SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington,
D.C. 20549
Report of Foreign Issuer
pursuant to Rule 13-a-16 or 15d-16
of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934
FOR THE MONTH
OF February 2020
FORM 6-K
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER
1-15150
The Dome Tower
Suite
3000, 333 - 7th Avenue S.W.
Calgary, Alberta
Canada T2P 2Z1
(403) 298-2200
Indicate by check mark whether
the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.
Indicate by check mark if
the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1)
Indicate by check mark
if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7)
Indicate by check mark
whether, by furnishing the information contained in this Form, the registrant is also thereby furnishing the information to the
Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the securities Exchange Act of 1934.
EXHIBIT
INDEX
SIGNATURE
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.
ENERPLUS CORPORATION
| BY: |
/s/ |
David A. McCoy |
|
| |
|
David A. McCoy |
|
| |
|
Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary |
|
| |
|
|
|
DATE: February 21, 2020
Exhibit 99.1
Enerplus Announces Fourth Quarter and
Full Year 2019 Financial and Operating Results, 2019 Year End Reserves and ESG Targets
All financial information contained within
this news release has been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. This news release includes forward-looking statements and information
within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Readers are advised to review the "Forward-Looking Information and Statements"
at the conclusion of this news release. Readers are also referred to "Information Regarding Reserves, Resources and Operational
Information", "Notice to U.S. Readers" and "Non-GAAP Measures" at the end of this news release for information
regarding the presentation of the financial, reserves, contingent resources and operational information in this news release, as
well as the use of certain financial measures that do not have standard meaning under U.S. GAAP. A copy of Enerplus' 2019 Financial
Statements and MD&A is available on our website at www.enerplus.com, under our profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the
EDGAR website at www.sec.gov. All amounts in this news release are stated in Canadian dollars unless otherwise specified.
CALGARY, Feb. 21, 2020 /CNW/ - Enerplus
Corporation ("Enerplus" or the "Company") (TSX & NYSE: ERF) today reported fourth quarter 2019 cash flow
from operating activities of $188.5 million and adjusted funds flow of $178.9 million. Enerplus reported a fourth quarter 2019
net loss of $429.1 million, or $(1.93) per share. The Company recognized a $451.1 million non-cash goodwill impairment related
to its Canadian reporting unit in the quarter. Excluding the goodwill impairment and certain other non-cash or non-recurring items,
fourth quarter 2019 adjusted net income was $34.4 million, or $0.15 per share.
Full year 2019 cash flow from operating activities
was $694.2 million and adjusted funds flow was $709.0 million. The Company reported a full year 2019 net loss of $259.7 million,
or $(1.12) per share. Excluding the goodwill impairment and certain other non-cash or non-recurring items, full year 2019 adjusted
net income was $243.2 million, or $1.05 per share.
FULL YEAR 2019 SUMMARY
- Total production increased 8% (14% per share) year-over-year
to 101,042 BOE per day
- Liquids production increased 9% (15% per share) year-over-year
to 54,633 barrels per day
- Adjusted funds flow was $709.0 million, which exceeded
capital spending of $618.9 million, generating free cash flow of $90.1 million
- Returned $206.5 million to shareholders through share repurchases
and dividends
- Maintained strong financial flexibility; ended the year
with a net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio of 0.6 times
- Achieved 139% proved plus probable ("2P") reserves
replacement, including 206% 2P reserves replacement in North Dakota
- 2P reserves increased 3% (11% per share) year-over-year
"We delivered strong results in 2019 having
generated double-digit production per share growth and returning over $200 million to shareholders," stated Ian C. Dundas,
President and Chief Executive Officer. "We have positioned Enerplus to be resilient through commodity price cycles with our
strong balance sheet, profitable growth plan underpinned by financial returns and focus on generating free cash flow. In addition,
we believe that our commitment to environmental, social and governance initiatives will further support long-term value creation."
FOURTH QUARTER 2019 REVIEW
Total production for the fourth quarter of
2019 was 107,436 BOE per day, exceeding the Company's guidance range of 103,000 to 107,000 BOE per day, and a 10% increase from
the same period in 2018. Crude oil and natural gas liquids production was 59,846 barrels per day in the fourth quarter, achieving
the high end of the Company's guidance range of 58,000 to 60,000 barrels per day, and a 10% increase from the same period in 2018.
The production increase was driven by higher North Dakota and Marcellus volumes.
Adjusted funds flow was $178.9 million in the
fourth quarter, 17% lower than the same period in 2018 primarily due to an increase in operating expenses and a lower Alternative
Minimum Tax ("AMT") refund of $13.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2019, compared to $27.3 million in the fourth quarter
of 2018.
Enerplus recorded a net loss of $429.1 million
in the fourth quarter compared to net income of $249.3 million in the same period in 2018. Earnings decreased from the fourth quarter
of 2018 primarily due to a $451.1 million non-cash goodwill impairment related to the Company's Canadian reporting unit as a result
of the cumulative impact of Canadian asset divestments, the shut-in of uneconomic natural gas production in Tommy Lakes and lower
forecasted commodity prices. Earnings were further impacted by a $28.8 million loss on commodity derivative instruments in the
fourth quarter of 2019 compared to a $253.7 million gain in the same period in 2018. Excluding the goodwill impairment and certain
other non-cash or non-recurring items, fourth quarter adjusted net income was $34.4 million, compared to $102.2 million in the
same period in 2018. The reduction in adjusted net income was primarily due to higher operating expenses and a realized foreign
exchange loss in the fourth quarter of 2019.
Enerplus' fourth quarter 2019 Bakken crude
oil price differential was US$4.40 per barrel below WTI, compared to US$5.60 per barrel below WTI for the same period in 2018.
Enerplus' fourth quarter Marcellus natural gas price differential was US$0.63 per Mcf below NYMEX, compared to US$0.34 per Mcf
below NYMEX for the same period in 2018.
Operating expenses in the fourth quarter increased
to $8.05 per BOE, compared to $6.99 per BOE in the same period in 2018, as a result of higher fluid handling costs due to increased
crude oil volumes and additional well servicing activity. Cash general and administrative ("G&A") expenses in the
fourth quarter decreased to $1.34 per BOE, compared to $1.40 per BOE in the same period of 2018, primarily due to higher production.
Exploration and development capital spending
totaled $99.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2019. The Company also spent $23.7 million repurchasing 2.7 million shares and paid
$6.7 million in dividends during the fourth quarter.
Enerplus ended the fourth quarter of 2019 with
total debt net of cash of $455.0 million and was undrawn on its US$600 million senior unsecured bank credit facility. The Company's
net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio was 0.6 times at quarter-end.
