-to-market accounting.
Accounting Policy for Derivative Instruments. The ASC topic on accounting for derivatives and
hedging requires an entity to recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities on the
Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value, unless such contracts are exempted as a normal purchase
and normal sale contract under the provisions of the ASC topic. The accounting for changes in the
fair value of a derivative depends on the intended use of the derivative and resulting designation.
19
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
NiSource uses a variety of derivative instruments (exchange traded futures and options, physical
forwards and options, basis contracts, financial commodity swaps, and interest rate swaps) to
effectively manage its commodity price risk and interest rate risk exposure. If certain conditions
are met, a derivative may be specifically designated as (a) a hedge of the exposure to changes in
the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or an unrecognized firm commitment, or (b) a
hedge of the exposure to variable cash flows of a forecasted transaction. In order for a
derivative contract to be designated as a hedge, the relationship between the hedging instrument
and the hedged item or transaction must be highly effective. The effectiveness test is performed
at the inception of the hedge and each reporting period thereafter, throughout the period that the
hedge is designated. Any amounts determined to be ineffective are recognized currently in
earnings. For derivative contracts that qualify for the normal purchase and normal sales
exception, a contracts fair value is not recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements until
the contract is settled.
Unrealized and realized gains and losses are recognized each period as components of accumulated
other comprehensive income (loss), regulatory assets and liabilities or earnings depending on the
designation of the derivative instrument. For subsidiaries that utilize derivatives for cash flow
hedges, the effective portions of the gains and losses are recorded to accumulated other
comprehensive income (loss) and are recognized in earnings concurrent with the disposition of the
hedged risks. If a forecasted transaction corresponding to a cash flow hedge is no longer probable
to occur, the accumulated gains or losses on the derivative are recognized currently in earnings.
For fair value hedges, the gains and losses are recorded in earnings each period together with the
change in the fair value of the hedged item. As a result of the rate-making process, the
rate-regulated subsidiaries generally record gains and losses as regulatory liabilities or assets
and recognize such gains or losses in earnings when both the contracts settle and the physical
commodity flows. These gains and losses recognized in earnings are then subsequently recovered or
paid to customers through rates. When gains and losses are recognized in earnings, they are
recognized in cost of sales for derivatives that correspond to commodity risk activities and are
recognized in interest expense for derivatives that correspond to interest-rate risk activities.
Commodity Price Risk Programs. NiSource and NiSources utility customers are exposed to
variability in cash flows associated with natural gas purchases and volatility in natural gas
prices. NiSource purchases natural gas for sale and delivery to its retail, commercial and
industrial customers, and for most customers the variability in the market price of gas is passed
through in their rates. Some of NiSources utility subsidiaries offer programs where variability
in the market price of gas is assumed by the respective utility. The objective of NiSources
commodity price risk programs is to mitigate this gas cost variability, for NiSource or on behalf
of its customers, associated with natural gas purchases or sales by economically hedging the
various gas cost components by using a combination of futures, options, forward physical contracts,
basis swap contracts or other derivative contracts. Northern Indiana also uses derivative
contracts to minimize risk associated with power price volatility. These commodity price risk
programs and their respective accounting treatment are described below.
Northern Indiana, Northern Indiana Fuel and Light, Kokomo Gas, Columbia of Pennsylvania, Columbia
of Kentucky, Columbia of Maryland and Columbia of Virginia use NYMEX derivative contracts to
minimize risk associated with gas price volatility. These derivative programs must be marked to
fair value, but because these derivatives are used within the framework of the companies GCR
mechanisms, regulatory assets or liabilities are recorded to offset the change in the fair value of
these derivatives.
Northern Indiana, Columbia of Virginia and Columbia of Pennsylvania offer a fixed price program as
an alternative to the standard GCR mechanism. These services provide customers with the
opportunity to either lock in their gas cost or place a cap on the gas costs that would be charged
in future months. In addition, in order to hedge the anticipated physical purchases associated
with these obligations, forward physical contracts, NYMEX futures and NYMEX options have been used
to secure forward gas prices. The accounting treatment elected for these contracts is varied
whereby certain of these contracts have been accounted for as cash flow hedges while some contracts
are not. The normal purchase and normal sales exception is elected for forward physical contracts
associated with these programs whereby delivery of the commodity is probable to occur.
20
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Northern Indiana offers a DependaBill program to its customers as an alternative to the standard
tariff rate that is charged to residential customers. This program allows Northern Indiana
customers to fix their total monthly bill in future months at a flat rate regardless of gas usage
or commodity cost. In order to hedge the anticipated physical purchases associated with these
obligations, forward physical contracts, and NYMEX options are used to secure forward gas prices.
The normal purchase and normal sales exception is elected for forward physical contracts associated
with these programs whereby delivery of the commodity is probable to occur.
Northern Indiana enters into gas purchase contracts at first of the month prices that give
counterparties the daily option to either sell an additional package of gas at first of the month
prices or recall the original volume to be delivered. Northern Indiana charges a fee for this
option. The changes in the fair value of these options are primarily due to the changing
expectations of the future intra-month volatility of gas prices. These written options are
derivative instruments, must be marked to fair value and do not meet the requirement for hedge
accounting treatment. However, Northern Indiana records the related gains and losses associated
with these transactions as a regulatory asset or liability.
Columbia of Kentucky, Columbia of Ohio, Columbia of Pennsylvania, and Columbia of Maryland
(collectively, the Columbia LDCs) enter into contracts that allow counterparties the option to
sell gas to Columbia LDCs at first of the month prices for a particular month of delivery.
Columbia LDCs charge the counterparties a fee for this option. The changes in the fair value of
the options are primarily due to the changing expectations of the future intra-month volatility of
gas prices. These Columbia LDCs defer a portion of the change in the fair value of the options as
either a regulatory asset or liability based on the regulatory customer sharing mechanisms in
place, with the remaining changes in fair value recognized currently in earnings.
As part of the MISO Day 2 initiative, Northern Indiana was allocated or has purchased FTRs. These
FTRs help Northern Indiana offset congestion costs due to the MISO Day 2 activity. The FTRs are
marked to fair value and are not accounted for as a hedge, but since congestion costs are
recoverable through the fuel cost recovery mechanism, the related gains and losses associated with
marking these derivatives to market are recorded as a regulatory asset or liability. In the second
quarter of 2008, MISO changed its allocation procedures from an allocation of FTRs to an allocation
of ARRs, whereby Northern Indiana was allocated ARRs based on its historical use of the MISO
administered transmission system. ARRs entitle the holder to a stream of revenues or charges based
on the price of the associated FTR in the FTR auction. ARRs are not derivatives and are
convertible to FTRs. Northern Indiana purchased FTRs in the second quarter of 2009 and expects to
purchase additional FTRs in the second quarter of 2010.
NiSource is in the process of winding down its unregulated natural gas marketing business, where
gas derivatives are utilized to hedge expected future gas purchases and sales. Prior to the
decision to wind down this business in the second quarter of 2009, the financial derivatives
associated with commercial and industrial gas sales were accounted for as cash flow hedges.
NiSource also has corresponding forward physical sales contracts of natural gas with customers.
These forward physical sales contracts are derivatives that have generally qualified for the normal
purchase and normal sales exception, which NiSource had elected prior to the decision to wind down
the business in 2009. As a result of the decision to wind down the business in the second quarter
of 2009, certain forecasted transactions were no longer probable to occur, which triggered the
mark-to-market treatment of certain forward sales contracts that were previously exempt under the
normal purchase and normal sale exception. In addition, the mark-to-market gains and losses
deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to certain financial derivatives
accounted for as a cash flow hedge were recognized in income. NiSource established reserves of
$9.2 million at December 31, 2009 and $9.7 million at March 31, 2010, against certain of these
physical sale contract derivatives. These amounts represent reserves related to the
creditworthiness of certain customers, the fair value of future cash flows, and the cost of
maintaining significant amounts of restricted cash. The physical sales contracts marked-to-market
had a fair value of approximately $168.5 million at March 31, 2010, while the financial derivative
contracts marked-to-market had a fair value loss of $152.3 million at March 31, 2010.
21
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Commodity price risk program derivative contracted gross volumes are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
March 31, 2010 |
|
|
December 31, 2009 |
|
|
Commodity Price Risk Program: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gas price volatility program derivatives (MMDth) |
|
|
24.0 |
|
|
|
26.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Price Protection Service program derivatives (MMDth) |
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
1.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DependaBill program derivatives (MMDth) |
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Regulatory incentive program derivatives (MMDth) |
|
|
5.7 |
|
|
|
1.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gas marketing program derivatives (MMDth) (a) |
|
|
64.5 |
|
|
|
74.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gas marketing forward physical derivatives (MMDth) (b) |
|
|
64.9 |
|
|
|
79.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Electric energy program FTR derivatives (mw) |
|
|
561.3 |
|
|
|
1,343.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
(a) |
|
Basis contract volumes not included in the above table were 67.4 MMDth and 82.3 MMDth
as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively. |
|
(b) |
|
Basis contract volumes not included in the above table were 70.0 MMDth and 85.4 MMDth
as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively. |
Interest Rate Risk Activities. NiSource recognizes that the prudent and selective use of
derivatives may help it to lower its cost of debt capital and manage its interest rate exposure.
NiSource Finance has entered into various receive fixed and pay floating interest rate swap
agreements which modify the interest rate characteristics of its outstanding long-term debt from
fixed to variable rate. These interest rate swaps also serve to hedge the fair market value of
NiSource Finances outstanding debt portfolio. As of March 31, 2010, NiSource had $7.1 billion of
outstanding debt, of which $1,050 million is subject to fluctuations in interest rates as a result
of the fixed-to-variable interest rate swap transactions. These interest rate swaps are
designated as fair value hedges. NiSource had no net gain or loss recognized in earnings due to
hedging ineffectiveness.
On May 12, 2004, NiSource Finance entered into fixed-to-variable interest rate swap agreements in a
notional amount of $660 million with six counterparties having a 6 1/2-year term. NiSource Finance
will receive payments based upon a fixed 7.875% interest rate and pay a floating interest amount
based on U.S. 6-month BBA LIBOR plus an average of 3.08% per annum. There was no exchange of
premium at the initial date of the swaps. On September 15, 2008, NiSource Finance terminated a
fixed-to-variable interest rate swap agreement with Lehman Brothers having a notional amount of
$110 million. NiSource Finance elected to terminate the swap when Lehman Holdings Inc., guarantor
under the applicable International Swaps and Derivatives Association agreement, filed for Chapter
11 bankruptcy protection on September 14, 2008, which constituted an event of default under the
swap agreement between NiSource Finance and Lehman Brothers Special Financing Inc. The
mark-to-market close-out value of this swap at the September 15, 2008 termination date was
determined to be $4.8 million and was fully reserved in the third quarter of 2008. The termination
of this swap did not impact NiSources ability to assert hedge accounting for its remaining
fixed-to-variable interest rate swap agreements.
On July 22, 2003, NiSource Finance entered into fixed-to-variable interest rate swap agreements in
a notional amount of $500 million with four counterparties with an 11-year term. NiSource Finance
will receive payments based upon a fixed 5.40% interest rate and pay a floating interest amount
based on U.S. 6-month BBA LIBOR plus an average of 0.78% per annum. There was no exchange of
premium at the initial date of the swaps. In addition, each party has the right to cancel the
swaps on July 15, 2013.
22
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Contemporaneously with the issuance on September 16, 2005 of $1 billion of its 5.25% and 5.45%
notes, NiSource Finance settled $900 million of forward starting interest rate swap agreements with
six counterparties. NiSource paid an aggregate settlement payment of $35.5 million which is being
amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss to interest expense over the term of the
underlying debt, resulting in an effective interest rate of 5.67% and 5.88%, respectively. As of
March 31, 2010, accumulated other comprehensive loss includes $14.0 million related to forward
starting interest rate swap settlement. These derivative contracts are accounted for as a cash
flow hedge.
NiSources location and fair value of derivative instruments on the Condensed Consolidated Balance
Sheets (unaudited) were:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
March 31, |
|
|
December 31, |
|
Asset Derivatives (in millions) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Balance Sheet Location |
|
Fair Value |
|
Fair Value |
|
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodity price risk programs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Price risk management assets (current) |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
Price risk management assets (noncurrent) |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
Interest rate risk activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Price risk management assets (noncurrent) |
|
|
70.8 |
|
|
|
68.2 |
|
|
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments |
|
$ |
70.8 |
|
|
$ |
68.2 |
|
|
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodity price risk programs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Price risk management assets (current) |
|
$ |
190.4 |
|
|
$ |
173.3 |
|
Price risk management assets (noncurrent) |
|
|
200.5 |
|
|
|
169.4 |
|
|
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments |
|
$ |
390.9 |
|
|
$ |
342.7 |
|
|
Total Asset Derivatives |
|
$ |
461.7 |
|
|
$ |
410.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
March 31, |
|
|
December 31, |
|
Liability Derivatives (in millions) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Balance Sheet Location |
|
Fair Value |
|
Fair Value |
|
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodity price risk programs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Price risk management liabilities (current) |
|
$ |
1.3 |
|
|
$ |
1.0 |
|
Price risk management liabilities (noncurrent) |
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments |
|
$ |
1.5 |
|
|
$ |
1.5 |
|
|
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodity price risk programs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Price risk management liabilities (current) |
|
$ |
209.8 |
|
|
$ |
189.1 |
|
Price risk management liabilities (noncurrent) |
|
|
200.4 |
|
|
|
169.7 |
|
|
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments |
|
$ |
410.2 |
|
|
$ |
358.8 |
|
|
Total Liability Derivatives |
|
$ |
411.7 |
|
|
$ |
360.3 |
|
|
23
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
The effect of derivative instruments on the Condensed Statements of Consolidated Income (unaudited)
were:
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships
Three Months Ended, (in millions)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount of Gain (Loss) |
|
|
|
|
Amount of Gain (Loss) |
|
|
|
Recognized in OCI on |
|
|
|
|
Reclassified from AOCI |
|
|
|
Derivative (Effective |
|
|
Location of Gain (Loss) |
|
into Income (Effective |
|
|
|
Portion) |
|
|
Reclassified from AOCI |
|
Portion) |
|
Derivatives in Cash Flow |
|
March 31, |
|
|
March 31, |
|
|
into Income (Effective |
|
March 31, |
|
|
March 31, |
|
Hedging Relationships |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Portion) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Commodity price risk programs |
|
$ |
(3.3 |
) |
|
$ |
(14.9 |
) |
|
Cost of Sales |
|
$ |
0.5 |
|
|
$ |
(43.8 |
) |
Interest rate risk activities |
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
Interest expense, net |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(0.4 |
) |
|
Total |
|
$ |
(2.9 |
) |
|
$ |
(14.5 |
) |
|
|
|
$ |
0.5 |
|
|
$ |
(44.2 |
) |
|
Three Months Ended, (in millions)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized |
|
|
|
|
|
in Income of Derivative |
|
|
|
Location of Gain (Loss) |
|
(Ineffective Portion and Amount |
|
|
|
Recognized in Income on |
|
Excluded from Effectiveness |
|
|
|
Derivative (Ineffective Portion |
|
Testing) |
|
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging |
|
and Amount Excluded from |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Relationships |
|
Effectiveness Testing) |
|
March 31, 2010 |
|
|
March 31, 2009 |
|
|
Commodity price risk programs |
|
Cost of Sales |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
Interest rate risk activities |
|
Interest expense, net |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships
Three Months Ended, (in millions)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized |
|
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging |
|
Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in |
|
in Income on Derivatives |
|
Relationships |
|
Income on Derivatives |
|
March 31, 2010 |
|
|
March 31, 2009 |
|
|
Interest
rate risk activities |
|
Interest expense, net |
|
$ |
2.1 |
|
|
$ |
(3.7 |
) |
|
Total |
|
|
|
$ |
2.1 |
|
|
$ |
(3.7 |
) |
|
Three Months Ended, (in millions)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized |
|
Hedged Item in Fair Value Hedge |
|
Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in |
|
in Income on Related Hedged Items |
|
Relationships |
|
Income on Related Hedged Item |
|
March 31, 2010 |
|
|
March 31, 2009 |
|
|
Fixed-rate debt |
|
Interest expense, net |
|
$ |
(2.1 |
) |
|
$ |
3.7 |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
$ |
(2.1 |
) |
|
$ |
3.7 |
|
|
24
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Three Months Ended, (in millions)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount of Realized/Unrealized Gain |
|
|
|
|
|
(Loss) Recognized in Income on |
|
|
|
|
|
Derivatives * |
|
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging |
|
Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Instruments |
|
Income on Derivatives |
|
March 31, 2010 |
|
|
March 31, 2009 |
|
|
Commodity price risk programs |
|
Gas Distribution revenues |
|
$ |
(21.0 |
) |
|
$ |
(48.2 |
) |
Commodity price risk programs |
|
Other revenues |
|
|
77.2 |
|
|
|
- |
|
Commodity price risk programs |
|
Cost of Sales |
|
|
(71.2 |
) |
|
|
(1.4 |
) |
|
Total |
|
|
|
$ |
(15.0 |
) |
|
$ |
(49.6 |
) |
|
* For the amounts of realized/unrealized gain (loss) recognized in income on derivatives
disclosed in the table above, losses of $20.7 million and $50.0 million for the first quarter of
2010 and 2009, respectively, were deferred as allowed by regulatory orders. These amounts will be
amortized to income over future periods of up to twelve months as specified in a regulatory order.
During the first quarters of 2010 and 2009, no amounts were reclassified related to NiSources cash
flow hedges from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to Cost of Sales due to the
probability that certain forecasted transactions would not occur. It is anticipated that during
the next twelve months the expiration and settlement of cash flow hedge contracts will result in
income statement recognition of amounts currently classified in accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss) of approximately $0.9 million of loss, net of taxes.
NiSources derivative instruments measured at fair value as of March 31, 2010 do not contain any
credit-risk-related contingent features.
Certain NiSource affiliates have physical commodity purchase agreements that meet the definition of
a derivative for which NiSource has elected the normal purchase and normal sale exception. These
agreements are exempt from the requirements of Derivatives and Hedging Accounting, and are not
measured at fair value. Certain of these agreements do contain ratings triggers that require
increases in collateral if the credit rating of NiSource or certain of its affiliates are rated
below BBB- by Standard and Poors or below Baa3 by Moodys. As of March 31, 2010, there were no
accounts payables under physical commodity purchase agreements containing ratings triggers.
NiSource had $218.3 million and $173.2 million of cash on deposit with brokers for margin
requirements associated with open derivative positions reflected within, Restricted cash, on the
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited) as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009,
respectively.
10. Fair Value Disclosures
A. Fair Value Measurements. NiSource adopted the provisions of ASC Topic 820 Fair Value
Measurements and Disclosures for financial assets and liabilities on January 1, 2008 and
non-financial assets and liabilities on January 1, 2009. There was no impact on retained earnings
as a result of the adoption.
25
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Recurring Fair Value Measurements. The following tables present financial assets and liabilities
measured and recorded at fair value on NiSources Consolidated Balance Sheet on a recurring basis
and their level within the fair value hierarchy as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Quoted Prices in |
|
|
Significant |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Active Markets |
|
|
Other |
|
|
Significant |
|
|
|
|
|
|
for Identical |
|
|
Observable |
|
|
Unobservable |
|
|
|
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements |
|
Assets |
|
|
Inputs |
|
|
Inputs |
|
|
Balance as of |
|
March 31, 2010 (in millions) |
|
(Level 1) |
|
|
(Level 2) |
|
|
(Level 3) |
|
|
March 31, 2010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodity Price risk management assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Physical price risk programs |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
179.1 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
179.1 |
|
Financial price risk programs |
|
|
205.5 |
|
|
|
5.3 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
210.8 |
|
Other |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
Interest rate risk activities |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
70.8 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
70.8 |
|
Available-for-sale securities |
|
|
35.4 |
|
|
|
35.9 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
71.3 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
240.9 |
|
|
$ |
291.1 |
|
|
$ |
1.0 |
|
|
$ |
533.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodity Price risk management liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Physical price risk programs |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
4.7 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
4.7 |
|
Financial price risk programs |
|
|
401.3 |
|
|
|
5.5 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
406.8 |
|
Other |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
401.3 |
|
|
$ |
10.2 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
$ |
411.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Quoted Prices in |
|
|
Significant |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Active Markets |
|
|
Other |
|
|
Significant |
|
|
|
|
|
|
for Identical |
|
|
Observable |
|
|
Unobservable |
|
|
|
|
Recurring Fair Value Measurements |
|
Assets |
|
|
Inputs |
|
|
Inputs |
|
|
Balance as of |
|
December 31, 2009 (in millions) |
|
(Level 1) |
|
|
(Level 2) |
|
|
(Level 3) |
|
|
December 31, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodity Price risk management assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Physical price risk programs |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
141.7 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
141.7 |
|
Financial price risk programs |
|
|
187.5 |
|
|
|
11.4 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
198.9 |
|
Other |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2.1 |
|
|
|
2.1 |
|
Interest rate risk activities |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
68.2 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
68.2 |
|
Available-for-sale securities |
|
|
34.5 |
|
|
|
37.4 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
71.9 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
222.0 |
|
|
$ |
258.7 |
|
|
$ |
2.1 |
|
|
$ |
482.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodity Price risk management liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Physical price risk programs |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
9.6 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
9.6 |
|
Financial price risk programs |
|
|
343.8 |
|
|
|
6.9 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
350.7 |
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
343.8 |
|
|
$ |
16.5 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
360.3 |
|
|
26
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Price risk management assets and liabilities include commodity exchange-traded and
non-exchange-based derivative contracts. Exchange-traded derivative contracts are generally based
on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified within Level 1. These financial
assets and liabilities are secured with cash on deposit with the exchange; therefore nonperformance
risk has not been incorporated into these valuations. Certain non-exchange-traded derivatives are
valued using broker or over-the-counter, on-line exchanges. In such cases, these
non-exchange-traded derivatives are classified within Level 2. Non-exchange-based derivative
instruments include swaps, forwards, and options. In certain instances, these instruments may
utilize models to measure fair value. NiSource uses a similar model to value similar instruments.
Valuation models utilize various inputs that include quoted prices for similar assets or
liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in
markets that are not active, other observable inputs for the asset or liability, and
market-corroborated inputs, i.e., inputs derived principally from or corroborated by observable
market data by correlation or other means. Where observable inputs are available for substantially
the full term of the asset or liability, the instrument is categorized in Level 2. Certain
derivatives trade in less active markets with a lower availability of pricing information and
models may be utilized in the valuation. When such inputs have a significant impact on the
measurement of fair value, the instrument is categorized in Level 3. Credit risk is considered in
the fair value calculation of derivative instruments that are not exchange-traded. Credit
exposures are adjusted to reflect collateral agreements which reduce exposures.
To determine the fair value of derivatives associated with NiSources unregulated natural gas
marketing business, certain reserves were calculated. These reserves were primarily determined by
evaluating the credit worthiness of certain customers, fair value of future cash flows, and the
cost of maintaining restricted cash. Refer to Note 9, Risk Management Activities for additional
information on price risk assets.
