UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
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(Mark One)
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x
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QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended
June 30, 2009
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or
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¨
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TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from
to
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Commission file number
1-8222
Central Vermont Public Service Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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Vermont
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
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03-0111290
(IRS Employer
Identification No.)
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77 Grove Street, Rutland, Vermont
(Address of principal executive offices)
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05701
(Zip Code)
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Registrant's telephone number, including area code
(800) 649-2877
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N/A
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
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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
x
No
¨
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
¨
No
¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer", "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
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Large accelerated filer
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¨
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Accelerated filer
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x
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Non-accelerated filer
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¨
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
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Smaller reporting company
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¨
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Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes
¨
No
x
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date. As of July 31, 2009 there were outstanding 11,672,178 shares of Common Stock, $6 Par Value.
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CENTRAL VERMONT PUBLIC SERVICE CORPORATION
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Form 10-Q for Period Ended June 30, 2009
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Table of Contents
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PART I. Financial Information:
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Item 1.
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Financial Statements
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2
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3
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4
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6
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7
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8
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Item 2.
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26
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Item 3.
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37
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Item 4.
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37
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PART II. Other Information:
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Item 1.
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38
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Item 1A.
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38
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Item 6.
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38
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SIGNATURES
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39
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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
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(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
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(unaudited)
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Three months ended June 30
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Six months ended June 30
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2009
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2008
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2009
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2008
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Operating Revenues
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$
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82,627
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$
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84,487
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$
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173,354
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$
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175,711
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Operating Expenses
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Purchased Power - affiliates
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16,034
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16,270
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32,096
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32,738
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Purchased Power - other
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22,571
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25,012
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48,119
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51,450
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Production
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2,766
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2,836
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5,986
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6,178
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Transmission - affiliates
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2,989
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4,054
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5,470
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7,443
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Transmission - other
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5,065
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3,847
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10,760
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8,321
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Other operation
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14,089
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13,294
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29,622
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28,039
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Maintenance
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5,549
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6,473
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10,041
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12,642
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Depreciation
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4,163
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3,899
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8,192
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7,768
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Taxes other than income
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3,878
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3,713
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8,046
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7,752
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Income tax expense
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760
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846
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3,636
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2,705
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Total Operating Expenses
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77,864
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80,244
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161,968
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165,036
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Utility Operating Income
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4,763
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4,243
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11,386
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10,675
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Other Income
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Equity in earnings of affiliates
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4,431
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4,014
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8,876
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8,199
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Allowance for equity funds during construction
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(19
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)
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47
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131
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64
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Other income
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748
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869
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1,481
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1,636
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Other deductions
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(108
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)
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(857
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)
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(878
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(2,165
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)
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Income tax expense
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(1,389
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)
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(1,458
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)
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(2,822
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(2,883
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)
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Total Other Income
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3,663
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2,615
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6,788
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4,851
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Interest Expense
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Interest on long-term debt
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2,782
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2,176
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5,593
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4,113
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Other interest
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178
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704
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297
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1,535
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Allowance for borrowed funds during construction
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(31
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(23
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(85
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(31
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Total Interest Expense
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2,929
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2,857
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5,805
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5,617
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Net Income
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5,497
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4,001
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12,369
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9,909
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Dividends declared on preferred stock
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92
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92
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184
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184
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Earnings available for common stock
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$
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5,405
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$
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3,909
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$
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12,185
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$
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9,725
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Per Common Share Data:
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Basic earnings per share
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$
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0.46
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$
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0.38
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$
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1.05
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$
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0.94
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Diluted earnings per share
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$
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0.46
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$
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0.38
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$
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1.04
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$
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0.94
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Average shares of common stock outstanding - basic
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11,660,547
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10,337,893
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11,631,611
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10,306,699
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Average shares of common stock outstanding - diluted
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11,684,149
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10,397,675
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11,669,823
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10,387,289
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Dividends declared per share of common stock
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$
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0.23
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$
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0.23
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$
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0.69
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$
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0.69
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
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CENTRAL VERMONT PUBLIC SERVICE CORPORATION
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(dollars in thousands)
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(unaudited)
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Three months ended June 30
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Six months ended June 30
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2009
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2008
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2009
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2008
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Net Income
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$
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5,497
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$
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4,001
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$
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12,369
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$
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9,909
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Other comprehensive income, net of tax
:
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Defined benefit pension and postretirement medical plans:
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Portion reclassified through amortizations, included in benefit costs and recognized in net income:
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Actuarial losses, net of income taxes of $0, $1, $1 and $1
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1
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0
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1
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1
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Prior service cost, net of income taxes of $2, $2, $5 and $5
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3
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4
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7
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6
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4
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4
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8
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|
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7
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Portion reclassified due to adoption of SFAS 158 measurement provision, included in retained earnings:
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Prior service cost, net of income taxes of $0, $0, $0 and $2
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0
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0
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0
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4
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0
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0
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0
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4
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Comprehensive income adjustments
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4
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4
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8
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11
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|
|
|
|
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|
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Total comprehensive income
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$
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5,501
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$
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4,005
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$
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12,377
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$
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9,920
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
CENTRAL VERMONT PUBLIC SERVICE CORPORATION
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(dollars in thousands, except share data)
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(unaudited)
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June 30, 2009
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December 31, 2008
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ASSETS
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Utility plant
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Utility plant, at original cost
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$
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576,321
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$
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554,506
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Less accumulated depreciation
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251,103
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244,219
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Utility plant, at original cost, net of accumulated depreciation
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325,218
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310,287
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Property under capital leases, net
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5,664
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6,133
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Construction work-in-progress
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14,634
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24,632
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Nuclear fuel, net
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1,486
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1,475
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Total utility plant, net
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347,002
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342,527
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Investments and other assets
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Investments in affiliates
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105,849
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102,232
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Non-utility property, less accumulated depreciation ($3,652 in 2009 and
$3,657 in 2008)
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|
1,855
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1,786
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Millstone decommissioning trust fund
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4,327
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|
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4,203
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Other
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5,743
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5,469
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Total investments and other assets
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117,774
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113,690
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Current assets
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Cash and cash equivalents
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8,958
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6,722
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Restricted cash
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4,641
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3,636
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Special deposits
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|
7
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1,006
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Accounts receivable, less allowance for uncollectible accounts ($2,717 in
2009 and $2,184 in 2008)
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24,667
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23,176
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Accounts receivable - affiliates, less allowance for uncollectible accounts ($0
in 2009 and 2008)
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|
45
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|
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|
76
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Unbilled revenues
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|
15,470
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|
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18,546
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Materials and supplies, at average cost
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6,358
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|
|
6,299
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Prepayments
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|
9,812
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|
|
|
17,367
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Power-related derivatives
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|
8,439
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|
|
|
12,758
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Other current assets
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|
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4,217
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|
|
|
1,269
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|
Total current assets
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|
|
82,614
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|
|
|
90,855
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|
|
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|
|
|
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Deferred charges and other assets
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Regulatory assets
|
|
|
59,496
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|
|
|
63,474
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Other deferred charges - regulatory
|
|
|
6,056
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|
|
|
9,980
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Other deferred charges and other assets
|
|
|
4,224
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|
|
|
5,467
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|
Power-related derivatives
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
133
|
|
Total deferred charges and other assets
|
|
|
69,776
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|
|
|
79,054
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL ASSETS
|
|
$
|
617,166
|
|
|
$
|
626,126
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
CENTRAL VERMONT PUBLIC SERVICE CORPORATION
|
|
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
|
|
(dollars in thousands, except share data)
|
|
(unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
June 30, 2009
|
|
|
December 31, 2008
|
|
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
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|
|
|
|
|
|
Capitalization
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock, $6 par value, 19,000,000 shares authorized, 13,814,370
issued and 11,670,844 outstanding at June 30, 2009 and 13,750,717 issued
and 11,574,825 outstanding at December 31, 2008
|
|
$
|
82,886
|
|
|
$
|
82,504
|
|
Other paid-in capital
|
|
|
71,489
|
|
|
|
71,489
|
|
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
|
|
|
(220
|
)
|
|
|
(228
|
)
|
Treasury stock, at cost, 2,143,526 shares at June 30, 2009 and 2,175,892
shares at December 31, 2008
|
|
|
(48,764
|
)
|
|
|
(49,501
|
)
|
Retained earnings
|
|
|
119,367
|
|
|
|
115,215
|
|
Total common stock equity
|
|
|
224,758
|
|
|
|
219,479
|
|
Preferred and preference stock not subject to mandatory redemption
|
|
|
8,054
|
|
|
|
8,054
|
|
Preferred stock subject to mandatory redemption
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
1,000
|
|
Long-term debt
|
|
|
167,500
|
|
|
|
167,500
|
|
Capital lease obligations
|
|
|
4,697
|
|
|
|
5,173
|
|
Total capitalization
|
|
|
405,009
|
|
|
|
401,206
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current liabilities
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current portion of preferred stock subject to mandatory redemption
|
|
|
1,000
|
|
|
|
1,000
|
|
Current portion of long-term debt
|
|
|
5,450
|
|
|
|
5,450
|
|
Accounts payable
|
|
|
5,497
|
|
|
|
3,549
|
|
Accounts payable - affiliates
|
|
|
10,929
|
|
|
|
11,338
|
|
Notes payable
|
|
|
10,800
|
|
|
|
10,800
|
|
Nuclear decommissioning costs
|
|
|
1,419
|
|
|
|
1,431
|
|
Power-related derivatives
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
2
|
|
Other current liabilities
|
|
|
27,095
|
|
|
|
33,645
|
|
Total current liabilities
|
|
|
62,190
|
|
|
|
67,215
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred credits and other liabilities
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
48,422
|
|
|
|
45,314
|
|
Deferred investment tax credits
|
|
|
2,802
|
|
|
|
2,962
|
|
Nuclear decommissioning costs
|
|
|
7,850
|
|
|
|
8,618
|
|
Asset retirement obligations
|
|
|
3,134
|
|
|
|
3,302
|
|
Accrued pension and benefit obligations
|
|
|
46,816
|
|
|
|
51,211
|
|
Power-related derivatives
|
|
|
4,780
|
|
|
|
4,069
|
|
Other deferred credits - regulatory
|
|
|
12,571
|
|
|
|
17,696
|
|
Other deferred credits and other liabilities
|
|
|
23,592
|
|
|
|
24,533
|
|
Total deferred credits and other liabilities
|
|
|
149,967
|
|
|
|
157,705
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commitments and contingencies
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
|
|
$
|
617,166
|
|
|
$
|
626,126
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
CENTRAL VERMONT PUBLIC SERVICE CORPORATION
|
|
|
|
(dollars in thousands)
|
|
(unaudited)
|
|
|
|
Six months ended June 30
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income
|
|
$
|
12,369
|
|
|
$
|
9,909
|
|
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity in earnings of affiliates
|
|
|
(8,876
|
)
|
|
|
(8,199
|
)
|
Distributions received from affiliates
|
|
|
5,259
|
|
|
|
4,868
|
|
Depreciation
|
|
|
8,192
|
|
|
|
7,768
|
|
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits
|
|
|
2,738
|
|
|
|
(291
|
)
|
Regulatory and other amortization, net
|
|
|
(592
|
)
|
|
|
(752
|
)
|
Non-cash employee benefit plan costs
|
|
|
3,195
|
|
|
|
2,926
|
|
Other non-cash expense, net
|
|
|
3,121
|
|
|
|
2,595
|
|
Changes in assets and liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Decrease in accounts receivable and unbilled revenues
|
|
|
455
|
|
|
|
2,075
|
|
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable
|
|
|
1,080
|
|
|
|
(3,195
|
)
|
Decrease in prepaid income taxes
|
|
|
6,714
|
|
|
|
3,215
|
|
Decrease in other current assets
|
|
|
1,447
|
|
|
|
2,638
|
|
Increase in special deposits and restricted cash for power collateral
|
|
|
(1,005
|
)
|
|
|
(679
|
)
|
Employee benefit plan funding
|
|
|
(6,843
|
)
|
|
|
(7,226
|
)
|
(Decrease) increase in other current liabilities
|
|
|
(7,280
|
)
|
|
|
476
|
|
Increase (decrease) in other long-term assets and liabilities and other
|
|
|
568
|
|
|
|
(231
|
)
|
Net cash provided by operating activities
|
|
|
20,542
|
|
|
|
15,897
|
|
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Construction and plant expenditures
|
|
|
(12,893
|
)
|
|
|
(15,721
|
)
|
Investments in available-for-sale securities
|
|
|
(780
|
)
|
|
|
(617
|
)
|
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities
|
|
|
790
|
|
|
|
478
|
|
Return of capital from investments in affiliates
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
96
|
|
Other investing activities
|
|
|
(340
|
)
|
|
|
(113
|
)
|
Net cash used by investing activities
|
|
|
(13,223
|
)
|
|
|
(15,877
|
)
|
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
|
|
|
1,010
|
|
|
|
1,508
|
|
Retirement of preferred stock subject to mandatory redemption
|
|
|
(1,000
|
)
|
|
|
(1,000
|
)
|
Decrease in special deposits held for preferred stock redemptions
|
|
|
1,000
|
|
|
|
1,000
|
|
Common and preferred dividends paid
|
|
|
(5,531
|
)
|
|
|
(4,921
|
)
|
Proceeds from issuance of first mortgage bonds
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
60,000
|
|
Repayment of notes payable
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
(53,000
|
)
|
Proceeds from borrowings under revolving credit facility
|
|
|
13,395
|
|
|
|
9,300
|
|
Repayments under revolving credit facility
|
|
|
(13,395
|
)
|
|
|
(9,300
|
)
|
Debt issuance and common stock offering costs
|
|
|
(54
|
)
|
|
|
(691
|
)
|
Other financing activities
|
|
|
(508
|
)
|
|
|
(157
|
)
|
Net cash (used) provided by financing activities
|
|
|
(5,083
|
)
|
|
|
2,739
|
|
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
|
|
|
2,236
|
|
|
|
2,759
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period
|
|
|
6,722
|
|
|
|
3,803
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period
|
|
$
|
8,958
|
|
|
$
|
6,562
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
CENTRAL VERMONT PUBLIC SERVICE CORPORATION
|
|
|
|
(in thousands, except share data)
|
|
(unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common Stock
|
|
|
Treasury Stock
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other
|
|
|
Other
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shares
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Paid-in
|
|
|
Comprehensive
|
|
|
Retained
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Issued
|
|
|
Amount
|
|
|
Share
|
|
|
Amount
|
|
|
Capital
|
|
|
Loss
|
|
|
Earnings
|
|
|
Total
|
|
Balance, December 31, 2008
|
|
|
13,750,717
|
|
|
$
|
82,504
|
|
|
|
(2,175,892
|
)
|
|
$
|
(49,501
|
)
|
|
$
|
71,489
|
|
|
$
|
(228
|
)
|
|
$
|
115,215
|
|
|
$
|
219,479
|
|
Net income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12,369
|
|
|
$
|
12,369
|
|
Other comprehensive income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
8
|
|
Common Stock Issuance, net of issuance costs
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(54
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
(54
|
)
|
Dividend reinvestment plan
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
32,366
|
|
|
|
737
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
737
|
|
Stock options exercised
|
|
|
36,160
|
|
|
|
217
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
284
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
501
|
|
Share-based compensation:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
Common & nonvested shares
|
|
|
2,400
|
|
|
|
14
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
29
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
43
|
|
Performance share plans
|
|
|
25,093
|
|
|
|
151
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(161
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
(10
|
)
|
Dividends declared:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
Common - $0.46 per share
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(8,030
|
)
|
|
$
|
(8,030
|
)
|
Cumulative non-redeemable preferred stock
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(184
|
)
|
|
$
|
(184
|
)
|
Amortization of preferred stock issuance expense
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
7
|
|
Gain (Loss) on capital stock
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(105
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(3
|
)
|
|
$
|
(108
|
)
|
Balance, June 30, 2009
|
|
|
13,814,370
|
|
|
$
|
82,886
|
|
|
|
(2,143,526
|
)
|
|
$
|
(48,764
|
)
|
|
$
|
71,489
|
|
|
$
|
(220
|
)
|
|
$
|
119,367
|
|
|
$
|
224,758
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
CENTRAL VERMONT PUBLIC SERVICE CORPORATION
NOTE 1 - BUSINESS ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
General Description of Business
Central Vermont Public Service Corporation (“we”, “us”, “CVPS” or the “company”) is the largest electric utility in Vermont. We engage principally in the purchase, production, transmission, distribution
and sale of electricity. We serve approximately 159,000 customers in 163 of the towns and cities in Vermont. Our Vermont utility operation is our core business. We typically generate most of our revenues through retail electricity sales. We also sell excess power, if any, to third parties in New England and to ISO-New England, the operator of the region’s bulk power system and wholesale electricity markets. The resale revenue generated from these sales
helps to mitigate our power supply costs.