FULL YEAR 2019 REVIEW
Total production for 2019 was 101,042 BOE per
day, an 8% (14% per share) increase from 2018. Crude oil and natural gas liquids production was 54,633 barrels per day in 2019,
a 9% (15% per share) increase from 2018.
Adjusted funds flow was $709.0 million in 2019,
6% lower than 2018 primarily due to lower benchmark commodity prices and higher operating expenses in 2019.
Enerplus recorded a net loss of $259.7 million
in 2019 compared to net income of $378.3 million in 2018. Earnings decreased from 2018 primarily due to a $451.1 million non-cash
Canadian goodwill impairment and a loss on commodity derivative instruments of $66.1 million, compared to a gain of $88.2 million
recorded in 2018. Excluding the goodwill impairment and certain other non-cash or non-recurring items, 2019 adjusted net income
was $243.2 million, compared to $344.8 million in 2018. The reduction in adjusted net income was primarily due to lower benchmark
commodity prices and higher operating expenses in 2019.
Enerplus' 2019 Bakken crude oil price differential
was US$3.61 per barrel below WTI, compared to US$3.78 per barrel below WTI in 2018. Enerplus' 2019 Marcellus natural gas price
differential was US$0.39 per Mcf below NYMEX, compared to US$0.43 per Mcf below NYMEX in 2018.
Operating expenses in 2019 were $7.88 per BOE,
compared to $7.00 per BOE in 2018. The increase was largely due to additional well servicing activity and higher fluid handling
and gas processing costs in North Dakota. Cash G&A expenses in 2019 were $1.32 per BOE, compared to $1.47 per BOE in 2018.
The lower cash G&A expenses per BOE were primarily due to higher production levels in 2019 compared to 2018.
Exploration and development capital spending
totaled $618.9 million in 2019, below the Company's capital budget guidance of $625 million.
The Company spent $178.8 million repurchasing
18.2 million shares and paid $27.7 million in dividends in 2019. Subsequent to year end and up to February 20, 2020, the Company
repurchased 0.3 million shares for total consideration of $2.5 million. Since initiating its share repurchase program in the third
quarter of 2018, Enerplus has repurchased 24.5 million shares, representing approximately 10% of shares outstanding.
2019 YEAR END RESERVES SUMMARY
- Replaced 139% of 2019 production, adding 51.0 MMBOE (57%
crude oil) of 2P reserves (including revisions and economic factors).
- Material reserves growth was realized in North Dakota where
the Company replaced 206% of 2019 production, adding 34.2 MMBOE of 2P reserves (including revisions and economic factors).
- Total 2P reserves were 440.8 MMBOE at year end 2019, representing
a 3% (11% per share) increase from year end 2018
- F&D costs were $15.97 per BOE for proved developed
producing ("PDP") reserves, $11.37 per BOE for proved reserves, and $13.05 per BOE for 2P reserves, including future
development costs ("FDC").
- Finding, development and acquisition ("FD&A")
costs were $11.82 per BOE for proved reserves and $13.63 per BOE for 2P reserves, including FDC.
- 2P reserves were comprised of 50% crude oil, 5% natural
gas liquids, and 45% natural gas at year end 2019.
ASSET ACTIVITY
Williston Basin production averaged 54,113
BOE per day (82% crude oil) during the fourth quarter of 2019, 1% lower than the prior quarter and 14% higher than the same period
in 2018. Fourth quarter Williston Basin production was comprised of 50,872 BOE per day in North Dakota and 3,241 BOE per day in
Montana. Full year 2019 production from the Williston Basin averaged 48,745 BOE per day, a 13% increase year-over-year. In the
fourth quarter, the Company drilled 12 gross operated wells (61% average working interest) in North Dakota. No operated wells were
brought on production in the fourth quarter.
Marcellus natural gas production averaged 233
MMcf per day during the fourth quarter of 2019, 2% higher than the prior quarter and 10% higher than the same period in 2018. Full
year 2019 production averaged 227 MMcf per day, a 9% increase year-over-year. In the fourth quarter, the Company participated in
drilling 13 gross non-operated wells (2% average working interest) with five gross non-operated wells (28% average working interest)
brought on production.
Canadian waterflood production averaged 8,580
BOE per day (93% crude oil) during the fourth quarter of 2019, 6% lower than the prior quarter and 12% lower than the same period
in 2018. Full year 2019 production averaged 9,083 BOE per day, an 8% decrease year-over-year primarily due to the sale of assets
in 2019 and production declines.
Average Daily Production(1)
| |
Three months ended
December 31, 2019 |
|
Twelve months ended
December 31, 2019 |
| |
Crude Oil
(Mbbl/d) |
NGL
(Mbbl/d) |
Natural gas
(MMcf/d) |
Total
(MBOE/d) |
|
Crude Oil
(Mbbl/d) |
NGL
(Mbbl/d) |
Natural gas
(MMcf/d) |
Total
(MBOE/d) |
| Williston Basin |
44.4 |
4.6 |
30.4 |
54.1 |
|
40.1 |
4.0 |
27.8 |
48.7 |
| Marcellus |
- |
- |
232.7 |
38.8 |
|
- |
- |
226.7 |
37.8 |
| Canadian Waterfloods |
8.0 |
0.1 |
2.9 |
8.6 |
|
8.4 |
0.1 |
3.4 |
9.1 |
| DJ Basin |
1.8 |
0.1 |
0.7 |
1.9 |
|
1.0 |
0.1 |
0.2 |
1.0 |
| Other(2) |
0.1 |
0.7 |
18.8 |
4.0 |
|
0.2 |
0.8 |
20.3 |
4.4 |
| Total |
54.3 |
5.5 |
285.5 |
107.4 |
|
49.7 |
4.9 |
278.5 |
101.0 |
| (1) Table may not add due to rounding. |
| (2) Comprises non-core properties in Canada. |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Summary of Wells Drilled(1)
| |
Three months ended