Price risk management assets also include fixed-to-floating interest-rate swaps, which are
designated as fair value hedges, as a means to achieve its targeted level of variable-rate debt as
a percent of total debt. NiSource uses a calculation of future cash inflows and estimated future
outflows related to the swap agreements, which are discounted and netted to determine the current
fair value. Additional inputs to the present value calculation include the contract terms, as well
as market parameters such as current and projected interest rates and volatility. As they are
based on observable data and valuations of similar instruments, the interest-rate swaps are
categorized in Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. Credit risk is considered in the fair value
calculation of the interest rate swap.
Available-for-sale securities are investments pledged as collateral for trust accounts related to
NiSources wholly-owned insurance company. Available-for-sale securities are included within
Other investments in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited). Securities
classified within Level 1 include U.S. Treasury debt securities which are highly liquid and are
actively traded in over-the-counter markets. NiSource values corporate and mortgage-backed debt
securities using a matrix pricing model that incorporates market-based information. These
securities trade less frequently and are classified within Level 2. Unrealized gains and losses
from available-for-sale securities are included in other comprehensive income (loss). The
amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, and fair value of available-for-sale debt
securities at March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 were:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Unrealized |
|
|
Unrealized |
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
Amortized Cost |
|
|
Gains |
|
|
Losses |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
Available-for-sale debt securities, March 31, 2010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
U.S. Treasury securities |
|
$ |
35.4 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
$ |
(0.2 |
) |
|
$ |
35.4 |
|
Corporate/Other bonds |
|
|
33.8 |
|
|
|
2.1 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
35.9 |
|
|
Total Available-for-sale debt securities |
|
$ |
69.2 |
|
|
$ |
2.3 |
|
|
$ |
(0.2 |
) |
|
$ |
71.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Unrealized |
|
|
Unrealized |
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
Amortized Cost |
|
|
Gains |
|
|
Losses |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
|
Available-for-sale debt securities, December 31, 2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
U.S. Treasury securities |
|
$ |
34.6 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
$ |
(0.3 |
) |
|
$ |
34.5 |
|
Corporate/Other bonds |
|
|
35.2 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
37.4 |
|
|
Total Available-for-sale debt securities |
|
$ |
69.8 |
|
|
$ |
2.4 |
|
|
$ |
(0.3 |
) |
|
$ |
71.9 |
|
|
27
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
For the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009 the realized gain on sale of available for
sale U.S. Treasury debt securities was zero and $0.9 million, respectively. For the three months
ended March 31, 2010 and 2009 the realized gain on sale of available for sale Corporate/Other bond
debt securities was $0.4 million and zero, respectively. The cost of maturities sold is based upon
specific identification. At March 31, 2010, all U.S. Treasury debt securities have maturities of
greater than one year. At March 31, 2010, approximately $2.0 million of Corporate/Other bonds have
maturities of less than a year while the remaining securities have maturities of greater than one
year.
The following tables present the fair value reconciliation of Level 3 assets and liabilities
measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the periods ended March 31, 2010 and 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Financial |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Period Ended March 31, 2010 (in millions) |
|
Transmission Rights |
|
|
Other Derivatives |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of January 1, 2010 |
|
$ |
1.9 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
$ |
2.1 |
|
|
Total gains or (losses) (unrealized/realized) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Included in regulatory assets/liabilities |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
Purchases, issuances and settlements (net) |
|
|
(1.0 |
) |
|
|
(0.3 |
) |
|
|
(1.3 |
) |
|
Balance as of March 31, 2010 |
|
$ |
0.9 |
|
|
$ |
(0.1 |
) |
|
$ |
0.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating
to instruments still held as of March 31,
2010 |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
|
|
|
Financial |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Period Ended March 31, 2009 (in millions) |
|
Transmission Rights |
|
|
Other Derivatives |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of January 1, 2009 |
|
$ |
2.6 |
|
|
$ |
1.6 |
|
|
$ |
4.2 |
|
|
Total gains or losses (unrealized/realized) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Included in regulatory assets/liabilities |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
Purchases, issuances and settlements (net) |
|
|
(1.7 |
) |
|
|
(2.0 |
) |
|
|
(3.7 |
) |
|
Balance as of March 31, 2009 |
|
$ |
0.9 |
|
|
$ |
(0.2 |
) |
|
$ |
0.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Change in unrealized gains/(losses)
relating to instruments still held as of
March 31, 2009 |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
As discussed in Note 9, as part of the MISO Day 2 initiative, Northern Indiana was allocated
or has purchased FTRs, which help Northern Indiana offset congestion costs due to the MISO Day 2
activity. These instruments are considered derivatives and are valued utilizing forecasted
congestion source and sink prices in the Day Ahead market. Any unrealized gains and losses for
FTRs are attributable to a change in this model of forecasted congestion. They are classified as
Level 3 and reflected in the table above. The FTRs are not accounted for as a hedge, but since
congestion costs are recoverable through the fuel cost recovery mechanism, the related gains and
losses associated with marking these derivatives to market are recorded as a regulatory asset or
liability. Northern Indiana also writes options for regulatory incentive purposes which are also
considered Level 3 valuations. Realized gains and losses for these Level 3 recurring items are
included in income within, Cost of Sales, on the Statements of Consolidated Income. Unrealized
gains and losses from Level 3 recurring items are included within, Regulatory assets or Regulatory
liabilities, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Non-recurring Fair Value Measurements. There were no non-recurring fair value measurements
recorded during the first quarter of 2010.
28
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
B. Other Fair Value Disclosures for Financial Instruments. NiSource has certain financial
instruments that are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis but nevertheless are recorded
at amounts that approximate fair value due to their liquid or short-term nature, including cash and
cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, customer deposits and
short-term borrowings. NiSources long-term borrowings are recorded at historical amounts unless
designated as a hedged item in a fair value hedge.
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of
financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate fair value.
Investments. NiSource has corporate owned life insurance which is measured and recorded at cash
surrender value. NiSources investments in corporate owned life insurance at March 31, 2010 and
December 31, 2009 were $24.5 million and $23.7 million.
Long-term Debt. The fair values of these securities are estimated based on the quoted market
prices for the same or similar issues or on the rates offered for securities of the same remaining
maturities. Certain premium costs associated with the early settlement of long-term debt are not
taken into consideration in determining fair value.
The carrying amount and estimated fair values of financial instruments were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Carrying |
|
|
Estimated Fair |
|
|
Carrying |
|
|
Estimated Fair |
|
|
|
Amount as of |
|
|
Value as of |
|
|
Amount as of |
|
|
Value as of |
|
(in millions) |
|
March 31, 2010 |
|
|
March 31, 2010 |
|
|
Dec. 31, 2009 |
|
|
Dec. 31, 2009 |
|
|
Long-term investments |
|
$ |
25.3 |
|
|
$ |
24.0 |
|
|
$ |
24.5 |
|
|
$ |
23.2 |
|
Long-term debt (including current portion) |
|
|
6,687.0 |
|
|
|
7,183.9 |
|
|
|
6,684.4 |
|
|
|
7,089.8 |
|
|
11. Transfers of Financial Assets
Beginning January 1, 2010, transfers of accounts receivable that previously qualified for sales
accounting no longer qualify and are accounted for as secured borrowings resulting in the
recognition of short-term debt on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited). The
maximum amount of debt that can be recognized related to NiSources accounts receivable programs is
$550 million.
Prior to January 1, 2010, NiSources accounts receivable programs qualified for sale accounting
based upon the conditions met in ASC Topic 860 Transfers and Servicing.
All accounts receivables sold to the commercial paper conduits are valued at face value, which
approximate fair value due to their short-term nature. The amount of the undivided percentage
ownership interest in the accounts receivables sold is determined in part by required loss reserves
under the agreements. Below is information about the accounts receivable securitization agreements
entered into by NiSources subsidiaries.
On October 23, 2009, Columbia of Ohio entered into an agreement to sell, without recourse,
substantially all of its trade receivables, as they originate, to CGORC, a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Columbia of Ohio. CGORC, in turn, is party to an agreement with BTMU and RBS, also dated
October 23, 2009, under the terms of which it sells an undivided percentage ownership interest in
its accounts receivable to commercial paper conduits sponsored by BTMU and RBS. The maximum
seasonal program limit under the terms of the agreement is $275 million. CGORCs agreement with
the commercial paper conduits has a scheduled termination date of October 22, 2010, and can be
renewed if mutually agreed to by all parties. As of March 31, 2010, $130.2 million of accounts
receivable had been transferred by CGORC. CGORC is a separate corporate entity from NiSource and
Columbia of Ohio, with its own separate obligations, and upon a liquidation of CGORC, CGORCs
obligations must be satisfied out of CGORCs assets prior to any value becoming available to
CGORCs stockholder. Under the agreement, it is an event of termination if NiSources debt rating
is withdrawn by either Standard and Poors or Moodys or falls below BB- or Ba3 at either Standard
and Poors or Moodys, respectively.
29
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
On October 23, 2009, Northern Indiana entered into an agreement to sell, without recourse,
substantially all of its trade receivables, as they originate, to NARC, a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Northern Indiana. NARC, in turn, is party to an agreement with RBS, also dated October 23,
2009, under the terms of which it sells an undivided percentage ownership interest in its accounts
receivable to a commercial paper conduit sponsored by RBS. The maximum seasonal program limit
under the terms of the agreement is $200 million. NARCs agreement with the commercial paper
conduit has a scheduled termination date of October 22, 2010, and can be renewed if mutually agreed
to by both parties. As of March 31, 2010, $165.9 million of accounts receivable had been
transferred by NARC. NARC is a separate corporate entity from NiSource and Northern Indiana, with
its own separate obligations, and upon a liquidation of NARC, NARCs obligations must be satisfied
out of NARCs assets prior to any value becoming available to NARCs stockholder. Under the
agreement, it is an event of termination if Northern Indianas debt rating is withdrawn by either
Standard and Poors or Moodys or falls below BB, or Ba2 at either Standard and Poors or Moodys,
respectively.
On March 15, 2010, Columbia of Pennsylvania entered into an agreement to sell, without recourse,
substantially all of its trade receivables, as they originate, to CPRC, a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Columbia of Pennsylvania. CPRC, in turn, is party to an agreement with BTMU, also dated March
15, 2010, under the terms of which it sells an undivided percentage ownership interest in its
accounts receivable to a commercial paper conduit sponsored by BTMU. The maximum seasonal program
limit under the terms of the agreement is $75 million. CPRCs agreement with the commercial paper
conduit has a scheduled termination date of March 14, 2011, and can be renewed if mutually agreed
to by both parties. As of March 31, 2010, $74.7 million of accounts receivable had been
transferred by CPRC. CPRC is a separate corporate entity from NiSource and Columbia of
Pennsylvania, with its own separate obligations, and upon a liquidation of CPRC, CPRCs obligations
must be satisfied out of CPRCs assets prior to any value becoming available to CPRCs stockholder.
Under the agreement, it is an event of termination if NiSources debt rating is withdrawn by
either Standard and Poors or Moodys or falls below BB-, or Ba3 at either Standard and Poors or
Moodys, respectively.
The following table reflects the gross and net receivables transferred as well as short-term debt
related to the securitization transactions as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 for Columbia
of Ohio, Northern Indiana and Columbia of Pennsylvania:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
March 31, 2010 |
|
|
December 31, 2009 |
|
|
Gross Receivables |
|
$ |
512.4 |
|
|
$ |
437.8 |
|
Less: Receivables not transferred |
|
|
141.7 |
|
|
|
249.4 |
|
|
Net receivables transferred |
|
$ |
370.7 |
|
|
$ |
188.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Short-term debt due to asset securitization |
|
$ |
370.7 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
Consistent with sale accounting treatment, at December 31, 2009 the $188.4 million of receivables
shown above are not recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. During the
first quarter of 2009 NiSource received proceeds from receivables
sold of $1,615.2 million and
remitted collections to the commercial paper conduits of $1,420.7 million, resulting in net
operating cash flows of $194.5 million. Additionally, during the first quarter of 2009, $4.5
million of fees associated with the securitization transactions were recorded as other, net
expense.
30
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Beginning January 1, 2010, transfers of accounts receivable that previously qualified for sale
accounting no longer qualify and are accounted for as secured borrowings. As such, at March 31,
2010, the entire gross receivables balance remains on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(unaudited) and short-term debt is recorded in the amount of proceeds received from the commercial
paper conduits involved in the transactions. During the first quarter of 2010, $370.7 million has
been recorded as cash from financing activities related to the change in short-term debt due to the
securitization transactions. Although there have been no changes in the operation of the accounts
receivable securitization programs, the application of the new accounting guidance resulted in a
reduction in cash from operations of $241.9 million. During the first quarter of 2010, $1.9
million of fees associated with the securitization transactions were recorded as interest expense
in accordance with the new accounting guidance. Columbia of Ohio, Northern Indiana and Columbia
of Pennsylvania remain responsible for collecting on the receivables securitized and the
receivables cannot be sold to another party.
12. Goodwill Assets
NiSource has four reporting units that carry or are allocated goodwill. NiSources goodwill assets
at March 31, 2010 were $3,677.3 million pertaining primarily to the acquisition of Columbia on
November 1, 2000. Of this amount, approximately $1,975.5 million is allocated to Columbia
Transmission Operations (which is comprised of Columbia Transmission and Columbia Gulf) and
$1,683.0 million is allocated to Columbia Distribution Operations (which is comprised of Columbia
of Kentucky, Columbia of Maryland, Columbia of Ohio, Columbia of Pennsylvania and Columbia of
Virginia). In addition, the goodwill balances at March 31, 2010 for Northern Indiana Fuel and
Light and Kokomo Gas were $13.3 million and $5.5 million, respectively. Goodwill for Kokomo Gas of
$5.5 million is net of an impairment charge of $10.9 million, which was required based on the June
30, 2005 annual impairment test.
NiSource tests its goodwill for impairment annually as of June 30 each year unless indicators,
events, or circumstances would require an interim review. Goodwill is tested for impairment at a
level of reporting referred to as a reporting unit, which generally is an operating segment or a
component of an operating segment. Certain components of an operating segment with similar
economic characteristics are aggregated and deemed a single reporting unit.
NiSource considered whether there were any events or changes in circumstances during the first
quarter of 2010 that would reduce the fair value of any of the reporting units below their carrying
amounts and necessitate another goodwill impairment test. No such indicators were noted which
would require goodwill impairment testing during the quarter.
The last test for goodwill impairment occurred on June 30, 2009. In estimating the fair value
of the Columbia Transmission Operations and Columbia Distribution Operations reporting units for
the June 30, 2009 test, NiSource used a weighted average of the income and market approach. The
resulting estimate of fair value of the reporting units, using the weighted average of the income
and market approaches, exceeded their carrying values, indicating that no impairment existed.
13. Income Taxes
NiSources interim effective tax rates reflect the estimated annual effective tax rates for 2010
and 2009, adjusted for tax expense associated with certain discrete items. The effective tax rates
for the quarters ended March 31, 2010 and 2009 were 35.8% and 38.0%, respectively. These effective
tax rates differ from the federal tax rate of 35% primarily due to the effects of tax credits,
state income taxes, utility rate-making, and other permanent book-to-tax differences such as the
electric production tax deduction provided under Internal Revenue Code Section 199.
The decrease in the effective tax rate of 2.2% in the first quarter of 2010 versus the first
quarter of 2009 is due to an increase in estimated Section 199 deductions as a result of higher
projected taxable income in 2010 versus 2009, a decrease in tax expense related to AFUDC Equity
and the regulatory treatment of certain depreciation differences, and the impact of state income
tax adjustments.
31
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
The 2010 Health Care Act includes a provision eliminating, effective January 1, 2013, the tax
deductibility of retiree health care costs to the extent of federal subsidies received under the
Retiree Drug Subsidy program. When the Retiree Drug Subsidy was created by the Medicare
Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003, NiSource recorded a deferred tax
asset reflecting the exclusion of the expected future Retiree Drug Subsidy from taxable income. At
the same time, an offsetting regulatory liability was established to reflect NiSources obligation
to reduce income taxes collected in future rates. ASC Topic 740 Income Taxes requires the
impact of a change in tax law to be immediately recognized in continuing operations in the income
statement for the period that includes the enactment date. In the first quarter of 2010, NiSource
reversed its deferred tax asset of $6.2 million related to previously excludable Retiree Drug
Subsidy payments expected to be received after January 1, 2013, which was completely offset by the
reversal of the related regulatory liability. As a result, there was no impact on income tax
expense recorded in the Condensed Statements of Consolidated Income (unaudited) for the first
quarter of 2010.
There were no material changes recorded in the first quarter of 2010 to NiSources uncertain tax
positions as of December 31, 2009.
14. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
NiSource provides defined contribution plans and noncontributory defined benefit retirement plans
that cover its employees. Benefits under the defined benefit retirement plans reflect the
employees compensation, years of service and age at retirement. Additionally, NiSource provides
health care and life insurance benefits for certain retired employees. The majority of employees
may become eligible for these benefits if they reach retirement age while working for NiSource.
The expected cost of such benefits is accrued during the employees years of service. Current
rates of rate-regulated companies include postretirement benefit costs, including amortization of
the regulatory assets that arose prior to inclusion of these costs in rates. For most plans, cash
contributions are remitted to grantor trusts.
NiSource expects to make contributions of approximately $161.0 million to its pension plans and
approximately $49.1 million to its postretirement medical and life plans in 2010, which could
change depending on market conditions. During the quarter ended March 31, 2010, NiSource has
contributed $0.7 million to its pension plans and $15.1 million to its other postretirement benefit
plans.
The following table provides the components of the plans net periodic benefits cost for the first
quarter ended March 31, 2010 and 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pension Benefits |
|
Other Postretirement Benefits |
Three
Months Ended March 31, (in millions) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Service cost |
|
$ |
9.7 |
|
|
$ |
9.0 |
|
|
$ |
2.4 |
|
|
$ |
2.2 |
|
Interest cost |
|
|
31.4 |
|
|
|
35.8 |
|
|
|
10.3 |
|
|
|
11.9 |
|
Expected return on assets |
|
|
(35.9 |
) |
|
|
(30.5 |
) |
|
|
(5.8 |
) |
|
|
(4.2 |
) |
Amortization of transitional obligation |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
|
2.0 |
|
Amortization of prior service cost |
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
0.3 |
|
Recognized actuarial loss |
|
|
14.5 |
|
|
|
16.4 |
|
|
|
1.5 |
|
|
|
1.9 |
|
|
Net Periodic Benefit Costs |
|
$ |
20.2 |
|
|
$ |
31.7 |
|
|
$ |
8.6 |
|
|
$ |
14.1 |
|
|
For the quarters ended March 31, 2010 and 2009, pension and other postretirement benefit cost of
approximately $3.1 million and $11.8 million, respectively, was capitalized as a component of plant
or recognized as a regulatory asset or liability consistent with regulatory orders for certain of
NiSources regulated businesses.
32
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
A provision of the 2010 Health Care Act requires the elimination, effective January 1, 2011, of
lifetime and restrictive annual benefit limits from certain medical plans. The NiSource Life and
Medical Benefits Program covers both active and retired individuals and caps lifetime benefits to
certain retirees. NiSource examined the provisions of the 2010 Health Care Act and determined the
enactment of the law in the first quarter of 2010 qualified as a significant event requiring
remeasurement of the other postretirement benefit obligation and plan assets as of March 31, 2010.
The remeasurement resulted in an increase to the other postretirement benefit obligation, net of
plan assets, of $39.7 million and corresponding increases to regulatory assets and AOCI of $35.7
million and $4.0 million, respectively. There was no income statement impact in the first quarter
of 2010 related to the remeasurement, however, net periodic postretirement benefit cost for 2010
will increase by approximately $4.0 million which will be recognized over the remaining three
quarters of 2010. All significant actuarial assumptions used in the remeasurement remained the
same as the December 31, 2009 valuation. See Note 13, Income Taxes, for a discussion of the
legislations impact on NiSources accounting for income taxes.
15. Variable Interests and Variable Interest Entities
In June 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance to amend the manner in which entities evaluate
whether consolidation is required for VIEs. NiSource adopted the guidance on January 1, 2010. See
Note 2, Recent Accounting Pronouncements, regarding the consolidation of variable interest
entities.
In general, a VIE is an entity which (1) has an insufficient amount of at-risk equity to permit the
entity to finance its activities without additional financial subordinated support provided by any
parties, (2) whose at-risk equity owners, as a group, do not have power, through voting rights or
similar rights, to direct activities of an entity that most significantly impact the entitys
economic performance or (3) whose at-risk owners do not absorb the entitys losses or receive the
entitys residual return. A VIE is required to be consolidated by a company if that company is
determined to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE.
NiSource consolidates those VIEs for which it is the primary beneficiary. Prior to the adoption of
the new FASB guidance on consolidation of variable interest entities, the prevalent method for
determining the primary beneficiary was through a quantitative method. With the adoption of the
guidance, NiSource also considers qualitative elements in determining the primary beneficiary.
These qualitative measures include the ability to control an entity and the obligation to absorb
losses or the right to receive benefits.
NiSources analysis under this standard includes an assessment of guarantees, operating leases,
purchase agreements, and other contracts, as well as its investments and joint ventures. For items
that have been identified as variable interests, or where there is involvement with an identified
variable interest entity, an in-depth review of the relationship between the relevant entities and
NiSource is made to evaluate qualitative and quantitative factors to determine the primary
beneficiary, if any, and whether additional disclosures would be required under the current
standard.
At March 31, 2010, consistent with prior filings, NiSource consolidated its low income housing real
estate investments from which NiSource dervives certain tax benefits. Based on the newly adopted
guidance on the consolidation of variable interest entities, these investments met the definition
of a VIE. NiSource is a 99% limited partner with a net investment of approximately $2.0 million.
These properties are primarily financed through debt. NiSource evaluated the nature and intent of
the low income housing investments when determining the primary beneficiary. NiSource concluded
the it continues to be the primary beneficiary. Based on contractual requirements, NiSource has
the right to take control of the low income housing properties. At March 31, 2010, gross assets of
the low income housing real estate investments in continuing operations was $18.6 million. Current
and non-current assets were $0.3 million and $18.3 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2010,
NiSource recorded long-term debt of approximately $6.3 million as a result of consolidating these
investments. However, this debt is nonrecourse to NiSource and NiSources direct and indirect
subsidiaries. Approximately $0.1 million of the assets are restricted to settle the obligations of
the entity.
33
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Northern Indiana has a service agreement with Pure Air, a general partnership between Air Products
and Chemicals, Inc. and First Air Partners LP, under which Pure Air provides scrubber services to
reduce sulfur dioxide emissions for Units 7 and 8 at the Bailly Generating Station. Services under
this contract commenced on July 1, 1992, and Northern Indiana pays for the services under a
combination of fixed and variable charges. The agreement provides that, assuming various
performance standards are met by Pure Air, a termination payment would be due if Northern Indiana
terminated the agreement prior to the end of the twenty-year contract period. NiSource has made an
exhaustive effort to obtain information needed from Pure Air to determine the status of Pure Air as
a VIE. However, the request for such information has been denied and as a result, it is unclear
whether Pure Air is a VIE and if NiSource is the primary beneficiary.