Our wholly owned subsidiaries include Custom Investment Corporation, C.V. Realty, Inc., Central Vermont Public Service Corporation - East Barnet Hydroelectric, Inc. (“East Barnet”) and Catamount Resources Corporation (“CRC”). We have equity ownership interests in Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Corporation (“VYNPC”),
Vermont Electric Power Company, Inc. (“VELCO”), Vermont Transco LLC (“Transco”), Maine Yankee Atomic Power Company (“Maine Yankee”), Connecticut Yankee Atomic Power Company (“Connecticut Yankee”) and Yankee Atomic Electric Company (“Yankee Atomic”).
Basis of Presentation
These unaudited interim financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in the financial statements
prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted. In our opinion, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements contain all normal, recurring adjustments considered necessary to present fairly the financial position as of June 30, 2009, and the results of operations for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 and cash flows for the
six-month periods ended June 30, 2009 and 2008. The results of operations for the interim periods presented herein may not be indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008. We consider events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date, but before
the financial statements are issued, to provide additional evidence relative to certain estimates or to identify matters that require additional disclosure. These financial statements were issued on August 7, 2009 and subsequent events have been evaluated through that date.
Regulatory Accounting
Our utility operations are regulated by the Vermont Public Service Board (“PSB”), the Connecticut Department of Public Utility and Control and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”), with respect to rates charged for service,
accounting, financing and other matters pertaining to regulated operations. As such, we prepare our financial statements in accordance with SFAS 71,
Accounting for the Effects of Certain Types of Regulation
(“SFAS 71”). The application of SFAS 71 results in differences in the timing of recognition of certain expenses from those of other businesses and industries. In order for us to report our results under SFAS
71, our rates must be designed to recover our costs of providing service, and we must be able to collect those rates from customers. If rate recovery of these costs becomes unlikely or uncertain, whether due to competition or regulatory action, this accounting standard would no longer apply to our regulated operations. In the event we determine that our utility operations no longer meet the criteria for applying SFAS 71, the accounting impact would be an extraordinary non-cash charge to
operations of an amount that would be material unless stranded cost recovery is allowed through a rate mechanism. Criteria that could give rise to the discontinuance of SFAS 71 include increasing competition that restricts a company’s ability to establish prices to recover specific costs, and a significant change in the manner in which rates are set by regulators from cost-based regulation to another form of regulation. Based on a current evaluation of the factors and conditions expected
to impact future cost recovery, we believe future recovery of our regulatory assets is probable. See Note 4 - Retail Rates and Regulatory Accounting.
Derivative Financial Instruments
We account for certain power contracts as derivatives under the provisions of SFAS 133,
Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
, as amended and interpreted and SFAS 149,
Amendment
of Statement 133 Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
, (collectively “SFAS 133”). These statements require that derivatives be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Our derivative financial instruments are related to managing our power supply resources to serve our customers, and are not for trading purposes. We have determined that most of our forward power transactions do not qualify for the “normal” purchase and sale exception
in SFAS 133. Additionally, we have not elected hedge accounting for our power-related derivatives.
Based on a PSB-approved Accounting Order, we record unrealized gains and losses on all of our derivatives as deferred credits and deferred charges on the balance sheet. The corresponding derivative fair values are recorded as current and long-term assets or liabilities depending on the duration of the contracts. Realized
gains and losses on sales are recorded as increases to or reductions of operating revenues, respectively. For purchase contracts, realized gains and losses are recorded as reductions of or additions to purchased power expense, respectively.
Our power-related derivatives include forward energy contracts, one long-term purchased power contract that allows the seller to repurchase specified amounts of power with advance notice (“Hydro-Quebec Sellback #3”) and financial transmission rights. All of our power-related derivatives are commodity contracts. For additional
information about power-related derivatives, see Note 6 - Fair Value and Note 8 - Power-Related Derivatives.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
SFAS 141R
: On January 1, 2009, we adopted FASB Statement No. 141 (revised 2007),
Business Combinations
(“SFAS 141R”). SFAS 141R replaces SFAS 141 and establishes principles and requirements for
the recognition and measurement by acquirers of assets acquired, liabilities assumed, any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree and any goodwill acquired. SFAS 141R also establishes disclosure requirements to enable financial statement readers to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. The impact of applying SFAS 141R for periods subsequent to implementation will be dependent upon the nature of any transactions within the scope of SFAS 141R.
SFAS 160
: On January 1, 2009, we adopted SFAS No. 160,
Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements - an amendment of ARB No. 51
(“SFAS 160”). SFAS 160 states that minority interests
will be recharacterized as noncontrolling interests and classified as a component of equity. SFAS 160 also establishes reporting requirements that provide sufficient disclosures that identify and distinguish between the interests of the parent and the interests of the noncontrolling owners. SFAS 160 will affect only those entities that have an outstanding noncontrolling interest in one or more subsidiaries or that deconsolidate a subsidiary. It requires that once a subsidiary
is deconsolidated, any retained noncontrolling equity investment in the former subsidiary be initially measured at fair value. The provisions of SFAS 160 did not have an impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
SFAS 161:
On January 1, 2009, we adopted SFAS No. 161,
Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities-An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133
(“SFAS 161”). SFAS 161 requires enhanced
disclosures about an entity’s derivative and hedging activities and applies to all entities. The provisions of SFAS 161 did not have an impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. See Note 8 - Power-Related Derivatives for additional information.
FSP FAS 157-2:
On January 1, 2009, we adopted FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) No. FAS 157-2,
Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157
(“FSP FAS 157-2”). FSP FAS 157-2 identifies certain
non-recurring fair value measures that are subject to the reporting requirements of SFAS No. 157,
Fair Value Measurements
, including asset retirement obligations (“AROs”). The provisions of FSP FAS 157-2 did not have an impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. We are subject to expanded disclosure requirements when an ARO is initially recognized at fair value. See Note 6 - Fair Value
for additional information.
FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1:
In April 2009, FASB issued FSP No. FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1,
Interim Disclosures About Fair Value of Financial Instruments
(“FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1”). FSP FAS 107-1
and APB 28-1 require disclosures about the fair value of financial instruments in interim reporting periods as well as in annual financial statements. The effective date for the FSP was June 15, 2009, and we adopted the provisions of this FSP as of June 30, 2009. Although the adoption of FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1 did not materially impact our financial position, results of operations or cash flow, we are now required to provide additional disclosures. See Note 5 - Financial Instruments
and Note 6 - Fair Value.
FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2:
In April 2009, FASB issued FSP No. FAS 115-2 and 124-2,
Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments
(“FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2”). FSP FAS 115-2
and FAS 124-2 modify the other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) model for investments in debt securities. The primary change to the OTTI model for debt securities is the change in focus from an entity’s intent and ability to hold a security until recovery. Instead, an OTTI is triggered if: 1) an entity has the intent to sell the security; 2) it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery; or 3) it does not expect to recover the
entire unamortized cost of the security. The impairment loss is separated into two categories, the credit loss component, which is recorded in earnings, and the remainder of the impairment charge, which is recorded in other comprehensive income. FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2 change the recognition of the OTTI in the income statement if the entity does not expect to recover its entire unamortized cost. Although we adopted the provisions of FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2 as of June 30,
2009, the provisions of this FSP did not materially impact our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. This is because our total impairment losses related to our Millstone Decommissioning trust funds are recorded to a regulatory liability on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and our prior period impairment amounts related to debt securities are not material. See Note 7 - Investment Securities for further discussion of our investments in marketable securities.
FSP FAS 157-4:
In April 2009, FASB issued FSP No. FAS 157-4,
Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not
Orderly
(“FSP FAS 157-4”). FSP FAS 157-4 provides guidance for estimating the fair value of an asset or liability when the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability have significantly decreased, and for identifying transactions that are not orderly. It does not change the objective of fair value measurements when market activity declines. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly
transaction between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions. Although we adopted the provisions of FSP FAS 157-4 as of June 30, 2009, the provisions of this FSP did not materially impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
SFAS 165:
In May 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 165,
Subsequent Events
(“SFAS 165”). SFAS 165 defines the subsequent events or transactions period, circumstances under which the events or transactions
should be recognized, and disclosures regarding subsequent events or transactions. SFAS 165 is effective for interim or annual periods ending after June 15, 2009. On June 30, 2009, we adopted the provisions of SFAS 165. Although the adoption of SFAS 165 did not materially impact our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flow, we are now required to provide additional disclosures, which are included in Basis of Presentation above.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
FSP FAS 132(R)-1:
In December 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. FAS 132(R)-1,
Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets
(“FSP FAS 132(R)-1”), which requires additional disclosures
for employers’ pension and other postretirement benefit plan assets. Pension and postretirement medical benefit plan assets were not included within the scope of SFAS No. 157. FSP FAS 132(R)-1 requires employers to disclose information about fair value measurements of plan assets similar to the disclosures required under SFAS No. 157. Those disclosures will include the investment policies and strategies for the major categories of plan assets, and significant concentrations
of risk within plan assets. We do not believe the adoption of FSP FAS 132(R)-1 will have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows since its requirements are limited to additional disclosures. It will be effective for us as of December 31, 2009.
SFAS 166:
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 166,
Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets - an amendment of FASB Statement No. 140
(“SFAS 166”). SFAS 166 revises SFAS No. 140,
Accounting
for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities,
and will require entities to provide more information about sales of securitized financial assets and similar transactions. SFAS 166 eliminates the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity, changes the requirements for the derecognition of financial assets, and requires sellers of the assets to make additional disclosures. We have not yet evaluated SFAS 166 or the impacts it may have on our financial position,
results of operations or cash flows. SFAS 166 will become effective for us January 1, 2010.
SFAS 167:
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 167,
Amendments to FASB Interpretation No. 46(R)
(“SFAS 167”). SFAS 167 retains the scope of Interpretation 46(R),
Consolidation
of Variable Interest Entities (revised December 2003) - an interpretation of ARB No. 51
, with the addition of entities previously considered qualifying special-purpose entities. We have not yet evaluated SFAS 167 or the impacts it may have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. SFAS 167 will become effective for us January 1, 2010.
SFAS 168:
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 168,
The FASB Accounting Standards Codification
TM
and
the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles - a replacement of FASB Statement No. 162
(“Codification”). The Codification does not change U.S. GAAP, but combines all authoritative standards issued by organizations that are in levels A through D of the GAAP hierarchy, such as the FASB, AICPA and EITF, into a comprehensive, topically organized online database. No accounting impacts are expected since this is an accumulation of existing guidance. The
Codification will become effective for reporting periods that end on or after September 15, 2009.
NOTE 2 - EARNINGS PER SHARE (“EPS”)
The Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income include basic and diluted per share information. Basic EPS is calculated by dividing net income, after preferred dividends, by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS follows a similar calculation except that the weighted-average
number of common shares is increased by the number of potentially dilutive common shares. The table below provides a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator used in calculating basic and diluted EPS (dollars in thousands):
|
|
Three months ended June 30
|
|
|
Six months ended June 30
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
Numerator for basic and diluted EPS:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income
|
|
$
|
5,497
|
|
|
$
|
4,001
|
|
|
$
|
12,369
|
|
|
$
|
9,909
|
|
Dividends declared on preferred stock
|
|
|
(92
|
)
|
|
|
(92
|
)
|
|
|
(184
|
)
|
|
|
(184
|
)
|
Net income available for common stock
|
|
$
|
5,405
|
|
|
$
|
3,909
|
|
|
$
|
12,185
|
|
|
$
|
9,725
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Denominators for basic and diluted EPS:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted-average basic shares of common stock outstanding
|
|
|
11,660,547
|
|
|
|
10,337,893
|
|
|
|
11,631,611
|
|
|
|
10,306,699
|
|
Dilutive effect of stock options
|
|
|
8,925
|
|
|
|
46,256
|
|
|
|
24,026
|
|
|
|
69,393
|
|
Dilutive effect of performance shares
|
|
|
14,677
|
|
|
|
13,526
|
|
|
|
14,186
|
|
|
|
11,197
|
|
Weighted-average diluted shares of common stock outstanding
|
|
|
11,684,149
|
|
|
|
10,397,675
|
|
|
|
11,669,823
|
|
|
|
10,387,289
|
|
Outstanding stock options totaling 271,697 for the second quarter and 160,517 for the first six months of 2009 were excluded from the computation because the exercise prices were above the current average market price of the common shares. All outstanding stock options were included in the computation of diluted shares in the second
quarter and first six months of 2008 because the exercise prices were below the current average market price of common shares. All performance shares were included in the computation in the second quarter and first six months of 2009. A total of 12,159 performance shares were excluded from the computation in the second quarter and first six months of 2008 because the assumed proceeds exceeded the number of shares assumed earned.
NOTE 3 - INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATES
VELCO
Summarized financial information for VELCO consolidated follows (dollars in thousands):
|
|
Three months ended June 30
|
|
|
Six months ended June 30
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating revenues
|
|
$
|
22,910
|
|
|
$
|
18,599
|
|
|
$
|
46,657
|
|
|
$
|
36,473
|
|
Operating income
|
|
$
|
12,474
|
|
|
$
|
9,073
|
|
|
$
|
24,789
|
|
|
$
|
17,682
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income
|
|
$
|
10,249
|
|
|
$
|
8,329
|
|
|
$
|
20,212
|
|
|
$
|
16,668
|
|
Less net income attributable to non-controlling interests
|
|
|
9,213
|
|
|
|
7,628
|
|
|
|
18,286
|
|
|
|
15,256
|
|
Net income attributable to VELCO
|
|
$
|
1,036
|
|
|
$
|
701
|
|
|
$
|
1,926
|
|
|
$
|
1,412
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Company's common stock ownership interest
|
|
|
47.05
|
%
|
|
|
47.05
|
%
|
|
|
47.05
|
%
|
|
|
47.05
|
%
|
Company's equity in net income
|
|
$
|
487
|
|
|
$
|
274
|
|
|
$
|
901
|
|
|
$
|
646
|
|
Accounts payable to VELCO were $5.1 million at June 30, 2009 and $5.6 million at December 31, 2008.
Transco
Summarized financial information for Transco, also included in VELCO consolidated financial information above, follows (dollars in thousands):
|
|
Three months ended June 30
|
|
|
Six months ended June 30
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating revenues
|
|
$
|
22,786
|
|
|
$
|
18,473
|
|
|
$
|
46,407
|
|
|
$
|
36,220
|
|
Operating income
|
|
$
|
13,002
|
|
|
$
|
9,522
|
|
|
$
|
26,000
|
|
|
$
|
18,580
|
|
Net income
|
|
$
|
10,890
|
|
|
$
|
8,767
|
|
|
$
|
21,623
|
|
|
$
|
17,534
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Company's ownership interest
|
|
|
39.79
|
%
|
|
|
39.79
|
%
|
|
|
39.79
|
%
|
|
|
39.79
|
%
|
Company's equity in net income
|
|
$
|
3,905
|
|
|
$
|
3,675
|
|
|
$
|
7,873
|
|
|
$
|
7,407
|
|
Transmission services provided by Transco are billed to us under the 1991 Transmission Agreement (“VTA”). All Vermont electric utilities are parties to the VTA. This agreement requires the Vermont utilities to pay their pro rata share of Transco’s total costs, including interest and a fixed rate of return
on equity, less the revenue collected under the ISO-New England Open Access Transmission Tariff and other agreements.
Transco’s billings to us primarily include the VTA charges and reimbursements under the NEPOOL Open Access Transmission Tariff (“NOATT”). Included in Transco’s operating revenues above are transmission services to us amounting to $3 million in the second quarter and $5.5 million in the first six months of
2009 and $4 million in the second quarter and $7.4 million in the first six months of 2008. These amounts are reflected as Transmission - affiliates on our condensed consolidated statements of income. Accounts payable to Transco were $1 million at June 30, 2009 and $0.4 million at December 31, 2008.