December 31, 2019 |
|
Twelve months ended
December 31, 2019 |
| |
Operated |
|
Non-Operated |
|
Operated |
|
Non-Operated |
| |
Gross |
Net |
|
Gross |
Net |
|
Gross |
Net |
|
Gross |
Net |
| Williston Basin |
12 |
7.3 |
|
4 |
1.0 |
|
55 |
44.6 |
|
11 |
3.7 |
| Marcellus |
- |
- |
|
13 |
0.3 |
|
- |
- |
|
38 |
1.4 |
| Canadian Waterfloods |
- |
- |
|
- |
- |
|
1 |
1.0 |
|
- |
- |
| DJ Basin |
- |
- |
|
- |
- |
|
5 |
4.4 |
|
- |
- |
| Other(2) |
- |
- |
|
- |
- |
|
- |
- |
|
2 |
0.5 |
| Total |
12 |
7.3 |
|
17 |
1.3 |
|
61 |
50.0 |
|
51 |
5.7 |
| (1) Table may not add due to rounding. |
| (2) Comprises non-core properties in Canada. |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Summary of Wells Brought On-Stream(1)
| |
Three months ended
December 31, 2019 |
|
Twelve months ended
December 31, 2019 |
| |
Operated |
|
Non-Operated |
|
Operated |
|
Non-Operated |
| |
Gross |
Net |
|
Gross |
Net |
|
Gross |
Net |
|
Gross |
Net |
| Williston Basin |
- |
- |
|
4 |
1.6 |
|
40 |
34.3 |
|
9 |
3.6 |
| Marcellus |
- |
- |
|
5 |
1.4 |
|
- |
- |
|
45 |
5.7 |
| Canadian Waterfloods |
- |
- |
|
- |
- |
|
1 |
1.0 |
|
- |
- |
| DJ Basin |
- |
- |
|
- |
- |
|
5 |
4.4 |
|
- |
- |
| Other(2) |
- |
- |
|
- |
- |
|
- |
- |
|
2 |
0.5 |
| Total |
- |
- |
|
9 |
3.0 |
|
46 |
39.7 |
|
56 |
9.8 |
| (1) Table may not add due to rounding. |
| (2) Comprises non-core properties in Canada. |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE (ESG)
– GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS AND WATER TARGETS
Enerplus believes that minimizing the environmental
impacts of its operations is a foundational tenet of corporate responsibility. Moreover, as the global economy transitions to a
lower carbon future, climate related policies and regulations around greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are becoming increasingly stringent,
requiring businesses to adapt to support long-term value creation. As part of Enerplus' continued integration of ESG issues into
its strategy and operations, the Company has established targets for reducing GHG emissions intensity and freshwater use.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Using 2019 as a baseline, Enerplus is targeting a 10% reduction of its GHG emissions per barrel of oil equivalent in 2020. Infrastructure
expansion is expected to support the Company's efforts to reduce levels of flared natural gas in North Dakota in 2020, helping
it reach its GHG emissions intensity reduction target. The Company is evaluating additional operational changes and aims to identify
technologies and opportunities to achieve further emissions intensity reductions beyond 2020.
Enerplus' 2020 target addresses scope 1 and
2 emissions. Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions from owned and operated facilities. Scope 2 emissions are indirect emissions
from the generation of purchased energy for the Company's owned and operated facilities.
Water Management
The vast majority (approximately 80% in 2018) of the water used in Enerplus' operations is reused. As Enerplus aims to further
improve its water use efficiency, it has established a target to reduce its freshwater use per well completion in North Dakota
by 15%, on average, in 2020, compared to 2019, by reusing produced water in its fracturing operations.
Other ESG Focus Areas
In addition to GHG emissions and water management, Enerplus has identified culture, stakeholder engagement, health & safety,
and board expertise & engagement as material ESG focus areas. Enerplus believes that the continued integration of these focus
areas into its strategy and operations will enhance long-term business resilience. Enerplus' ESG initiatives have oversight by
the Board of Directors with each material focus area mapped to the applicable board subcommittee including the Compensation and
Human Resources Committee, the Safety and Social Responsibility Committee and the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee. A
copy of Enerplus' ESG presentation is available on the Company's website at www.enerplus.com/investors/presentations-events.cfm.
BOARD CHAIR APPOINTMENT
Enerplus today announced that Elliott Pew will
be stepping down as Board Chair effective May 7, 2020 at the Company's annual meeting. Hilary Foulkes, a director of Enerplus since
2014 and currently the Chair of the Corporate Governance & Nominating Committee, has been appointed as the new Board Chair
upon Mr. Pew stepping down. Mr. Pew has served as Board Chair since 2014 and is stepping down as part of the board's succession
planning and focus on strong continuity. Mr. Pew will continue with Enerplus as an independent director.
"On behalf of the Board, I would like
to thank Elliott for his dedication and leadership," said Mr. Dundas. "And I look forward to his continued contributions
as a board member. I am also excited to welcome Hilary as Chair," continued Dundas. "Her commitment and experience during
her tenure as a director have been valuable to our company and Enerplus will continue to benefit from these strengths in her new
expanded role as Board Chair."
PRICE RISK MANAGEMENT UPDATE
Enerplus has approximately 61% of its 2020
forecasted net crude oil production protected (based on the guidance midpoint). The Company has used swaps, put spreads and three-way
collar structures to hedge crude oil providing downside protection, while retaining meaningful exposure to higher crude oil prices.