16. Long-Term Debt
On December 4, 2009, NiSource Finance issued $500.0 million of 6.125% senior unsecured notes that
mature on March 1, 2022.
During November 2009, NiSource Finance redeemed $417.6 million of its floating rate notes.
On April 9, 2009, NiSource Finance closed a $385 million senior unsecured two-year bank term loan
with a maturity of February 11, 2011. Borrowings under the bank term loan had an effective cost of
LIBOR plus 538 basis points. On February 16, 2009, NiSource announced the initial closing of the
bank term loan at the level of $265 million. Under an accordion feature, NiSource was able to
increase the loan by $120 million prior to final closing. On December 7, 2009, this term loan was
repaid with proceeds from the December 4, 2009, $500.0 million debt offering.
On March 31, 2009, NiSource Finance commenced a cash tender offer for up to $300 million aggregate
principal amount of its outstanding 7.875% notes due 2010. On April 28, 2009, NiSource Finance
announced that $250.6 million of these notes were successfully tendered.
On March 9, 2009, NiSource Finance issued $600.0 million of 10.75% unsecured notes that mature
March 15, 2016.
During January 2009, NiSource repurchased $32.4 million of the $450.0 million floating rate notes
that were scheduled to mature in November 2009 and $67.6 million of the $1.0 billion 7.875%
unsecured notes scheduled to mature in November 2010.
17. Short-Term Borrowings
NiSource Finance maintains a $1.5 billion five-year revolving credit facility with a syndicate of
banks which has a termination date of July 7, 2011. This facility provides a reasonable cushion of
short-term liquidity for general corporate purposes including meeting cash requirements driven by
volatility in natural gas prices, as well as provides for the issuance of letters of credit. At
March 31, 2010, NiSource had no outstanding borrowings under this facility.
As of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, NiSource had $71.2 million and $85.0 million,
respectively, of stand-by letters of credit outstanding under its five-year revolving credit
facility. NiSource Finance maintains a five-year revolving line of credit with a syndicate of
financial institutions which can be used either for borrowings or the issuance of letters of
credit.
Beginning January 1, 2010, transfers of accounts receivable that previously qualified for sales
accounting no longer qualify and are accounted for as secured borrowings resulting in the
recognition of short-term debt on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited) in the
amount of $370.7 million as of March 31, 2010.
34
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Short-term borrowings were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
March 31, |
|
|
December 31, |
|
(in millions) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
Credit facilities borrowings weighted average interest rate of
0.59% at December 31, 2009 |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
103.0 |
|
Accounts receivable securitization facility borrowings |
|
|
370.7 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
Total short-term borrowings |
|
$ |
370.7 |
|
|
$ |
103.0 |
|
|
18. Share-Based Compensation
NiSource currently issues long-term incentive grants to key management employees under a long-term
incentive plan approved by stockholders on April 13, 1994 (1994 Plan). The 1994 Plan, as amended
and restated, permits the following types of grants, separately or in combination: nonqualified
stock options, incentive stock options, restricted stock awards, stock appreciation rights,
restricted stock units, contingent stock units and dividend equivalents payable on grants of
options, performance units and contingent stock awards.
At March 31, 2010, there were 26,767,418 shares reserved for future awards under the amended and
restated 1994 Plan.
NiSource recognized stock-based employee compensation expense of $2.2 million and $1.6 million
during the first three months of 2010 and 2009, respectively, as well as related tax benefits of
$0.8 million and $0.6 million, respectively.
As of March 31, 2010, the total remaining unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested
awards amounted to $18.8 million, which will be amortized over the weighted-average remaining
requisite service period of 2.2 years.
Stock Options. As of March 31, 2010, approximately 4.3 million options were outstanding
and exercisable with a weighted average strike price of $22.51. The strike price of all issued
options was above the market price of NiSource stock as of March 31, 2010.
Restricted Awards. In the first quarter of 2010, NiSource granted 209,629 restricted stock units,
subject to service conditions. The total grant date fair value of the restricted units was $2.7
million, based on the average market price of NiSources common stock at the date of each grant
less the present value of dividends not received during the vesting period, which will be expensed,
net of forfeitures, over the vesting period of approximately three years. The service conditions
for all units lapse in January 2013 when 100% of the shares vest. If before January 2013, the
employee terminates employment (1) due to retirement, having attained age 55 and completed ten
years of service, or (2) due to death or disability, the employment conditions will lapse with
respect to a pro rata portion of the restricted units on the date of termination. Termination due
to any other reason will result in all restricted units awarded being forfeited effective as of the
employees date of termination. Employees will be entitled to receive dividends upon vesting. As
of March 31, 2010, 748,400 nonvested restricted stock units were granted and outstanding.
Contingent Stock Units. In the first quarter of 2010, NiSource granted 651,777
contingent stock units subject to performance conditions. The grant date fair-value of the awards
was $8.5 million, based on the average market price of NiSources common stock at the date of each
grant less the present value of dividends not received during the vesting period which will be
expensed, net of forfeitures, over the three year requisite service period. The performance
conditions are based on achievement of non-GAAP financial measures. The service conditions lapse
on January 31, 2013 when 100% of the shares vest. If the employee terminates employment before
January 31, 2013 (1) due to retirement, having attained age 55 and completed ten years of service,
or (2) due to death or disability, the employment conditions will lapse with respect to a pro rata
portion of the contingent units on the date of termination. Termination due to any other reason
will result in all contingent units awarded being forfeited effective the employees date of
termination. Employees will be entitled to receive dividends upon vesting. As of March 31, 2010,
1,982,130 nonvested contingent stock units were granted and outstanding.
35
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Time-accelerated Awards. NiSource awarded restricted shares and restricted stock units that
contain provisions for time-accelerated vesting to key executives under the 1994 Plan in January
2004. The total shareholder return measures established were not met; therefore these grants did
not have an accelerated vesting period. During the
first quarter of 2010 all awards with time-accelerated vesting provisions vested due to the lapse
of service conditions.
Non-employee Director Awards. The Amended and Restated Non-employee Director Stock Incentive Plan
(Director Plan) provides for awards of restricted stock, stock options and restricted stock
units, which vest in 20% increments per year, with full vesting after five years. Effective March
25, 2008, the Board approved an amendment to the vesting provisions of the plan such that all
outstanding grants and future grants of restricted stock units will vest immediately. The plan
requires that restricted stock units be distributed to the directors after their separation from
the Board. As of March 31, 2010, 89,860 restricted shares and 327,568 restricted stock units had
been issued under the Plan.
2010 Omnibus Incentive Plan. The Board has approved and adopted the NiSource Inc. 2010 Omnibus
Incentive Plan (the Omnibus Plan), subject to approval at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to
be held on May 11, 2010. If approved, the Omnibus Plan provides that the number of shares of
common stock of the Company available for awards will be 8,000,000 plus the number of shares
subject to outstanding awards granted under either the 1994 Plan or the Director Plan that expire
or terminate for any reason and no further awards will be granted under the 1994 Plan or the
Director Plan. Thus, if the Omnibus Plan is approved by the stockholders, the aggregate number of
shares available for awards to employees and non-employee directors will be reduced from the
combined aggregate limit of the 1994 Plan and the Director Plan.
19. Other Commitments and Contingencies
A. Guarantees and Indemnities. As a part of normal business, NiSource and certain subsidiaries
enter into various agreements providing financial or performance assurance to third parties on
behalf of certain subsidiaries. Such agreements include guarantees and stand-by letters of credit.
These agreements are entered into primarily to support or enhance the creditworthiness otherwise
attributed to a subsidiary on a stand-alone basis, thereby facilitating the extension of sufficient
credit to accomplish the subsidiaries intended commercial purposes. The total commercial
commitments in existence at March 31, 2010 and the years in which they expire were:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
Total |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2011 |
|
|
2012 |
|
|
2013 |
|
|
2014 |
|
|
After |
|
|
Guarantees of subsidiaries debt |
|
$ |
6,135.8 |
|
|
$ |
681.8 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
315.0 |
|
|
$ |
545.0 |
|
|
$ |
500.0 |
|
|
$ |
4,094.0 |
|
Guarantees supporting commodity |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
transactions of subsidiaries |
|
|
371.3 |
|
|
|
224.6 |
|
|
|
144.6 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2.1 |
|
Letters of credit |
|
|
74.0 |
|
|
|
13.6 |
|
|
|
59.4 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
|
- |
|
Other guarantees |
|
|
719.9 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2.8 |
|
|
|
14.4 |
|
|
|
224.3 |
|
|
|
32.2 |
|
|
|
446.2 |
|
|
Total commercial commitments |
|
$ |
7,301.0 |
|
|
$ |
920.0 |
|
|
$ |
206.8 |
|
|
$ |
329.4 |
|
|
$ |
769.3 |
|
|
$ |
533.2 |
|
|
$ |
4,542.3 |
|
|
Guarantees of Subsidiaries Debt. NiSource has guaranteed the payment of $6.1 billion of debt for
various wholly-owned subsidiaries including NiSource Finance, and through a support agreement,
Capital Markets, which is reflected on NiSources Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(unaudited). The subsidiaries are required to comply with certain financial covenants under the
debt indenture and in the event of default, NiSource would be obligated to pay the debts principal
and related interest. NiSource does not anticipate its subsidiaries will have any difficulty
maintaining compliance.
Guarantees Supporting Commodity Transactions of Subsidiaries. NiSource has issued guarantees, which
support up to approximately $371.3 million of commodity-related payments for its current
subsidiaries involved in energy marketing activities. These guarantees were provided to
counterparties in order to facilitate physical and financial transactions involving natural gas.
To the extent liabilities exist under the commodity-related contracts subject to these guarantees,
such liabilities are included in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited).
36
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Lines and Letters of Credit and Accounts Receivable Advances. NiSource Finance maintains a $1.5
billion five-year revolving credit facility with a syndicate of banks which has a termination date
of July 7, 2011. This facility provides a reasonable cushion of short-term liquidity for general
corporate purposes including meeting cash requirements driven by volatility in natural gas prices,
as well as provides for the issuance of letters of credit. At
March 31, 2010, NiSource had no outstanding borrowings under its five-year revolving credit
facility and $370.7 million outstanding under its accounts receivable securitization agreements.
At March 31, 2010, NiSource issued stand-by letters of credit of approximately $74.0 million for
the benefit of third parties. See Note 17, Short-term Borrowings.
Other Guarantees or Obligations. On June 30, 2008, NiSource sold Whiting Clean Energy to BPAE for
$216.7 million which included $16.1 million in working capital. The agreement with BPAE contains
representations, warranties, covenants and closing conditions. NiSource has executed purchase and
sales agreement guarantees totaling $220 million which guarantee performance of PEIs covenants,
agreements, obligations, liabilities, representations and warranties under the agreement with BPAE.
No amounts related to the purchase and sales agreement guarantees are reflected in the Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheet (unaudited) as of March 31, 2010. These guarantees are due to expire in
June 2013.
NiSource has additional purchase and sales agreement guarantees totaling $30.0 million, which
guarantee performance of the sellers covenants, agreements, obligations, liabilities,
representations and warranties under the agreements. No amounts related to the purchase and sales
agreement guarantees are reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited).
Management believes that the likelihood NiSource would be required to perform or otherwise incur
any significant losses associated with any of the aforementioned guarantees is remote.
On August 29, 2007, Millennium entered into a bank credit agreement to finance the construction of
the Millennium pipeline project. As a condition precedent to the credit agreement, NiSource issued
a guarantee securing payment for 47.5%, its indirect ownership interest percentage, of amounts
borrowed under the credit agreement up until such time as the amounts payable under the agreement
are paid in full. As of March 31, 2010, Millennium owed $798.9 million under the financing
agreements, of which NiSource guaranteed $379.5 million. NiSource recorded an accrued liability of
approximately $7.6 million related to the fair value of this guarantee. The permanent financing
for Millennium is expected to be completed during 2010. In the interim, Millennium will continue
to be funded by the $800 million credit agreement, which expires August 29, 2010.
On June 29, 2006, Columbia Transmission, Piedmont, and Hardy Storage entered into multiple
agreements to finance the construction of the Hardy Storage project, which is accounted for by
NiSource as an equity investment. Under the financing agreement, Columbia Transmission issued
guarantees securing payment for 50% of any amounts issued in connection with Hardy Storage up until
such time as the project is placed in service and operated within certain specified parameters. As
of December 31, 2009, Hardy Storage had outstanding borrowings of $123.4 million under the
temporary financing agreement, for which Columbia Transmission had recorded an accrued liability of
approximately $1.2 million related to the fair value of its guarantee securing payment for $61.7
million which is 50% of the amount borrowed. Hardy Storage satisfied the terms and conditions of
its financing agreement on March 17, 2010, when Hardy Storage secured permanent financing,
facilitating Columbia Transmissions release from its underlying guarantee and therefore, the
accrued liability of $1.2 million was reversed as of March 31, 2010.
NiSource has issued other guarantees supporting derivative related payments associated with
interest rate swap agreements issued by NiSource Finance, operating leases for many of its
subsidiaries and for other agreements entered into by its current and former subsidiaries.
B. Other Legal Proceedings. In the normal course of its business, NiSource and its subsidiaries
have been named as defendants in various legal proceedings. In the opinion of management, the
ultimate disposition of these currently asserted claims will not have a material adverse impact on
NiSources consolidated financial position.
37
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Tawney, et al. v. Columbia Natural Resources, Inc., Roane County, WV Circuit Court
The Plaintiffs, who are West Virginia landowners, filed a lawsuit in early 2003 in the West
Virginia Circuit Court for Roane County, West Virginia (the Trial Court) against CNR alleging
that CNR underpaid royalties on gas produced on their land by improperly deducting post-production
costs and not paying a fair value for the gas.
Plaintiffs also claimed that Defendants fraudulently concealed the deduction of post-production
charges. In December 2004, the Trial Court granted Plaintiffs motion to add NiSource and Columbia
as Defendants. The Trial Court later certified the case as a class action that includes any person
who, after July 31, 1990, received or is due royalties from CNR (and its predecessors or
successors) on lands lying within the boundary of the state of West Virginia. Although NiSource
sold CNR in 2003, NiSource remained obligated to manage this litigation and was responsible for the
majority of any damages awarded to Plaintiffs. On January 27, 2007, the jury hearing the case
returned a verdict against all Defendants in the amount of $404.3 million inclusive of both
compensatory and punitive damages; Defendants subsequently filed their Petition for Appeal, which
was later amended, with the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals (the Appeals Court), which
refused the petition on May 22, 2008. On August 22, 2008, Defendants filed Petitions to the United
States Supreme Court for writ of certiorari. Given the Appeals Courts earlier refusal of the
appeal, NiSource adjusted its reserve in the second quarter of 2008 to reflect the portion of the
Trial Court judgment for which NiSource would be responsible, inclusive of interest. This amount
was included in Legal and environmental reserves, on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of
December 31, 2008. On October 24, 2008, the Trial Court preliminarily approved a Settlement
Agreement with a total settlement amount of $380 million. The settlement received final approval
by the Trial Court on November 22, 2008. NiSources share of the settlement liability is up to
$338.8 million. NiSource complied with its obligations under the Settlement Agreement to fund
$85.5 million in the qualified settlement fund by January 13, 2009. Additionally, NiSource
provided a letter of credit on January 13, 2009 in the amount of $254 million and thereby complied
with its obligation to secure the unpaid portion of the settlement, which has since been drawn down
as settlement payments have been made. The Trial Court entered its Order discharging the judgment
on January 20, 2009 and is supervising the administration of the settlement proceeds. As of March
31, 2010, NiSource had contributed a total of $304.7 million into the qualified settlement fund,
$277.3 million of which was contributed prior to December 31, 2009. As of March 31, 2010, $34.1
million of the maximum settlement liability had not been paid. NiSource has since contributed an
additional $4.9 million. The remaining balance of the letter of credit is sufficient to cover any
remaining payments under the Settlement Agreement. NiSource will be required to make additional
payments not expected to exceed the amount accrued, pursuant to the settlement, upon notice from
the Class Administrator.
John Thacker, et al. v. Chesapeake Appalachia, L.L.C., U.S. District Court, E.D. Kentucky Poplar
Creek Development Company v. Chesapeake Appalachia, L.L.C., U.S. District Court, E.D. Kentucky
On February 8, 2007, Plaintiff filed the Thacker case, a purported class action alleging that
Chesapeake has failed to pay royalty owners the correct amounts pursuant to the provisions of their
oil and gas leases covering real property located within the state of Kentucky. Columbia has
assumed the defense of Chesapeake in this matter pursuant to the provisions of the Stock Purchase
Agreement dated July 3, 2003, among Columbia, NiSource, and Triana Energy Holding, Inc.,
Chesapeakes predecessor in interest (Stock Purchase Agreement). Plaintiffs filed an Amended
Complaint on March 19, 2007, which, among other things, added NiSource and Columbia as Defendants.
On March 31, 2008, the Court denied a Motion by Defendants to Dismiss and on June 3, 2008, the
Plaintiffs moved to certify a class consisting of all persons entitled to payment of royalty by
Chesapeake under leases operated by Chesapeake at any point after February 5, 1992, on real
property in Kentucky.
In June 2009, the parties to the Thacker litigation presented a Settlement Agreement to the Court
for preliminary approval. The court granted the Motion for Preliminary approval and held a
fairness hearing on November 10, 2009. On March 3, 2010 the Court granted final approval of the
settlement and on March 31, 2010 Poplar Creek filed a notice of appeal of that approval with the
Sixth Circuit.
38
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
On October 9, 2008, Chesapeake tendered the Poplar Creek case to Columbia and Columbia
conditionally assumed the defense of this matter pursuant to the provisions of the Stock Purchase
Agreement. Poplar Creek also purports to be a class action covering royalty owners in the state of
Kentucky and alleges that Chesapeake has improperly deducted costs from the royalty payments; thus
there is some overlap of parties and issues between the Poplar Creek and Thacker cases. Chesapeake
filed a motion for judgment on the pleadings in December 2008, which was granted on July 2, 2009.
Plaintiffs appealed the dismissal to the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals.
Environmental Protection Agency Notice of Violation
On September 29, 2004, the EPA issued an NOV to Northern Indiana for alleged violations of the
CAA and the Indiana SIP. The NOV alleges that modifications were made to certain boiler units
at three of Northern Indianas generating stations between the years 1985 and 1995 without
obtaining appropriate air permits for the modifications. The ultimate resolution could
require additional capital expenditures and operations and maintenance costs as well as
payment of substantial penalties and development of supplemental environmental projects.
Northern Indiana is currently in discussions with the EPA regarding possible resolutions to
this NOV. Although penalties have been proposed and a reserve has been recorded for the
matter, Northern Indiana is unable to predict the outcome of this matter at this time.
C. Environmental Matters.
NiSource operations are subject to complex, interlocking and changing environmental statutes and
regulations related to air quality, water quality, hazardous waste and solid waste. NiSource
believes that it is in substantial compliance with those environmental regulations currently
applicable to its operations and believes that it has all necessary permits to conduct our
operations.
It is managements continued intent to address environmental issues in cooperation with regulatory
authorities in such a manner as to achieve mutually acceptable compliance plans. However, there
can be no assurance that fines and penalties will not be incurred. Management expects a
significant portion of environmental assessment and remediation costs to be recoverable through
rates for certain NiSource companies.
As of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, NiSource had recorded reserves of approximately $74.6
million and $76.4 million, respectively, to cover environmental remediation at various sites.
NiSource accrues for costs associated with environmental remediation obligations when the
incurrence of such costs is probable and the amounts can be reasonably estimated. The original
estimates for cleanup can differ materially from the amount ultimately expended. The actual future
expenditures depend on many factors, including currently enacted laws and regulations, the nature
and extent of contamination, the method of cleanup, and the availability of cost recovery from
customers. NiSource periodically adjusts its reserves as information is collected and estimates
become more refined.
Air
The actions listed below could require further reductions in emissions from various emission
sources. NiSource will continue to closely monitor developments in these matters.
Climate Change. Future legislative and regulatory programs could significantly restrict emissions
of GHGs or could impose a cost or tax on GHG emissions. Recently, proposals have been developed to
implement Federal, state and regional GHG programs and to create renewable energy standards.
39
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
On June 26, 2009, the United States House of Representatives passed a climate change bill called
ACES. The comprehensive bill proposes a GHG cap and trade system starting in 2012 for electrical
suppliers, 2014 for natural gas transmission companies, and 2016 for natural gas distribution
companies. The cap and trade system would establish economy-wide reduction targets of 3% by 2012
and 83% by 2050. ACES would allocate natural gas distribution companies and electric suppliers a
certain number of emission allowances without charge, but these allocations would decrease over
time, phasing out entirely by 2030. Gas transmission companies would not receive any emission
allowances under ACES. ACES also contains renewable energy standards, which would require retail
electric suppliers to provide a portion of their power from renewable sources and mandates
performance standards for particular sources. The Senate has been considering its own renewable
energy standard and climate change bills.
If ACES or other Federal comprehensive climate change bills were to pass both Houses of Congress
and be enacted into law, the impact on NiSources financial performance would depend on a number of
factors, including the overall level of required GHG reductions, the renewable energy targets, the
degree to which offsets may be used for compliance, the amount of recovery allowed from customers,
and the extent to which NiSource would be entitled to receive free CO2 allowances.
ACES, Kerry-Graham-Lieberman, or other Federal or state legislation could result in additional
expense or compliance costs that may not be fully recoverable from customers and could materially
impact NiSources financial results.
The EPA is also taking action to regulate GHGs under the CAA. On December 7, 2009, the EPA made
the following findings: (a) that GHGs in the atmosphere endanger the public health and welfare
within the meaning of the CAA and (b) that emissions from new motor vehicles contribute to the mix
of GHGs in the atmosphere. It is the EPAs position that this endangerment finding, along with
some other recent regulatory developments, will trigger permitting requirements for large
industrial sources of GHGs. On October 27, 2009, the EPA issued proposed regulations, commonly
called the tailoring rule, applicable to the two CAA programs, New Source Review and Title V.
Under the proposal, large stationary sources could be required to install Best Available Control
Technology, to be determined on a case-by-case basis. The total cost impact of EPA regulation of
GHG under the CAA cannot be determined at this time.
National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The CAA requires EPA to set national air quality standards
for particulate matter and five other pollutants (the NAAQS) considered harmful to public health
and the environment. Periodically EPA imposes new or modifies existing NAAQS. States that contain
areas that do not meet the new or revised standards must take steps to maintain or achieve
compliance with the standards. These steps could include additional pollution controls on boilers,
engines, turbines, and other facilities owned by electric generation, gas distribution, and gas
transmission operations.