VYNPC
Summarized financial information for VYNPC follows (dollars in thousands):
|
|
Three months ended June 30
|
|
|
Six months ended June 30
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating revenues
|
|
$
|
45,105
|
|
|
$
|
45,140
|
|
|
$
|
89,876
|
|
|
$
|
90,794
|
|
Operating (loss) income
|
|
$
|
(845
|
)
|
|
$
|
(137
|
)
|
|
$
|
(1,819
|
)
|
|
$
|
2
|
|
Net income
|
|
$
|
58
|
|
|
$
|
110
|
|
|
$
|
152
|
|
|
$
|
234
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Company's common stock ownership interest
|
|
|
58.85
|
%
|
|
|
58.85
|
%
|
|
|
58.85
|
%
|
|
|
58.85
|
%
|
Company's equity in net income
|
|
$
|
33
|
|
|
$
|
65
|
|
|
$
|
89
|
|
|
$
|
138
|
|
Included in VYNPC’s operating revenues above are sales to us of approximately $15.7 million in the second quarter and $31.4 million in the first six months of 2009 and $15.7 million in the second quarter and $31.6 million in the first six months of 2008. These are included in Purchased power - affiliates on our condensed consolidated
statements of income. Accounts payable to VYNPC were $5 million at June 30, 2009 and $5.3 million at December 31, 2008. Also see Note 10 - Commitments and Contingencies.
Maine Yankee, Connecticut Yankee and Yankee Atomic
We own, through equity investments, 2 percent of Maine Yankee, 2 percent of Connecticut Yankee and 3.5 percent of Yankee Atomic. All three companies have completed plant decommissioning and the operating licenses have
been amended by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (“NRC”) for operation of Independent Spent Fuel Storage Installations. All three remain responsible for safe storage of the spent nuclear fuel and waste at the sites until the United States Department of Energy (“DOE”) meets its obligation to remove the material from the sites. Our share of the companies’ estimated costs are reflected on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as regulatory assets and nuclear
decommissioning liabilities (current and non-current). These amounts are adjusted when revised estimates are provided. At June 30, 2009, we had regulatory assets of $1.1 million for Maine Yankee, $5.9 million for Connecticut Yankee and $2.3 million for Yankee Atomic. These estimated costs are being collected from customers through existing retail rate tariffs. Total billings from the three companies amounted to $0.3 million in the second quarter and $0.7 in the first
six months of 2009 and $0.5 million in the second quarter and $1.1 million in the first six months of 2008. These amounts are included in Purchased power - affiliates on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of income.
All three companies have been seeking recovery of fuel storage-related costs stemming from the default of the DOE under the 1983 fuel disposal contracts that were mandated by the United States Congress under the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982. Under the Act, the companies believe the DOE was required to begin removing spent nuclear
fuel and greater than Class C material from the nuclear plants no later than January 31, 1998 in return for payments by each company into the nuclear waste fund. No fuel has been collected by the DOE, and each company’s spent fuel is stored at its own site. Maine Yankee, Connecticut Yankee and Yankee Atomic collected the funds from us and other wholesale utility customers, under FERC-approved wholesale rates, and our share of these payments was collected from our retail customers.
In 2006, the United States Court of Federal Claims issued judgment in the spent fuel litigation. Maine Yankee was awarded $75.8 million in damages through 2002, Connecticut Yankee was awarded $34.2 million through 2001 and Yankee Atomic was awarded $32.9 million through 2001. In December 2006, the DOE filed a notice of
appeal of the court’s decision and all three companies filed notices of cross appeals. In August 2008, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit reversed the award of damages and remanded the cases back to the trial courts. The remand directed the trial courts to apply the acceptance rate in 1987 annual capacity reports when determining damages. In January 2009, the United States Court of Federal Claims issued an order reserving weeks in August 2009 for
the pre-trial conference, trial and any other proceedings necessary for final resolution of this issue.
On March 6, 2009, the three companies submitted their revised statement of claimed damages for the case on remand. Maine Yankee claimed $81.7 million through 2002, and Connecticut Yankee claimed $39.7 million and Yankee Atomic claimed $53.9 million in damages through 2001. Our share of the claimed damages is based on
our ownership percentages described above.
The Court of Federal Claims’ original decision, if maintained on remand, established the DOE’s responsibility for reimbursing Maine Yankee for its actual costs through 2002 and Connecticut Yankee and Yankee Atomic for their actual costs through 2001 related to the incremental spent fuel storage, security, construction and other
costs of the spent fuel storage installation. Although the decision did not resolve the question regarding damages in subsequent years, the decision did support future claims for the remaining spent fuel storage installation construction costs.
In December 2007, Maine Yankee, Connecticut Yankee and Yankee Atomic filed additional claims against the DOE for unspecified damages incurred for periods subsequent to the original case discussed above. On July 1, 2009, in a notification to the DOE, Maine Yankee, Connecticut Yankee and Yankee Atomic filed their claimed costs for
damages. Maine Yankee claimed $43 million since January 1, 2003 and Connecticut Yankee claimed $135.4 and Yankee Atomic claimed $86.1 since January 1, 2002. For all three companies the damages were claimed through December 31, 2008.
Due to the complexity of these issues and the potential for further appeals, the three companies cannot predict the timing of the final determinations or the amount of damages that will actually be received. Each of the companies’ respective FERC settlements requires that damage payments, net of taxes and further spent fuel
trust funding, if any, be credited to wholesale ratepayers including us. We expect that our share of these awards, if any, would be credited to our retail customers.
NOTE 4 - RETAIL RATES AND REGULATORY ACCOUNTING
Retail Rates
Our retail rates are approved by the PSB after considering the recommendations of Vermont’s consumer advocate, the Vermont Department of Public Service (“DPS”). Fair regulatory treatment is fundamental to maintaining our financial stability. Rates
must be set at levels to recover costs, including a market rate of return to equity and debt holders, in order to attract capital.
On September 30, 2008, the PSB issued an order approving, with modifications, the alternative regulation plan proposal that we submitted in August 2007. The plan became effective on November 1, 2008. It expires on December 31, 2011, but we have an option to petition for an extension beyond 2011. The plan replaces
the traditional ratemaking process and allows for quarterly rate adjustments to reflect changes in power supply and transmission-by-others costs (“PCAM adjustment”); annual base rate adjustments to reflect changing costs; and annual rate adjustments to reflect changes, within predetermined limits, from the allowed earnings level. Under the plan, the allowed return on equity will be adjusted annually to reflect one-half of the change in the yield on the 10-year Treasury note as measured
over the last 20 trading days prior to October 15 of each year. The earnings sharing adjustment mechanism (“ESAM”) within the plan provides for the return on equity of the regulated portion of our business to fall between 75 basis points above or below the allowed return on equity before any adjustment is made. If the actual return on equity of the regulated portion of our business exceeds 75 basis points above the allowed return, the excess amount is returned to ratepayers in
a future period. If the actual return on equity of our regulated business falls between 75 and 100 basis points below the allowed return on equity, the shortfall is shared equally between shareholders and ratepayers. Any earnings shortfall in excess of 100 basis points below the allowed return on equity is recovered from ratepayers. These adjustments are made at the end of each fiscal year.
The PCAM and ESAM adjustments are not subject to PSB suspension, but the PSB may open an investigation and, to the extent it finds, after notice and hearing, that a calculation in the adjustments was inaccurate or reflects costs inappropriate for inclusion in rates, it may require a modification of the associated adjustments to the extent
necessary to correct the deficiencies.
On October 31, 2008, we submitted a base rate filing for the rate year commencing January 1, 2009 that reflected a 0.33 percent increase in retail rates. The result of the return on equity adjustment for 2009, in accordance with the plan, was a reduction of 0.44 percent, resulting in an allowed return on equity for 2009 of 9.77
percent. On November 17, 2008, the DPS filed a request for suspension and investigation of our filing. Citing concerns about staffing levels and inadequate supporting documentation for some proposed rate base additions, the DPS recommended a 0.43 percent rate decrease.
On December 17, 2008, we filed a Memorandum of Understanding with the PSB setting forth agreements that we reached with the DPS regarding the PSB’s investigation into our 2009 retail rates. Pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding, we agreed to leave rates unchanged, with no increase or decrease, and that we and the DPS
would request the PSB to open a docket to resolve the DPS’s concerns regarding our level of staffing. On February 13, 2009, the PSB approved the Memorandum of Understanding, and ordered the rate investigation closed.
On February 2, 2009, we filed a motion with the PSB requesting to defer the incremental 2008 storm costs through our alternative regulation plan and collect them in rates through the ESAM over 12 months beginning on July 1, 2009. On February 3, 2009, the DPS filed a letter supporting our motion and on February
12, 2009, the PSB approved the request. The amount of the deferral, based on actual costs, was $3.2 million.
On May 1, 2009, we filed an ESAM report, including supporting documentation, with the PSB requesting that rates be increased 1.15 percent for 12 months beginning with bills rendered July 1, 2009 to recover the $3.2 million of incremental 2008 storm costs. On June 15, 2009, the DPS recommended that the ESAM report be approved
as filed. On June 30, 2009, the PSB accepted the DPS recommendation and approved the filing. The rate increase has been implemented as proposed.
The first quarter 2009 PCAM adjustment was calculated to be an over-collection of $0.6 million and is recorded as a current liability. On May 1, 2009, we filed a PCAM report, including supporting documentation, with the PSB identifying the over-collection. On June 15, 2009, the DPS recommended the PCAM report be approved
as filed. On June 30, 2009, the PSB accepted the DPS recommendation and approved the filing. The over-collection is being returned to customers over three months beginning July 1, 2009.
The second quarter 2009 PCAM adjustment was calculated to be an over-collection of $0.5 million and is recorded as a current liability at June 30, 2009. On July 30, 2009, we filed a PCAM report, including supporting documentation, with the PSB outlining the over-collection. The over-collection will be returned to customers
over three months beginning October 1, 2009.
On February 13, 2009, the PSB opened an investigation into the staffing levels of the company as requested by us and the DPS. On March 25, 2009, the PSB convened a prehearing conference where we and the DPS agreed to a procedural schedule. We and the DPS further agreed that the scope of the technical hearings could be narrowed to
devising a methodology for deriving productivity measures that would be tracked over time. The parties do not agree, however, as to what the substantive elements of that tracking methodology should be. Accordingly, the PSB ordered that the purpose of hearings in this proceeding will be to resolve this disagreement about the makeup of the productivity tracking methodology. Technical hearings were held in June 2009 and legal briefs were filed in July 2009. We anticipate an order from the PSB
in sufficient time to reflect any implementation effects in the 2010 cost of service. We cannot predict the outcome of the docket at this time.
Regulatory Accounting
Under SFAS 71, we account for certain transactions in accordance with permitted regulatory treatment whereby regulators may permit incurred costs, typically treated as expenses by unregulated entities, to be deferred and expensed in future periods when recovered
through future revenues. In the event that we no longer meet the criteria under SFAS 71 and there is not a rate mechanism to recover these costs, we would be required to write off $15.7 million of regulatory assets (total regulatory assets of $59.5 million less pension and postretirement medical costs of $43.8 million), $6.1 million of other deferred charges - regulatory and $12.6 million of other deferred credits - regulatory. This would result in a total extraordinary charge to operations
of $9.2 million on a pre-tax basis as of June 30, 2009. We would be required to record pre-tax pension and postretirement benefit costs of $43 million to Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss and $0.8 million to Retained Earnings as reductions to stockholders’ equity. We would also be required to determine any potential impairment to the carrying costs of deregulated plant.
All regulatory assets are being recovered in retail rates and are earning a return except for income taxes, nuclear plant dismantling costs and pension and postretirement medical costs. Regulatory assets, certain other deferred charges and other deferred credits are shown in the table below (dollars in thousands).
|
|
June 30, 2009
|
|
|
December 31, 2008
|
|
Regulatory assets
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pension and postretirement medical costs - SFAS 158
|
|
$
|
43,805
|
|
|
$
|
46,911
|
|
Nuclear plant dismantling costs
|
|
$
|
9,269
|
|
|
|
10,049
|
|
Nuclear refueling outage costs - Millstone Unit #3
|
|
$
|
808
|
|
|
|
1,347
|
|
Income taxes
|
|
$
|
4,341
|
|
|
|
4,115
|
|
Asset retirement obligations and other
|
|
$
|
1,272
|
|
|
|
1,052
|
|
Total Regulatory assets
|
|
$
|
59,496
|
|
|
|
63,474
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other deferred charges - regulatory
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Vermont Yankee sale costs (tax)
|
|
|
673
|
|
|
|
673
|
|
Deferral of December 2008 storm costs
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
4,059
|
|
Unrealized losses on power-related derivatives
|
|
|
4,781
|
|
|
|
4,070
|
|
Other
|
|
|
602
|
|
|
|
1,178
|
|
Total Other deferred charges - regulatory
|
|
|
6,056
|
|
|
|
9,980
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other deferred credits - regulatory
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Asset retirement obligation - Millstone Unit #3
|
|
|
1,812
|
|
|
|
1,497
|
|
Vermont Yankee settlements
|
|
|
486
|
|
|
|
789
|
|
Emission allowances and renewable energy credits
|
|
|
154
|
|
|
|
308
|
|
Unrealized gains on power-related derivatives
|
|
|
8,371
|
|
|
|
12,756
|
|
Environmental remediation
|
|
|
500
|
|
|
|
1,000
|
|
Other
|
|
|
1,248
|
|
|
|
1,346
|
|
Total Other deferred credits - regulatory
|
|
$
|
12,571
|
|
|
$
|
17,696
|
|
NOTE 5 - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The estimated fair values of financial instruments follow (dollars in thousands):
|
|
June 30, 2009
|
|
|
December 31, 2008
|
|
|
|
Carrying
|
|
|
Fair
|
|
|
Carrying
|
|
|
Fair
|
|
|
Amount
|
|
|
Value
|
|
|
Amount
|
|
|
Value
|
|
Power contract derivative assets (includes current portion)
|
|
$
|
8,439
|
|
|
$
|
8,439
|
|
|
$
|
12,891
|
|
|
$
|
12,891
|
|
Power contract derivative liabilities (includes current portion)
|
|
$
|
4,780
|
|
|
$
|
4,780
|
|
|
$
|
4,071
|
|
|
$
|
4,071
|
|
Preferred stock subject to mandatory redemption (includes current portion)
|
|
$
|
1,000
|
|
|
$
|
1,001
|
|
|
$
|
2,000
|
|
|
$
|
2,003
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term debt:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First mortgage bonds (includes current portion)
|
|
$
|
167,500
|
|
|
$
|
165,360
|
|
|
$
|
167,500
|
|
|
$
|
159,172
|
|
New Hampshire Industrial Development Authority Bonds
|
|
$
|
5,450
|
|
|
$
|
5,458
|
|
|
$
|
5,450
|
|
|
$
|
5,383
|
|
The estimated fair values of power contract derivatives are based on over-the-counter quotes or broker quotes at the end of the reporting period, with the exception of one long-term power contract that is valued using a binomial tree model and quoted market data when available, along with appropriate valuation methodologies. At
June 30, 2009, the fair values were unrealized losses of $4.8 million that were recorded as liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and unrealized gains of $8.4 million that were recorded as assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. At December 31, 2008, the fair values were unrealized losses of $4.1 million that were recorded as liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and unrealized gains of $12.9 million that were recorded as assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
The fair values of our fixed rate securities are estimated based on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues with similar remaining time to maturity or on current rates offered to us. Fair values are estimated to meet disclosure requirements and do not necessarily represent the amounts at which obligations would be settled.
The table above does not include cash, special deposits, receivables and payables. The carrying values approximate fair value because of the short duration of those instruments. Also, the carrying value of notes payable approximates fair value since the rates are adjusted at least monthly. The fair value of our cash
equivalents and restricted cash are included in Note 6 - Fair Value.
NOTE 6 - FAIR VALUE
Effective January 1, 2008, we adopted SFAS 157 as required. SFAS 157 establishes a single, authoritative definition of fair value, prescribes methods for measuring fair value, establishes a fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to measure fair value and expands disclosures about the use of fair value measurements; however,
SFAS 157 does not expand the use of fair value accounting in any new circumstances. SFAS 157 defines fair value as “the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.” As of June 30, 2009, we adopted FSP No. FAS 157-4,
Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly
Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly
, which describes how to make this assessment when an asset or liability is not Level 1.
Valuation Techniques
SFAS 157 emphasizes that fair value is not an entity-specific measurement but a market-based measurement based on assumptions market participants would use to price the asset or liability. SFAS 157 provides guidance on three valuation techniques to be used
at initial recognition and subsequent measurement of an asset or liability:
Market Approach:
This approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities.