Commodity Hedging Detail (As at February
20, 2020)
| |
WTI Crude Oil
(US$/bbl)(1) |
| |
Jan 1 – Jan 31,
2020 |
Feb 1 – Mar 31,
2020 |
Apr 1 – Jun 30,
2020 |
Jul 1 – Sep 30,
2020 |
Oct 1 – Dec 31,
2020 |
| Swaps |
|
|
|
|
|
| Volume (bbls/d) |
5,000 |
10,000 |
12,000 |
2,000 |
- |
| Sold Swaps |
$57.05 |
$54.56 |
$55.23 |
$57.18 |
- |
| Put Spreads |
|
|
|
|
|
| Volume (bbls/d) |
16,000 |
16,000 |
16,000 |
16,000 |
16,000 |
| Sold Puts |
$46.88 |
$46.88 |
$46.88 |
$46.88 |
$46.88 |
| Purchased Puts |
$57.50 |
$57.50 |
$57.50 |
$57.50 |
$57.50 |
| Three Way Collars |
|
|
|
|
|
| Volume (bbls/d) |
- |
- |
- |
5,000 |
5,000 |
| Sold Puts |
- |
- |
- |
$48.00 |
$48.00 |
| Purchased Puts |
- |
- |
- |
$56.25 |
$56.25 |
| Sold Calls |
- |
- |
- |
$65.00 |
$65.00 |
| (1) The total average deferred premium on outstanding 2020 hedges is US$1.69/bbl from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020. |
2020 GUIDANCE
| Enerplus' previously announced and unchanged 2020 guidance is provided below. |
| |
|
| Capital spending |
$520 to $570 million |
| Average annual production |
96,000 – 100,000 BOE/d |
| Average annual crude oil and natural gas liquids production |
57,000 – 60,000 BOE/d |
| Average royalty and production tax rate |
26% |
| Operating expense |
$8.50/BOE |
| Transportation expense |
$4.00/BOE |
| Cash G&A expense |
$1.50/BOE |
| |
|
| 2020 Differential/Basis Outlook(1) |
|
| U.S. Bakken crude oil differential (compared to WTI crude oil) |
US$(5.00)/bbl |
| Marcellus basis (compared to NYMEX natural gas) |
US$(0.45)/Mcf |
| (1) Excluding transportation costs. |
| |
Three months ended |
|
Twelve months ended |
| SELECTED FINANCIAL RESULTS |
December 31, |
|
December 31, |
| |
2019 |
2018 |
|
2019 |
2018 |
|
|
| Financial (CDN$, thousands, except ratios) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Net Income/(Loss) |
$ |
(429,143) |
$ |
249,315 |
|
$ |
(259,720) |
$ |
378,279 |
|
|
| Adjusted Net Income(4) |
|
34,365 |
|
102,167 |
|
|
243,160 |
|
344,813 |
|
|
| Cash Flow from Operating Activities |
|
188,492 |
|
221,619 |
|
|
694,240 |
|
738,784 |
|
|
| Adjusted Funds Flow(4) |
|
178,922 |
|
214,285 |
|
|
708,992 |
|
753,506 |
|
|
| Dividends to Shareholders - Declared |
|
6,656 |
|
7,234 |
|
|
27,688 |
|
29,256 |
|
|
| Total Debt Net of Cash(4) |
|
454,984 |
|
333,523 |
|
|
454,984 |
|
333,523 |
|
|
| Capital Spending |
|
99,389 |
|
72,058 |
|
|
618,910 |
|
593,876 |
|
|
| Property and Land Acquisitions |
|
6,126 |
|
9,474 |
|
|
24,406 |
|
25,840 |
|
|
| Property Divestments |
|
(316) |
|
886 |
|
|
9,583 |
|
6,912 |
|
|
| Net Debt to Adjusted Funds Flow Ratio(4) |
|
0.6x |
|
0.4x |
|
|
0.6x |
|
0.4x |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Financial per Weighted Average Shares Outstanding |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Net Income/(Loss) - Basic |
$ |
(1.93) |
$ |
1.03 |
|
$ |
(1.12) |
$ |
1.55 |
|
|
| Net Income/(Loss) - Diluted |
|
(1.93) |
|
1.02 |
|
|
(1.12) |
|
1.53 |
|
|
| Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding (000's) - Basic |
|
222,227 |
|
242,344 |
|
|
231,334 |
|
244,076 |
|
|
| Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding (000's) - Diluted |
|
222,227 |
|
245,242 |
|
|
231,334 |
|
247,261 |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Selected Financial Results per BOE(1)(2) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Oil & Natural Gas Sales(3) |
$ |
41.64 |
$ |
45.43 |
|
$ |
42.65 |
$ |
47.35 |
|
|
| Royalties and Production Taxes |
|
(10.93) |
|
(11.58) |
|
|
(10.88) |
|
(11.92) |
|
|
| Commodity Derivative Instruments |
|
0.07 |
|
(0.31) |
|
|
0.42 |
|
(1.05) |
|
|
| Cash Operating Expenses |
|
(8.05) |
|
(6.99) |
|
|
(7.88) |
|
(7.00) |
|
|
| Transportation Costs |
|
(3.82) |
|
(3.71) |
|
|
(3.93) |
|
(3.63) |
|
|
| General and Administrative Expenses |
|
(1.34) |
|
(1.40) |
|
|
(1.32) |
|
(1.47) |
|
|
| Cash Share-Based Compensation |
|
0.01 |
|
0.23 |
|
|
(0.02) |
|
(0.01) |
|
|
| Interest, Foreign Exchange and Other Expenses |
|
(0.89) |
|
(0.90) |
|
|
(0.72) |
|
(0.92) |
|
|
| Current Income Tax Recovery |
|
1.41 |
|
3.03 |
|
|
0.91 |
|
0.80 |
|
|
| Adjusted Funds Flow(4) |
$ |
18.10 |
$ |
23.80 |
|
$ |
19.23 |
$ |
22.15 |
|
|
| |
Three months ended |
|
Twelve months ended |
| SELECTED OPERATING RESULTS |
December 31, |
|
December 31, |
| |
2019 |
2018 |
|
2019 |
2018 |
| Average Daily Production(2) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Crude Oil (bbls/day) |
|
54,344 |
|
49,968 |
|
|
49,704 |
|
45,424 |
| Natural Gas Liquids (bbls/day) |
|
5,502 |
|
4,483 |
|
|
4,929 |
|
4,486 |
| Natural Gas (Mcf/day) |
|
285,537 |
|
260,453 |
|
|
278,451 |
|
259,837 |
| Total (BOE/day) |
|
107,436 |
|
97,860 |
|
|
101,042 |
|
93,216 |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| % Crude Oil and Natural Gas Liquids |
|
56% |
|
56% |
|
|
54% |
|
54% |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Average Selling Price(2)(3) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Crude Oil (per bbl) |
$ |
67.23 |
$ |
64.18 |
|
$ |
68.98 |
$ |
74.59 |
| Natural Gas Liquids (per bbl) |
|
18.28 |
|
26.72 |
|
|
15.19 |
|
28.31 |
| Natural Gas (per Mcf) |
|
2.50 |
|
4.28 |
|
|
2.87 |
|
3.42 |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Net Wells Drilled |
|
9 |
|
12 |
|
|
56 |
|
61 |
| (1) Non-cash amounts have been excluded. |
| (2) Based on Company interest production volumes. See "Presentation of Production and Reserves Information" at the end of this news release. |
| (3) Before transportation costs, royalties and commodity derivative instruments. |
| (4) These non-GAAP measures may not be directly comparable to similar measures presented by other entities. See "Non-GAAP Measures" section at the end of this news release. |
INDEPENDENT RESERVES EVALUATION
All of the Company's reserves, including its
U.S. reserves, have been evaluated in accordance with NI 51-101. Independent reserves evaluations have been conducted on properties
comprising approximately 97% of the net present value (discounted at 10%, before tax, using January 1, 2020 forecast prices and
costs described below) of the Company's total 2P reserves.
McDaniel & Associates Consultants Ltd.
("McDaniel"), an independent petroleum consulting firm based in Calgary, Alberta, has evaluated properties which comprise
approximately 78% of the net present value (discounted at 10%, before tax, using the average commodity price forecasts and inflation
rates of McDaniel, GLJ Petroleum Consultants ("GLJ") and Sproule Associates Limited ("Sproule") as of January
1, 2020) of the Company's 2P reserves located in Canada and all of the reserves associated with the Company's properties
located in North Dakota, Montana and Colorado. The Company has evaluated the remaining 22% of the net present value of its Canadian
properties using similar evaluation parameters, including the same forecast price and inflation rate assumptions utilized by McDaniel.