The following NAAQS were recently added or modified:
Particulate Matter: In 2006, the EPA issued revisions to the NAAQS for particulate matter. The
final rule (1) increased the stringency of the current fine particulate (PM2.5) standard, (2) added
a new standard for inhalable coarse particulate (particulate matter between 10 and 2.5 microns in
diameter), and (3) revoked the annual standards for coarse particulate (PM10) while retaining the
24-hour PM10 standards. These actions were challenged in a case before the DC Court of Appeals,
American Farm Bureau Federation et al. v. EPA. In 2009, the appeals court granted portions of the
plaintiffs petitions challenging the fine particulate standards but denied portions of the
petitions challenging the standards for coarse particulate. State plans implementing the new
standard for inhalable coarse particulate and the modified 24-hour standard for fine particulate
are expected in 2012. The annual and secondary PM2.5 standards have been remanded to the EPA for
reconsideration.
Ozone (eight hour): On March 12, 2008, the EPA announced the tightening of the eight-hour ozone
NAAQS. EPA has yet to announce the classification structure and the corresponding attainment dates
for the new standard. On September 16, 2009, the EPA announced it would reconsider the March 2008
tightening of the ozone NAAQS and if needed promulgate more stringent standards by August 2010. If
the standards are tightened and area designations subsequently changed, new SIPs will need to be
developed by the states by December 2013 to bring the nonattainment areas in to compliance.
NiSource will continue to closely monitor developments in these matters and cannot estimate the
impact of these rules at this time.
40
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): The EPA revised the NO2 NAAQS by adding a one-hour standard while
retaining the annual standard. The new standards could impact NiSource combustion sources such as
coal-fired electric generation and natural gas compressor stations. NiSource will continue to
closely monitor developments in these matters and cannot estimate the impact of these rules at this
time.
National Emission Standard for Hazardous Air Pollutants. On February 25, 2009, the EPA proposed
national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants for stationary reciprocating internal
combustion engines that are not
already covered by earlier EPA regulation. The proposed rule is scheduled to be finalized in 2010,
with compliance generally required three years later. NiSource will continue to closely monitor
developments in this matter and cannot estimate the actual cost of compliance at this time.
Waste
Several NiSource subsidiaries are potentially responsible parties at waste disposal sites under the
CERCLA (commonly known as Superfund) and similar state laws. Additionally, a program has been
instituted to identify and investigate former Manufactured Gas Plant sites where Gas Distribution
Operations subsidiaries or predecessors may have liability. The program has identified up to 84
such sites and initial investigations have been conducted at 56 sites. Follow-up investigation
activities have been completed or are in progress at 50 sites and remedial measures have been
implemented or completed at 31 sites. Remedial actions at many of these sites are being overseen
by state or federal environmental agencies through consent agreements or voluntary remediation
agreements. The final costs of cleanup have not yet been determined. As site investigations and
cleanups proceed reserves are adjusted to reflect new information.
Additional Issues Related to Individual Business Segments
The sections above describe various regulatory actions that affect Gas Transmission and Storage
Operations, Electric Operations, and certain other discontinued operations for which we have
retained a liability. Specific information is provided below.
Gas Transmission and Storage Operations.
Waste
Columbia Transmission continues to conduct characterization and remediation activities at specific
sites under a 1995 EPA AOC. The AOC covered 245 facilities, approximately 13,000 liquid removal
points, approximately 2,200 mercury measurement stations and about 3,700 storage well locations.
Obligations under the AOC have been completed at the mercury measurement stations, liquid removal
point sites, storage well locations and all but 50 of the 245 facilities.
One of the facilities subject to the AOC is the Majorsville Operations Center, which was remediated
under an EPA approved Remedial Action Work Plan in summer 2008. Pursuant to the Remedial Action
Work Plan, Columbia Transmission completed a project that stabilized residual oil contained in
soils at the site and in sediments in an adjacent stream. On April 23, 2009, PADEP issued an NOV
to Columbia Transmission, alleging that the remediation was not effective. The NOV asserts
violations of the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law and the Pennsylvania Solid Waste Management Act
and contains proposed penalty of $1 million. Columbia Transmission is unable to estimate the
likelihood or cost of potential penalties or additional remediation at this time.
Electric Operations.
Air
NOx and Ozone Compliance: Indianas rule to implement the EPAs NOx SIP call requires reduction of
NOx levels from several sources, including industrial and utility boilers, to reduce regional
transport of ozone. In response, Northern Indiana developed a NOx compliance plan, which included
the installation of Selective Catalytic Reduction and combustion control NOx reduction technology
at its active generating stations and is currently in compliance with the NOx requirements. In
implementing the NOx compliance plan, Northern Indiana has expended approximately $316.5 million as
of March 31, 2010. Of this sum, $0.8 million was spent in 2009. Northern Indiana did not budget
any amounts for 2010, but projects $5.8 million for 2011 on capital improvements for NOx control.
41
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
Sulfur dioxide: On December 8, 2009, EPA proposed to revise the SO2 NAAQS by adopting a new 1-hour
primary NAAQS for sulfur dioxide (SO2). The EPA is expected to finalize the rule during 2010.
States with areas not meeting the standard would have until 2013 to develop attainment plans with
compliance required by summer 2017. Northern Indiana will continue to closely monitor developments
in these matters and cannot estimate the impact of these rules at this time.
Clean Air Interstate Rule: EPA enacted the CAIR in 2005. The CAIR establishes phased reductions
of NOx and SO2. As an affected state, Indiana developed CAIR rules which became effective on
February 25, 2007. Northern Indiana developed plans for the first phase of the emission control
construction required to address the Phase I CAIR requirements and obtained regulatory recovery for
these costs. On July 11, 2008, the D.C. Court of Appeals vacated the CAIR in its entirety, and
remanded the rule back to the EPA to develop a rule consistent with the Courts opinion. In
response to petitions from several parties for rehearing by the full panel, on December 23, 2008,
the Court remanded the CAIR without vacatur to EPA in order to remedy the CAIRs flaws in
accordance with the Courts July 11, 2008, opinion. Consequently, both the Federal and Indiana CAIR
remains in effect while EPA develops a replacement rule. Northern Indiana will continue to monitor
this matter but believes the cost may be material.
Utility Hazardous Air Pollutants: On February 8, 2008, the United States Court of Appeals for the
District of Columbia Circuit vacated two EPA rules that are the basis for the Indiana Air Pollution
Control Boards Clean Air Mercury Rule (CAMR) that established utility mercury emission limits in
two phases (2010 and 2018) and a cap-and-trade program to meet those limits. In response to the
vacatur, the EPA is pursuing a new Section 112 rulemaking to establish MACT standards for electric
utilities. Northern Indiana will continue to monitor this matter but believes the cost may be
material.
New Source Review: On September 29, 2004, the EPA issued an NOV to Northern Indiana for alleged
violations of the CAA and the Indiana SIP. The NOV alleges that modifications were made to certain
boiler units at three of Northern Indianas generating stations between the years 1985 and 1995
without obtaining appropriate air permits for the modifications. The ultimate resolution could
require additional capital expenditures and operations and maintenance costs as well as payment of
substantial penalties and development of supplemental environmental projects. Northern Indiana is
currently in discussions with the EPA regarding possible resolutions to this NOV. Although
penalties have been proposed and a reserve has been recorded for the matter, Northern Indiana is
unable to predict the outcome of this matter at this time.
Water
The Phase II Rule of the Clean Water Act Section 316(b), which requires all large existing steam
electric generating stations to meet certain performance standards to reduce the effects on aquatic
organisms at their cooling water intake structures, became effective on September 7, 2004. Under
this rule, stations will either have to demonstrate that the performance of their existing fish
protection systems meet the new standards or develop new systems, such as a closed-cycle cooling
tower. Various court challenges and EPA responses ensued. As a result of the litigation, the EPA
will propose a revised Section 316(b). The Bailly Generating Station is the only Northern Indiana
generating station that does not utilize closed cycle cooling. Northern Indiana will continue to
closely monitor this activity and cannot estimate the costs associated with the ultimate outcome at
this time.
Waste
On March 31, 2005, the EPA and Northern Indiana entered into an AOC under the authority of Section
3008(h) of the RCRA for the Bailly Station. The order requires Northern Indiana to identify the
nature and extent of releases of hazardous waste and hazardous constituents from the facility.
Northern Indiana must also remediate any release of hazardous constituents that present an
unacceptable risk to human health or the environment. The process to complete investigation and
select appropriate remediation activities is ongoing. The final costs of cleanup could change
based on EPA review.
The Federal government continues to show interest in developing regulations covering coal
combustion byproducts. Legislation regulating coal ash pursuant to the Surface Mining Control and
Reclamation Act has been introduced, and the EPA is reviewing its previous determination that
Federal regulation of coal ash as a RCRA Subtitle C hazardous waste is not appropriate. The EPA
intends to propose regulation of coal combustion byproducts in 2010.
42
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
These proposed regulations
could affect Northern Indianas ongoing byproduct reuse programs and could impose additional
requirements on its management of coal ash wastes. Northern Indiana will monitor developments in
this matter and cannot estimate the potential financial impact at this time.
Other Operations.
Waste
NiSource affiliates have retained environmental liabilities, including cleanup liabilities
associated with some of its former operations. Four sites are associated with its former propane
operations and ten sites associated with former petroleum operations. At one of those sites, an
AOC has been signed with EPA to address petroleum residue in soil and groundwater.
20. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The following table displays the components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
March 31, 2010 |
|
|
December 31, 2009 |
|
|
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unrealized gains on securities |
|
$ |
5.1 |
|
|
$ |
4.2 |
|
Tax expense on unrealized gains on securities |
|
|
(1.9 |
) |
|
|
(1.6 |
) |
Unrealized losses on cash flow hedges |
|
|
(39.8 |
) |
|
|
(35.0 |
) |
Tax benefit on unrealized losses on cash flow hedges |
|
|
15.8 |
|
|
|
14.0 |
|
Unrecognized pension and OPEB costs |
|
|
(43.7 |
) |
|
|
(44.4 |
) |
Tax benefit on unrecognized pension and OPEB costs |
|
|
16.7 |
|
|
|
16.9 |
|
|
Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, net of taxes |
|
$ |
(47.8 |
) |
|
$ |
(45.9 |
) |
|
Equity Investment
Millennium, in which Columbia Transmission has an equity investment, entered into three interest
rate swap agreements with a notional amount totaling $420 million with seven counterparties. The
unrecognized after-tax loss of $8.8 million and $5.7 million as of March 31, 2010 and December 31,
2009, respectively, was a decrease in Columbia Transmissions investment in Millennium and a
corresponding increase in accumulated other comprehensive loss, representing its ownership portion
of the fair value of these swaps.
21. Business Segment Information
Operating segments are components of an enterprise for which separate financial information is
available and evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate
resources and assess performance. The NiSource Chief Executive Officer is the chief operating
decision maker.
At March 31, 2010, NiSources operations are divided into three primary business segments. The Gas
Distribution Operations segment provides natural gas service and transportation for residential,
commercial and industrial customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky, Maryland, Indiana
and Massachusetts. The Gas Transmission and Storage Operations segment offers gas transportation
and storage services for LDCs, marketers and industrial and commercial customers located in
northeastern, mid-Atlantic, midwestern and southern states and the District of Columbia. The
Electric Operations segment provides electric service in 20 counties in the northern part of
Indiana.
43
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
In prior period filings, NiSource reported Other Operations, which primarily included ventures
focused on its unregulated natural gas marketing business and distributed power generation
technologies, including fuel cells and storage systems, as a reporting segment. In the first
quarter of 2010, NiSource made a decision to wind down the unregulated natural gas marketing
activities which is a part of the Companys long-term strategy of focusing on its core regulated
businesses. As a result, Other Operations no longer met the definition of a reporting segment and,
accordingly, has been included within Corporate and Other in the table below beginning in 2010 and
for all periods presented.
The following table provides information about business segments. NiSource uses operating income
as its primary measurement for each of the reported segments and makes decisions on finance,
dividends and taxes at the corporate level on a consolidated basis. Segment revenues include
intersegment sales to affiliated subsidiaries, which are eliminated in consolidation. Affiliated
sales are recognized on the basis of prevailing market, regulated prices or at levels provided for
under contractual agreements. Operating income is derived from revenues and expenses directly
associated with each segment.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions) |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
REVENUES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gas Distribution Operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unaffiliated |
|
$ |
1,545.4 |
|
|
$ |
1,949.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Intersegment |
|
|
5.8 |
|
|
|
6.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
1,551.2 |
|
|
|
1,955.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gas Transmission and Storage Operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unaffiliated |
|
|
194.5 |
|
|
|
182.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Intersegment |
|
|
62.1 |
|
|
|
60.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
256.6 |
|
|
|
242.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Electric Operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unaffiliated |
|
|
319.8 |
|
|
|
298.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Intersegment |
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
320.0 |
|
|
|
298.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate and Other |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unaffiliated |
|
|
298.6 |
|
|
|
292.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Intersegment |
|
|
106.8 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
405.4 |
|
|
|
392.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Eliminations |
|
|
(174.9 |
) |
|
|
(166.4 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Revenues |
|
$ |
2,358.3 |
|
|
$ |
2,721.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gas Distribution Operations |
|
$ |
235.1 |
|
|
$ |
243.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gas Transmission and Storage Operations |
|
|
125.9 |
|
|
|
92.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Electric Operations |
|
|
45.1 |
|
|
|
17.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate and Other |
|
|
(2.9 |
) |
|
|
(5.0 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Operating Income |
|
$ |
403.2 |
|
|
$ |
348.4 |
|
|
44
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) (continued)
22. Supplemental Cash Flow Information
The following table provides additional information regarding NiSources Condensed Statements of
Consolidated Cash Flows (unaudited) for the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions) |
|
2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-cash transactions: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital expenditures |
|
|
(8.9 |
) |
|
|
(13.6 |
) |
Change in equity investments related to unrealized (losses) gains |
|
|
(5.2 |
) |
|
|
8.9 |
|
Stock issuance to employee saving plans |
|
|
5.4 |
|
|
|
- |
|
Schedule of interest and income taxes paid: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash paid for interest |
|
$ |
137.8 |
|
|
$ |
113.0 |
|
Interest capitalized |
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
1.1 |
|
Cash paid for income taxes |
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
45
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
NiSource Inc.
Note regarding forward-looking statements
The Managements Discussion and Analysis, including statements regarding market risk sensitive
instruments, contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of Section 27A of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended. Investors and prospective investors should understand that many factors govern whether
any forward-looking statement contained herein will be or can be realized. Any one of those
factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. These
forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning NiSources plans,
objectives, expected performance, expenditures and recovery of expenditures through rates, stated
on either a consolidated or segment basis, and any and all underlying assumptions and other
statements that are other than statements of historical fact. From time to time, NiSource may
publish or otherwise make available forward-looking statements of this nature. All such subsequent
forward-looking statements, whether written or oral and whether made by or on behalf of NiSource,
are also expressly qualified by these cautionary statements. All forward-looking statements are
based on assumptions that management believes to be reasonable; however, there can be no assurance
that actual results will not differ materially.
Realization of NiSources objectives and expected performance is subject to a wide range of risks
and can be adversely affected by, among other things, weather, fluctuations in supply and demand
for energy commodities, growth opportunities for NiSources businesses, increased competition in
deregulated energy markets, the success of regulatory and commercial initiatives, dealings with
third parties over whom NiSource has no control, actual operating experience of NiSources assets,
the regulatory process, regulatory and legislative changes, the impact of potential new
environmental laws or regulations, the results of material litigation, changes in pension funding
requirements, changes in general economic, capital and commodity market conditions, counterparty
credit risk, and the matters set forth in the, Risk Factors section of NiSources 2009 Form 10-K,
many of which risks are beyond the control of NiSource. In addition, the relative contributions to
profitability by each segment, and the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements
relating thereto, may change over time. NiSource expressly disclaims a duty to update any of the
forward-looking statements contained in this report.
The following Managements Discussion and Analysis should be read in conjunction with NiSources
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009.
CONSOLIDATED REVIEW
Executive Summary
NiSource is an energy holding company under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2005 whose
subsidiaries are engaged in the transmission, storage and distribution of natural gas in the
high-demand energy corridor stretching from the Gulf Coast through the Midwest to New England and
the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity in Indiana. NiSource generates
virtually 100% of its operating income through these rate-regulated businesses. A significant
portion of NiSources operations is subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales. During the heating
season, which is primarily from November through March, net revenues from gas sales are more
significant, and during the cooling season, which is primarily from June through September, net
revenues from electric sales and transportation services are more significant than in other months.
For the three months ended March 31, 2010, NiSource reported income from continuing operations of
$197.3 million, or $0.71 per basic share, compared to $159.4 million, or $0.58 per basic share
reported for the same period in 2009.
Increases in income from continuing operations were due primarily to the following items:
|
|
Electric Operations net revenues increased $25.0 million due primarily to increased
industrial and residential margins totaling $11.9 million, increased off-system sales of $10.5
million, which includes a $9.0 million adjustment to off-system sales revenues in 2009
resulting from a FAC settlement, and an increase in environmental trackers for $4.4 million
that are partly offset in operating expenses. |
46
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
|
|
Gas Transmission and Storage Operations net revenues increased $14.3 million primarily
due to a $10.6 million increase in firm capacity reservation fees and the recognition of $8.3
million for a previously deferred gain on the contribution of native gas to Hardy Storage
following Hardy Storage securing permanent financing. The increase in firm capacity reservation
fees was the result of growth projects such as the Eastern Market Expansion, the Ohio Storage
Expansion and new Appalachian production transportation contracts. |
|
|
Operating expenses decreased $48.0 million due mainly to the impact of restructuring
charges of $19.8 million incurred in the first quarter of 2009, lower operating taxes and
lower employee and administrative expenses. Employee and administrative expenses decreased
$11.4 million, which primarily resulted from lower pension and post-retirement benefits
expense of $9.2 million. The decrease in pension and post-retirement benefits expense for
2010 is mainly due to favorable returns on plan assets in 2009. Other taxes decreased $16.5
million, which includes lower tax trackers of $9.3 million which are offset in net revenues
and lower gross receipts taxes. |
Increases in income from continuing operations were partially offset due to the following items:
|
|
Gas Distribution Operations net revenues decreased primarily due to an impact of
approximately $20.8 million from Columbia of Ohios change from a volumetrically based rate
design to one based on fixed monthly charges for certain customer classes, lower regulatory
and tax trackers of $10.1 million and from warmer weather. The revenue variance experienced
by Columbia of Ohio for the change in rate design in the first quarter will be offset in
future periods throughout the year. These decreases in Gas Distribution Operations net
revenues were partially offset by an increase of $15.1 million for other regulatory and
service programs, including impacts from rate cases at various other utilities. |
|
|
Interest expense increased by $8.3 million primarily due to incremental interest expense
associated with the issuance of $600 million of long-term debt in March of 2009 and $500
million of long-term debt in December of 2009, and the effect of the adoption of new
accounting requirements related to the accounts receivable facilities at Northern Indiana and
Columbia of Ohio previously recorded within Other-net. These increases were partially offset
by reductions resulting from the $250.6 million tender offer debt repurchase in April 2009 and
the floating rate maturity in November 2009, coupled with lower short-term borrowings and
interest rates. |
These factors and other impacts to the financial results are discussed in more detail within the
following discussions of Results of Operations and Results and Discussion of Segment
Operations.
Four-Point Platform for Growth
NiSources four-part business plan will continue to center on commercial and regulatory
initiatives; commercial growth and expansion of the gas transmission and storage business;
financial management of the balance sheet; and process and expense management.
Commercial and Regulatory Initiatives
NiSource is moving forward on regulatory initiatives across several distribution company markets
and progress continues with Northern Indianas current electric base rate case. Whether through
full rate case filings or other approaches, NiSources goal is to develop strategies that benefit
all stakeholders as it addresses changing customer conservation patterns, develops more
contemporary pricing structures, and embarks on long-term investment programs to enhance its
infrastructure.
NiSources Indiana utilities are focused on a number of initiatives to enhance customer service and
reliability, modernize rate structures, and position the company for future growth. In February
2010, Jimmy D. Staton, group CEO of NiSources gas distribution businesses, assumed the added
responsibility for the companys Indiana gas and electric utility businesses. Following are the
key initiatives for Northern Indiana in 2010:
|
|
|
Investing more than $200 million during 2010 in Northern Indianas generation fleet and
service infrastructure to continue providing reliable, environmentally compliant, and
affordable energy to its northern Indiana customers. |
47
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
|
|
|
Taking steps to broaden customer programs and reform rate structures. On May 3, 2010,
Northern Indiana filed a natural gas rate case with the IURC proposing enhanced low income
assistance and energy-efficiency programs for customers, as well as a change in rate
design. Among other things, the filing also proposes a mechanism for the deferral of
pension costs and for adjustments to depreciation rates. New rates
are targeted to be
effective by early 2011 or sooner. |
|
|
|
|
Developing new and enhanced energy efficiency and customer assistance programs for
Northern Indianas electric customers. The company plans to include several new customer
program proposals in its next electric base rate case filing, expected to be filed in the
third quarter of 2010. That filing also will propose to update base rates to reflect the
companys recent operating experience, investments and expenses, with new rates expected to
be effective in the second half of 2011. |
|
|
|
|
Northern Indianas 2008 electric rate case remains pending before the IURC, with a
decision in the case expected in the second quarter of 2010. |
On January 28, 2010, Columbia of Pennsylvania filed a base rate increase request with the PPUC. In
addition to proposing new residential home energy efficiency programs and the implementation of a
more progressive rate design, the company is seeking an increase in its base rates of approximately
$32 million annually. New rates are expected to be placed into effect in the fourth quarter of
2010.
On January 28, 2010, Columbia of Maryland filed a base rate case with the Maryland PSC, seeking a
revenue increase of $2.2 million annually in order for Columbia of Maryland to earn the rate of
return authorized by the PSC in its 2008 rate case. New rates are expected to be placed into
effect in the second quarter of 2010.
During the quarter, Columbia of Virginia initiated its CARE Plan, which established a decoupled
rate mechanism together with certain customer efficiency programs. Also during the quarter,
legislation was enacted in Virginia which affords gas utilities the opportunity for accelerated
recovery for certain infrastructure investments a significant, positive development for Columbia
of Virginia and its customers.
Finally, on May 3, 2010, Columbia of Virginia filed a rate case with the VSCC seeking to increase
customer rates to reflect current costs upon the expiration of its Performance Based Regulation
Plan that is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2010.
Refer to the Results and Discussion of Segment Operations for a complete discussion of regulatory
matters.
Bear Garden Station. Columbia of Virginia has entered into an agreement with Dominion Virginia
Power to install facilities to serve a 585 mw combined cycle generating station in Buckingham
County, VA, known as the Bear Garden station. The project requires approximately 13.3 miles of
24-inch steel pipeline and associated facilities to serve the station. In March 2009, the VSCC
approved Dominion Virginia Power Companys planned Bear Garden station. Construction is
on-schedule with an anticipated in-service date of September 1, 2010.