Income Approach:
This approach uses valuation techniques to convert future amounts (cash flows, earnings) to a single present-value amount.
Cost Approach:
This approach is based on the amount currently required to replace the service capacity of an asset (often referred to as the “current replacement cost”).
The valuation technique (or a combination of valuation techniques) used to measure fair value is the one that is appropriate given the circumstances and for which sufficient data is available. Techniques must be consistently applied, but a change in the valuation technique is appropriate if new information is available.
Fair Value Hierarchy
SFAS 157 establishes a fair value hierarchy (“hierarchy”) to prioritize the inputs used in valuation techniques. The hierarchy is designed to indicate the relative reliability of the fair value measure. The highest priority is given to quoted prices in
active markets, and the lowest to unobservable data, such as an entity’s internal information. The lower the level of the input of a fair value measurement, the more extensive the disclosure requirements. There are three levels:
Level 1:
Quoted prices (unadjusted) are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reporting date. Level 1 includes cash equivalents that consist of money market funds.
Level 2:
Pricing inputs that are other than quoted prices in active markets included in Level 1, which are directly or indirectly observable as of the reporting date. This value is based on other observable inputs, including quoted prices for similar assets and
liabilities. Level 2 includes investments in our Millstone Decommissioning Trust Funds such as fixed income securities (Treasury securities, other agency and corporate debt) and equity securities.
Level 3:
Pricing inputs include significant inputs that are generally less observable. Unobservable inputs may be used to measure the asset or liability where observable inputs are not available. We develop these inputs based on the best information available,
including our own data. Level 3 recurring fair value measurements include derivatives related to our forward energy purchases and sales, financial transmission rights and a power-related option contract. There were no changes to our Level 3 fair value measurement methodologies during the reporting period.
Recurring Measures
The following table sets forth by level within the fair value hierarchy our financial assets and liabilities that are accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement
requires judgment, and may affect the valuation of the assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels (dollars in thousands):
|
|
Fair Value as of June 30, 2009
|
|
|
|
Level 1
|
|
|
Level 2
|
|
|
Level 3
|
|
|
Total
|
|
Assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Millstone decommissioning trust fund
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
4,327
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
4,327
|
|
Cash equivalents
|
|
|
5,343
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
5,343
|
|
Restricted cash
|
|
|
4,641
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
4,641
|
|
Power-related derivatives - current
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
8,439
|
|
|
$
|
8,439
|
|
Power-related derivatives - long term
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
9,984
|
|
|
$
|
4,327
|
|
|
$
|
8,439
|
|
|
$
|
22,750
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Power-related derivatives - current
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
Power-related derivatives - long term
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
4,780
|
|
|
|
4,780
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
4,780
|
|
|
$
|
4,780
|
|
|
|
Fair Value as of December 31, 2008
|
|
|
|
Level 1
|
|
|
Level 2
|
|
|
Level 3
|
|
|
Total
|
|
Assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Millstone decommissioning trust fund
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
4,203
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
4,203
|
|
Cash equivalents
|
|
|
5,028
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
5,028
|
|
Restricted cash
|
|
|
3,636
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
3,636
|
|
Power-related derivatives - current
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
12,758
|
|
|
|
12,758
|
|
Power-related derivatives - long term
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
133
|
|
|
|
133
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
8,664
|
|
|
$
|
4,203
|
|
|
$
|
12,891
|
|
|
$
|
25,758
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Power-related derivatives - current
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
2
|
|
|
$
|
2
|
|
Power-related derivatives - long term
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
4,069
|
|
|
|
4,069
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
4,071
|
|
|
$
|
4,071
|
|
Millstone Decommissioning Trust
Our primary valuation technique to measure the fair value of our nuclear decommissioning trust investments is the market approach. Actively traded quoted prices cannot be obtained for the funds in our decommissioning trusts. However,
actively traded quoted prices for the underlying securities comprising the funds have been obtained. Due to these observable inputs, fixed income, equity and cash equivalent securities in the funds are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.
Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
We use the market approach to measure the fair values of money market funds included in cash equivalents and restricted cash. Cash equivalents are included in cash and cash equivalents on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We are
able to obtain actively traded quoted prices for these funds.
Derivative Financial Instruments
We estimate fair values of power-related derivatives based on the best market information available, including the use of internally developed models and broker quotes for forward energy contracts. During interim periods, we use other models
and our own assumptions about future congestion costs for valuing the remaining portion of annual financial transmission rights (“FTRs”). We use auction clearing prices from the monthly auctions held by ISO New England for valuing our month-ahead FTRs. At the end of each year, we use ISO New England’s auction clearing prices to value all FTRs. We also use a binomial tree model and an internally developed long-term price forecast to value a power-related option
contract.
Level 3 Reconciliation for Recurring Fair Value Measurements
The following table is a reconciliation of changes in the net fair value of power-related derivatives that are classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. There were no transfers into or out of Level 3 during
the periods presented (dollars in thousands).
|
|
Three months ended June 30
|
|
|
Six months ended June 30
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
Power-related Derivatives, net
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at beginning of period
|
|
$
|
11,292
|
|
|
$
|
(11,426
|
)
|
|
$
|
8,820
|
|
|
$
|
(7,110
|
)
|
Gains and losses (realized and unrealized)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Included in earnings
|
|
|
8,805
|
|
|
|
(5,494
|
)
|
|
|
13,599
|
|
|
|
(6,043
|
)
|
Included in Regulatory and other assets/liabilities
|
|
|
(7,599
|
)
|
|
|
(2,552
|
)
|
|
|
(5,095
|
)
|
|
|
(6,848
|
)
|
Purchases, sales, issuances and net settlements
|
|
|
(8,839
|
)
|
|
|
5,567
|
|
|
|
(13,665
|
)
|
|
|
6,096
|
|
Balance as of June 30
|
|
$
|
3,659
|
|
|
$
|
(13,905
|
)
|
|
$
|
3,659
|
|
|
$
|
(13,905
|
)
|
During the second quarter and first six months of June 30, 2009 and 2008, there were no realized gains or losses included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses related to derivatives still held at the reporting date. This is due to our regulatory accounting treatment for all power-related derivatives.
Based on a PSB-approved Accounting Order, we record the change in fair value of power contract derivatives as deferred charges or deferred credits on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet, depending on whether the derivatives are assets or liabilities. For all derivative assets except FTRs, we record offsetting deferred credits
that represent unrealized gains. For FTR derivatives that are purchased from ISO New England in periodic auctions, we record the fair value as derivative assets or liabilities and we record a related account payable representing the amount to be paid for the FTR. The difference between the FTR’s fair value and the account payable balance is recorded as a deferred charge or deferred credit, which represents an unrealized loss or gain, respectively, on the FTR. For other derivative
liabilities, we record an offsetting deferred charge, which represents unrealized losses. Derivative fair values are recorded as current and long-term assets or liabilities depending on their duration. For additional information on power contract derivatives, see Note 8 - Power-Related Derivatives.
Non-Recurring Measures
Asset Retirement Obligations
On January 1, 2009 we adopted FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2,
Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157
(“FSP 157-2”). FSP
157-2 identifies certain non-recurring fair value measures that are subject to the reporting requirements of SFAS 157, including AROs. AROs are recognized for items that can be reasonably estimated such as asbestos removal, disposal of polychlorinated biphenyls in certain transformers and breakers, and mercury in batteries and certain meters. During the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2009, there were no fair value measurements relating to AROs.
NOTE 7 - INVESTMENT SECURITIES
Millstone Decommissioning Trust Fund
We have decommissioning trust fund investments related to our joint-ownership interest in Millstone Unit #3. The decommissioning trust fund was established pursuant to various federal and state guidelines. Among other requirements,
the fund is required to be managed by an independent and prudent fund manager. Any gains or losses, realized and unrealized, are expected to be refunded to or collected from ratepayers and are recorded as regulatory assets or liabilities in accordance with SFAS No. 71.
FASB Staff Position Nos. 115-1 and 124-1,
The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments,
state that an investment is impaired if the fair value of the investment is less than its cost and if management considers the impairment to be other-than-temporary.
We do not have the ability to hold individual equity securities in the trusts because regulatory authorities limit our ability to oversee the day-to-day management of our nuclear decommissioning trust fund investments. Therefore, we consider all equity securities held by our nuclear decommissioning trusts with fair value below their cost basis to be other-than-temporarily impaired. FSP FAS 115-2 and 124-2,
Recognition and Presentation of
Other-Than-Temporary Impairments
only requires impairment of debt securities if: 1) there is the intent to sell a debt security; 2) it is more likely than not that the security will be required to be sold prior to recovery; or 3) the entire unamortized cost of the security is not expected to be recovered. For the majority of the investments shown below, we own a share of the trust fund investments and do not hold individual securities.
The fair value of these investments is summarized below (dollars in thousands):
|
|
June 30, 2009
|
|
|
December 31, 2008
|
|
|
|
Amortized
|
|
|
Unrealized
|
|
|
Unrealized
|
|
|
Estimated
|
|
|
Amortized
|
|
|
Unrealized
|
|
|
Unrealized
|
|
|
Estimated
|
|
Security Types
|
|
Cost
|
|
|
Gains
|
|
|
Losses
|
|
|
Fair Value
|
|
|
Cost
|
|
|
Gains
|
|
|
Losses
|
|
|
Fair Value
|
|
Equity Securities
|
|
$
|
2,341
|
|
|
$
|
472
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
2,813
|
|
|
$
|
2,406
|
|
|
$
|
240
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
2,646
|
|
Debt Securities
|
|
|
1,419
|
|
|
|
70
|
|
|
|
(15
|
)
|
|
|
1,474
|
|
|
|
1,407
|
|
|
|
90
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
1,497
|
|
Cash and other
|
|
|
40
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
40
|
|
|
|
60
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
60
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
3,800
|
|
|
$
|
542
|
|
|
$
|
(15
|
)
|
|
$
|
4,327
|
|
|
$
|
3,873
|
|
|
$
|
330
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
4,203
|
|
Information related to the fair value of debt securities follows (dollars in thousands):
|
|
Fair value of debt securities at contractual maturity dates
|
|
|
|
Less than 1 year
|
|
|
1 to 5 years
|
|
|
5 to 10 years
|
|
|
After 10 years
|
|
|
Total
|
|
Debt Securities
|
|
$
|
13
|
|
|
$
|
284
|
|
|
$
|
315
|
|
|
$
|
862
|
|
|
$
|
1,474
|
|
NOTE 8 - POWER-RELATED DERIVATIVES
We are exposed to certain risks in managing our power supply resources to serve our customers, and we use derivative financial instruments to manage those risks. The primary risk managed by using derivative financial instruments is commodity price risk. Currently, our power supply forecast shows energy purchase and production
amounts in excess of our load requirements through 2011. Because of this projected power surplus, we have entered into forward power sale contracts to reduce price volatility of our net power costs. On occasion, we will forecast a temporary power supply shortage such as when Vermont Yankee becomes unavailable. We typically enter into short-term forward power purchase contracts to cover a portion of these expected power supply shortages, which helps to reduce price volatility in
our net power costs. Beginning in 2012, our power supply forecast shows that our load requirements will exceed our energy purchase and production amounts, as certain committed long-term power purchase contracts begin to expire.
Several years ago, we entered into a long-term purchased power contract that allows the seller to repurchase specified amounts of power with advance notice (“Hydro-Quebec Sellback #3”). In addition, we are able to economically hedge our exposure to congestion charges that result from constraints on the transmission system
with FTRs. FTRs are awarded to the successful bidders in periodic auctions administered by ISO New England. We do not use derivative financial instruments for trading or other purposes.
During the first quarter of 2009, we entered into one long-term forward power purchase contract for physical deliveries that are scheduled to occur between 2013 and 2015. This contract was considered a derivative at March 31, 2009. In the second quarter of 2009, we determined this contract met the requirements of a “normal”
purchase under FAS 133; therefore the derivative-related balances have been reversed at June 30, 2009.
Accounting for power-related derivatives is discussed in Note 1- Business Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Derivative Financial Instruments.
As of June 30, 2009, we had the following outstanding commodity forward contracts:
Commodity
|
mWh (000s)
|
Forward Energy Sales
|
220.0
|
Financial Transmission Rights
|
804.5
|
Hydro-Quebec Sellback #3
|
438.0
|
We recognized the following amounts in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income in connection with derivative financial instruments for the second quarter and first six months (dollars in thousands):
|
|
Three months ended June 30
|
|
|
Six months ended June 30
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
Net realized gains (losses) reported in operating revenues
|
|
$
|
8,845
|
|
|
$
|
(5,553
|
)
|
|
$
|
13,657
|
|
|
$
|
(6,058
|
)
|
Net realized gains (losses) reported in purchased power
|
|
$
|
(40
|
)
|
|
$
|
59
|
|
|
$
|
(58
|
)
|
|
$
|
15
|
|
For information on the location and amounts of derivative fair values on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets see Note 6 - Fair Value.
Certain of our power-related derivative instruments contain provisions for performance assurance that may include the posting of collateral in the form of cash or letters of credit, or other credit enhancements. Our counterparties will typically establish collateral thresholds that represent credit limits, and these credit limits
vary depending on our credit rating. If our current credit rating were to decline, certain counterparties could request immediate payment and full overnight ongoing collateralization on derivative instruments in net liability positions. We have no derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features that are in a liability position on June 30, 2009. For information concerning performance assurance, see Note 10 - Commitments and Contingencies - Performance Assurance.
NOTE 9 - PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT MEDICAL BENEFITS
The fair value of Pension Plan trust assets was $83.4 million at June 30, 2009 and $79.2 million at December 31, 2008. The unfunded accrued pension benefit obligation recorded on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets was $25.7 million at June 30, 2009 and $27.1 million at December 31, 2008.
The fair value of Postretirement Plan trust assets was $13.3 million at June 30, 2009 and $9.3 million at December 31, 2008. The unfunded accrued postretirement benefit obligation recorded on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets was $16.3 million at June 30, 2009, and $19.3 million at December 31, 2008.
In June 2009, we contributed $2.4 million to the pension trust fund and $3.8 million to the postretirement medical trust funds. We do not plan to make any additional contributions to these trust funds in 2009. In June 2008, we contributed $3.1 million to the pension trust fund and $3.1 million to the postretirement medical
trust funds.
Components of net periodic benefit costs follow (dollars in thousands):
Pension Benefits
|
|
Three months ended June 30
|
|
|
Six months ended June 30
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
Service cost
|
|
$
|
946
|
|
|
$
|
823
|
|
|
$
|
1,892
|
|
|
$
|
1,646
|
|
Interest cost
|
|
|
1,652
|
|
|
|
1,523
|
|
|
|
3,304
|
|
|
|
3,046
|
|
Expected return on plan assets
|
|
|
(2,077
|
)
|
|
|
(1,831
|
)
|
|
|
(4,154
|
)
|
|
|
(3,662
|
)
|
Amortization of net actuarial loss
|
|
|
86
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
172
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
Amortization of prior service cost
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
97
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
194
|
|
Net periodic benefit cost
|
|
|
607
|
|
|
|
612
|
|
|
|
1,214
|
|
|
|
1,224
|
|
Less amounts capitalized
|
|
|
72
|
|
|
|
100
|
|
|
|
140
|
|
|
|
188
|
|
Net benefit costs expensed
|
|
$
|
535
|
|
|
$
|
512
|
|
|
$
|
1,074
|
|
|
$
|
1,036
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Postretirement Benefits
|
|
Three months ended June 30
|
|
|
Six months ended June 30
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
|
2008
|
|
Service cost
|
|
$
|
178
|
|
|
$
|
155
|
|
|
$
|
356
|
|
|
$
|
310
|
|
Interest cost
|
|
|
428
|
|
|
|
403
|
|
|
|
856
|
|
|
|
806
|
|
Expected return on plan assets
|
|
|
(196
|
)
|
|
|
(267
|
)
|
|
|
(392
|
)
|
|
|
(534
|
)
|
Amortization of net actuarial loss
|
|
|
70
|
|
|
|
263
|
|
|
|
140
|
|
|
|
526
|
|
Amortization of transition (asset) obligation
|
|
|
379
|
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
|
758
|
|
|
|
128
|
|
Amortization of prior service cost
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
128
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
Net periodic benefit cost
|
|
|
923
|
|
|
|
618
|
|
|
|
1,846
|
|
|
|
1,236
|
|
Less amounts capitalized
|
|
|
110
|
|
|
|
101
|
|
|
|
212
|
|
|
|
190
|
|
Net benefit costs expensed
|
|
$
|
813
|
|
|
$
|
517
|
|
|
$
|
1,634
|
|
|
$
|
1,046
|
|
Investment Strategy
Our investment policy seeks to achieve sufficient growth to enable the plans to meet our future benefit obligations to participants, maintain certain funded ratios and minimize near-term cost volatility. Current guidelines specify generally that 61
percent of plan assets be invested in equity securities and 39 percent of plan assets be invested in fixed-income securities. The fixed-income assets are invested in longer-duration bonds to match changes in plan liabilities.