McDaniel has reviewed the Company's internal evaluation of these properties. Netherland, Sewell & Associates ("NSAI"),
independent petroleum consultants based in Dallas, Texas, has evaluated all of the Company's reserves associated with the Company's
properties in Pennsylvania. For consistency in the Company's reserves reporting, NSAI also used the average commodity price forecasts
and inflation rates of McDaniel, GLJ and Sproule as of January 1, 2020 to prepare its report.
The following information sets out Enerplus'
gross and net crude oil, NGLs and natural gas reserves volumes and the estimated net present values of future net revenues
associated with such reserves as at December 31, 2019 using forecast price and cost cases, together with certain information, estimates
and assumptions associated with such reserves estimates. Under different price scenarios, these reserves could vary as a change
in price can affect the economic limit associated with a property. It should be noted that tables may not add due to rounding.
Reserves Summary
| Reserves Summary |
Light &
Medium
Oil
(Mbbls) |
Heavy Oil
(Mbbls) |
Tight Oil
(Mbbls) |
Total Oil
(Mbbls) |
Natural
Gas
Liquids
(Mbbls) |
Conventional
Natural Gas
(MMcf) |
Shale Gas
(MMcf) |
Total
(MBOE) |
| Gross |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Proved producing |
6,947 |
17,046 |
60,938 |
84,930 |
8,526 |
22,808 |
617,357 |
200,150 |
| Proved developed non-producing |
163 |
- |
271 |
434 |
84 |
1,347 |
5,999 |
1,742 |
| Proved undeveloped |
660 |
3,075 |
51,603 |
55,338 |
5,717 |
88 |
310,381 |
112,801 |
| Total proved |
7,770 |
20,121 |
112,812 |
140,703 |
14,327 |
24,242 |
933,737 |
314,693 |
| Total probable |
2,788 |
6,470 |
68,240 |
77,498 |
8,396 |
7,395 |
233,613 |
126,061 |
| Proved plus Probable |
10,558 |
26,591 |
181,052 |
218,201 |
22,723 |
31,637 |
1,167,349 |
440,755 |
| Net |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Proved producing |
5,690 |
14,224 |
48,927 |
68,840 |
6,965 |
23,529 |
495,517 |
162,313 |
| Proved developed non-producing |
138 |
- |
221 |
359 |
62 |
1,270 |
4,808 |
1,434 |
| Proved undeveloped |
557 |
2,558 |
41,309 |
44,424 |
4,575 |
73 |
246,155 |
90,038 |
| Total proved |
6,385 |
16,782 |
90,457 |
113,623 |
11,602 |
24,872 |
746,480 |
253,785 |
| Total probable |
2,160 |
5,298 |
54,576 |
62,034 |
6,758 |
7,467 |
186,702 |
101,154 |
| Proved plus Probable |
8,545 |
22,079 |
145,033 |
175,657 |
18,361 |
32,339 |
933,182 |
354,938 |
Reserves Reconciliation
The following tables outline the changes in
Enerplus' proved, probable and proved plus probable reserves, on a gross basis, from December 31, 2018 to December 31, 2019.
| Proved Reserves - Gross Volumes (Forecast Prices) |
| |
| |
Light &
Medium
Oil
(Mbbls) |
Heavy
Oil
(Mbbls) |
Tight
Oil
(Mbbls) |
Total Oil
(Mbbls) |
Natural
Gas
Liquids
(Mbbls) |
Conventional
Natural Gas
(MMcf) |
Shale
Gas
(MMcf) |
Total
(MBOE) |
Proved Reserves at
Dec. 31, 2018 |
9,637 |
21,181 |
106,530 |
137,347 |
13,783 |
31,007 |
849,063 |
297,809 |
| Acquisitions |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Dispositions |
(982) |
- |
- |
(982) |
(18) |
(319) |
- |
(1,053) |
| Discoveries |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Extensions & improved |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| recovery |
388 |
- |
21,731 |
22,119 |
2,340 |
741 |
88,893 |
39,399 |
| Economic factors |
(18) |
(115) |
(958) |
(1,091) |
(75) |
(212) |
(4,376) |
(1,931) |
| Technical revisions |
165 |
778 |
465 |
1,408 |
46 |
1,050 |
93,164 |
17,156 |
| Production |
(1,420) |
(1,722) |
(14,957) |
(18,098) |
(1,749) |
(8,026) |
(93,008) |
(36,686) |
| Proved Reserves at |
7,770 |
20,121 |
112,812 |
140,703 |
14,327 |
24,242 |
933,737 |
314,693 |
| Dec. 31, 2019 |
| Probable Reserves - Gross Volumes (Forecast Prices) |
| |
| |
Light &
Medium
Oil
(Mbbls) |
Heavy
Oil
(Mbbls) |
Tight
Oil
(Mbbls) |
Total Oil
(Mbbls) |
Natural
Gas
Liquids
(Mbbls) |
Conventional
Natural Gas
(MMcf) |
Shale
Gas
(MMcf) |
Total
(MBOE) |
Probable Reserves at
Dec. 31, 2018 |
3,024 |
7,215 |
60,631 |
70,869 |
7,277 |
10,129 |
300,449 |
129,909 |
| Acquisitions |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Dispositions |
(232) |
- |
- |
(232) |
(9) |
(163) |
- |
(268) |
| Discoveries |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Extensions & improved |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| recovery |
158 |
- |
17,428 |
17,586 |
2,034 |
131 |
74,186 |
32,007 |
| Economic factors |
3 |
7 |
(201) |
(190) |
(105) |
(1,940) |
684 |
(504) |
| Technical revisions |
(165) |
(752) |
(9,617) |
(10,535) |
(803) |
(761) |
(141,706) |
(35,082) |
| Production |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Probable Reserves at |
2,788 |
6,470 |
68,240 |
77,498 |
8,396 |
7,395 |
233,613 |
126,061 |
| Dec. 31, 2019 |
| Proved Plus Probable Reserves - Gross Volumes (Forecast Prices) |
| |
| |
Light &
Medium
Oil
(Mbbls) |
Heavy
Oil
(Mbbls) |
Tight
Oil
(Mbbls) |
Total Oil
(Mbbls) |
Natural
Gas
Liquids
(Mbbls) |
Conventional
Natural Gas
(MMcf) |
Shale
Gas
(MMcf) |
Total
(MBOE) |
Proved Plus Probable
Reserves at Dec. 31, 2018 |
12,660 |
28,395 |
167,160 |
208,216 |
21,060 |
41,137 |
1,149,511 |
427,718 |
| Acquisitions |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Dispositions |
(1,214) |
- |
- |
(1,214) |
(27) |
(483) |
- |
(1,321) |
| Discoveries |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Extensions & improved recovery |
546 |
- |
39,159 |
39,706 |
4,374 |
872 |
163,079 |
71,405 |
| Economic factors |
(15) |
(108) |
(1,158) |
(1,282) |
(180) |
(2,152) |
(3,692) |
(2,435) |
| Technical revisions |
- |
26 |
(9,152) |
(9,127) |
(757) |
289 |
(48,542) |
(17,926) |
| Production |
(1,420) |
(1,722) |
(14,957) |
(18,098) |
(1,749) |
(8,026) |
(93,008) |
(36,686) |
Proved Plus Probable
Reserves at Dec. 31, 2019 |
10,558 |
26,591 |
181,052 |
218,201 |
22,723 |
31,637 |
1,167,349 |
440,755 |
Future Development Costs
Changes in forecast FDC occur annually as a
result of development activities, acquisition and divestment activities and capital cost estimates that reflect the evaluators'
best estimate of the capital required to bring the proved and proved plus probable reserves on production. The aggregate of the
exploration and development costs incurred in the most recent year and the change during the year in estimated FDC generally reflect
the total finding and development costs related to reserves additions for that year.