Commercial Growth and Expansion of the Gas Transmission and Storage Business
NiSources Gas Transmission & Storage Operations continues to identify and advance a number of
near-term, low-risk growth projects that leverage its geographic footprint throughout the Marcellus
Shale production areas.
|
|
|
The companys Cobb Compressor Station expansion project helps meet natural gas
producers near-term transportation needs in the Appalachian Basin, with agreements in
place for more than 25,000 dekatherms per day of long-term, firm transportation service.
The project is expected to be in service in the second quarter 2010. |
48
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
|
|
|
Work is continuing on three incremental growth projects associated with NiSources Gas
Transmission & Storage Operation assets in the Majorsville region of southwestern
Pennsylvania. The projects, which are scheduled to begin service during the third quarter,
entail approximately $80 million of investment and will aggregate Marcellus gas production
for downstream transmission with a total capacity of 325,000 dekatherms per day. |
Financial Management of the Balance Sheet
On March 15, 2010, Columbia of Pennsylvania entered into an agreement to sell, without recourse,
substantially all of its trade receivables, as they originate, to CPRC, a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Columbia of Pennsylvania. CPRC, in turn, is party to an agreement with BTMU, also dated March
15, 2010, under the terms of which it sells an undivided percentage ownership interest in its
accounts receivable to a commercial paper conduit sponsored by BTMU. The maximum seasonal program
limit under the terms of the agreement is $75 million. CPRCs agreement with the commercial paper
conduit has a scheduled termination date of March 14, 2011, and can be renewed if mutually agreed
to by both parties. As of March 31, 2010, $74.7 million of accounts receivable had been
transferred by CPRC.
Credit Ratings. On March 30, 2010, Standard and Poors affirmed its senior unsecured ratings for
NiSource and its subsidiaries at BBB-. Standard and Poors outlook for NiSource and all of its
subsidiaries is stable. On December 15, 2009, Fitch affirmed the senior unsecured ratings for
NiSource at BBB-, and the existing ratings of all other subsidiaries. Fitchs outlook for NiSource
and all of its subsidiaries is stable. On November 24, 2009, Moodys Investors Service affirmed
the senior unsecured ratings for NiSource at Baa3, and the existing ratings of all other
subsidiaries, and revised the outlook to stable from negative. Although all ratings continue to be
investment grade, a downgrade by Standard and Poors, Moodys or Fitch would result in a rating
that is below investment grade.
Process and Expense Management
In February 2009, NiSource announced the restructuring of the Gas Transmission and Storage
Operations segment and has eliminated positions across the 16 state operating territory of Gas
Transmission and Storage. The reductions have occurred through voluntary programs and involuntary
separations. In addition to employee reductions, the Gas Transmission and Storage Operations
segment took steps to achieve additional cost savings by efficiently managing its various business
locations, reducing its fleet operations, creating alliances with third party service providers,
and implementing other changes in line with its strategic plan for growth and maximizing value of
existing assets. As of March 31, 2010, 316 employees had been terminated from employment. This
program was substantially completed in 2009. The remaining employees impacted by the restructuring
will be severed and will receive benefits in 2010.
In September 2009, NiSource announced the restructuring of Northern Indiana, which aims to redefine
business and operations strategies and achieve cost reductions, and impacts both Electric
Operations and Gas Distribution Operations. As of March 31, 2010, 36 employees had been terminated
from employment. This restructuring program is expected to be completed in 2010.
Refer to Note 4, Restructuring Activities, in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements for additional information on restructuring activities.
Ethics and Controls
NiSource has had a long-term commitment to providing accurate and complete financial reporting as
well as high standards for ethical behavior by its employees. NiSources senior management takes
an active role in the development of this Form 10-Q and the monitoring of the companys internal
control structure and performance. In addition, NiSource will continue its mandatory ethics
training program for all employees.
Refer to Controls and Procedures included in Item 4.
49
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Results of Operations
Quarter Ended March 31, 2010
Net Income
NiSource reported net income of $197.3 million, or $0.71 per basic share, for the three months
ended March 31, 2010, compared to net income of $148.4 million, or $0.54 per basic share, for the
first quarter 2009. Income from continuing operations was $197.3 million, or $0.71 per basic
share, for the three months ended March 31, 2010, compared to income from continuing operations of
$159.4 million, or $0.58 per basic share, for the first quarter 2009. Operating income was $403.2
million, an increase of $54.8 million from the same period in 2009. All per share amounts are
basic earnings per share. Basic average shares of common stock outstanding at March 31, 2010 were
276.9 million compared to 274.2 million at March 31, 2009.
Comparability of line item operating results between quarterly periods was impacted by regulatory
and tax trackers that allow for the recovery in rates of certain costs such as bad debt expenses.
Therefore, increases in these tracked operating expenses are offset by increases in net revenues
and had essentially no impact on income from continuing operations.
Net Revenues
Total consolidated net revenues (gross revenues less cost of sales) for the three months ended
March 31, 2010, were $1,072.0 million, a $5.8 million increase from the same period last year.
This increase in net revenues was primarily due to increased Electric Operations net revenues of
$25.0 million and increased Gas Transmission and Storage Operations net revenues of $14.3 million,
largely offset by lower Gas Distribution Operations net revenues of $31.3 million. Electric
Operations net revenues increased due primarily to higher industrial and residential margins of
$11.9 million, increased off-system sales of $10.5 million, which includes a $9.0 million
adjustment to reduce off-system sales revenues in 2009 for a FAC settlement, and an increase in
environmental trackers for $4.4 million that are partly offset in operating expenses. Within Gas
Transmission and Storage Operations, net revenues increased primarily due to a $10.6 million
increase in firm capacity reservation fees and the recognition of $8.3 million for a previously
deferred gain on the contribution of native gas to Hardy Storage following Hardy Storage securing
permanent financing. The increase in firm capacity reservation fees was the result of growth
projects such as the Eastern Market Expansion, the Ohio Storage Expansion and new Appalachian
production transportation contracts. Gas Distribution Operations net revenues decreased
primarily due to an impact of approximately $20.8 million from Columbia of Ohios change from a
volumetrically based rate design to one based on fixed monthly charges for certain customer
classes, lower regulatory and tax trackers of $10.1 million and from warmer weather. The revenue
variance experienced by Columbia of Ohio for the change in rate design in the first quarter will be
offset in future periods throughout the year. These decreases in net Gas Distribution Operations
net revenues were partially offset by an increase of $15.1 million for other regulatory and service
programs, excluding Columbia of Ohio described above, including impacts from rate cases at various
other utilities.
Expenses
Operating expenses for the first quarter 2010 were $676.2 million, a decrease of $48.0 million from
the 2009 period. This decrease was mainly due to the impact of $19.8 million of restructuring
charges that were recognized in the first quarter of 2009, lower employee and administrative
expenses of $11.4 million, which primarily resulted from lower pension and post-retirement benefits
expense of $9.2 million, and lower other taxes of $16.5 million, which includes lower tax trackers
of $9.3 million offset in net revenues. These decreases in operating expenses were partially
offset by increased depreciation of $6.1 million from the capital expenditure program. The
decrease in post-retirement benefits expense and pension expense for 2010 is mainly due to higher
returns on plan assets in 2009.
50
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Other Income (Deductions)
Interest expense increased by $8.3 million primarily due to incremental interest expense associated
with the issuance of $600 million of long-term debt in March of 2009 and $500 million of long-term
debt in December of 2009, and the effect of the adoption of new accounting requirements related to
the accounts receivable facilities at Northern Indiana and Columbia of Ohio previously recorded
within Other-net. These increases were partially offset by reductions in interest expense
resulting from the $250.6 million tender offer debt repurchase in April 2009 and the floating rate
maturity in November 2009, coupled with lower short-term borrowings and interest rates. Income for
the first quarter of 2010 of $2.6 million in Other, net compared to expense of $4.2 million for the
first quarter of 2009 primarily due to favorable AFUDC rates, an increase in interest income, and
lower costs related to the sale of accounts receivable, including a reclassification of interest
expense related to the adoption of new accounting requirements noted above.
Income Taxes
Income taxes for the first quarter of 2010 were $109.8 million, an increase of $12.2 million from
the first quarter of 2009, mainly attributable to higher pre-tax book income. The effective tax
rates for the quarters ended March 31, 2010 and March 31, 2009 were 35.8% and 38.0%, respectively.
These effective tax rates differ from the federal tax rate of 35% primarily due to the effects of
tax credits, state income taxes, utility rate-making, and other permanent book-to-tax differences
such as the electric production tax deduction provided under Internal Revenue Code Section 199.
The decrease of 2.2% in the effective tax rate in the first quarter of 2010 versus the first
quarter of 2009 is due to an increase in estimated Section 199 deductions as a result of higher
projected taxable income in 2010 versus 2009, a decrease in tax expense related to AFUDC Equity
and the regulatory treatment of certain depreciation differences, and the impact of state income
tax adjustments. Refer to Note 13, Income Taxes, in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements for more detail about income taxes.
Discontinued Operations
There was no impact to net income in the first quarter of 2010 from discontinued operations
compared to a net loss of $11.0 million in the first quarter of 2009. The loss in 2009 is
primarily attributable to an adjustment to the reserve for litigation and adjustments from
businesses disposed of during 2008, including the dispositions of Northern Utilities, Granite State
Gas and Whiting Clean Energy.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
A significant portion of NiSources operations, most notably in the gas distribution, gas
transportation and electric distribution businesses, are subject to seasonal fluctuations in cash
flow. During the heating season, which is primarily from November through March, cash receipts
from gas sales and transportation services typically exceed cash requirements. During the summer
months, cash on hand, together with the seasonal increase in cash flows from the electric business
during the summer cooling season and external short-term and long-term financing, is used to
purchase gas to place in storage for heating season deliveries and perform necessary maintenance of
facilities.
Operating Activities
Net cash from operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2010 was $83.3 million, a
decrease of $974.6 million compared to the first three months of 2009. Gas price changes and the
related approved rates for recovery significantly impacted working capital when comparing the two
periods. During the first three months of 2010 over-collected gas costs at December 31, 2009 were
returned to the customer and the quarter ended in an under-recovered position resulting in a $251.1
million use of working capital. Conversely, during the first three months of 2009, under-collected
gas costs at December 31, 2008 were collected from the customer resulting in a $446.3 million
source of working capital. There were less net withdrawals of inventory and lower pricing of the
withdrawals in the first three months of 2010 compared to the first three months of 2009 resulting
in a $155.0 million reduction to a source of working capital. Additionally, beginning January 1,
2010, transfers of accounts receivable that previously qualified for sales accounting no longer
qualify and are accounted for as secured borrowings. Although there have been no changes in the
operation of the accounts receivable securitization programs, the application of the new accounting
guidance resulted in a reduction in cash from operations of $241.9 million.
51
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Income Tax Refunds. In the third quarter of 2009, NiSource filed its consolidated federal income
tax return reflecting a significant tax loss primarily due to its change in method of accounting
related to capitalizing certain costs. Under the new tax accounting method, NiSource recorded
federal and state income tax receivables of $295.7 million. In 2009, $267.6 million of these
refunds were received, with additional refunds of $22.1 million received through March 31, 2010.
The balance of the refunds is expected to be received before the end of the second quarter of 2010.
Tawney Settlement. NiSources share of the settlement liability is up to $338.8 million. The
Trial Court entered its Order discharging the judgment on January 20, 2009 and is supervising the
administration of the settlement proceeds. As of March 31, 2010, NiSource had contributed a total
of $304.7 million into the qualified settlement fund, $277.3 million of which was contributed prior
to December 31, 2009. As of March 31, 2010, $34.1 million of the maximum settlement liability had
not been paid. The remaining balance of the letter of credit is sufficient to cover any remaining
payments under the Settlement Agreement. NiSource has since contributed an additional $4.9
million. NiSource will be required to make additional payments, pursuant to the settlement, upon
notice from the Class Administrator. Refer to Part II, Item 1, Legal Proceedings, for additional
information.
Pension and Other Postretirement Plan Funding. NiSource expects to make contributions of
approximately $161.0 million to its pension plans and approximately $49.1 million to its
postretirement medical and life plans in 2010, which could change depending on market conditions.
During the quarter ended March 31, 2010, NiSource has contributed $0.7 million to its pension plans
and $15.1 million to its other postretirement benefit plans.
Investing Activities
NiSources capital expenditures for the three months ended March 31, 2010 were $138.8 million,
compared to $206.9 million for the first three months of 2009. Capital expenditures were delayed
somewhat during the first quarter of 2010 due primarily to weather. NiSource continues to project
capital expenditures for the year to be approximately $900 million.
Restricted cash was $220.8 million and $174.7 million as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009,
respectively. The increase in restricted cash was due primarily to the change in forward gas
prices which resulted in increased net margin deposits on open derivative contracts used within
NiSources risk management and energy marketing activities.
NiSource received insurance proceeds for capital repairs of $0.5 million and $52.0 million for the
first three months of 2010 and 2009, respectively, related to hurricanes and other incidences.
Financing Activities
Long-term Debt. On December 4, 2009, NiSource Finance issued $500.0 million of 6.125% senior
unsecured notes that mature March 1, 2022.
During November 2009, NiSource Finance redeemed $417.6 million of its floating rate notes.
On April 9, 2009, NiSource Finance closed a $385 million senior unsecured two-year bank term loan
with a maturity of February 11, 2011. Borrowings under the bank term loan had an effective cost of
LIBOR plus 538 basis points. On February 16, 2009, NiSource announced the initial closing of the
bank term loan at the level of $265 million. Under an accordion feature, NiSource was able to
increase the loan by $120 million prior to final closing. On December 7, 2009, this term loan was
repaid with proceeds from the December 4, 2009, $500.0 million debt offering.
On March 31, 2009, NiSource Finance commenced a cash tender offer for up to $300 million aggregate
principal amount of its outstanding 7.875% notes due 2010. On April 28, 2009, NiSource Finance
announced that $250.6 million of these notes were successfully tendered.
On March 9, 2009, NiSource Finance issued $600.0 million of 10.75% unsecured notes that mature
March 15, 2016.
52
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
During January 2009, NiSource repurchased $32.4 million of the $450.0 million floating rate notes
that were scheduled to mature in November 2009 and $67.6 million of the $1.0 billion 7.875%
unsecured notes scheduled to mature in November 2010.
Credit Facilities. NiSource Finance maintains a $1.5 billion five-year revolving credit facility
with a syndicate of banks which has a termination date of July 7, 2011. This facility provides a
reasonable cushion of short-term liquidity for general corporate purposes including meeting cash
requirements driven by volatility in natural gas prices, as well as provides for the issuance of
letters of credit. During September 2008, NiSource Finance entered into an additional $500 million
six-month revolving credit agreement with a syndicate of banks led by Barclays Capital that was
originally due to expire on March 23, 2009. However, on February 13, 2009, the six-month credit
facility was terminated in conjunction with the closing of a new two-year bank term loan. As noted
above, the two year term loan was subsequently repaid in December 2009 with proceeds from the
December 4, 2009, $500.0 million debt offering.
NiSource Finance had no outstanding borrowings on its five-year revolving credit facility at March
31, 2010, and borrowings of $103.0 million at December 31, 2009, at a weighted average interest
rate of 0.59%.
As of March 31, 2010, NiSource has $370.7 million of short-term borrowings recorded on the
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited) and cash from financing activities in the same
amount relating to its accounts receivable securitization facilities. See Note 11, Transfers of
Financial Assets.
As of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, NiSource had $71.2 million and $85.0 million,
respectively, of stand-by letters of credit outstanding under its five-year revolving credit
facility. NiSource Finance maintains a five-year revolving line of credit with a syndicate of
financial institutions which can be used either for borrowings or the issuance of letters of
credit.
As of March 31, 2010, an aggregate of $1,428.8 million of credit was available under the credit
facility.
Sale of Trade Accounts Receivables. On October 23, 2009, Columbia of Ohio entered into
an agreement to sell, without recourse, substantially all of its trade receivables, as they
originate, to CGORC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Columbia of Ohio. CGORC, in turn, is party to an
agreement with BTMU and RBS, also dated October 23, 2009, under the terms of which it sells an
undivided percentage ownership interest in its accounts receivable to commercial paper conduits
sponsored by BTMU and RBS. The maximum seasonal program limit under the terms of the agreement is
$275 million. CGORCs agreement with the commercial paper conduits has a scheduled termination
date of October 22, 2010, and can be renewed if mutually agreed to by all parties. As of March 31,
2010, $130.2 million of accounts receivable had been transferred by CGORC. CGORC is a separate
corporate entity from NiSource and Columbia of Ohio, with its own separate obligations, and upon a
liquidation of CGORC, CGORCs obligations must be satisfied out of CGORCs assets prior to any
value becoming available to CGORCs stockholder. Under the agreement, it is an event of
termination if NiSources debt rating is withdrawn by either Standard and Poors or Moodys or
falls below BB- or Ba3 at either Standard and Poors or Moodys, respectively.
On October 23, 2009, Northern Indiana entered into an agreement to sell, without recourse,
substantially all of its trade receivables, as they originate, to NARC, a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Northern Indiana. NARC, in turn, is party to an agreement with RBS, also dated October 23,
2009, under the terms of which it sells an undivided percentage ownership interest in its accounts
receivable to a commercial paper conduit sponsored by RBS. The maximum seasonal program limit
under the terms of the agreement is $200 million. NARCs agreement with the commercial paper
conduit has a scheduled termination date of October 22, 2010, and can be renewed if mutually agreed
to by both parties. As of March 31, 2010, $165.9 million of accounts receivable had been
transferred by NARC. NARC is a separate corporate entity from NiSource and Northern Indiana, with
its own separate obligations, and upon a liquidation of NARC, NARCs obligations must be satisfied
out of NARCs assets prior to any value becoming available to NARCs stockholder. Under the
agreement, it is an event of termination if Northern Indianas debt rating is withdrawn by either
Standard and Poors or Moodys or falls below BB, or Ba2 at either Standard and Poors or Moodys,
respectively.
53
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
On March 15, 2010, Columbia of Pennsylvania entered into an agreement to sell, without recourse,
substantially all of its trade receivables, as they originate, to CPRC, a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Columbia of Pennsylvania. CPRC, in turn, is party to an agreement with BTMU, also dated March
15, 2010, under the terms of which it sells an undivided percentage ownership interest in its
accounts receivable to a commercial paper conduit sponsored by BTMU. The maximum seasonal program
limit under the terms of the agreement is $75 million. CPRCs agreement with the commercial paper
conduit has a scheduled termination date of March 14, 2011, and can be renewed if mutually agreed
to by both parties. As of March 31, 2010, $74.7 million of accounts receivable had been
transferred by CPRC. CPRC is a separate corporate entity from NiSource and Columbia of
Pennsylvania, with its own separate obligations, and upon a liquidation of CPRC, CPRCs obligations
must be satisfied out of CPRCs assets prior to any value becoming available to CPRCs stockholder.
Under the agreement, it is an event of termination if NiSources debt rating is withdrawn by
either Standard and Poors or Moodys or falls below BB- or Ba3 at either Standard and Poors or
Moodys, respectively.
Beginning January 1, 2010, transfers of accounts receivable that previously qualified for sales
accounting were recorded as short-term borrowings on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(unaudited). The maximum amount of short-term borrowings that could be recorded related to
NiSources accounts receivable programs is $550 million. At March 31, 2010 NiSource has $370.7
million of short-term debt recorded on its Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)
related to the accounts receivable programs. Refer to Note 2, Recent Accounting Pronouncements,
for additional information.
All accounts receivables sold to the commercial paper conduits are valued at face value, which
approximate fair value due to their short-term nature. The amount of the undivided percentage
ownership interest in the accounts receivables sold is determined, in part, by required loss
reserves under the agreements.
Credit Ratings. On March 30, 2010, Standard and Poors affirmed its senior unsecured ratings for
NiSource and its subsidiaries at BBB-. Standard and Poors outlook for NiSource and all of its
subsidiaries is stable. On December 15, 2009, Fitch affirmed the senior unsecured ratings for
NiSource at BBB-, and the existing ratings of all other subsidiaries. Fitchs outlook for NiSource
and all of its subsidiaries is stable. On November 24, 2009, Moodys Investors Service affirmed
the senior unsecured ratings for NiSource at Baa3, and the existing ratings of all other
subsidiaries, and revised the outlook to stable from negative. Although all ratings continue to be
investment grade, a downgrade by Standard and Poors, Moodys or Fitch would result in a rating
that is below investment grade.
Certain NiSource affiliates have agreements that contain ratings triggers that require increased
collateral if the credit ratings of NiSource or certain of its subsidiaries are rated below BBB- by
Standard and Poors or Baa3 by Moodys. These agreements are primarily for insurance purposes and
for the physical purchase or sale of electricity. The collateral requirement from a downgrade
below the ratings trigger levels would amount to approximately $22 million. In addition to
agreements with ratings triggers, there are other agreements that contain adequate assurance or
material adverse change provisions that could necessitate additional credit support such as
letters of credit and cash collateral to transact business. Under Northern Indianas trade
receivables sales program, an event of termination occurs if Northern Indianas debt rating is
withdrawn by either Standard and Poors or Moodys, or falls below BB or Ba2 at either Standard and
Poors or Moodys, respectively. Likewise, under Columbia of Ohios and Columbia of Pennsylvanias
trade receivables sales programs, an event of termination occurs if NiSources debt rating is
withdrawn by either Standard and Poors or Moodys, or falls below BB- or Ba3 at either Standard
and Poors or Moodys, respectively.
Contractual Obligations. There were no material changes recorded in the first quarter of
2010 to NiSources uncertain tax positions recorded as of December 31, 2009.
54
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Market Risk Disclosures
Risk is an inherent part of NiSources energy businesses. The extent to which NiSource properly
and effectively identifies, assesses, monitors and manages each of the various types of risk
involved in its businesses is critical to its profitability. NiSource seeks to identify, assess,
monitor and manage, in accordance with defined policies and procedures, the following principal
risks that are involved in NiSources energy businesses: commodity market risk, interest rate risk
and credit risk. Risk management at NiSource is a multi-faceted process with oversight by the Risk
Management Committee that requires constant communication, judgment and knowledge of specialized
products and markets. NiSources senior management takes an active role in the risk management
process and has developed policies and procedures that require specific administrative and business
functions to assist in the identification, assessment and control of various risks. In recognition
of the increasingly varied and complex nature of the energy business, NiSources risk management
policies and procedures continue to evolve and are subject to ongoing review and modification.
Various analytical techniques are employed to measure and monitor NiSources market and credit
risks, including VaR. VaR represents the potential loss or gain for an instrument or portfolio
from changes in market factors, for a specified time period and at a specified confidence level.
Commodity Price Risk
NiSource is exposed to commodity price risk as a result of its subsidiaries operations involving
natural gas and power. To manage this market risk, NiSources subsidiaries use derivatives,
including commodity futures contracts, swaps and options. NiSource is not involved in speculative
energy trading activity.
Commodity price risk resulting from derivative activities at NiSources rate-regulated subsidiaries
is limited, since regulations allow recovery of prudently incurred purchased power, fuel and gas
costs through the rate-making process, including gains or losses on these derivative instruments.