NOTE 10 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Long-Term Power Purchase Obligations
VYNPC:
In July 2002, VYNPC sold its nuclear plant to Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee, LLC (“Entergy-Vermont Yankee”). The
sale agreement included a purchase power contract (“PPA”) between VYNPC and Entergy-Vermont Yankee for generation at fixed rates.
We are purchasing our entitlement share of VYNPC’s plant output through the PPA. VYNPC’s entitlement to plant output is 83 percent and our percentage share of that output is 29 percent; our nominal entitlement is approximately 180 MW. We have one remaining secondary purchaser
that continues to receive less than 0.5 percent of our entitlement.
Entergy-Vermont Yankee has no obligation to supply energy to VYNPC over its entitlement share of plant output, so we receive reduced amounts when the plant is operating at a reduced level, and no energy when the plant is not operating. The plant normally shuts down for maintenance and refueling every 18 months. The
next scheduled refueling outage will be in the spring of 2010. Our total purchases from Vermont Yankee were $15.7 million in the second quarter and $31.4 million in the first six months of 2009 and $15.7 million in the second quarter and $31.6 million in the first six months of 2008.
We have a forced outage insurance policy to cover additional costs, if any, of obtaining replacement power from other sources if the Vermont Yankee plant experiences unplanned outages. The current policy covers March 22, 2009 through March 21, 2010. This outage insurance does not apply to reductions in production
levels at the plant (referred to as a “derate”) or acts of terrorism. The coverage applies to unplanned outages of up to 90 consecutive calendar days per outage event, and provides for payment of the difference between the spot market price and $42/mWh. The aggregate maximum coverage is $9 million with a $1.2 million deductible.
In July 2008, the Vermont Yankee plant experienced a 12-day derate, reaching a low of approximately 17 percent capacity during some of that time. The derate resulted from issues related to the plant’s cooling towers. The incremental cost of the replacement power that we purchased during that time was approximately
$1.1 million. We also lost approximately $1.1 million in resale sales revenue during that time. We were able to apply approximately $0.1 million as a reduction in purchased power expense from a regulatory liability established for the difference in the premium we paid for Vermont Yankee forced outage insurance and amounts currently collected in retail rates.
In the third quarter of 2007, the Vermont Yankee plant experienced a derate, after the collapse of a cooling tower at the plant, and a two-day unplanned outage associated with a valve failure. We purchased replacement energy adequate to meet most of our hourly load obligations during that period. The derate and unplanned
outage increased our net power costs by about $1.3 million in the third quarter of 2007 through increased purchased power expense and decreased operating revenues due to reduced resale sales. We were also able to apply $0.3 million as a reduction in purchased power expense from the regulatory liability.
We are considering whether to seek recovery of the incremental costs from Entergy-Vermont Yankee under the terms of the PPA based upon the results of certain reports, including a recent NRC inspection, in which the inspection team found that Entergy-Vermont Yankee, among other things, did not have sufficient design documentation available
to help it prevent problems with the cooling towers. The NRC released its findings on October 14, 2008. In considering whether to seek recovery, we are also reviewing the 2007 and 2008 root cause analysis reports by Entergy and a December 22, 2008 reliability assessment provided by the Nuclear Safety Associates to the State of Vermont. We cannot predict the outcome of this matter at this time.
The PPA between Entergy-Vermont Yankee and VYNPC contains a formula to determine the VYNPC power entitlement following a 20 percent uprate in 2006. VYNPC and Entergy-Vermont Yankee are seeking to resolve certain differences in the interpretation of the formula. At issue is how much capacity and energy VYNPC Sponsors receive
under the PPA following the uprate. Based on VYNPC’s calculations the VYNPC Sponsors should be entitled to slightly more capacity and energy than they are currently receiving under the PPA. We cannot predict the outcome of this matter at this time.
If the Vermont Yankee plant is shut down for any reason prior to the end of its operating license, we would lose the economic benefit of an energy volume equal to close to 50 percent of our total committed supply and have to acquire replacement power resources for approximately 40 percent of our estimated power supply needs. Based
on projected market prices as of June 30, 2009, the incremental replacement cost of lost power, including capacity, is estimated to average $33.5 million annually. We are not able to predict whether there will be an early shutdown of the Vermont Yankee plant. An early shutdown, depending upon the specific circumstances, could involve cost recovery via the outage insurance described above and recoveries under the PCAM but, in general, would not be expected to materially impact financial results.
Hydro-Quebec:
We are purchasing power from Hydro-Quebec under the Vermont Joint Owners (“VJO”) Power Contract. The VJO Power Contract has been in place since 1987 and purchases began in 1990. Related contracts were subsequently negotiated between us
and Hydro-Quebec, altering the terms and conditions contained in the original contract by reducing the overall power requirements and related costs. The VJO contract runs through 2020, but our purchases under the contract end in 2016. The average level of deliveries decreases by approximately 20 percent to 30 percent after 2012, and by approximately 85 percent after 2015. Our total purchases under the VJO contract were $15.2 million in the second quarter and $32.2 million
in the first six months of 2009 and $15.2 million in the second quarter and $31.6 million in the first six months of 2008.
Under the VJO Power Contract, the VJO had elections to change the annual load factor from 75 percent to between 70 and 80 percent five times through 2020, while Hydro-Quebec had elections to reduce the load factor to not less than 65 percent three times during the same period. Hydro-Quebec and the VJO have used all of their elections;
therefore, the annual load factor is 75 percent for the remainder of the contract, unless the contract is changed or there is a reduction due to the adverse hydraulic conditions described below.
In the early phase of the VJO Power Contract, two sellback contracts were negotiated, the first delaying the purchase of 25 MW of capacity and associated energy, the second reducing the net purchase of Hydro-Quebec power through 1996. In 1994, we negotiated a third sellback arrangement whereby we received a reduction in capacity costs from
1995 to 1999. In exchange, Hydro-Quebec obtained two options. The first gives Hydro-Quebec the right, upon four years’ written notice, to reduce capacity and associated energy deliveries by 50 MW, including the use of a like amount of our Phase I/II transmission facility rights. The second gives Hydro-Quebec the right, upon one year’s written notice, to curtail energy deliveries in a contract year (12 months beginning November 1) from an annual capacity factor of 75
to 50 percent due to adverse hydraulic conditions as measured at certain metering stations on unregulated rivers in Quebec. This second option can be exercised five times through October 2015. To date, Hydro-Quebec has not exercised these options. We have determined that the first option is a derivative, but the second is not because it is contingent upon a physical variable.
There are specific contractual provisions providing that in the event any VJO member fails to meet its obligation under the contract with Hydro-Quebec, the remaining VJO participants, will “step-up” to the defaulting party’s share on a pro-rata basis. As of June 30, 2009, our obligation is about 47 percent of the
total VJO Power Contract through 2016, and represents approximately $389.2 million, on a nominal basis.
In accordance with FASB Interpretation No. 45,
Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others
(“FIN 45”), we are required to disclose the “maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted)
the guarantor could be required to make under the guarantee.” Such disclosure is required even if the likelihood is remote. With regard to the “step-up” provision in the VJO Power Contract, we must assume that all members of the VJO simultaneously default in order to estimate the “maximum potential” amount of future payments. We believe this is a highly unlikely scenario given that the majority of VJO members are regulated utilities with regulated
cost recovery. Each VJO participant has received regulatory approval to recover the cost of this purchased power in their most recent rate applications. Despite the remote chance that such an event could occur, we estimate that our undiscounted purchase obligation would be an additional $455.6 million for the remainder of the contract, assuming that all members of the VJO defaulted by July 1, 2009 and remained in default for the duration of the contract. In such a scenario, we
would then own the power and could seek to recover our costs from the defaulting members or our retail customers, or resell the power in the wholesale power markets in New England. The range of outcomes (full cost recovery, potential loss or potential profit) would be highly dependent on Vermont regulation and wholesale market prices at the time.
Independent Power Producers:
We receive power from several Independent Power Producers (“IPPs”). These plants use water and biomass as fuel. Most of the power comes through a state-appointed purchasing agent that allocates power to all Vermont
utilities under PSB rules. Our total purchases from IPPs was $5.8 million in the second quarter and $11.7 million in the first six months of 2009 and $7.1 million in the second quarter and $15 million in the first six months of 2008.
Nuclear Decommissioning Obligations
We are obligated to pay our share of nuclear decommissioning costs for nuclear plants in which we have an ownership interest. We have an external trust dedicated to funding our joint-ownership share of future decommissioning costs. DNC
has suspended contributions to the Millstone Unit #3 Trust Fund because the minimum NRC funding requirements are being met or exceeded. We have also suspended contributions to the Trust Fund, but could choose to renew funding at our own discretion as long as the minimum requirement is met or exceeded. If a need for additional decommissioning funding becomes necessary, we will be obligated to resume contributions to the Trust Fund.
We have equity ownership interests in Maine Yankee, Connecticut Yankee and Yankee Atomic. These plants are permanently shut down. Our obligations related to these plants are described in Note 3 - Investments in Affiliates.
We had a 35 percent ownership interest in the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant but the plant was sold in 2002. VYNPC’s obligation for plant decommissioning costs ended when the plant was sold. Per PSB order at the time of the sale approval, excess decommissioning funds, if any, will be returned to VYNPC sponsors and must
be applied to the benefit of retail consumers. VYNPC retained responsibility for the pre-1983 spent fuel disposal cost liability. VYNPC has a dedicated Trust Fund that meets most of this spent fuel liability.
Performance Assurance
We are subject to performance assurance requirements through ISO-New England under the Financial Assurance Policy of the FERC-approved tariff for NEPOOL members. We are required to post collateral for all net purchased power transactions since our credit limit with
ISO-New England is zero. Additionally, we are currently selling power in the wholesale market pursuant to contracts with third parties, and are required to post collateral under certain conditions defined in the contracts.
At June 30, 2009, we had posted $6.8 million of collateral under performance assurance requirements for ISO-New England, of which $2.2 million was in cash and $4.6 million was represented by restricted cash. At December 31, 2008, we had posted $6.9 million of collateral under performance assurance requirements for certain power
contracts, of which $3.3 million was in cash and $3.6 million was represented by restricted cash.
We are also subject to performance assurance requirements under our Vermont Yankee power purchase contract (the 2001 Amendatory Agreement). If Entergy-Vermont Yankee, the seller, has commercially reasonable grounds to question our ability to pay for our monthly power purchases, Entergy-Vermont Yankee may ask VYNPC and VYNPC may
then ask us to provide adequate financial assurance of payment. We have not had to post collateral under this contract.
Operating leases
Prior to October 24, 2008, we leased our vehicles and related equipment under a single operating lease agreement. The individual leases under this agreement were mutually cancelable one year from lease inception. On November 14, 2008, we received
notification from the lessor that this operating lease agreement would be terminated. Under the terms of the lease, we will be required to terminate all agreements under this lease by November 14, 2009 and pay the unamortized value of the equipment upon termination either by purchasing the equipment or through the sale of the equipment to a third party. At June 30, 2009, the unamortized value was $7.2 million.
On October 24, 2008, we entered into a second operating lease for vehicles and other related equipment with a different lessor. The lease schedules under this agreement are non-cancellable. At the end of any lease term for vehicles or other equipment registered for highway use, the lessor is entitled to recover a termination
rental adjustment equal to 20 percent of the acquisition cost of the equipment. This payment can be recovered from us or through disposition of the equipment. In the case of disposition for less than 20 percent of the acquisition cost, our guarantee obligation is limited to 5 percent of the acquisition cost. Our maximum amount of future payments under this guarantee is approximately $0.1 million. The total future minimum lease payments required for all lease schedules
under the agreement at June 30, 2009 were $2.2 million. The maximum amount available for leases under this agreement is currently $4 million, of which $2.4 million was outstanding at June 30, 2009. At December 31, 2008, the maximum amount available for lease under this agreement was $4 million, of which $2.3 million was outstanding.
Other operating lease commitments are considered minimal, as most are cancelable one year after inception or the future minimum lease payments are nominal.
Environmental
Over
the years, more than 100 companies have merged into or been acquired by CVPS. At least two of those companies used coal to produce gas for retail sale. Gas manufacturers, their predecessors
and CVPS used waste disposal methods that were legal and acceptable then, but may not meet modern environmental standards and could represent a liability. These practices ended more than 50 years ago. Some operations and activities are inspected and supervised by federal and state authorities, including the Environmental Protection Agency. We believe that we are in compliance with all laws and regulations and have implemented procedures and controls to assess and assure compliance. Corrective
action is taken when necessary. Below is a brief discussion of the sites for which we have recorded reserves.
Cleveland Avenue Property
: The Cleveland Avenue property in Rutland, Vermont, was used by a predecessor to make gas from coal. Later, we sited various operations there. Due to the existence of coal tar deposits, polychlorinated biphenyl contamination and the potential
for off-site migration, we conducted studies in the late 1980s and early 1990s to quantify the potential costs to remediate the site. Investigation at the site has continued, including work with the State of Vermont to develop a mutually acceptable solution. We have reviewed our reserve for this site based on a 2006 cost estimate of remediation and determined that it is adequate. The liability for site remediation is expected to range from $0.9 million to $2.3 million. As
of June 30, 2009, we have accrued $1.1 million representing the most likely remaining cost of the remediation effort.
Brattleboro Manufactured Gas Facility
: In the 1940s, we owned and operated a manufactured gas facility in Brattleboro, Vermont. We ordered a site assessment in 1999 at the request of the State of New Hampshire. In 2001, New Hampshire indicated that no further
action was required, though it reserved the right to require further investigation or remedial measures. In 2002, the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources notified us that our corrective action plan for the site was approved. That plan is now in place. We have reviewed our reserve for this site based on a 2006 cost estimate of remediation and determined that it is adequate. The liability for site remediation is expected to range from $0.1 million to $1.3 million. As
of June 30, 2009, we have accrued $0.5 million representing the most likely remaining cost of the remediation effort.
Dover, New Hampshire, Manufactured Gas Facility:
In 1999, Public Service Company of New Hampshire (“PSNH”) contacted us about this site. PSNH alleged that we were partially liable for cleanup, since the site was previously operated by Twin State Gas and Electric,
which merged into CVPS on the same day that PSNH bought the facility. In 2002, we reached a settlement with PSNH in which certain liabilities we might have had were assigned to PSNH in return for a cash settlement paid by CVPS based on completion of PSNH’s cleanup effort. As of June 30, 2009, our remaining obligation was less than $0.1 million.
Reserve for Loss on Power Contract
On January 1, 2004, we terminated a long-term power contract with Connecticut Valley Electric Company, a regulated electric utility that used to be our wholly owned subsidiary. In accordance with the requirements of SFAS 5,
Accounting
for Contingencies
, we recorded a $14.4 million pre-tax loss accrual in the first quarter of 2004 related to the contract termination. The loss accrual represented our best estimate of the difference between expected future sales revenue in the wholesale market for the purchased power that was formerly sold to Connecticut Valley Electric Company and the net cost of purchased power obligations. We review this estimate at the end of each reporting period and will increase the reserve
if the revised estimate exceeds the recorded loss accrual. The loss accrual is being amortized on a straight-line basis through 2015, the estimated life of the power contracts that were in place to supply power under the contract. The reserve was $7.8 million at June 30, 2009 and $8.4 million at December 31, 2008. The current and long-term portions are included as liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Catamount Indemnifications
Under the terms of the agreements with Catamount and Diamond Castle, we agreed to indemnify them, and certain of their respective affiliates, in respect of a breach of certain representations and warranties and covenants, most of which ended June 30, 2007, except
certain items that customarily survive indefinitely. Indemnification is subject to a $1.5 million deductible and a $15 million cap, excluding certain customary items. Environmental representations are subject to the deductible and the cap, and such environmental representations for only two of Catamount’s underlying energy projects survived beyond June 30, 2007. Our estimated “maximum potential” amount of future payments related to these indemnifications is limited
to $15 million. We have not recorded any liability related to these indemnifications.