The following is a summary of the independent
reserves evaluators' estimated FDC required to bring the total proved and proved plus probable reserves on production:
| Future Development Costs |
Proved
Reserves |
Proved Plus
Probable Reserves |
| ($ millions) |
|
| 2020 |
$526 |
$550 |
| 2021 |
$485 |
$511 |
| 2022 |
$258 |
$513 |
| 2023 |
$31 |
$408 |
| 2024 |
$35 |
$72 |
| 2025 |
$6 |
$7 |
| Remainder |
$7 |
$5 |
| Total FDC Undiscounted |
$1,347 |
$2,066 |
| Total FDC Discounted at 10% |
$1,183 |
$1,723 |
| F&D and FD&A Costs – including FDC |
|
| |
|
| ($ millions except for per BOE amounts) |
2019 |
2018 |
2017 |
3 Year |
| Proved Plus Probable Reserves |
|
|
|
|
| Finding & Development Costs |
|
|
|
|
| Capital Expenditures |
$618.9 |
$593.8 |
$458.0 |
$1,670.7 |
| Net change in Future Development Costs |
$47.0 |
$309.1 |
$102.8 |
$458.9 |
| Gross Reserves additions (MMBOE) |
51.0 |
65.7 |
58.0 |
174.7 |
| F&D costs ($/BOE) |
$13.05 |
$13.74 |
$9.68 |
$12.19 |
| |
|
|
|
|
| Finding, Development & Acquisition Costs |
|
|
|
|
| Capital expenditures and net acquisitions |
$633.7 |
$612.7 |
$415.1 |
$1,661.5 |
| Net change in Future Development Costs |
$44.0 |
$308.1 |
$85.1 |
$437.1 |
| Gross Reserves additions (MMBOE) |
49.7 |
64.1 |
45.6 |
159.3 |
| FD&A costs ($/BOE) |
$13.63 |
$14.37 |
$10.98 |
$13.17 |
| |
|
|
|
|
| Proved Reserves |
|
|
|
|
| Finding & Development Costs |
|
|
|
|
| Capital Expenditures |
$618.9 |
$593.8 |
$458.0 |
$1,670.7 |
| Net change in Future Development Costs |
$2.4 |
$309.3 |
$114.0 |
$425.7 |
| Gross Reserves additions (MMBOE) |
54.6 |
54.1 |
50.5 |
159.3 |
| F&D costs ($/BOE) |
$11.37 |
$16.69 |
$11.32 |
$13.16 |
| |
|
|
|
|
| Finding, Development & Acquisition Costs |
|
|
|
|
| Capital expenditures and net acquisitions |
$633.7 |
$612.7 |
$415.1 |
$1,661.5 |
| Net change in Future Development Costs |
$(0.5) |
$308.3 |
$96.7 |
$404.5 |
| Gross Reserves additions (MMBOE) |
53.6 |
52.9 |
41.0 |
147.5 |
| FD&A costs ($/BOE) |
$11.82 |
$17.42 |
$12.48 |
$14.01 |
| |
|
|
|
|
| Proved Developed Producing Reserves |
|
|
|
|
| Finding & Development Costs |
|
|
|
|
| Capital Expenditures |
$618.9 |
$593.8 |
$458.0 |
$1,670.7 |
| Gross Reserves additions (MMBOE) |
38.8 |
45.4 |
34.8 |
118.9 |
| F&D costs ($/BOE) |
$15.97 |
$13.08 |
$13.17 |
$14.05 |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
Forecast Price Assumptions
The forecast price and cost case assumes no
legislative or regulatory amendments, and includes the effects of inflation. The estimated future net revenue to be derived from
the production of the reserves is based on the following average of the price forecasts of McDaniel, GLJ and Sproule as of January
1, 2020 (utilized by McDaniel, NSAI and by the Company in its internal evaluations for consistency in the Company's reserves reporting),
and the following inflation and exchange rate assumptions.
| |
WTI
Crude Oil(1)
US$/bbl |
Light
Crude Oil(2)
Edmonton
CDN$/bbl |
Alberta
Heavy
Crude Oil(3)
CDN$/bbl |
U.S. Henry
Hub Gas
Price
US$/MMBtu |
Natural Gas
Alberta Spot
@ AECO
CDN$/MMBtu |
Exchange
Rate
US$/CDN$ |
Inflation
Rate
%/year |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 2020 |
61.00 |
72.64 |
51.23 |
2.62 |
2.04 |
0.760 |
0.0 |
| 2021 |
63.75 |
76.06 |
56.11 |
2.87 |
2.32 |
0.770 |
1.7 |
| 2022 |
66.18 |
78.35 |
57.72 |
3.06 |
2.62 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2023 |
67.91 |
80.71 |
59.45 |
3.17 |
2.71 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2024 |
69.48 |
82.64 |
61.09 |
3.24 |
2.81 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2025 |
71.07 |
84.60 |
62.75 |
3.32 |
2.89 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2026 |
72.68 |
86.57 |
64.43 |
3.39 |
2.96 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2027 |
74.24 |
88.49 |
66.04 |
3.45 |
3.03 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2028 |
75.73 |
90.31 |
67.55 |
3.53 |
3.09 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2029 |
77.24 |
92.17 |
69.08 |
3.60 |
3.16 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2030 |
78.79 |
94.01 |
70.46 |
3.67 |
3.23 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2031 |
80.36 |
95.89 |
71.87 |
3.74 |
3.29 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2032 |
81.97 |
97.81 |
73.31 |
3.82 |
3.36 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2033 |
83.61 |
99.76 |
74.78 |
3.89 |
3.43 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| 2034 |
85.28 |
101.76 |
76.27 |
3.97 |
3.49 |
0.785 |
2.0 |
| Thereafter |
(4) |
(4) |
(4) |
(4) |
(4) |
0.785 |
(4) |
| (1) West Texas Intermediate at Cushing, Oklahoma 40 degree API / 0.5% Sulphur. |
| (2) Edmonton Light Sweet 40 degree API, 0.3% Sulphur. |
| (3) Heavy Crude Oil 12 degree API at Hardisty, Alberta (after deducting blending costs to reach pipeline quality). |
| (4) Escalation is approximately 2% per year thereafter. |
Net Present Value of Future Production
Revenue
The following table provides an estimate of
the net present value of Enerplus' future production revenue after deduction of royalties, estimated future capital and operating
expenditures, before income taxes. It should not be assumed that the present value of estimated future cash flows shown below is
representative of the fair market value of the reserves.