If states should explore additional regulatory reform, these subsidiaries may begin providing
services without the benefit of the traditional rate-making process and may be more exposed to
commodity price risk. Some of NiSources rate-regulated utility subsidiaries offer commodity price
risk products to its customers for which derivatives are used to hedge forecasted customer usage
under such products. These subsidiaries do not have regulatory recovery orders for these products
and are subject to gains and losses recognized in earnings due to hedge ineffectiveness.
Interest Rate Risk
NiSource is exposed to interest rate risk as a result of changes in interest rates on borrowings
under its revolving credit agreement and accounts receivable programs, which have interest rates
that are indexed to short-term market interest rates. NiSource is also exposed to interest rate
risk due to changes in interest rates on fixed-to-variable interest rate swaps that hedge the fair
value of long-term debt. Based upon average borrowings and debt obligations subject to
fluctuations in short-term market interest rates, an increase (or decrease) in short-term interest
rates of 100 basis points (1%) would have increased (or decreased) interest expense by $3.3 million
for the quarter ended March 31, 2010, respectively, and $5.5 million for the quarter ended March
31, 2009, respectively.
Credit Risk
Due to the nature of the industry, credit risk is embedded in many of NiSources business
activities. NiSources extension of credit is governed by a Corporate Credit Risk Policy. In
addition, Risk Management Committee guidelines are in place which document management approval
levels for credit limits, evaluation of creditworthiness, and credit risk mitigation efforts.
Exposures to credit risks are monitored by the Corporate Credit Risk function which is independent
of commercial operations. Credit risk arises due to the possibility that a customer, supplier or
counterparty will not be able or willing to fulfill its obligations on a transaction on or before
the settlement date. For derivative related contracts, credit risk arises when counterparties are
obligated to deliver or purchase defined commodity units of gas or power to NiSource at a future
date per execution of contractual terms and conditions. Exposure to credit risk is measured in
terms of both current obligations and the market value of forward positions net of any posted
collateral such as cash, letters of credit and qualified guarantees of support.
55
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
As a result of the ongoing credit crisis in the financial markets, NiSource has been closely
monitoring the financial status of its banking credit providers and interest rate swap
counterparties. NiSource continues to evaluate the financial status of its banking partners
through the use of market-based metrics such as credit default swap pricing levels, and also
through traditional credit ratings provided by the major credit rating agencies.
The parent company of one of NiSources interest rate swap counterparties, Lehman Brothers Holdings
Inc., filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on September 14, 2008, which constituted an event
of default under the swap agreement between NiSource Finance and Lehman Brothers Special Financing
Inc. As a result, on September 15, 2008, NiSource Finance terminated the fixed-to-variable
interest rate swap agreement with Lehman Brothers having a notional value of $110 million. The
mark-to-market close-out value of this swap at the September 15, 2008 termination date was
determined to be $4.8 million and was fully reserved in the third quarter of 2008.
NiSource also reviewed its exposure to all other counterparties including the other interest rate
swap counterparties and concluded there was no significant risk associated with these
counterparties. NiSource will continue to closely monitor events in the credit markets, as well as
overall economic conditions in the nation and the markets it serves.
Fair Value Measurement
NiSource measures certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value. The level of the fair
value hierarchy disclosed is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair
value measurement. NiSources financial assets and liabilities include price risk assets and
liabilities, available-for-sale securities and a deferred compensation plan obligation.
Exchange-traded derivative contracts are generally based on unadjusted quoted prices in active
markets and are classified within Level 1. These financial assets and liabilities are secured with
cash on deposit with the exchange; therefore nonperformance risk has not been incorporated into
these valuations. Certain non-exchange-traded derivatives are valued using broker or
over-the-counter, on-line exchanges. In such cases, these non-exchange-traded derivatives are
classified within Level 2. Non-exchange-based derivative instruments include swaps, forwards, and
options. In certain instances, these instruments may utilize models to measure fair value.
NiSource uses a similar model to value similar instruments. Valuation models utilize various
inputs that include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted
prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, other
observable inputs for the asset or liability, and market-corroborated inputs, i.e., inputs derived
principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means. Where
observable inputs are available for substantially the full term of the asset or liability, the
instrument is categorized in Level 2. Certain derivatives trade in less active markets with a
lower availability of pricing information and models may be utilized in the valuation. When such
inputs have a significant impact on the measurement of fair value, the instrument is categorized in
Level 3. Credit risk is considered in the fair value calculation of derivative instruments that
are not exchange-traded. Credit exposures are adjusted to reflect collateral agreements which
reduce exposures.
Price risk management assets also include fixed-to-floating interest-rate swaps, which are
designated as fair value hedges, as a means to achieve its targeted level of variable-rate debt as
a percent of total debt. NiSource uses a calculation of future cash inflows and estimated future
outflows related to the swap agreements, which are discounted and netted to determine the current
fair value. Additional inputs to the present value calculation include the contract terms, as well
as market parameters such as current and projected interest rates and volatility. As they are
based on observable data and valuations of similar instruments, the interest-rate swaps are
categorized in Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. Credit risk is considered in the fair value
calculation of the interest rate swap.
Refer to Note 10, Fair Value Disclosures, in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements for additional information on NiSources fair value measurements.
56
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Market Risk Measurement
Market risk refers to the risk that a change in the level of one or more market prices, rates,
indices, volatilities, correlations or other market factors, such as liquidity, will result in
losses for a specified position or portfolio. NiSource calculates a one-day VaR at a 95%
confidence level for the gas marketing group that utilizes a variance/covariance methodology. The
daily market exposure for the gas marketing portfolio on an average, high and low basis was $0.1
million, $0.3 million and zero for the first quarter of 2010, respectively. Prospectively,
management has set the VaR limit at $0.8 million for gas marketing. Exceeding this limit would
result in management actions to reduce portfolio risk.
Refer to Critical Accounting Policies included in this Item and Note 9, Risk Management
Activities, in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of
NiSources risk management.
Off Balance Sheet Arrangements
As a part of normal business, NiSource and certain subsidiaries enter into various agreements
providing financial or performance assurance to third parties on behalf of certain subsidiaries.
Such agreements include guarantees and stand-by letters of credit.
NiSource has issued guarantees that support up to approximately $371.3 million of commodity-related
payments for its current and former subsidiaries involved in energy marketing activities. These
guarantees were provided to counterparties in order to facilitate physical and financial
transactions involving natural gas and electricity. To the extent liabilities exist under the
commodity-related contracts subject to these guarantees, such liabilities are included in the
Consolidated Balance Sheets.
NiSource has purchase and sales agreement guarantees totaling $250.0 million, which guarantee
performance of the sellers covenants, agreements, obligations, liabilities, representations and
warranties under the agreements. No amounts related to the purchase and sales agreement guarantees
are reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Management believes that the likelihood NiSource
would be required to perform or otherwise incur any significant losses associated with any of the
aforementioned guarantees is remote.
NiSource has other guarantees outstanding. Refer to Note 19-A, Guarantees and Indemnities, in
the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information about
NiSources off balance sheet arrangements.
Other Information
Critical Accounting Policies
Goodwill. NiSources goodwill assets at March 31, 2010 were $3,677.3 million, most of
which resulted from the acquisition of Columbia on November 1, 2000. The goodwill balance also
includes $13.3 million for Northern Indiana Fuel and Light and $5.5 million for Kokomo Gas. As
required, NiSource tests for impairment of goodwill on an annual basis and on an interim basis when
events or circumstances indicate that a potential impairment may exist. NiSources annual goodwill
test takes place in the second quarter of each year and was most recently finalized as of June 30,
2009. The goodwill test utilized both an income approach and a market approach. In performing the
goodwill test, NiSource made certain required key assumptions, such as long-term growth rates,
discount rates and fair market values.
These key assumptions required significant judgment by management which are subjective and
forward-looking in nature. To assist in making these judgments, NiSource utilized third-party
valuation specialists in both determining and testing key assumptions used in the analysis.
NiSource based its assumptions on projected financial information that it believes is reasonable;
however, actual results may differ materially from those projections. For example, with regard to
NiSources discount rate assumptions used in the June 30, 2009 test results, a 1% change in the
discount rate would change the fair value of the Columbia Distribution Operations and Columbia
Transmission Operations reporting units by approximately $1.0 billion and $800 million,
respectively.
57
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Although there was no goodwill asset impairment as of June 30, 2009, an interim impairment test
could be triggered by the following: actual earnings results that are materially lower than
expected, significant adverse changes in the operating environment, an increase in the discount
rate, changes in other key assumptions which require judgment and are forward looking in nature, or
if NiSources market capitalization continues to stay below book value for an extended period of
time. No impairment triggers were identified in the first quarter of 2010.
Refer to Note 12, Goodwill Assets, in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited) for additional information concerning NiSources annual goodwill test.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
Transfer of Financial Assets. In June 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance to amend
derecognition criteria guidance in ASC 860 to improve the relevance, representational faithfulness,
and comparability of the information that a reporting entity provides in its financial statements
about a transfer of financial assets; the effects of a transfer on its financial position,
financial performance, and cash flows; and a transferors continuing involvement, if any, in
transferred financial assets. NiSource adopted the guidance on January 1, 2010. This guidance
requires transfers of accounts receivable that previously qualified for sales accounting, to be
recorded as secured borrowings resulting in the recognition of short-term debt on the Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited). Refer to Note 11, Transfers of Financial Assets, in the
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) for additional information.
Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities. In June 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance
to amend the manner in which entities evaluate whether consolidation is required for VIEs. The
model for determining which enterprise has a controlling financial interest and is the primary
beneficiary of a VIE has changed significantly under the new guidance. Previously, variable
interest holders were required to determine whether they retained a controlling financial interest
in a VIE based on a quantitative analysis of the expected gains and/or losses of the entity. In
contrast, the new guidance requires an enterprise with a variable interest in a VIE to
qualitatively assess whether it has a controlling financial interest in the entity, and if so,
whether it is the primary beneficiary. Furthermore, this guidance requires that companies
continually evaluate VIEs for consolidation, rather than assessing based upon the occurrence of
triggering events. This revised guidance also requires enhanced disclosures about how a companys
involvement with a VIE affects its financial statements and exposure to risks. NiSource adopted the
guidance on January 1, 2010. Refer to Note 15, Variable Interests and Variable Interest
Entities, in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) for additional
information.
Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures. In January 2010, the FASB issued authoritative guidance
that amends the disclosures about transfers into and out of Level 1 and 2 and requires separate
disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements relating to Level 3 measurements.
This guidance also clarifies existing fair value disclosures about the level of disaggregation and
about inputs and valuation techniques used to measure fair value. This guidance is effective for
the first reporting period, including interim periods, beginning after December 15, 2009, except
for the requirement to provide Level 3 activity of purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements on
a gross basis, which will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010. Early
adoption is permitted. NiSource adopted the additional guidance on January 1, 2010 with the
exception of the requirement to provide Level 3 activity of purchases, sales, issuances, and
settlements on a gross basis. NiSource is currently reviewing the additional Level 3 disclosure
requirements to determine the impact on the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
and Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited). Refer to Note 10, Fair
Value Disclosures, in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) for
additional information.
International Financial Reporting Standards
On November 14, 2008, the SEC issued a proposed IFRS roadmap which outlines several milestones
that need to be addressed prior to making the adoption to IFRS mandatory by U.S. filers. In 2011,
the SEC will determine whether to require mandatory adoption of IFRS for all U.S. issuers.
According to recent announcements, large accelerated filers, including NiSource, may be required to
file IFRS financial statements in 2015.
58
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
The proposed accounting changes are complex and comprehensive and will involve converting technical
accounting and financial reporting to IFRS. In addition, converting to IFRS will involve changes
to processes and controls, regulatory and management reporting, information technology, tax,
treasury, legal, human resources, and contractual issues. NiSource will implement a project plan
to analyze the requirements of IFRS and the potential impact adoption would have on the
Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
2010 Health Care Act
The 2010 Health Care Act includes a provision eliminating, effective January 1, 2013, the tax
deductibility of retiree health care costs to the extent of federal subsidies received under the
Retiree Drug Subsidy program. When the Retiree Drug Subsidy was created by the Medicare
Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003, NiSource recorded a deferred tax
asset reflecting the exclusion of the expected future Retiree Drug Subsidy from taxable income. At
the same time, an offsetting regulatory liability was established to reflect NiSources obligation
to reduce income taxes collected in future rates. ASC Topic 740 Income Taxes requires the
impact of a change in tax law to be immediately recognized in continuing operations in the income
statement for the period that includes the enactment date. In the first quarter of 2010, NiSource
reversed its deferred tax asset of $6.2 million related to previously excludable Retiree Drug
Subsidy payments expected to be received after January 1, 2013, which was completely offset by the
reversal of the related regulatory liability. As a result, there was no impact on income tax
expense recorded in the Condensed Statements of Consolidated Income (unaudited) for the first
quarter of 2010.
A provision of the 2010 Health Care Act requires the elimination, effective January 1, 2011, of
lifetime and restrictive annual benefit limits from certain medical plans. The NiSource Life and
Medical Benefits Program covers both active and retired individuals and caps lifetime benefits to
certain retirees. NiSource examined the provisions of the 2010 Health Care Act and determined the
enactment of the law in the first quarter of 2010 qualified as a significant event requiring
remeasurement of the other postretirement benefit obligation and plan assets as of March 31, 2010.
The remeasurement resulted in an increase to the other postretirement benefit obligation, net of
plan assets, of $39.7 million and corresponding increases to regulatory assets and AOCI of $35.7
million and $4.0 million, respectively. There was no income statement impact in the first quarter
of 2010 related to the remeasurement, however, net periodic postretirement benefit cost for 2010
will increase by approximately $4.0 million which will be recognized over the remaining three
quarters of 2010. All significant actuarial assumptions used in the remeasurement remained the
same as the December 31, 2009 valuation.
59
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION OF SEGMENT OPERATIONS
Presentation of Segment Information
NiSources operations are divided into three primary business segments; Gas Distribution
Operations, Gas Transmission and Storage Operations, and Electric Operations.
In prior period filings, NiSource included a fourth segment, Other Operations, which primarily
included ventures focused on its unregulated natural gas marketing business and distributed power
generation technologies, including fuel cells and storage systems. In 2009, NiSource made a
decision to wind down the unregulated natural gas marketing activities which is a part of the
companys long-term strategy of focusing on its core regulated businesses. As this segments
business activities continue to decrease, the chief operating decision maker no longer views it
separately. As such, the business activities for Other Operations have been included within
Corporate and Other for all periods presented, and are no longer reported as a separate segment and
therefore not discussed in this Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions of
Operations.
60
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Gas Distribution Operations
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions) |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
|
Net Revenues |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sales Revenues |
|
$ |
1,551.2 |
|
|
$ |
1,955.3 |
|
Less: Cost of gas sold (excluding depreciation and amortization) |
|
|
942.0 |
|
|
|
1,314.8 |
|
|
Net Revenues |
|
|
609.2 |
|
|
|
640.5 |
|
|
Operating Expenses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operation and maintenance |
|
|
258.2 |
|
|
|
269.3 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
62.5 |
|
|
|
60.4 |
|
Other taxes |
|
|
53.4 |
|
|
|
67.6 |
|
|
Total Operating Expenses |
|
|
374.1 |
|
|
|
397.3 |
|
|
Operating Income |
|
$ |
235.1 |
|
|
$ |
243.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenues ($ in Millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Residential |
|
|
897.8 |
|
|
|
1,415.4 |
|
Commercial |
|
|
316.2 |
|
|
|
498.4 |
|
Industrial |
|
|
77.0 |
|
|
|
99.3 |
|
Off System |
|
|
84.6 |
|
|
|
75.4 |
|
Other |
|
|
175.6 |
|
|
|
(133.2 |
) |
|
Total |
|
|
1,551.2 |
|
|
|
1,955.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sales and Transportation (MMDth) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Residential |
|
|
129.4 |
|
|
|
132.6 |
|
Commercial |
|
|
72.8 |
|
|
|
78.0 |
|
Industrial |
|
|
100.9 |
|
|
|
96.6 |
|
Off System |
|
|
15.9 |
|
|
|
16.2 |
|
Other |
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
Total |
|
|
319.4 |
|
|
|
323.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Heating Degree Days |
|
|
2,890 |
|
|
|
2,950 |
|
Normal Heating Degree Days |
|
|
2,900 |
|
|
|
2,900 |
|
% Colder than Normal |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Customers |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Residential |
|
|
3,045,246 |
|
|
|
3,041,969 |
|
Commercial |
|
|
280,207 |
|
|
|
280,595 |
|
Industrial |
|
|
7,855 |
|
|
|
7,964 |
|
Other |
|
|
80 |
|
|
|
80 |
|
|
Total |
|
|
3,333,388 |
|
|
|
3,330,608 |
|
|
NiSources natural gas distribution operations serve approximately 3.3 million customers in seven
states: Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Virginia, Kentucky and Maryland. The
regulated subsidiaries offer both traditional bundled services as well as transportation only for
customers that purchase gas from alternative suppliers. The operating results reflect the
temperature-sensitive nature of customer demand with 73% of annual residential and commercial
throughput affected by seasonality. As a result, segment operating income is higher in the first
and fourth quarters reflecting the heating demand during the winter season.
Bear Garden Station
Columbia of Virginia has entered into an agreement with Dominion Virginia Power to install
facilities to serve a 585 mw combined cycle generating station in Buckingham County, VA, known as
the Bear Garden station. The project requires approximately 13.3 miles of 24-inch steel pipeline
and associated facilities to serve the station. In March
2009, the VSCC approved Dominion Virginia Power Companys planned Bear Garden station.
Construction is on-schedule with an anticipated in-service date of September 1, 2010.
61
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Gas Distribution Operations (continued)
Regulatory Matters
Significant Rate Developments. On May 3, 2010, Northern Indiana filed a natural gas rate
case with the IURC, the first since 1987, proposing enhanced low income assistance and extending
energy-efficiency programs for customers, as well as a change in rate design. Among other things,
the filing also proposes a mechanism for the deferral of certain pension and other postretirement
costs and for adjustments to depreciation rates and expense. New
rates are targeted to be
effective by early 2011 or sooner.
In March 2009, Indiana Governor Daniels signed Senate Bill 423 into law giving the Indiana
Finance Authority the ability to contract, on behalf of gas customers in the state of Indiana,
with developers capable of building facilities that manufacture Substitute Natural Gas from
coal. The Indiana Finance Authority received one bid, from Indiana Gasification, by the April
9, 2009 deadline to initiate a Substitute Natural Gas plant in Southern Indiana under a 30
year contract. Current law requires that all Indiana gas utilities, including Northern
Indiana, deliver a portion of Substitute Natural Gas from this facility, once it is built.
The IURC must approve the final contract between the Indiana Finance Authority and Indiana
Gasification.
On October 21, 2009, the IURC issued an Order in the proceeding concerning Northern Indianas
annual gas recovery, rejecting the use of a four-year average to compute unaccounted for gas.
This Order requires Northern Indiana to refund an estimated $5.8 million to customers based on
a calculation utilizing a one-year average of unaccounted for gas for the twelve month periods
ended July 31, 2008 and July 31, 2009. A reserve has been provided for the full amount of the
refund, which Northern Indiana began returning to customers in March 2010.
On December 9, 2009, Northern Indiana filed a Petition with the IURC to extend its alternative
regulatory programs which was scheduled to expire on May 1, 2010. On February 12, 2010, Northern
Indiana, the OUCC and gas marketers supplying gas to residential and small commercial customers
filed a Joint Stipulation and Agreement proposing an extension to the programs through March 31,
2012, which was approved by the IURC on March 31, 2010.
On January 15, 2009, Columbia of Ohio filed an application with the PUCO requesting authority to
increase Columbia of Ohios PIPP rider rate in order to collect $82.2 million in PIPP arrearages
over a period of three years, in addition to the projected level of arrearages expected to occur
during each of the succeeding twelve-month periods. On March 3, 2009, Columbia of Ohios proposal
was approved and became effective.
On January 30, 2009, Columbia of Ohio filed an application with the PUCO to implement a gas supply
auction. The auction will replace Columbia of Ohios current GCR mechanism for providing commodity
gas supplies to its sales customers. By order dated December 2, 2009, the PUCO approved a
stipulation that resolved all issues in the case. Pursuant to the stipulation, Columbia of Ohio
will conduct two consecutive one-year long standard service offer auction periods starting April
2010 and April 2011. On February 23, 2010, Columbia of Ohio held the first standard service offer
auction which resulted in a final retail price adjustment of $1.93 per mcf. On February 24, 2010
the PUCO issued an Entry that approved the results of the auction and directed Columbia of Ohio to
proceed with the implementation of the standard service offer process.
On February 27, 2009, Columbia of Ohio filed an application to adjust rates associated with Rider
IRP. Rider IRP recovers costs associated with the replacement of natural gas risers that are prone
to failure; maintenance, repair and replacement of customers service lines; an Accelerated Mains
Replacement Program; and installation of Automatic Meter Reading Devices. On June 2, 2009, Columbia
of Ohio filed a Joint Stipulation and Recommendation that settled all issues. On June 24, 2009, the
PUCO issued an Order approving the Stipulation. Rates associated with Rider IRP were increased by
$13.8 million annually beginning in July 2009.
On February 26, 2010, Columbia of Ohio filed an application to adjust rates associated with Riders
IRP and DSM. Rider DSM tracks and recovers costs associated with Columbia of Ohios energy
efficiency and conservation programs. On April 14, 2010, Columbia of Ohio filed a Joint Stipulation
and Recommendation that settled all issues. On April 28, 2010, the PUCO issued an Order approving
the Stipulation. Rates associated with Riders IRP and DSM were increased by approximately $17.8
million annually, beginning April 29, 2010.
62
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Gas Distribution Operations (continued)
On January 28, 2010, Columbia of Pennsylvania filed a base rate case with the Pennsylvania PUC,
seeking a revenue increase of approximately $32 million annually. Columbia of Pennsylvania
anticipates a final order will be received and new rates will go into effect in the fourth quarter
of 2010.
On October 1, 2008, Columbia of Maryland filed a base rate case with the Maryland PSC. On February
20, 2009, Columbia of Maryland and all interested parties filed a unanimous settlement in the case,
recommending an annual revenue increase of $1.2 million. On March 27, 2009, the settlement was
approved as filed and new rates were effective March 31, 2009.
On January 28, 2010, Columbia of Maryland filed a base rate case with the Maryland PSC, seeking a
revenue increase of $2.2 million annually in order for Columbia of Maryland to earn the rate of
return authorized by the PSC in its 2008 rate case. Columbia of Maryland anticipates a final order
will be received and new rates will go into effect in the second quarter of 2010.
On April 16, 2009, Bay State filed a base rate case with the Massachusetts DPU, requesting an
annual increase of $34.2 million. In its initial filing, Bay State sought revenue decoupling, as
well as a mechanism for the recovery of costs associated with the replacement of its
infrastructure. On October 30, 2009, the Massachusetts DPU issued a decision granting the company
a $19.1 million base rate increase and approving the companys proposed revenue decoupling
mechanism and infrastructure replacement program. New rates went into effect November 1,
2009.