NOTE 11 - SEGMENT REPORTING
The following table provides segment financial data for the second quarter and first six months (dollars in thousands). Inter-segment revenues were a nominal amount in all periods presented.
|
|
|
|
|
Other
|
|
|
Reclassification &
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CV-VT
|
|
|
Companies
|
|
|
Consolidating Entries
|
|
|
Consolidated
|
|
Three Months Ended
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
June 30, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenues from external customers
|
|
$
|
82,627
|
|
|
$
|
433
|
|
|
$
|
(433
|
)
|
|
$
|
82,627
|
|
Net income
|
|
$
|
5,439
|
|
|
$
|
58
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
5,497
|
|
Total assets at June 30, 2009
|
|
$
|
615,364
|
|
|
$
|
2,041
|
|
|
$
|
(239
|
)
|
|
$
|
617,166
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
June 30, 2008
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenues from external customers
|
|
$
|
84,487
|
|
|
$
|
434
|
|
|
$
|
(434
|
)
|
|
$
|
84,487
|
|
Net income
|
|
$
|
3,939
|
|
|
$
|
62
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
4,001
|
|
Total assets at December 31, 2008
|
|
$
|
555,422
|
|
|
$
|
1,965
|
|
|
$
|
(242
|
)
|
|
$
|
557,145
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Six Months Ended
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
June 30, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenues from external customers
|
|
$
|
173,354
|
|
|
$
|
852
|
|
|
$
|
(852
|
)
|
|
$
|
173,354
|
|
Net income
|
|
$
|
12,256
|
|
|
$
|
113
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
12,369
|
|
Total assets at June 30, 2008
|
|
$
|
615,364
|
|
|
$
|
2,041
|
|
|
$
|
(239
|
)
|
|
$
|
617,166
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
June 30, 2008
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenues from external customers
|
|
$
|
175,711
|
|
|
$
|
866
|
|
|
$
|
(866
|
)
|
|
$
|
175,711
|
|
Net income
|
|
$
|
9,769
|
|
|
$
|
140
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
9,909
|
|
Total assets at December 31, 2008
|
|
$
|
555,422
|
|
|
$
|
1,965
|
|
|
$
|
(242
|
)
|
|
$
|
557,145
|
|
In this section we discuss our general financial condition and results of operations. Certain factors that may impact future operations are also discussed. Our discussion and analysis is based on, and should be read in conjunction with, the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The discussion below
also includes non-GAAP measures referencing earnings per diluted share for variances described below in Results of Operations. We use this measure to provide additional information and believe that this measurement is useful to investors to evaluate the actual performance and contribution of our business activities. This non-GAAP measure should not be considered as an alternative to our consolidated fully diluted earnings per share determined in accordance with GAAP as an indicator of our
operating performance.
Forward-looking statements -
Statements contained in this report that are not historical fact are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the ‘safe-harbor’ provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Whenever used in this report,
the words “estimate,” “expect,” “believe,” or similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve estimates, assumptions, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. Actual results will depend upon, among other things:
§
|
the actions of regulatory bodies with respect to allowed rates of return, continued recovery of regulatory assets and application of alternative regulation;
|
§
|
liquidity risks;
|
§
|
performance and continued operation of the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant;
|
§
|
changes in the cost or availability of capital;
|
§
|
our ability to replace or renegotiate our long-term power supply contracts;
|
§
|
effects of and changes in local, national and worldwide economic conditions;
|
§
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effects of and changes in weather;
|
§
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volatility in wholesale power markets;
|
§
|
our ability to maintain or improve our current credit ratings;
|
§
|
the operations of ISO-New England;
|
§
|
changes in financial or regulatory accounting principles or policies imposed by governing bodies;
|
§
|
capital market conditions, including price risk due to marketable securities held as investments in trust for nuclear decommissioning, pension and postretirement medical plans;
|
§
|
changes in the levels and timing of capital expenditures, including our discretionary future investments in Transco;
|
§
|
the performance of other parties, including Vermont utilities and Transco, in joint projects;
|
§
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our ability to successfully manage a number of projects involving new and evolving technology;
|
§
|
our ability to replace a mature workforce and retain qualified, skilled and experienced personnel; and
|
§
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other presently unknown or unforeseen factors.
|
We cannot predict the outcome of any of these matters; accordingly, there can be no assurance as to actual results. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Our core business is the Vermont electric utility business. The rates we charge for retail electricity sales are regulated by the Vermont Public Service Board (“PSB”). Fair regulatory treatment is fundamental to maintaining our financial stability. Rates must be set at levels to recover costs, including
a market rate of return to equity and debt holders, in order to attract capital. As discussed under the heading Retail Rates and Alternative Regulation below, the PSB approved the plan that we proposed in August 2007, with modifications. The implementation of this plan will provide more timely adjustments to power, operating and maintenance costs, which will better serve the interests of customers and shareholders.
Our consolidated earnings for the second quarter of 2009 were $5.5 million, or 46 cents per diluted share of common stock, and $12.4 million, or $1.04 per diluted share of common stock, for the first six months. This compares to consolidated earnings of $4 million, or 38 cents per diluted share of common stock, for the second quarter
and $9.9 million, or 94 cents per diluted share of common stock, for the first six months of 2008. The primary drivers of the year-over-year earnings variance for the second quarter and first six months are described in Results of Operations below.
We continue to focus on key strategic financial initiatives including: restoring our corporate credit rating to investment-grade; ensuring that our retail rates are set at levels to recover our costs of service; evaluating financing options to support current and future working capital needs; planning for replacement power when long-term power
contracts begin to expire in 2012; working to support the governor’s e-state initiative, which includes both broadband and smart grid components; and implementing our asset management plan to ensure we continue to provide safe, reliable service to our customers at the lowest possible cost.
RETAIL RATES AND ALTERNATIVE REGULATION
Retail Rates
Our retail rates are approved by the PSB after considering the recommendations of Vermont’s consumer advocate, the Vermont Department of Public Service (“DPS”). Fair regulatory treatment is fundamental to maintaining our financial stability. Rates
must be set at levels to recover costs, including a market rate of return to equity and debt holders, in order to attract capital. The return on common equity of our regulated business did not exceed the allowed return for 2008.
On September 30, 2008, the PSB issued an order approving, with modifications, the alternative regulation plan proposal that we submitted in August 2007. The plan became effective on November 1, 2008. It expires on December 31, 2011, but we have an option to petition for an extension beyond 2011. The plan replaces
the traditional ratemaking process and allows for quarterly rate adjustments to reflect changes in power supply and transmission-by-others costs (“PCAM adjustment”); annual base rate adjustments to reflect changing costs; and annual rate adjustments to reflect changes, within predetermined limits, from the allowed earnings level. Under the plan, the allowed return on equity will be adjusted annually to reflect one-half of the change in the yield on the 10-year Treasury note as measured
over the last 20 trading days prior to October 15 of each year. The earnings sharing adjustment mechanism (“ESAM”) within the plan provides for the return on equity of the regulated portion of our business to fall between 75 basis points above or below the allowed return on equity before any adjustment is made. If the actual return on equity of the regulated portion of our business exceeds 75 basis points above the allowed return, the excess amount is returned to ratepayers in
a future period. If the actual return on equity of our regulated business falls between 75 and 100 basis points below the allowed return on equity, the shortfall is shared equally between shareholders and ratepayers. Any earnings shortfall in excess of 100 basis points below the allowed return on equity is recovered from ratepayers. These adjustments are made at the end of each fiscal year.
The PCAM adjustment and the ESAM are not subject to PSB suspension, but the PSB may open an investigation and, to the extent it finds, after notice and hearing, that the calculation was inaccurate or reflects costs inappropriate for inclusion in rates, it may require a modification of the associated adjustments to the extent necessary to correct
the deficiencies.
On October 31, 2008, we submitted a base rate filing for the rate year commencing January 1, 2009 that reflected a 0.33 percent increase in retail rates. The result of the return on equity adjustment for 2009, in accordance with the plan, was a reduction of 0.44 percent, resulting in an allowed return on equity for 2009 of 9.77
percent. On November 17, 2008, the DPS filed a request for suspension and investigation of our filing. Citing concerns about staffing levels and inadequate supporting documentation for some proposed plant additions, the DPS recommended a 0.43 percent rate decrease.
On December 17, 2008, we filed a Memorandum of Understanding with the PSB setting forth agreements that we reached with the DPS regarding the PSB’s investigation into our 2009 retail rates. Pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding, we agreed to leave rates unchanged, with no increase or decrease, and that we and the DPS
would request the PSB to open a docket to resolve the DPS’s concerns regarding our level of staffing. On February 13, 2009, the PSB approved the Memorandum of Understanding, and ordered the rate investigation closed.
On February 2, 2009, we filed a motion with the PSB requesting to defer the incremental 2008 storm costs through our alternative regulation plan and collect through the ESAM over 12 months beginning on July 1, 2009. On February 3, 2009, the DPS filed a letter supporting our motion and on February 12, 2009,
the PSB approved the request. The amount of the deferral, based on actual costs, was $3.2 million.
On May 1, 2009, we filed an ESAM report, including supporting documentation, with the PSB, requesting that rates be increased 1.15 percent for 12 months beginning with bills rendered July 1, 2009 to recover the $3.2 million of incremental 2008 storm costs. On June 15, 2009, the DPS recommended that the ESAM report be approved
as filed. On June 30, 2009, the PSB accepted the DPS recommendation and approved the filing. The rate increase has been implemented as proposed.
The first quarter 2009 PCAM adjustment was calculated to be an over-collection of $0.6 million and is recorded as a current liability. On May 1, 2009, we filed a PCAM report, including supporting documentation, with the PSB, outlining the over-collection. On June 15, 2009, the DPS recommended the PCAM report be approved
as filed. On June 30, 2009, the PSB accepted the DPS recommendation and approved the filing. The over-collection is being returned to customers over three months beginning July 1, 2009.
The second quarter 2009 PCAM adjustment was calculated to be an over collection of $0.5 million and is recorded as a current liability at June 30, 2009. On July 30, 2009, we filed a PCAM report, including supporting documentation, with the PSB, outlining the over-collection. The over-collection will be returned to customers
over three months beginning October 1, 2009.
On February 13, 2009, the PSB opened an investigation into the staffing levels of the company as requested by us and the DPS. On March 25, 2009, the PSB convened a prehearing conference where we and the DPS agreed to a procedural schedule. We and the DPS further agreed that the scope of the technical hearings could be narrowed to
devising a methodology for deriving productivity measures that would be tracked over time. The parties do not agree, however, as to what the substantive elements of that tracking methodology should be. Accordingly, the PSB ordered that the purpose of hearings in this proceeding will be to resolve this disagreement about the makeup of the productivity tracking methodology. Technical hearings were held in June 2009 and legal briefs were filed in July 2009. We anticipate an order from the PSB in
sufficient time to reflect any implementation effects in the 2010 cost of service. We cannot predict the outcome of the docket at this time.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Cash Flows
At June 30, 2009, we had cash and cash equivalents of $8.9 million compared to $6.6 million at June 30, 2008. The primary components of cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities for both periods are discussed in more detail below.
Operating Activities:
Operating activities provided $20.5 million in the first six months of 2009. Net income, when adjusted for depreciation, amortization, deferred income tax and other non-cash income and expense items, provided $25.4 million. This included $5.3 million
of distributions received from affiliates, most materially from our investments in Transco. Changes in working capital and other items used $4.9 million, including $6.2 million of pension and postretirement medical trust fund contributions, $5.7 million of interest payments and $3.2 million of income tax payments. These working capital items were partially offset by $6.5 million of income tax refunds received in the first quarter.
During the first six months of 2008, operating activities provided $15.9 million. Net income, when adjusted for depreciation, amortization, deferred income tax and other non-cash income and expense items, provided $18.8 million. This included $4.9 million of distributions received from affiliates, most materially from
our investments in Transco. Changes in working capital and other items provided $2.9 million. This was primarily due to $7.2 million of employee benefit funding, including $6.2 million of pension and postretirement medical trust fund contributions, $1.2 million of income tax payments and $4.7 million of interest payments.
Investing Activities:
Investing activities used $13.2 million in the first six months of 2009, including $12.9 million of construction and plant expenditures and $0.3 million for other investing activities. During the first six months of 2008, investing activities used
$15.7 million for construction and plant expenditures and $0.1 million for other investments.
Financing Activities:
In the first six months of 2009, financing activities used $5.1 million, including $5.5 million for dividends paid on common and preferred stock, $1 million for preferred stock sinking fund payments, and $0.6 million for capital lease payments and other financing
activities. These items were partially offset by $1 million from exercised stock options and the dividend reinvestment program and a $1 million reduction in special deposits for preferred stock sinking fund payments.
During the first six months of 2008, financing activities provided $2.7 million, including $60 million from proceeds of the issuance of first mortgage bonds, $1.5 million from stock option exercises, and a $1 million reduction in special deposits for preferred stock sinking fund payments. These items were partially offset by $53
million to repay notes payable, $4.9 million for dividends paid on common and preferred stock, $1 million for preferred stock sinking fund payments, $0.7 million for debt issuance costs, and $0.2 million for other financing activities.
Financing
Credit Facility:
We have a three-year, $40 million unsecured revolving credit facility with a lending institution pursuant to a credit agreement dated November 3, 2008. Our obligation under the credit agreement
is guaranteed by our wholly owned, unregulated subsidiaries, C.V. Realty and CRC. The purpose of the facility is to provide liquidity for general corporate purposes, including working capital needs and power contract performance assurance requirements, in the form of funds borrowed and letters of credit. At June 30, 2009, there were no borrowings or letters of credit outstanding under the credit facility.
Refinancing Plans:
We are currently reviewing options to support working capital needs resulting from investments in our distribution and transmission system.
Covenants:
At June 30, 2009, we were in compliance with all financial covenants related to our various debt agreements, articles of association, letters of credit and credit facility. A significant reduction in future earnings or a significant reduction to common equity could
restrict the payment of common and preferred dividends or could cause us to violate our maintenance covenants. If we were to default on our covenants, the lenders could take such actions as terminate their obligations, declare all amounts outstanding or due immediately payable, or take possession of or foreclose on mortgaged property.
Investment opportunities in Transco
Based on current projections, Transco expects to receive additional capital in 2009, 2010 and 2011, but its projections are subject to change based on a number of factors, including revised construction estimates, timing of project approvals from regulators,
and desired changes in its equity-to-debt ratio. While we have no obligation to make additional investments in Transco, which are subject to available capital and appropriate regulatory approvals, we continue to evaluate investment opportunities on a case-by-case basis. Based on Transco’s current projections, we could have an opportunity to make additional investments of up to $21 million in 2009, $43.5 million in 2010 and $12 million in 2011, but the timing and amount depend on the
factors discussed above and the amounts invested by other owners.
Capital spending
We expect to invest approximately $30 million to $35 million in 2009 primarily in our transmission and distribution infrastructure to ensure continued system reliability. This compares to capital expenditures of $36.8 million in 2008. These estimates
are subject to continuing review and adjustment, and actual capital expenditures and timing may vary. As of June 30, 2009 capital expenditures were $12.9 million.
Performance Assurance
We are subject to performance assurance requirements through ISO-New England under the Financial Assurance Policy of the FERC-approved tariff for NEPOOL members. We are required to post collateral for all net purchased power transactions since our credit
limit with ISO-New England is zero. Additionally, we are currently selling power in the wholesale market pursuant to contracts with third parties, and are required to post collateral under certain conditions defined in the contracts.
At June 30, 2009, we had posted $6.8 million of collateral under performance assurance requirements for ISO-New England, of which $2.2 million was in cash and $4.6 million was represented by restricted cash. At December 31, 2008, we had posted $6.9 million of collateral under performance assurance requirements for certain power
contracts, of which $3.3 million was in cash and $3.6 million was represented by restricted cash.
We are also subject to performance assurance requirements under our Vermont Yankee power purchase contract (the 2001 Amendatory Agreement). If Entergy-Vermont Yankee, the seller, has commercially reasonable grounds to question our ability to pay for our monthly power purchases, Entergy-Vermont Yankee may ask VYNPC and VYNPC may
then ask us to provide adequate financial assurance of payment. We have not had to post collateral under this contract.