| Net Present Value of Future Production Revenue – Forecast Prices and Costs (before tax) |
| Reserves at December 31, 2019, ($ Millions, discounted at) |
0% |
5% |
10% |
15% |
| Proved developed producing |
$3,635 |
$2,835 |
$2,317 |
$1,970 |
| Proved developed non-producing |
$27 |
$21 |
$17 |
$14 |
| Proved undeveloped |
$1,751 |
$1,174 |
$824 |
$595 |
| Total Proved |
$5,414 |
$4,029 |
$3,158 |
$2,579 |
| Probable |
$3,470 |
$1,902 |
$1,192 |
$815 |
| Total Proved Plus Probable Reserves (before tax) |
$8,884 |
$5,932 |
$4,349 |
$3,394 |
Contingent Resources
The following table provides a breakdown of
the economic, unrisked best estimate contingent resources associated with a portion of Enerplus' Fort Berthold, Marcellus, and
Canadian waterflood assets as at December 31, 2019. These contingent resources are economic using the average of the three independent
petroleum consulting firms' price forecasts (McDaniel, GLJ and Sproule) as of January 1, 2020, use established technologies and
are all classified in the "development pending" maturity sub-class. However, there is uncertainty that it will be commercially
viable to produce any portion of the resources.
The evaluations of contingent resources associated
with a portion of Enerplus' Canadian waterflood properties and leases at Fort Berthold were conducted by Enerplus and audited by
McDaniel. NSAI evaluated 100% of Enerplus' Marcellus shale gas assets in the U.S., including the estimate of contingent resources.
Please see Enerplus' Annual Information Form
("AIF") – Appendix A for additional disclosures related to Enerplus' contingent resources as at December 31, 2019.
The AIF is available at www.enerplus.com as well as on the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.
| Development Pending Contingent Resources |
Unrisked "Best Estimate"
Contingent Resources |
Contingent Resources
Net Drilling Locations |
| Canada |
|
|
|
| Waterfloods – IOR/EOR on a portion of waterfloods |
31.1 |
MMBOE |
44.2 |
| Total Canada |
31.1 |
MMBOE |
44.2 |
| United States Properties |
|
|
|
| Fort Berthold – Bakken/Three Forks Tight Oil wells |
45.1 |
MMBOE |
94.7 |
| Marcellus - Shale gas |
663.5 |
Bcf |
37.0 |
| Total United States |
155.6 |
MMBOE |
131.7 |
| Total Company |
186.7 |
MMBOE |
175.9 |
Live Conference Call
Enerplus plans to hold a conference call hosted
by Ian C. Dundas, President and CEO, today, February 21, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. MT (11:00 a.m. ET) to discuss these results. Details
of the conference call are as follows:
| Date: |
Friday, February 21, 2020 |
| Time: |
9:00 am MT/11:00 am ET |
| Dial-In: |
416-764-8688 |
| |
1-888-390-0546 (toll free) |
| Conference ID: |
95232985 |
| Audiocast: |
https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/2176880/2A1E6E1D61161621B4188BA9FED0158B |
To ensure timely participation in the conference
call, callers are encouraged to dial in 15 minutes prior to the start time to register for the event. A telephone replay will be
available for 30 days following the conference call and can be accessed at the following numbers:
| Dial-In: |
416-764-8677 |
| |
1-888-390-0541 (toll free) |
| Passcode: |
232985 # |
Electronic copies of Enerplus' 2019 MD&A
and Financial Statements, along with other public information including investor presentations, are available on the Company's
website at www.enerplus.com. For further information, please contact Investor Relations at 1-800-319-6462 or email investorrelations@enerplus.com.
Follow @EnerplusCorp on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EnerplusCorp.
INFORMATION REGARDING RESERVES, RESOURCES
AND OPERATIONAL INFORMATION
Currency and Accounting Principles
All amounts in this news release are stated
in Canadian dollars unless otherwise specified. All financial information in this news release has been prepared and presented
in accordance with U.S. GAAP, except as noted below under "Non-GAAP Measures".
Barrels of Oil Equivalent
This news release also contains references
to "BOE" (barrels of oil equivalent), "MBOE" (one thousand barrels of oil equivalent), and "MMBOE"
(one million barrels of oil equivalent). Enerplus has adopted the standard of six thousand cubic feet of gas to one barrel of oil
(6 Mcf: 1 bbl) when converting natural gas to BOEs. BOE, MBOE and MMBOE may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation.
The foregoing conversion ratios are based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and
do not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Given that the value ratio based on the current price of oil as compared
to natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalent of 6:1, utilizing a conversion on a 6:1 basis may be misleading.
Presentation of Production and Reserves
Information
All production volumes and revenues presented
herein are reported on a "company interest" basis, before deduction of Crown and other royalties, plus Enerplus' royalty
interest with the exception of production utilized to calculate reserves replacement ratios which are on a working interest basis.
Unless otherwise specified, all reserves volumes in this news release (and all information derived therefrom) are based on "gross
reserves" using forecast prices and costs. "Gross reserves" (as defined in NI 51-101), are Enerplus' working interest
before deduction of any royalties. Enerplus' oil and gas reserves statement for the year ended December 31, 2019, which will include
complete disclosure of our oil and gas reserves and other oil and gas information in accordance with NI 51-101, is contained within
our Annual Information Form (AIF) for the year ended December 31, 2019 which is available on our website at www.enerplus.com
and under our SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Additionally, our AIF forms part of our Form 40-F that is filed with the U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission and is available on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Readers are also urged to review the Management's
Discussion & Analysis and financial statements filed on SEDAR and as part of our Form 40-F on EDGAR concurrently with this
news release for more complete disclosure on our operations.