On May 1, 2009, Columbia of Kentucky filed a base rate case with the Kentucky PSC, requesting an
annual increase of $11.6 million. In its initial filing, Columbia of Kentucky sought enhancements
to rate design, as well as an expedited mechanism for the recovery of costs associated with the
replacement of its infrastructure. A settlement agreement with all parties was presented in a
hearing before the Kentucky PSC on September 18, 2009. The settlement agreement provided for a
base rate increase of approximately $6 million, the authorization of an increase to the monthly
customer charge, the implementation of an Accelerated Main Replacement Program rider and the
introduction of a residential energy efficiency program. On October 26, 2009, the Kentucky PSC
approved the settlement agreement as filed, with new rates taking effect on October 27, 2009.
On June 8, 2009, Columbia of Virginia filed an Application with the VSCC for approval of a CARE
Plan for a three-year period beginning January 1, 2010. The CARE Plan included incentives for
residential and small general service customers to actively pursue conservation and energy
efficiency measures, a surcharge designed to recover the costs of such measures on a real-time
basis, and a performance-based incentive for the delivery of conservation and energy efficiency
benefits. The CARE Plan also included a rate decoupling mechanism designed to mitigate the impact
of declining customer usage. On October 28, 2009, Columbia of Virginia and other parties to the
proceeding presented a unanimous settlement to the Hearing Examiner, which provided for approval of
the CARE Plan Application with modifications. The settlement was approved by the VSCC on December
4, 2009, with mechanisms becoming effective January 1, 2010.
On May 3, 2010, Columbia of Virginia filed a rate case for $13.0 million with the VSCC seeking to
increase customer rates to reflect current costs upon the expiration of its Performance Based
Regulation Plan that is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2010.
Cost Recovery and Trackers. A significant portion of the distribution companies revenue is
related to the recovery of gas costs, the review and recovery of which occurs via standard
regulatory proceedings. All states require periodic review of actual gas procurement activity to
determine prudence and to permit the recovery of prudently incurred costs related to the supply of
gas for customers. NiSource distribution companies have historically been found prudent in the
procurement of gas supplies to serve customers.
63
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Gas Distribution Operations (continued)
Certain operating costs of the NiSource distribution companies are significant, recurring in
nature, and generally outside the control of the distribution companies. Some states allow the
recovery of such costs via cost tracking mechanisms. Such tracking mechanisms allow for
abbreviated regulatory proceedings in order for the distribution companies to implement charges and
recover appropriate costs. Tracking mechanisms allow for more timely recovery of such costs as
compared with more traditional cost recovery mechanisms. Examples of such mechanisms include GCR
adjustment mechanisms, tax riders, and bad debt recovery mechanisms.
Comparability of Gas Distribution Operations line item operating results is impacted by these
regulatory trackers that allow for the recovery in rates of certain costs such as bad debt
expenses. Increases in the expenses that are the subject of trackers result in a corresponding
increase in net revenues and therefore have essentially no impact on total operating income
results.
Certain of the NiSource distribution companies have completed rate proceedings involving
infrastructure replacement or are embarking upon regulatory initiatives to replace significant
portions of their operating systems that are nearing the end of their useful lives. Each LDCs
approach to cost recovery may be unique, given the different laws, regulations and precedent that
exist in each jurisdiction. On February 27, 2009, Columbia of Ohio filed an application to adjust
its Rider IRP to recover costs for risers and accelerated main replacements. On June 24, 2009, the
PUCO approved a stipulation allowing Columbia of Ohio to implement the new rider rate on July 1,
2009, resulting in an annual revenue increase of $13.8 million. On February 26, 2010, Columbia of
Ohio filed an application to adjust its Rider IRP to recover costs for risers, accelerated main
replacements and automated meter reading devices. A stipulation resolving all issues was filed on
April 14, 2010. On October 26, 2009, the Kentucky PSC approved a mechanism for recovering the
costs of Columbia of Kentuckys Accelerated Main Replacement Program. In the same Order the
Kentucky PSC also approved a mechanism for the recovery of Columbia of Kentuckys uncollectible
expenses associated with the cost of gas. Columbia of Kentucky filed an application to increase
its AMRP Rider on March 31, 2010. On October 30, 2009, the Massachusetts DPU approved a mechanism
for the recovery of costs associated with the replacement of Bay States infrastructure. Bay State
filed an application to increase its Targeted Infrastructure Replacement Factor Rider on April 30,
2010.
On April 30, 2009, Columbia of Ohio filed an application with the PUCO to defer pension and other
postretirement benefits expenses above those currently subject to collection in rates, effective
January 1, 2009. On July 8, 2009, the PUCO issued an Order approving Columbia of Ohios
application, although the deferred balances will not accrue carrying charges and Columbia of Ohio
may not seek recovery of pension and other postretirement benefits deferrals in a base rate
proceeding for a period of five years from the date of the Order. Approximately $1.8 million has
been deferred in 2010 and $13.0 million was deferred for the year 2009.
Customer Usage. The NiSource distribution companies have experienced declining usage by customers,
due in large part to the sensitivity of sales to volatility in commodity prices, as well as
general economic conditions. A significant portion of the LDCs operating costs are fixed in
nature. Historically, rate design at the distribution level has been structured such that a
large portion of cost recovery is based upon throughput, rather than in a fixed charge.
During times of unusually high gas prices, throughput and net revenue have been adversely
affected as customers may reduce their usage as a result of higher gas cost or other economic
conditions. Columbia of Ohio recently restructured its rate design through a base rate
proceeding and has adopted a de-coupled rate design which more closely links the recovery of
fixed costs with fixed charges. In regulatory proceedings in 2009, Bay State and Columbia of
Virginia received approval of decoupling mechanisms which adjust revenues to an approved
benchmark level through a volumetric adjustment factor. Each of the states in which the
NiSource LDCs operate have different requirements regarding the procedure for establishing
such changes and NiSource is seeking similar changes through regulatory proceedings for its
other gas distribution utilities.
Environmental Matters
Various environmental matters occasionally impact the Gas Distribution Operations segment. As of
March 31, 2010, a reserve has been recorded to cover probable environmental response actions.
Refer to Note 19-C, Environmental Matters, in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements (unaudited) for additional information regarding environmental matters for the Gas
Distribution Operations segment.
64
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Gas Distribution Operations (continued)
Restructuring
In September 2009, NiSource announced the restructuring of Northern Indiana which aims to redefine
business and operations strategies and achieve cost reductions. During 2009, NiSource recorded a
pre-tax restructuring charge related to this initiative, net of adjustments, of $5.4 million to
Operation and maintenance expense on the Statement of Consolidated Income, which primarily
includes costs related to severance and other employee related costs for approximately 43 employees
and outside services costs. Of the $5.4 million restructuring charge, net of adjustments,
approximately $1.7 million was recorded to Gas Distribution Operations. As of March 31, 2010, the
restructuring liability for Northern Indiana was $1.0 million of which $0.3 million related to Gas
Distribution Operations. Northern Indiana expects this initiative to be completed this year.
Refer to Note 4, Restructuring Activities, in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements for additional information regarding restructuring initiatives.
Weather
In general, NiSource calculates the weather related revenue variance based on changing customer
demand driven by weather variance from normal heating degree-days. Normal is evaluated using
heating degree days across the NiSource distribution region. While the temperature base for
measuring heating degree-days (i.e. the estimated average daily temperature at which heating load
begins) varies slightly across the region, the NiSource composite measurement is based on 65
degrees. NiSource composite heating degree-days reported do not directly correlate to the weather
related dollar impact on the results of Gas Distribution operations. Heating degree-days
experienced during different times of the year or in different operating locations may have more or
less impact on volume and dollars depending on when and where they occur. When the detailed
results are combined for reporting, there may be weather related dollar impacts on operations when
there is not an apparent or significant change in the aggregated NiSource composite heating
degree-day comparison.
Weather in the Gas Distribution Operations territories for the first quarter of 2010 was
comparable to normal and 2% warmer than the first quarter in 2009.
Throughput
Total volumes sold and transported of 319.4 MMDth for the first quarter of 2010 decreased by 4.3
MMDth from the same period last year. This decrease in volume was primarily due to warmer weather
and lower residential and commercial usage, partially offset by an increase in industrial usage as
the economy started to improve.
Net Revenues
Net revenues for the first quarter of 2010 were $609.2 million, a decrease of $31.3 million from
the same period in 2009, due primarily to a $20.8 million impact for Columbia of Ohios change from
a volumetrically based rate design to one based on fixed monthly charges for certain customer
classes. The revenue variance experienced in the first quarter will be offset in future periods
throughout the year. Net revenues also declined from lower regulatory and tax trackers of $10.1
million, $5.7 million from warmer weather, $3.7 million of less customer forfeited discounts and
late payments received and $2.3 million in lower off-system sales. These decreases in net revenues
were partially offset by an increase of $15.1 million for other regulatory and service programs,
including impacts from rate cases at various other utilities.
At Northern Indiana, sales revenues and customer billings are adjusted for amounts related to
under and over-recovered purchased gas costs from prior periods per regulatory order. These
amounts are primarily reflected in the Other gross revenues statistic provided at the beginning
of this segment discussion. The adjustment to Other gross revenues for the three months ended
March 31, 2010 was a revenue increase of $120.8 million, compared to a decrease of $182.4 million
for the three months ended March 31, 2009, primarily due to the significant decline in gas prices
experienced over the past twelve months.
65
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Gas Distribution Operations (continued)
Operating Income
For the first quarter of 2010, Gas Distribution Operations reported operating income of $235.1
million, a decrease of $8.1 million from the comparable 2009 period. Operating Income decreased as
a result of lower net revenues described above, partially offset by lower operating expenses.
Operating expenses, excluding trackers, were $13.1 million lower than the comparable period,
reflecting $4.9 million in lower gross receipts taxes, $4.8 million in lower employee and
administrative costs, and lower environmental related expenses. The lower employee and
administrative costs were primarily due to decreases in pension and other postretirement expenses,
including the deferral of pension and other postretirement costs for Columbia of Ohio.
66
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Gas Transmission and Storage Operations
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions) |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
Operating Revenues |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Transportation revenues |
|
$ |
197.2 |
|
|
$ |
194.5 |
|
Storage revenues |
|
|
49.4 |
|
|
|
45.2 |
|
Other revenues |
|
|
10.0 |
|
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
Total Operating Revenues |
|
|
256.6 |
|
|
|
242.3 |
|
|
Operating Expenses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operation and maintenance |
|
|
91.8 |
|
|
|
112.5 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
31.5 |
|
|
|
29.4 |
|
Gain on sale of assets |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
(2.0 |
) |
Other taxes |
|
|
14.9 |
|
|
|
15.9 |
|
|
Total Operating Expenses |
|
|
138.1 |
|
|
|
155.8 |
|
|
Equity Earnings in Unconsolidated Affiliates |
|
|
7.4 |
|
|
|
6.4 |
|
|
Operating Income |
|
$ |
125.9 |
|
|
$ |
92.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Throughput (MMDth) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Columbia Transmission |
|
|
387.5 |
|
|
|
408.4 |
|
Columbia Gulf |
|
|
202.9 |
|
|
|
269.1 |
|
Crossroads Gas Pipeline |
|
|
8.1 |
|
|
|
8.6 |
|
Intrasegment eliminations |
|
|
(139.0 |
) |
|
|
(172.2 |
) |
|
Total |
|
|
459.5 |
|
|
|
513.9 |
|
|
NiSources Gas Transmission and Storage Operations segment consists of the operations of Columbia
Transmission, Columbia Gulf, Crossroads Pipeline, and Central Kentucky Transmission. In total,
NiSource owns a pipeline network of approximately 16 thousand miles extending from the Gulf of
Mexico to New York and the eastern seaboard. The pipeline network serves customers in 16
northeastern, mid-Atlantic, midwestern and southern states, as well as the District of Columbia.
In addition, the Gas Transmission and Storage Operations segment operates one of the nations
largest underground natural gas storage systems.
Growth Projects in Progress in 2010
Cobb Compressor Station Project. This project continues the Gas Transmission and Storage
Operations segment strategy to meet producers near-term, incremental transportation demand in the
Appalachian Basin. Shippers have also executed precedent agreements for a total of approximately
25,500 Dth per day of long-term firm transportation service associated with a facility expansion at
Cobb Compressor Station in Kanawha County, West Virginia. The Cobb Expansion is expected to be in
service in the second quarter 2010.
Majorsville, PA Project. The Gas Transmission and Storage Operations segment is in the process of
executing three separate projects totaling approximately $80 million in the Majorsville, PA
vicinity to aggregate Marcellus Shale gas production for downstream transmission. Precedent
Agreements were executed by anchor shippers in the fourth quarter of 2009. On January 20, 2010,
Columbia Transmission filed with the FERC an application to transfer certain pipeline facilities to
a newly formed affiliate, NiSource Midstream, LLC, that, once approved, will be part of the
facilities providing non-FERC jurisdiction gathering services to producers in the Majorsville, PA
vicinity. The Majorsville, PA project is expected to begin service during the third quarter 2010.
Growth Projects Placed into Service in 2009
Line 1570 Project. In October 2008, Columbia Transmission entered into a Precedent Agreement to
gather and transport phased-in volumes of up to 150,000 Dth per day of gas in the Waynesburg, PA
area along Line 1570. The first two phases of this project were available for service in October
2008 and March 2009. Facilities were substantially completed in fourth quarter of 2009, allowing
for incremental volumes to be delivered. Additional volumes are expected to be phased in during
2010.
67
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Gas Transmission and Storage Operations (continued)
Columbia Penn Project. In September 2008, Columbia Transmission announced its intention to develop
additional natural gas transmission, gathering and processing services along and around its
existing pipeline corridor between Waynesburg, PA and Renovo, PA, referred to as the Columbia
Penn corridor. This two-phase development will provide access to pipeline capacity in
conjunction with production increases in the Marcellus Shale formation which underlies Columbia
Transmissions transmission and storage network in the region. Phase I was placed into service in
February 2009 and Phase II was placed into service in November 2009.
Eastern Market Expansion Project. On January 14, 2008, the FERC issued an order which granted a
certificate to construct the project. The project allows Columbia Transmission to expand its
facilities to provide additional storage and transportation services and to replace certain
existing facilities. The Eastern Market Expansion added 97,000 Dth per day of storage and
transportation deliverability and is fully subscribed on a 15-year contracted firm basis.
Construction of the facilities is complete and was placed in service April 1, 2009.
Ohio Storage Project. On June 24, 2008, Columbia Transmission filed an application before the FERC
for approval to expand two of its Ohio storage fields for additional capacity of nearly 7 Bcf and
103,400 Dth per day of deliverability. Approval was granted in March 2009 and construction of the
facilities began in April 2009. Partial service related to this expansion was available beginning
May 2009 and the expansion was placed in full service during the fourth quarter of 2009. The
expansion capacity is now fully subscribed on a firm basis, with the FERC authorized market-based
rates.
Appalachian Expansion Project. On August 22, 2008, the FERC issued an order to Columbia
Transmission, which granted a certificate to construct the project. The project included building
a new 9,470 hp compressor station in West Virginia. The Appalachian Expansion Project added
100,000 Dth per day of transportation capacity and is fully subscribed on a 15-year contracted firm
basis. Construction is complete and the project was placed in service on July 1, 2009.
Easton Compressor Station Project. On March 30, 2009, Columbia Transmission announced a binding
open season for capacity into premium East Coast markets resulting from modifications made to the
companys Easton Compressor Station. The modifications increase delivery capacity from the Wagoner
interconnection point between the Columbia Transmission and Millennium pipeline systems. Through
the open season, which closed on April 3, 2009, Columbia Transmission received 30,000 Dth per day
of binding bids. Construction began and was completed and service commenced in the fourth quarter
of 2009.
Equity Investments
Millennium Pipeline Project. The Millennium partnership is currently owned by Columbia Transmission
(47.5%), DTE Millennium Company (26.25%), and National Grid Millennium LLC (26.25%) with Columbia
Transmission acting as operator. The Millennium pipeline was substantially completed in the fourth
quarter of 2008 and the pipeline commenced service on December 22, 2008, with the capability to
transport up to 525,400 Dth per day of natural gas to markets along its route, as well as to the
New York City market through its pipeline interconnections. Construction restoration was completed
in the third quarter of 2009.
On August 29, 2007, Millennium entered into a bank credit agreement to finance the construction of
the Millennium pipeline project. As a condition precedent to the credit agreement, NiSource issued
a guarantee securing payment for its indirect ownership interest percentage of amounts borrowed
under the financing agreement up until such time as the amounts payable under the agreement are
paid in full. The permanent financing for Millennium is expected to be completed during 2010. As
of March 31, 2010, Millennium owed $798.9 million under the interim bank credit agreement, which
expires August 29, 2010. Additional information on this guarantee is provided in Note 19-A,
Guarantees and Indemnities, in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
NiSource did not contribute to Millennium or receive any distributions from Millennium for the
three months ended March 31, 2010. Contributions by Columbia Transmission were $10.7 million in
the first quarter 2009.
68
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Gas Transmission and Storage Operations (continued)
Hardy Storage Project. Hardy Storage is a joint venture of subsidiaries of Columbia Transmission
and Piedmont. All three phases of Hardy Storage are in service, receiving customer injections and
withdrawing natural gas from its new underground natural gas storage facility in West Virginia.
Hardy Storage has a working storage capacity of 12 Bcf and the ability to deliver 176,000 Dth of
natural gas per day.
During the first quarter 2010, Hardy Storage converted its outstanding borrowings of $123.4 million
under its temporary financing agreement to a secured permanent financing. As a result, Columbia
Transmission was released from its underlying guarantee. Additional information on this guarantee
is provided in Note 19-A, Guarantees and Indemnities, in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements.
Sales and Percentage of Physical Capacity Sold
Columbia Transmission and Columbia Gulf compete for transportation customers based on the type of
service a customer needs, operating flexibility, available capacity and price. Columbia Gulf and
Columbia Transmission provide a significant portion of total transportation services under firm
contracts and derive a smaller portion of revenues through interruptible contracts, with management
seeking to maximize the portion of physical capacity sold under firm contracts.
Firm service contracts require pipeline capacity to be reserved for a given customer between
certain receipt and delivery points. Firm customers generally pay a capacity reservation fee
based on the amount of capacity being reserved regardless of whether the capacity is used, plus an
incremental usage fee when the capacity is used. Annual capacity reservation revenues derived from
firm service contracts generally remain constant over the life of the contract because the revenues
are based upon capacity reserved and not whether the capacity is actually used. The high
percentage of revenue derived from capacity reservation fees mitigates the risk of revenue
fluctuations within the Gas Transmission and Storage Operations segment due to changes in near-term
supply and demand conditions. For the three months ended March 31, 2010, approximately 91.9% of
the transportation revenues were derived from capacity reservation fees paid under firm contracts
and 3.6% of the transportation revenues were derived from usage fees under firm contracts. This is
compared to approximately 90.1% of the transportation revenues derived from capacity reservation
fees paid under firm contracts and 5.2% of transportation revenues derived from usage fees under
firm contracts for the three months ended March 31, 2009.
Interruptible transportation service includes park and loan service and is typically short term in
nature and is generally used by customers that either do not need firm service or have been unable
to contract for firm service. These customers pay a usage fee only for the volume of gas actually
transported. The ability to provide this service is limited to available capacity not otherwise
used by firm customers, and customers receiving services under interruptible contracts are not
assured capacity in the pipeline facilities. Gas Transmission and Storage Operations provides
interruptible service at competitive prices in order to capture short term market opportunities as
they occur and interruptible service is viewed by management as an important strategy to optimize
revenues from the gas transmission assets. For the three months ended March 31, 2010 and 2009,
approximately 4.5% and 4.6%, respectively, of the transportation revenues were derived from
interruptible contracts.
Regulatory Matters
Incentive Fixed Fuel Mechanism. On November 9, 2009, Columbia Gulf filed an application before the
FERC for approval to replace Columbia Gulfs existing Transportation Retainage Adjustment tracker
mechanism that Columbia Gulf currently relies upon to recover fuel with a proposed Incentive Fixed
Fuel mechanism. The Incentive Fixed Fuel Mechanism would establish a fixed fuel rate and includes
incentives to improve pipeline infrastructure and reduce pipeline fuel requirements. The filing is
pending before the FERC and is awaiting a decision.
Environmental Matters
Various environmental matters occasionally impact the Gas Transmission and Storage Operations
segment. As of March 31, 2010, a reserve has been recorded to cover probable environmental
response actions. Refer to Note 19-C, Environmental Matters, in the Notes to Condensed
Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) for additional information regarding environmental
matters for the Gas Transmission and Storage Operations segment.
69
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Gas Transmission and Storage Operations (continued)
Restructuring
In February 2009, NiSource announced the restructuring of the Gas Transmission and Storage
Operations segment. NiSource has eliminated positions across the 16 state operating territory of
Gas Transmission and Storage. The reductions have occurred through voluntary programs and
involuntary separations. In addition to employee reductions, the Gas Transmission and Storage
Operations segment took steps to achieve additional cost savings by efficiently managing its
various business locations, reducing its fleet operations, creating alliances with third party
service providers, and implementing other changes in line with its strategic plan for growth and
maximizing value of existing assets. During the first quarter of 2009, NiSource recorded a pre-tax
restructuring charge related to this initiative, net of adjustments, of $19.8 million to Operation
and maintenance expense on the Statement of Consolidated Income, which primarily includes costs
related to severance and other employee related costs. As of March 31, 2010, 316 employees had
been terminated from employment and the remaining restructuring liability was $0.6 million. This
program was substantially completed in 2009. The remaining employees impacted by the restructuring
will be severed and will receive benefits in 2010. Refer to Note 4, Restructuring Activities, in
the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding restructuring
initiatives.
Throughput
Columbia Transmissions throughput consists of transportation and storage services for LDCs and
other customers within its market area, which covers portions of Northeastern, mid-Atlantic,
Midwestern, and Southern states and the District of Columbia. Throughput for Columbia Gulf
reflects mainline transportation services delivered to Leach, Kentucky and short-haul
transportation services for gas delivered south of Leach, Kentucky. Crossroads Pipeline serves
customers in Northern Indiana and Ohio. Intra-segment eliminations represent gas delivered to
other pipelines within this segment.
Throughput for the Gas Transmission and Storage Operations segment totaled 459.5 MMDth for the
first quarter of 2010, compared to 513.9 MMDth for the same period in 2009. The decrease of 54.4
MMDth for the three-month period was primarily due to lower demand on the Columbia Transmission
system due to relatively warmer weather reducing deliveries to major customers in the Midwest and
Northeast, and lower deliveries by Columbia Gulf off its south Louisiana onshore lateral system due
to both lower demand from the Columbia Transmission system markets and local area interconnects.