Cash flow risks
Based on our current cash forecasts, we will require outside capital in addition to cash flow from operations and our $40 million unsecured revolving credit facility in order to fund our business over the next few years. Continued upheaval in the capital markets
could negatively impact our ability to obtain outside capital on reasonable terms. If we were ever unable to obtain needed capital, we would re-evaluate and prioritize our planned capital expenditures and operating activities. In addition, an extended unplanned Vermont Yankee plant outage or similar event could significantly impact our liquidity due to the potentially high cost of replacement power and performance assurance requirements arising from purchases through ISO-New England or third
parties. An extended Vermont Yankee plant outage could involve cost recovery via our forced outage insurance policy and recoveries under the PCAM but in general would not be expected to materially impact our financial results. Other material risks to cash flow from operations include: loss of retail sales revenue from unusual weather; slower-than-anticipated load growth and unfavorable economic conditions; increases in net power costs largely due to lower-than-anticipated margins on sales
revenue from excess power or an unexpected power source interruption; required prepayments for power purchases; and increases in performance assurance requirements. See Retail Rates and Alternative Regulation above for additional information related to mechanisms designed to mitigate utility-related risks.
Off-balance-sheet arrangements
We do not use off-balance-sheet financing arrangements, such as securitization of receivables, nor obtain access to assets through special purpose entities.
Prior to October 24, 2008, we leased our vehicles and related equipment under a single operating lease agreement. The individual leases under this agreement were mutually cancelable one year from lease inception. On November 14, 2008, we received notification from the lessor that this operating lease agreement would be terminated. Under
the terms of the lease, we will be required to terminate all agreements under this lease by November 14, 2009 and pay the unamortized value of the equipment upon termination either by purchasing the equipment or through the sale of the equipment to a third party. At June 30, 2009, the unamortized value is $7.2 million.
On October 24, 2008, we entered into a second operating lease for vehicles and other related equipment with a different lessor. The lease schedules under this agreement are non-cancellable. At the end of any lease term, the lessor is entitled to recover a termination rental adjustment equal to 20 percent of the acquisition
cost of the equipment. This payment can be recovered from us or through disposition of the equipment. In the case of disposition for less than 20 percent of the acquisition cost, our guarantee obligation is limited to 5 percent of the acquisition cost. If the entire lease portfolio guarantee had a fair value of zero at June 30, 2009, we would have been responsible for a maximum reimbursement of $2.2 million.
Global Economic Crisis
Due to the global economic crisis, there has been a significant decline in lending activity. We expect to have access to liquidity in the capital markets when needed at reasonable rates. We also have access to a $40 million unsecured revolving
credit facility. However, sustained turbulence in the global credit markets could limit or delay our access to capital. As part of our enterprise risk management program, we routinely monitor our risks by reviewing our investments in and exposure to various firms and financial institutions.
ACCOUNTING MATTERS
Critical accounting policies and estimates
Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, requiring us to make estimates and judgments that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets
and liabilities at the date of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Our critical accounting policies and estimates are described in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Other
See Note 1 - Business Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for a discussion of recently adopted accounting pronouncements and recent accounting pronouncements not yet adopted.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following is a detailed discussion of the results of operations for the second quarter and first six months of 2009 compared to the same period in 2008. It should be read in conjunction with the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes included in this report.
Overview
Our second quarter 2009 earnings increased by $1.5 million, or 8 cents per diluted share of common stock, compared to the same period in 2008. Earnings for the first six months of 2009 increased by $2.5 million, or 10 cents per diluted share of common stock, compared
to the same period in 2008. The table below provides a reconciliation of the primary year-over-year variances in diluted earnings per share. The earnings per diluted share for each variance shown below are non-GAAP measures:
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|
Second Quarter
|
|
|
First Six Months
|
|
|
|
2009 vs. 2008
|
|
|
2009 vs. 2008
|
|
2008 Earnings per diluted share
|
|
$
|
0.38
|
|
|
$
|
0.94
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year-over-Year Effects on Earnings:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lower purchased power expense
|
|
|
0.16
|
|
|
|
0.23
|
|
Higher equity in earnings of affiliates
|
|
|
0.02
|
|
|
|
0.04
|
|
Lower other operating expenses
|
|
|
(0.01
|
)
|
|
|
0.03
|
|
Lower operating revenues
|
|
|
(0.10
|
)
|
|
|
(0.13
|
)
|
Common stock issuance (Nov. 2008) - 1,190,000 additional shares
|
|
|
(0.05
|
)
|
|
|
(0.12
|
)
|
Higher transmission expense
|
|
|
(0.01
|
)
|
|
|
(0.03
|
)
|
Other
|
|
|
0.07
|
|
|
|
0.08
|
|
2009 Earnings per diluted share
|
|
$
|
0.46
|
|
|
$
|
1.04
|
|
Note: The additional shares from the November 2008 stock issuance were excluded from the 11,684,149 average shares of common stock - diluted for the second quarter and the 11,669,823 average shares of common stock - diluted for the first six months, for the purposes of computing the individual EPS variances shown above in order
to provide comparable information for 2009 vs. 2008.
Operating Revenues
Operating revenues and related mWh sales are summarized below.
|
|
Three months ended June 30
|
|
|
Six months ended June 30
|
|
|
|
Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenues
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in thousands)
|
|
|
mWh Sales
|
|
|
(in thousands)
|
|
|
mWh Sales
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
Residential
|
|
$
|
30,736
|
|
|
$
|
31,190
|
|
|
|
213,622
|
|
|
|
218,134
|
|
|
$
|
69,702
|
|
|
$
|
69,702
|
|
|
|
497,716
|
|
|
|
499,129
|
|
Commercial
|
|
|
24,703
|
|
|
|
26,051
|
|
|
|
193,596
|
|
|
|
206,747
|
|
|
|
50,540
|
|
|
|
52,850
|
|
|
|
402,629
|
|
|
|
426,498
|
|
Industrial
|
|
|
7,476
|
|
|
|
7,865
|
|
|
|
85,622
|
|
|
|
91,862
|
|
|
|
16,286
|
|
|
|
17,495
|
|
|
|
181,902
|
|
|
|
196,787
|
|
Other
|
|
|
467
|
|
|
|
467
|
|
|
|
1,590
|
|
|
|
1,579
|
|
|
|
937
|
|
|
|
932
|
|
|
|
3,176
|
|
|
|
3,149
|
|
Total retail sales
|
|
|
63,382
|
|
|
|
65,573
|
|
|
|
494,430
|
|
|
|
518,322
|
|
|
|
137,465
|
|
|
|
140,979
|
|
|
|
1,085,423
|
|
|
|
1,125,563
|
|
Resale sales
|
|
|
17,131
|
|
|
|
16,177
|
|
|
|
244,586
|
|
|
|
230,655
|
|
|
|
31,064
|
|
|
|
29,679
|
|
|
|
448,434
|
|
|
|
435,792
|
|
Provision for rate refund
|
|
|
(1,101
|
)
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
(1,101
|
)
|
|
|
(62
|
)
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Other operating revenues
|
|
|
3,215
|
|
|
|
2,737
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
5,926
|
|
|
|
5,115
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Total operating revenues
|
|
$
|
82,627
|
|
|
$
|
84,487
|
|
|
|
739,016
|
|
|
|
748,977
|
|
|
$
|
173,354
|
|
|
$
|
175,711
|
|
|
|
1,533,857
|
|
|
|
1,561,355
|
|
Operating revenues decreased $1.9 million in the second quarter and $2.3 million in the first six months of 2009 as compared to 2008 due to the following:
|
§
|
|
Retail sales decreased $2.2 million in the second quarter and $3.5 million in the first six months. Lower sales volume decreased revenue by $2.8 million in the second quarter and $4.5 million in the first six months, partly offset by higher average retail rates of $0.6 million in the second quarter and $1 million in the first six
months. Sales volume decreased due to lower average usage by commercial and industrial customers resulting from economic conditions.
|
|
§
|
|
Resale sales increased $0.9 million in the second quarter and $1.4 million in the first six months as a result of higher sales volume. Lower market rates offset some of the positive volume impact.
|
|
§
|
|
In 2009, the provision for rate refund is related to an over-collection of $1.1 million of power, production and transmission costs as defined by the power adjustment clause of our alternative regulation plan.
|
|
§
|
|
Other operating revenues increased $0.5 million in the second quarter and $0.8 million in the first six months from sales of additional transmission capacity from our share of Phase I/II transmission facility rights, an increase in wholesale transmission rates and the sale of renewable energy credits. We began selling transmission
capacity in April 2007, and we have the ability to restrict the amount of capacity assigned to the purchasers based on certain conditions. Revenue from these sales is estimated to be approximately $1.8 million annually in 2009 and 2010.
|
Operating Expenses
Operating expenses decreased $2.4 million in the second quarter and $3.1 million in the first six months of 2009 as compared to 2008. Significant variances in operating expenses on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income are described below.
Purchased Power
: Purchased power expense and volume are summarized below:
|
|
Three months ended June 30
|
|
|
Six months ended June 30
|
|
|
|
Purchases
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Purchases
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(in thousands)
|
|
|
mWh purchases
|
|
|
(in thousands)
|
|
|
mWh purchases
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
2009
|
|
|
2008
|
|
VYNPC
|
|
$
|
15,709
|
|
|
$
|
15,721
|
|
|
|
383,062
|
|
|
|
377,349
|
|
|
$
|
31,442
|
|
|
$
|
31,621
|
|
|
|
769,773
|
|
|
|
770,921
|
|
Hydro-Quebec
|
|
|
15,155
|
|
|
|
15,217
|
|
|
|
207,971
|
|
|
|
212,605
|
|
|
|
32,214
|
|
|
|
31,637
|
|
|
|
476,133
|
|
|
|
463,694
|
|
Independent Power Producers
|
|
|
5,763
|
|
|
|
7,137
|
|
|
|
54,887
|
|
|
|
54,926
|
|
|
|
11,672
|
|
|
|
15,041
|
|
|
|
102,839
|
|
|
|
111,232
|
|
Subtotal long-term contracts
|
|
|
36,627
|
|
|
|
38,075
|
|
|
|
645,920
|
|
|
|
644,880
|
|
|
|
75,328
|
|
|
|
78,299
|
|
|
|
1,348,745
|
|
|
|
1,345,847
|
|
Other purchases
|
|
|
1,812
|
|
|
|
2,992
|
|
|
|
14,039
|
|
|
|
22,572
|
|
|
|
4,192
|
|
|
|
4,736
|
|
|
|
27,442
|
|
|
|
39,098
|
|
SFAS No. 5 Loss amortizations
|
|
|
(299
|
)
|
|
|
(299
|
)
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
(598
|
)
|
|
|
(598
|
)
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Nuclear decommissioning
|
|
|
325
|
|
|
|
549
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
654
|
|
|
|
1,117
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Other
|
|
|
140
|
|
|
|
(35
|
)
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
639
|
|
|
|
634
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Total purchased power
|
|
$
|
38,605
|
|
|
$
|
41,282
|
|
|
|
659,959
|
|
|
|
667,452
|
|
|
$
|
80,215
|
|
|
$
|
84,188
|
|
|
|
1,376,187
|
|
|
|
1,384,945
|
|
Purchased power decreased $2.7 million in the second quarter and $4 million in the first six months of 2009 compared to the same period in 2008 as a result of the following:
|
§
|
|
Purchases under long-term contracts decreased $1.4 million in the second quarter and $3 million in the first six months largely due to the November 2008 expiration of one Independent Power Producer (“IPP”) contract, resulting in fewer required IPP purchases at lower prices and lower output from VYNPC. In the first six
months, the decrease also included lower capacity cost and output from VYNPC offset by increased deliveries from Hydro-Quebec.
|
|
§
|
|
Other purchases decreased $1.2 million in the second quarter and $0.5 million in the first six months resulting from lower average prices.
|
|
§
|
|
Nuclear decommissioning costs decreased $0.2 million in the first quarter and $0.5 million in the first six months. These costs are based on FERC-approved tariffs that allow Maine Yankee, Connecticut Yankee and Yankee Atomic to recover costs from sponsors and are based on our ownership interest.
|
Transmission - affiliates:
These expenses represent our share of the net cost of service of Transco and some direct charges for facilities that we rent. Transco allocates its monthly cost of service through the Vermont Transmission Agreement (“VTA”), net of NEPOOL
Open Access Transmission Tariff (“NOATT”) reimbursements and certain direct charges. The NOATT is the mechanism through which the costs of New England’s high-voltage transmission facilities are collected from load-serving entities using the system and redistributed to the owners of the facilities, including Transco. Our affiliate transmission expenses decreased $1.1 million in the second quarter and $2 million in the first six months due to higher NOATT reimbursements,
partially offset by higher charges under the VTA resulting from Transco’s capital projects.
Transmission - other:
The majority of these expenses are for purchases of regional transmission service under the NOATT and charges for the Phase I and II transmission facilities. The increase of $1.2 million for the second quarter and $2.4 million in the first
six months primarily resulted from higher rates and overall transmission expansion in New England.
Maintenance:
These expenses are associated with maintaining our electric distribution system and include costs of our jointly owned generating and transmission facilities. Maintenance expenses decreased $0.9 million in the second quarter and $2.6 million in the
first six months, principally due to lower service restoration costs since we had major storms in 2008 and none in 2009, and a decrease in tree trimming due to the timing of contractor work.
Income tax expense (benefit):
Federal and state income taxes fluctuate with the level of pre-tax earnings in relation to permanent differences, tax credits, tax settlements and changes in valuation allowances for the periods discussed herein.
Other Income
Significant variances in income statement line items that comprise other income on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income are described below.
Equity in earnings of affiliates:
These earnings are related to our equity investments including VELCO, Transco and VYNPC. The increase of $0.4 million in the second quarter and $0.7 million in the first six months is principally from increased earnings resulting
from an additional $3.1 million investment we made in Transco in December 2008.
Other deductions:
These items include supplemental retirement benefits and insurance, including changes in the cash surrender value of life insurance policies, non-utility expenses relating to rental water heaters, and miscellaneous other deductions. Other
deductions decreased $0.7 million in the second quarter and $1.3 million in the first six months, resulting from market gains on the cash surrender value of life insurance policies included in our Rabbi Trust.
Income tax expense:
Federal and state income taxes fluctuate with the level of pre-tax earnings in relation to permanent differences, tax credits, tax settlements and changes in valuation allowances for the periods discussed herein.
Interest Expense
Significant variances in income statement line items that comprise interest expense on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income are described below.
Interest on long-term debt
: These expenses increased $0.6 million in the second quarter and $1.5 million in the first six months largely due to the $60 million first mortgage bonds issued in May 2008.
Other interest:
These expenses decreased $0.5 million in the second quarter and $1.2 million in the first six months of 2009 as a result of a bridge loan that was repaid in May 2008 from proceeds of a long-term debt issue.
POWER SUPPLY MATTERS
Power Supply Management
Our power supply portfolio includes a mix of baseload and dispatchable resources. These sources are used to serve our retail electric load requirements plus any wholesale obligations into which we enter. We manage our power supply portfolio
by attempting to optimize the use of these resources, and through wholesale sales and purchases to maintain a balance between our power supplies and load obligations.
Our power supply management aims to minimize costs consistent with conservative levels of risk to our liquidity. Risk mitigation strategies are built around minimizing both forward price risks and operational risks while strictly limiting potential collateral exposure to our liquid assets. Other risks are mitigated by
the power and transmission cost recovery process contained in our Alternative Regulation Plan’s PCAM (see Retail Rates and Alternative Regulation). We also mitigate cost risks through limited wholesale transactions that hedge market price risk, as discussed below. In addition, we have insured against major outage cost exposure if the Vermont Yankee plant experiences unplanned outages and is unable to deliver energy under the current PPA with Entergy-Vermont Yankee.
Our current power forecast suggests we have excess supply through 2011. We attempt to sell much of this excess energy in the forward market at fixed prices in order to reduce market price volatility and revenue volatility while remaining strictly within potential collateral exposure limits. During 2008, we entered into
several forward sale contracts to hedge revenues for the majority of our forecasted excess power for 2009. These transactions are settled physically and financially. Financial transactions produce essentially the same fixed-price results as physical sales while reducing potential collateral requirements to ISO-New England. Our current corporate credit rating effectively limits the number of counterparties we can transact with, and requires that we constrain net transaction volumes
with individual counterparties to mitigate potential collateral exposures during stressed market conditions.