Net Revenues
Net revenues were $256.6 million for the first quarter of 2010, an increase of $14.3 million from
the same period in 2009, primarily due to a $10.6 million increase in firm capacity reservation
fees from growth projects such as the Eastern Market Expansion and the Ohio Storage Expansion, as
well as new Appalachian production transportation contracts. Net revenues were also favorably
impacted by $8.3 million related to recognition of revenue for a previously deferred gain for
native gas contributed to Hardy Storage Company from Columbia Transmission following Hardy Storage
securing permanent financing. These increases in net revenues were partially offset by lower
commodity margins of $2.6 million.
Operating Income
Operating income was $125.9 million for the first quarter of 2010, an increase of $33.0 million
from the first quarter of 2009. This increase is primarily due to the higher net revenues
described above, lower operating expenses of $17.7 million, net of trackers, and an increase in
equity earnings of $1.0 million related to Millennium. Operating expenses decreased due to the
impact of $19.8 million of restructuring charges that were recorded in the same period last year.
70
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Electric Operations
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions) |
|
2010 |
|
2009 |
|
Net Revenues |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sales revenues |
|
$ |
320.0 |
|
|
$ |
298.4 |
|
Less: Cost of sales (excluding depreciation and amortization) |
|
|
116.6 |
|
|
|
120.0 |
|
|
Net Revenues |
|
|
203.4 |
|
|
|
178.4 |
|
|
Operating Expenses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operation and maintenance |
|
|
91.3 |
|
|
|
94.8 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
52.3 |
|
|
|
50.4 |
|
Other taxes |
|
|
14.7 |
|
|
|
15.9 |
|
|
Total Operating Expenses |
|
|
158.3 |
|
|
|
161.1 |
|
|
Operating Income |
|
$ |
45.1 |
|
|
$ |
17.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenues ($ in millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Residential |
|
|
89.0 |
|
|
|
95.1 |
|
Commercial |
|
|
85.3 |
|
|
|
95.2 |
|
Industrial |
|
|
116.4 |
|
|
|
116.9 |
|
Wholesale |
|
|
5.0 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
Other |
|
|
24.3 |
|
|
|
(11.0 |
) |
|
Total |
|
|
320.0 |
|
|
|
298.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sales (Gigawatt Hours) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Residential |
|
|
847.0 |
|
|
|
842.8 |
|
Commercial |
|
|
935.3 |
|
|
|
968.6 |
|
Industrial |
|
|
2,030.8 |
|
|
|
1,989.0 |
|
Wholesale |
|
|
133.4 |
|
|
|
57.6 |
|
Other |
|
|
41.4 |
|
|
|
35.1 |
|
|
Total |
|
|
3,987.9 |
|
|
|
3,893.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Electric Customers |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Residential |
|
|
400,079 |
|
|
|
399,334 |
|
Commercial |
|
|
53,611 |
|
|
|
53,349 |
|
Industrial |
|
|
2,439 |
|
|
|
2,471 |
|
Wholesale |
|
|
15 |
|
|
|
8 |
|
Other |
|
|
743 |
|
|
|
752 |
|
|
Total |
|
|
456,887 |
|
|
|
455,914 |
|
|
NiSource generates and distributes electricity, through its subsidiary Northern Indiana, to
approximately 457 thousand customers in 20 counties in the northern part of Indiana. The operating
results reflect the temperature-sensitive nature of customer demand with annual sales affected by
temperatures in the northern part of Indiana. As a result, segment operating income is generally
higher in the second and third quarters, reflecting cooling demand during the summer season.
71
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Electric Operations (continued)
Electric Supply
On October 29, 2009, Northern Indiana filed its 2009 Integrated Resource Plan with the IURC. The
plan evaluates demand-side and supply-side resource alternatives to reliably and cost-effectively
meet Northern Indiana customers future energy requirements over the next twenty years. With the
effects of the present economy, existing resources are projected to be sufficient through 2012 to
serve customers needs. Therefore, Northern Indianas two requests for proposals to secure
additional new sources of electric power issued on October 24, 2008 were not acted upon. With
numerous variables contributing to uncertainty in the near-term outlook, Northern Indiana continues
to monitor and assess economic, regulatory and legislative activity, and will update its resource
plan as appropriate.
On July 24, 2008, the IURC issued an order approving Northern Indianas proposed purchase power
agreements with subsidiaries of Iberdrola Renewables for wind-generated power from Iowa and South
Dakota. Under these agreements Northern Indiana purchases up to approximately 100 mw of wind power
annually. Northern Indiana began purchasing wind power in April 2009. Although a state or federal
renewable portfolio standard is not yet established, Northern Indiana expects that its wind power
purchase agreements would qualify as eligible purchases under any such standard.
Regulatory Matters
Significant Rate Developments. On June 27, 2008, Northern Indiana filed a petition for new
electric base rates and charges. Northern Indiana filed its last electric base rate increase in
1986. The filing requested an increase in base rates calculated to produce additional gross margin
of $85.7 million. Several stakeholder groups have intervened in the case, representing customer
groups and various counties and towns within Northern Indianas electric service territory.
Evidentiary hearings concluded on August 6, 2009, and the briefing schedule concluded in January
2010. An Order is expected during the second quarter of 2010.
Northern Indiana received a favorable regulatory order on February 18, 2009 related to its actions
to increase its electric generating capacity and advance its electric rate case. Acting on a
settlement reached among Northern Indiana and its regulatory stakeholders, the IURC ruled that
Northern Indianas Sugar Creek electric generating plant was in service for ratemaking purposes as
of December 1, 2008. The IURC also approved the deferral of depreciation expenses and carrying
costs associated with the $330 million Sugar Creek investment. Northern Indiana purchased Sugar
Creek on May 30, 2008 and effective December 1, 2008, Sugar Creek was accepted as an internal
designated network resource within the MISO.
Northern Indiana anticipates filing another electric base rate case during 2010. Among other
things, the filing is expected to include the effect of increased pension expense, as well as usage
levels based on more recent operating experience.
During 2002, Northern Indiana settled certain regulatory matters related to an electric rate
review. On September 23, 2002, the IURC issued an Order adopting most aspects of the settlement.
The Order approving the settlement provides that certain electric customers of Northern Indiana
will receive bill credits of approximately $55.1 million each year. The credits will continue at
approximately the same annual level and per the same methodology, until new rates take effect based
on an IURC order in the 2008 electric rate case. Credits amounting to $14.2 million and $13.2
million were recognized for electric customers for the first quarters of 2010 and 2009,
respectively.
On December 9, 2009, the IURC issued an order in its generic DSM investigation proceeding
establishing an overall annual energy savings goal of 2% to be achieved by Indiana jurisdictional
electric utilities in 10 years, with interim savings goals established in years one through nine.
Northern Indiana and other jurisdictional electric utilities must file DSM plans on July 1, 2010,
2013, 2016, and 2019, with annual updates in the interim periods. The IURC requires that certain
core programs be established and administered by an independent third party. The IURC did not make
any specific findings with respect to cost recovery issues. On March 16, 2010 Northern Indiana
filed a proposal for a mechanism to recover the costs associated with these energy efficiency
programs, including lost revenue. In the second phase of this proceeding, Northern Indiana will
file for IURC approval of its energy efficiency programs.
72
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Electric Operations (continued)
MISO. As part of Northern Indianas participation in the MISO transmission service, wholesale
energy and ancillary service markets, certain administrative fees and non-fuel costs have been
incurred. IURC orders have been issued authorizing the deferral for consideration in a future rate
case proceeding of certain non-fuel related costs incurred after Northern Indianas rate
moratorium, which expired on July 31, 2006. In its pending base rate case, Northern Indiana
proposes recovery of the cumulative amount of net non-fuel charges that were deferred as of
December 31, 2008, and to recover, through a tracker, charges deferred between December 31, 2008
and the date of effective rates in this case. During the first quarter of 2010, MISO costs of $1.9
million were deferred, while net credits of $0.9 million were deferred in the first quarter of
2009. As of March 31, 2010, Northern Indiana has deferred a total of $28.3 million of MISO costs.
On November 7, 2008, the FERC issued an Order clarifying the RSG First Pass calculation and
requiring the MISO to resettle the RSG market using the correct calculation and to pay refunds, or
assess surcharges, to market participants, as appropriate, to correct a misinterpretation of an
order issued by FERC in April 2006. Northern Indiana believes that the original Order would have
entitled Northern Indiana to a refund, with the amount subject to calculation by MISO. On June 12,
2009, however, FERC issued an Order on rehearing in which it affirmed its prior order clarifying
the method to calculate the RSG First Pass rate, but reversed its ruling requiring the MISO to pay
refunds, and collect surcharges, on equitable grounds. Northern Indiana has asked FERC to
reconsider its decision to deny refunds and that request remains pending. MISOs implementation of
FERCs April 2006 Order on the RSG First Pass calculation resulted in several million dollars of
surcharges to Northern Indiana through market resettlements implemented during the summer of 2007.
As a result, Northern Indiana and Ameren jointly filed a complaint with FERC on August 10, 2007,
contending that the RSG rates in effect were unjust and unreasonable. On November 10, 2008, the
FERC issued an Order granting these complaints and ordering the MISO to calculate refunds and
surcharges, as appropriate, back to the date of the complaint filed by Northern Indiana and Ameren,
as authorized by Section 206 of the Federal Power Act. On May 6, 2009, however, the FERC issued an
Order that upheld its decision granting the complaint, but largely reversed its directive requiring
MISO to pay refunds, and collect surcharges, on equitable grounds. The FERC affirmed the refund
and surcharge requirement only for those transactions that occurred after the date of the November
10, 2008 Order, instead of August 10, 2007, as it had previously required. Northern Indiana and
Ameren have requested rehearing of the FERCs May 6, 2009 Order, and that request remains pending.
MISO and PJM Interconnection undertook a joint effort in April and May 2009 to identify a source of
unaccounted for flows on several coordinated flowgates. The analysis found that certain PJM
Interconnection generating units that were once associated with unit-specific capacity sales were
erroneously excluded from PJM Interconnections market flows, which significantly affected the
congestion price on reciprocally coordinated flowgates on Northern Indiana systems. Higher PJM
Interconnection market flows on congested flowgates would have resulted in higher payments to MISO
by PJM Interconnection during market to market coordination since April 1, 2005. The model was
fixed on June 18, 2009 and MISO and PJM Interconnection are currently in settlement discussions
with the FERC that began on October 19, 2009 to determine the financial impact of any
resettlements. Initial amounts calculated by PJM Interconnection approximated $78 million, while
MISO has performed a preliminary estimate of $125 to $150 million. The impact to Northern Indiana
cannot be reasonably estimated until a settlement is reached between MISO and PJM Interconnection,
and MISO receives approval from the FERC on an allocation methodology to its market participants.
Any adjustment will be neutral or favorable to operations.
Cost Recovery and Trackers. A significant portion of Northern Indianas revenue is related to the
recovery of fuel costs to generate power and the fuel costs related to purchased power. These
costs are recovered through a FAC, a standard, quarterly, summary regulatory proceeding in
Indiana. Various intervenors, including the OUCC, had taken issue with the allocation of costs
included in Northern Indianas FAC-80, FAC-81 and FAC-82, which cover the reconciliation of April
December 2008. The IURC granted a sub-docket to consider such issues in those filings. The
intervening parties and Northern Indiana discussed procedures to eliminate these concerns and to
resolve them for the historical periods. On November 4, 2009 the IURC approved a settlement
agreement which calls for a credit of $8.2 million to be provided to FAC customers beginning in
November 2009, less any amount for attorneys fees and expenses.
73
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Electric Operations (continued)
On May 28, 2008, the IURC issued an order approving the purchase of Sugar Creek, and on May 30,
2008 Northern Indiana purchased the 535 mw CCGT for $330 million in order to help meet capacity
needs. On February 18, 2009, the IURC issued an order approving a settlement agreement filed in
this proceeding allowing Northern Indiana to begin deferring carrying costs and depreciation,
pending inclusion in rates, on Sugar Creek effective on December 1, 2008, when Sugar Creek was
dispatched into MISO, at the agreed to carrying cost rate of 6.5%. The annual deferral for Sugar
Creek is reduced by the annual depreciation on the Mitchell plant of $4.5 million, pursuant to the
FAC-71 settlement. The terms of recovery of the deferral and inclusion of Sugar Creek in rates will
be resolved in Northern Indianas current rate proceeding.
As part of a settlement agreement which resolved issues surrounding purchased power costs, Northern
Indiana implemented a new benchmarking standard, that became effective in October 2007, which
defines the price above which purchased power costs must be absorbed by Northern Indiana and are
not permitted to be passed on to ratepayers. The benchmark is based upon the costs of power
generated by a hypothetical natural gas fired unit using gas purchased and delivered to Northern
Indiana and a set sharing mechanism. The agreement also contemplated Northern Indiana adding
generating capacity to its existing portfolio by providing for the benchmark to be adjusted as new
capacity is added. The dispatch of Sugar Creek into MISO on December 1, 2008 triggered a change in
the benchmark, whereby the first 500 mw tier of the benchmark provision was eliminated. During the
first quarters of 2010 and 2009, the amount of purchased power costs exceeding the benchmark
amounted to $0.1 million and $0.8 million, respectively, which was recognized as a net reduction of
revenues.
Northern Indiana has approval from the IURC to recover certain environmental related costs through
an ECT. Under the ECT, Northern Indiana is permitted to recover (1) AFUDC and a return on the
capital investment expended by Northern Indiana to implement IDEMs NOx SIP and CAIR and CAMR
compliance plan projects through an ECRM and (2) related operation and maintenance and depreciation
expenses once the environmental facilities become operational through an EERM. Northern Indiana
anticipates a total capital investment of approximately $368 million. This revised cost estimate
is subject to and pending approval by the IURC. On April 30, 2010, the IURC approved ECR-15 for
recovery of items described above based upon a capital expenditure level (net of accumulated
depreciation) of $287.4 million.
Environmental Matters
Various environmental matters occasionally impact the Electric Operations segment. As of March 31,
2010, a reserve has been recorded to cover probable environmental response actions. Refer to Note
19-C, Environmental Matters, in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited) for additional information regarding environmental matters for the Electric Operations
segment.
Restructuring
In September 2009, NiSource announced the restructuring of Northern Indiana which aims to redefine
business and operations strategies and achieve cost reductions. During 2009, NiSource recorded a
pre-tax restructuring charge related to this initiative, net of adjustments, of $5.4 million to
Operation and maintenance expense on the Statement of Consolidated Income, which primarily
includes costs related to severance and other employee related costs for approximately 43 employees
and outside services costs. Of the $5.4 million restructuring charge, net of adjustments,
approximately $3.7 million was recorded to Electric Operations. As of March 31, 2010, the
restructuring liability for Northern Indiana was $1.0 million of which $0.7 million related to
Electric Operations. Northern Indiana expects this initiative to be completed this year. Refer to
Note 4, Restructuring Activities, in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for
additional information regarding restructuring initiatives.
74
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
Electric Operations (continued)
Sales
Electric Operations sales quantities for the first quarter of 2010 were 3,987.9 gwh, an increase of
94.8 gwh compared to the first quarter of 2009. The increase occurred primarily from higher
industrial usage as a result of improvement in overall economic conditions. Within the industrial
customer base, the major steel companies production bottomed near 50% in May 2009. Since then,
NiSource has seen sequential growth in its power sales to these customers.
Net Revenues
Net revenues were $203.4 million for the first quarter of 2010, an increase of $25.0 million from
the same period in 2009, primarily due to increased off system sales of $10.5 million, including an
adjustment of $9.0 million to reduce off system sales revenues in 2009 resulting from a FAC
settlement, increased industrial and residential margins of $11.9 million, and $4.4 million of
environmental trackers that are partly offset in operating expense.
At Northern Indiana, sales revenues and customer billings are adjusted for amounts related to under
and over-recovered purchased fuel costs from prior periods per regulatory order. These amounts are
primarily reflected in the Other gross revenues statistic provided at the beginning of this
segment discussion. The adjustment to Other gross revenues for the three months ended March 31,
2010 was a revenue increase of $11.3 million, compared to a reduction of $12.9 million for the
three months ended March 31, 2009.
Operating Income
Operating income for the first quarter of 2010 was $45.1 million, an increase of $27.8 million from
the same period in 2009, due to the increase in net revenues described above and lower operating
expenses. Operating expenses decreased $4.3 million, net of trackers, due to lower employee and
administrative costs and electric generation costs. The lower employee and administrative costs
were primarily due to decreases in pension and other postretirement expenses. The decrease in
operating expenses was partially offset by an increase in environmental expenses primarily related
to the impact of an insurance settlement recorded during the first quarter of 2009, and higher
depreciation from the capital expenditure program.
75
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
NiSource Inc.
For a discussion regarding quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk see
Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations - Market
Risk Disclosures.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
NiSources chief executive officer and its principal financial officer, after evaluating the
effectiveness of NiSources disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules
13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)), have concluded based on the evaluation required by paragraph (b) of
Exchange Act Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 that, as of the end of the period covered by this report,
NiSources disclosure controls and procedures are considered effective.
Changes in Internal Controls
There have been no changes in NiSources internal control over financial reporting during the
fiscal period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to
affect, NiSources internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
NiSource Inc.
1. Tawney, et al. v. Columbia Natural Resources, Inc., Roane County, WV Circuit Court
The Plaintiffs, who are West Virginia landowners, filed a lawsuit in early 2003 in the West
Virginia Circuit Court for Roane County, West Virginia (the Trial Court) against CNR alleging
that CNR underpaid royalties on gas produced on their land by improperly deducting post-production
costs and not paying a fair value for the gas. Plaintiffs also claimed that Defendants
fraudulently concealed the deduction of post-production charges. In December 2004, the Trial Court
granted Plaintiffs motion to add NiSource and Columbia as Defendants. The Trial Court later
certified the case as a class action that includes any person who, after July 31, 1990, received or
is due royalties from CNR (and its predecessors or successors) on lands lying within the boundary
of the state of West Virginia. Although NiSource sold CNR in 2003, NiSource remained obligated to
manage this litigation and was responsible for the majority of any damages awarded to Plaintiffs.
On January 27, 2007, the jury hearing the case returned a verdict against all Defendants in the
amount of $404.3 million inclusive of both compensatory and punitive damages; Defendants
subsequently filed their Petition for Appeal, which was later amended, with the West Virginia
Supreme Court of Appeals (the Appeals Court), which refused the petition on May 22, 2008. On
August 22, 2008, Defendants filed Petitions to the United States Supreme Court for writ of
certiorari. Given the Appeals Courts earlier refusal of the appeal, NiSource adjusted its reserve
in the second quarter of 2008 to reflect the portion of the Trial Court judgment for which NiSource
would be responsible, inclusive of interest. This amount was included in Legal and environmental
reserves, on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2008. On October 24, 2008, the
Trial Court preliminarily approved a Settlement Agreement with a total settlement amount of $380
million. The settlement received final approval by the Trial Court on November 22, 2008.
NiSources share of the settlement liability is up to $338.8 million. NiSource complied with its
obligations under the Settlement Agreement to fund $85.5 million in the qualified settlement fund
by January 13, 2009. Additionally, NiSource provided a letter of credit on January 13, 2009 in the
amount of $254 million and thereby complied with its obligation to secure the unpaid portion of the
settlement, which has since been drawn down as settlement payments have been made. The Trial Court
entered its Order discharging the judgment on January 20, 2009 and is supervising the
administration of the settlement proceeds. As of March 31, 2010, NiSource had contributed a total
of $304.7 million into the qualified settlement fund, $277.3 million of which was contributed prior
to December 31, 2009. As of March 31, 2010, $34.1 million of the maximum settlement liability had
not been paid. NiSource has since contributed an additional $4.9 million. The remaining balance
of the letter of credit is sufficient to cover any remaining payments under the Settlement
Agreement. NiSource will be required to make additional payments, pursuant to the settlement, upon
notice from the Class Administrator.
2. Environmental Protection Agency Notice of Violation
On September 29, 2004, the EPA issued an NOV to Northern Indiana for alleged violations of the CAA
and the Indiana SIP. The NOV alleges that modifications were made to certain boiler units at three
of Northern Indianas generating stations between the years 1985 and 1995 without obtaining
appropriate air permits for the modifications. The ultimate resolution could require additional
capital expenditures and operations and maintenance costs as well as payment of substantial
penalties and development of supplemental environmental projects. Northern Indiana is currently in
discussions with the EPA regarding possible resolutions to this NOV. Although penalties have been
proposed and a reserve has been recorded for the matter, Northern Indiana is unable to predict the
outcome of this matter at this time.
3. Majorsville Operations Center PADEP Notice of Violation
In 1995, Columbia Transmission entered into an AOC with the EPA that requires Columbia Transmission
to characterize and remediate environmental contamination at thousands of locations along Columbia
Transmissions pipeline system. One of the facilities subject to the AOC is the Majorsville
Operations Center, which was remediated under an EPA approved Remedial Action Work Plan in summer
2008. Pursuant to the Remedial Action Work Plan, Columbia Transmission completed a project that
stabilized residual oil contained in soils at the site and in sediments in an adjacent stream.
77
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS (continued)
NiSource Inc.
On April 23, 2009, however, the PADEP issued Columbia Transmission an NOV, alleging that the
remediation was not effective. The NOV asserts violations of the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law
and the Pennsylvania Solid Waste Management Act and contains a settlement demand in the amount of
$1 million. Columbia Transmission is unable to estimate the likelihood or cost of potential
penalties or additional remediation at this time.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
There were no material changes from the risk factors disclosed in NiSources 2009 10-K filed on
February 26, 2010.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
None
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None
ITEM
4. (REMOVED AND RESERVED)
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
None.
78
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
NiSource Inc.
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(10.1 |
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Form of 2010 Contingent Stock Agreement under the NiSource Inc. 1994 Long-Term Incentive
Plan |
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(10.2 |
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Separation Agreement between NiSource Inc. and Eileen ONeill Odum dated February 16,
2010. |
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NiSource Inc. Executive Severance Policy, as amended and restated, effective January 1,
2010. |
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Change in Control and Termination Agreement between NiSource Inc. and Jon D. Veurink
dated as of February 1, 2010. |
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(31.1 |
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Certification of Robert C. Skaggs, Jr., Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Section 302
of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
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(31.2 |
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Certification of Stephen P. Smith, Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to Section 302 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
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(32.1 |
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Certification of Robert C. Skaggs, Jr., Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Section 906
of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (furnished herewith). |
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(32.2 |
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Certification of Stephen P. Smith, Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to Section 906 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (furnished herewith). |
Pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii) of Regulation S-K, NiSource hereby agrees to furnish the SEC, upon
request, any instrument defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of NiSource not filed as
an exhibit herein. No such instrument authorizes long-term debt securities in excess of 10% of the
total assets of NiSource and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.
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SIGNATURE
NiSource Inc.
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.
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NiSource Inc.
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(Registrant)
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Date: May 4, 2010 |
By: |
/s/ Jon D. Veurink
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Jon D. Veurink |
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Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer
(Principal Accounting Officer
and Duly Authorized Officer) |
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80