The operation of the Vermont Yankee plant can significantly impact our
net
power costs (power costs minus resale revenue) and represents our main supply risk. Hourly market prices have historically been higher than the Vermont Yankee contract price so increased plant output
can favorably affect net power costs by displacing higher-priced short-term purchases and increasing opportunities for resale sales. Decreased plant output can unfavorably affect net power costs by increasing higher-priced short-term purchases and decreasing opportunities for resale sales. To help address the risk of a Vermont Yankee plant outage, we purchased a forced outage insurance policy to cover additional costs of replacing lost energy if the Vermont Yankee plant experiences unplanned
outages and market prices exceed $42/MWh (“Strike Price”). The current insurance policy is effective from March 22, 2009 through March 21, 2010 and covers unplanned outages of up to 90 consecutive calendar days per outage event, excluding acts of terrorism or “derates” (partial reductions in production levels). Claims made under the insurance policy will pay the positive difference between the hourly spot market price and the Strike Price. The aggregate maximum coverage
is $9 million with a $1.2 million deductible.
In July 2008, the Vermont Yankee plant experienced a 12-day derate, reaching a low of approximately 17 percent capacity during some of that time. The derate resulted from issues related to the plant’s cooling towers. The incremental cost of the replacement power that we purchased during that time was approximately
$1.1 million. We also lost approximately $1.1 million in resale sales revenue during that time. We were able to apply approximately $0.1 million as a reduction in purchased power expense from a regulatory liability established for the difference in the premium we paid for Vermont Yankee forced outage insurance and amounts currently collected in retail rates.
In the third quarter of 2007, the Vermont Yankee plant experienced a derate, after the collapse of a cooling tower at the plant, and a two-day unplanned outage associated with a valve failure. We purchased replacement energy adequate to meet most of our hourly load obligations during that period. The derate and unplanned
outage increased our net power costs by about $1.3 million in the third quarter of 2007 through increased purchased power expense and decreased operating revenues due to reduced resale sales. We were also able to apply $0.3 million as reduction in purchased power expense from the regulatory liability.
We are considering whether to seek recovery of the incremental costs from Entergy-Vermont Yankee under the terms of the PPA based upon the results of certain reports, including a recent NRC inspection, in which the inspection team found that Entergy-Vermont Yankee, did not, among other things, have sufficient design documentation available
to help it prevent problems with the cooling towers. The NRC released its findings on October 14, 2008. In considering whether to seek recovery, we are also reviewing the 2007 and 2008 root cause analysis reports by Entergy as well as the December 22, 2008 reliability assessment provided by the Nuclear Safety Associates to the State of Vermont. We cannot predict the outcome of this matter at this time.
Future Power Supply
Long-term contracts with Vermont Yankee and Hydro-Quebec provide about two-thirds of our current power supply. There is a risk that future sources available to replace these contracts may be less reliable and impose significantly higher prices than currently
portfolio resources. These contracts are described in more detail in Note 10 - Commitments and Contingencies.
Our contract for power purchases from VYNPC ends in March 2012, but there is a risk that we could lose this resource if the plant shuts down for any reason before that date. An early shutdown would cause us to lose the economic benefit of an energy volume of close to 50 percent of our total committed supply and we would have to acquire replacement
power resources for approximately 40 percent of our estimated power supply needs. Based on projected market prices as of June 30, 2009, the incremental replacement cost of lost power is estimated to average $33.5 million annually. We are not able to predict whether there will be an early shutdown of the Vermont Yankee plant. An early shutdown, depending upon the specific circumstances, could involve cost recovery via the outage insurance described above and recoveries under the
PCAM but, in general, would not be expected to materially impact financial results.
Entergy-Vermont Yankee has submitted a renewal application with the NRC and an application for a Certificate of Public Good with the PSB for a 20-year extension of the Vermont Yankee plant operating license. Entergy-Vermont Yankee also needs approval from the PSB and Vermont Legislature to continue to operate beyond 2012. At
this time, Entergy-Vermont Yankee has not received approvals for the license extension, but we are continuing to participate in negotiations for a power contract beyond 2012 and cannot predict the outcome at this time.
Contract deliveries from Hydro-Quebec will decline by about 20 percent in late 2012, by another 85 percent in 2015 and will cease in 2016. We are negotiating with Hydro-Quebec for future purchases that could supplement or replace current purchases from them. Hydro-Quebec is engaged in the addition of approximately 4,000
MW of additional hydroelectric capacity in Quebec largely targeted for export in part via increased transmission capacity into the New England market area. If contract negotiations are successful, we intend to present a new long-term purchase power agreement for Vermont regulatory approval by the end of 2009.
Power Supply Request For Proposal (“RFP”)
In November 2008, together with Green Mountain Power (“GMP”) and Vermont Electric Cooperative (“VEC”), we issued a request for power supply proposals (“RFP”) for up to 100 MW to diversify our
future power supplies and plan for the expiration of major contracts with Vermont Yankee and Hydro-Quebec. We also issued a second solicitation, together with GMP, at the same time for up to 150 MW, contingent on the outcome of the Vermont Yankee relicensing initiative (“Contingent RFP”). The two RFPs are the first in a series of staggered resource solicitations planned to be issued over the next several years as we build our power supply portfolio for the future and plan for
the uncertainties around our largest resources.
The first RFP sought up to 40 MW each for us and GMP, and 20 MW for VEC. In total, bidders responded from across the Northeast and Canada proposing over 1,800 MW of diverse supply options. We invited NEPOOL participants and a wide range of power suppliers and developers to participate in both RFPs. Bidders
included power marketers, energy developers, existing and to-be-built power plant owners and financial institutions. Hydro-Quebec and Entergy-Vermont Yankee were ineligible to participate in the RFPs because of the ongoing negotiations with the Vermont utilities.
Joint RFP responses were received in January 2009 and final proposals were received on February 27, 2009. We initially determined that six of the proposals would provide the best value under the portfolio scoring approach we submitted to the PSB as part of our Integrated Resource Planning proceedings. The evaluation methodology
included, as a threshold, an evaluation of credit or collateral terms. All bidders have been notified of our determinations, and negotiations with the successful bidders are progressing. Two of the finalists are existing renewable power plants while another is in the final stages of permitting. We are currently negotiating long-term purchase power agreements with these parties. To date, we have executed one transaction for 15 MW of firm power to be delivered all hours
during calendar years 2013-2015. It is uncertain at this time whether the remaining two awards will result in executed transactions due to subsequent market movements.
Best and final proposals were received from Contingent RFP participants on May 1, 2009. We expect to continue working with these parties at least until the uncertainties related to the Vermont Yankee plant’s relicensing and the new contract negotiations are resolved. This process could remain unresolved until mid-2010.
At this time, we are unable to predict the impact on our financial statements and cash flows resulting from these awards and signed contracts associated with these RFPs.
RECENT ENERGY POLICY INITIATIVES
Alternative Regulation Plan
In 2003, the Vermont Legislature authorized alternative regulation plans. On September 30, 2008, the PSB issued an order approving, with modifications, an alternative regulation plan proposal that we submitted in August 2007. Our plan
became effective on November 1, 2008. It expires on December 31, 2011, but we have an option to petition for an extension beyond 2011. The plan replaces the traditional ratemaking process and allows for annual base rate adjustments, quarterly rate adjustments to reflect power supply and transmission-by-others cost changes, and annual rate adjustments to reflect changes, within predetermined limits, from the allowed earnings level. See Retail Rates and Alternative Regulation.
Climate Change Legislation
The Vermont Legislature enacted legislation requiring the state to participate in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (“RGGI”). RGGI is a mandatory, market-based program with a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The
program is designed to cap and then reduce CO
2
emissions from the power sector by 10 percent by 2018 for 10 northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states. To reach this goal, states sell emission allowances through auctions and invest the proceeds in programs, such as energy efficiency, renewable energy and other clean energy technologies, for the benefit of consumers. The purpose of RGGI is to spur innovation in the clean
energy economy and create “green jobs” in each state.
The PSB issued an order in July 2008 to implement the auction provisions of the RGGI program. The state expects to raise more than $2 million in each of the next several years, and expects to invest it in energy efficiency, renewable energy technologies and other programs.
In addition, over the past several years, the U.S. Congress has considered bills that would regulate domestic greenhouse gas emissions. While such bills have not yet received sufficient congressional approval to become law, there is growing consensus that some form of federal legislation or regulation is likely to occur in the near
future with respect to greenhouse gas emissions. It is unknown how RGGI might be modified or coordinated with future federal legislation.
We will continue to monitor state and federal legislative developments to evaluate whether, and the extent to which, any resulting statutes or rules may affect our business, including the ability of our out-of-state power suppliers to meet their obligations.
We cannot predict the effects of any such legislation at this time. We anticipate that compliance with greenhouse gas emission limitations for all suppliers may entail replacement of existing equipment, installation of additional pollution control equipment, purchase of allowances, curtailment of certain operations or other actions. Capital
expenditures or operating costs resulting from greenhouse gas emission legislation or regulations could be material, and could significantly increase the wholesale cost of power.
Smart Metering Development
In 2008, the Vermont Legislature enacted a law that, among other things, encourages the development of “smart metering” technology. Accordingly, the PSB has opened an investigation into smart metering and rate design. Under
the statute, after investigation, in utility territories where the board concludes it appropriate and cost-effective, the board shall require each Vermont utility to file plans for investment and deployment of appropriate technologies and plans and strategies for implementing advanced pricing with a goal of ensuring that all ratepayer classes have an opportunity to receive and participate effectively in advanced time-of-use pricing plans.
In addition, the alternative regulation plan approved by the PSB requires us to file a plan for implementing Automated Metering Infrastructure (“AMI”) within our service territory. We have been working on our AMI plan, called CVPS SmartPower™, and are also working with the Vermont Telecommunications Authority and
other stakeholders on the possibility of building on our AMI work to further broadband and wireless communication services in Vermont. We are also preparing our AMI plan to comply with the findings and standards developed in a Memorandum of Understanding between Vermont electric utilities and the DPS that is currently pending approval in the PSB’s investigation into smart metering and rate design.
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009
In February 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (“ARRA”) was enacted into law. ARRA contains various provisions related to the electric
industry intended to stimulate the economy, including incentives for increased capital investment by businesses and incentives to promote renewable energy. These provisions include, but are not limited to, improving energy efficiency and reliability, electricity delivery (including so-called smart grid technology), energy research and development, and demand response management. We have evaluated the provisions of ARRA and, in cooperation with other utilities and Vermont state officials,
filed an application on August 6, 2009 for financial assistance pursuant to the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability, Smart Grid Investment Grant Program which: 1) commits us to provide the people and resources included in the application should an award be granted in a form we find acceptable; 2) acknowledges that the CVPS SmartPower™ Project is a high priority for us and furthers our mission and long-term goals to create and maintain a modern and
dynamic electric distribution system; and 3) empowers our management to exercise decision-making authority with respect to the implementation of the tasks necessary to pursue the application.
This application for federal funding does not commit us to invest in the capital obligations of the CVPS SmartPower Project unless or until we have been able to review and approve the final project implementation plans and have developed a full understanding of the extent to which there is federal stimulus funding support for the project and
our ability to access capital to support the project on reasonable terms and conditions. We cannot predict the impact of ARRA implementation on our financial statements or results of operations at this time.
Renewable Energy Legislation
In May 2009, the Vermont Legislature passed legislation designed to encourage the rapid deployment of small-scale renewable energy projects in Vermont. While Vermont businesses and electric utilities raised concerns about the bill and its potential
impact on rates, the bill passed and the governor allowed it to become a law without his signature. The bill set above-market rates for small-scale solar, wind, hydro and methane energy production that supporters say will encourage development of those projects.
Under the legislation, the PSB must review the rates set in the law, but must maintain the rates at levels high enough to encourage the development of up to 50 MW of new small-scale renewable projects. Though state law has historically mandated least-cost energy planning, this law largely precludes consideration of the rate impacts
on customers, and requires the PSB to set the rates at levels that cover all development costs and a prescribed return on equity for the project owners. A state agent will be required to purchase the energy from these units, and allocate it on a pro-rata basis to all Vermont utilities, including us. Our allocation will be about 40 percent of the total.
For the six months ended June 30, 2009, there were no material changes from the disclosures in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 except as shown below.
Power-related derivatives
Our derivative financial instruments include certain power contracts and financial transmission rights. Summary information related to the fair value of these derivatives is shown in the table below (dollars in thousands).
|
|
Forward
|
|
|
Forward
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sales
|
|
|
Purchase
|
|
|
Hydro-Quebec
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Contracts
|
|
|
Contracts
|
|
|
Sellback #3
|
|
|
Total
|
|
Total fair value at December 31, 2008 - unrealized gain (loss), net
|
|
$
|
12,753
|
|
|
$
|
136
|
|
|
$
|
(4,069
|
)
|
|
$
|
8,820
|
|
Plus new contracts entered into during the period
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
31
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
31
|
|
Less amounts settled during the period
|
|
|
(13,657
|
)
|
|
|
(39
|
)
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
(13,696
|
)
|
Change in fair value during the period
|
|
|
9,275
|
|
|
|
(60
|
)
|
|
|
(711
|
)
|
|
|
8,504
|
|
Total fair value at June 30, 2009 - unrealized gain (loss), net
|
|
$
|
8,371
|
|
|
$
|
68
|
|
|
$
|
(4,780
|
)
|
|
$
|
3,659
|
|
Estimated fair value at June 30, 2009 for changes in projected market price:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10 percent increase
|
|
$
|
7,127
|
|
|
$
|
74
|
|
|
$
|
8
|
|
|
$
|
7,209
|
|
10 percent decrease
|
|
$
|
8,929
|
|
|
$
|
61
|
|
|
$
|
2
|
|
|
$
|
8,992
|
|
Based on a PSB-approved Accounting Order, we record the changes in fair value of power-related derivative financial instruments as deferred charges or deferred credits on the balance sheet, depending on whether the fair value is an unrealized loss or gain. Realized gains and losses for forward power sales are recorded as increases
to or reductions of operating revenues, respectively. For forward purchase contracts and financial transmission rights, realized gains and losses are recorded as reductions of or additions to purchased power expense, respectively. Realized amounts are recorded in the period when the contracts are settled.
Equity Market Risk
As of June 30, 2009, our pension trust held marketable equity securities in the amount of $51.8 million, our postretirement medical trust funds held marketable equity securities in the amount of $8.1 million,
our Millstone Unit #3 decommissioning trust held marketable equity securities of $2.8 million and our Rabbi Trust held marketable equity securities of $2.2 million. These equity investments have been affected by the global decline in the equity market that began in 2008. Also see Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources, and Note 9 - Pension and Postretirement Medical Benefits above for additional information.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of the quarter ended June 30, 2009, our management, with participation from the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e)
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934). Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There was one significant change to our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended March 31, 2009. Effective January 1, 2009, we implemented several SAP enterprise resource
planning (“ERP”) modules, including general ledger, consolidation, accounts payable, supply chain, fixed assets (property accounting), treasury, payroll and human resources. The implementation of these ERP modules and the related workflow capabilities resulted in material changes to our internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13(a)-15(f) or 15(d)-15(f) under the Exchange Act). As a result, we are in the process of modifying the design and documentation
of internal control processes and procedures relating to the new system to replace and supplement existing internal controls over financial reporting, as appropriate. Specifically, we modified controls in the business processes impacted by the new system, such as user access security, system reporting and authorization and reconciliation procedures. The system changes were undertaken to integrate systems and consolidate information, and were not undertaken in response to any actual or perceived
deficiencies in our internal controls over financial reporting.
There were no other changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended June 30, 2009 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
|
Item 1.
|
The company is involved in legal and administrative proceedings in the normal course of business and does not believe that the ultimate outcome of these proceedings will have a material adverse effect on its financial position or results of operations.
|
Item 1A.
|
In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I “Item 1A. Risk Factors”, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, which could materially affect our business, financial condition or future results. The risks described in our
2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K are not the only risks facing our company. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.
|
Item 6.
|
|
|
(a)
|
List of Exhibits
|
|
|
A 10.18
|
2009-2011 Long-Term Incentive Plan, Effective as of January 1, 2009 (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit A 10.18 to the Company's Form 8-K filed with the SEC on
May 11, 2009)
|
|
|
31.1
|
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
|
|
31.2
|
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
|
|
32.1
|
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
|
|
32.2
|
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
|
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
|
|
CENTRAL VERMONT PUBLIC SERVICE CORPORATION
|
|
(Registrant)
|
By
|
/s/ Pamela J. Keefe
|
|
Pamela J. Keefe
Sr. Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer
|
Dated August 7, 2009
Central Vermont Public Service (NYSE:CV)
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