All references to "liquids" in
this news release include light and medium crude oil, heavy oil and tight oil (all together referred to as "crude oil")
and natural gas liquids on a combined basis.
Contingent Resources Estimates
This news release contains estimates of
"contingent resources". "Contingent resources" are not, and should not be confused with, oil and gas reserves.
"Contingent resources" are defined in the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook (the "COGE Handbook") as
"those quantities of petroleum estimated, as of a given date, to be potentially recoverable from known accumulations using
established technology or technology under development, but which are not currently considered to be commercially recoverable due
to one or more contingencies. Contingencies may include factors such as ultimate recovery rates, legal, environmental, political
and regulatory matters or a lack of markets. It is also appropriate to classify as "contingent resources" the estimated
discovered recoverable quantities associated with a project in the early evaluation stage. All of our contingent resources estimates
are economic using established technologies and based on the average of the price forecasts of McDaniel, GLJ and Sproule as of
January 1, 2020. Enerplus expects to develop these contingent resources in the coming years however it is too early in their development
for all of these resources to be classified as reserves at this time. A portion of these contingent resources are part of continuous
development by the Company and are categorized as contingent resources primarily due to development timelines that go beyond what
is already assigned as undeveloped reserves. There is uncertainty that Enerplus will produce any portion of the volumes currently
classified as "contingent resources". "Development pending contingent resources" refer to a "contingent
resources" project maturity sub-class for a particular project where resolution of the final conditions for development are
being actively pursued (there is a high chance of development) and the project is expected to be developed in a reasonable timeframe.
The "contingent resources" estimates contained herein are presented as the "best estimate" of the quantity
that will actually be recovered, effective as of December 31, 2019. A "best estimate" of contingent resources means
that it is equally likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the best estimate, and if
probabilistic methods are used, there should be at least a 50% probability that the quantities actually recovered will equal or
exceed the best estimate.
For additional information regarding the
primary contingencies which currently prevent the classification of Enerplus' disclosed "contingent resources" associated
with Enerplus' Marcellus shale gas properties, Enerplus' Fort Berthold properties, and a portion of Enerplus' Canadian crude oil
properties as reserves and the positive and negative factors relevant to the "contingent resources" estimates, see Appendix
A to Enerplus' AIF, a copy of which is available under Enerplus' SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com, and Enerplus' Form 40-F,
a copy of which is available under Enerplus' EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov.
F&D and FD&A Costs
F&D costs presented in this news release
are calculated (i) in the case of F&D costs for proved developed producing reserves, by dividing the sum of the exploration
and development costs incurred in the year, by the additions to proved developed producing reserves in the year, (ii) in the case
of F&D costs for proved reserves, by dividing the sum of exploration and development costs incurred in the year plus the change
in estimated future development costs in the year, by the additions to proved reserves in the year, and (iii) in the case of F&D
costs for proved plus probable reserves, by dividing the sum of exploration and development costs incurred in the year plus the
change in estimated future development costs in the year, by the additions to proved plus probable reserves in the year. The aggregate
of the exploration and development costs incurred in the most recent financial year and the change during that year in estimated
future development costs generally reflect total finding and development costs related to its reserves additions for that year.
F&D costs are presented in Canadian dollars per working interest BOE unless otherwise specified.
FD&A costs presented in this news release
are calculated (i) in the case of FD&A costs for proved reserves, by dividing the sum of exploration and development costs
and the cost of net acquisitions incurred in the year plus the change in estimated future development costs in the year, by the
additions to proved reserves including net acquisitions in the year, and (ii) in the case of FD&A costs for proved plus probable
reserves, by dividing the sum of exploration and development costs and the cost of net acquisitions incurred in the year plus the
change in estimated future development costs in the year, by the additions to proved plus probable reserves including net acquisitions
in the year. The aggregate of the exploration and development costs incurred in the most recent financial year and the change during
that year in estimated future development costs generally reflect total finding, development and acquisition costs related to its
reserves additions for that year. FD&A costs are presented in Canadian dollars per working interest BOE unless otherwise specified.
NOTICE TO U.S. READERS
The oil and natural gas reserves information
contained in this news release has generally been prepared in accordance with Canadian disclosure standards, which are not comparable
in all respects to United States or other foreign disclosure standards. Reserves categories such as "proved reserves"
and "probable reserves" may be defined differently under Canadian requirements than the definitions contained in the
United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") rules. In addition, under Canadian disclosure requirements
and industry practice, reserves and production are reported using gross (or, as noted above with respect to production information,
"company interest") volumes, which are volumes prior to deduction of royalty and similar payments. The practice in the
United States is to report reserves and production using net volumes, after deduction of applicable royalties and similar payments.
Canadian disclosure requirements require that forecasted commodity prices be used for reserves evaluations, while the SEC mandates
the use of an average of first day of the month price for the 12 months prior to the end of the reporting period. Additionally,
the SEC prohibits disclosure of oil and gas resources in SEC filings, whereas Canadian issuers may disclose oil and gas resources.
Resources are different than, and should not be construed as reserves. For a description of the definition of, and the risks and
uncertainties surrounding the disclosure of, contingent resources, see "Contingent Resources Estimates" above.
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND STATEMENTS
This news release contains certain forward-looking
information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws ("forward-looking information").
The use of any of the words "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "guidance",
"believes" and "plans" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information. In particular,
but without limiting the foregoing, this news release contains forward-looking information pertaining to the following: expected
2020 production volumes, timing thereof and the anticipated production mix; the proportion of our anticipated oil and gas production
that is hedged and the effectiveness of such hedges in protecting our adjusted funds flow; the results from our drilling program,
timing of related production, and ultimate well recoveries; oil and natural gas prices and differentials and our commodity risk
management programs in 2020 and in the future; expectations regarding our realized oil and natural gas prices; future royalty rates
on our production and future production taxes; anticipated cash and non-cash G&A, share-based compensation and financing expenses;
operating and transportation costs; our anticipated share repurchases under current and future normal course issuer bids; capital
spending levels in 2020, net debt to adjusted funds-flow ratio, financial capacity and liquidity and capital resources to fund
capital spending and working capital requirements; and our ESG initiatives, including GHG emissions and freshwater reduction
targets in 2020.
The forward-looking information contained
in this news release reflects several material factors, expectations and assumptions including, without limitation: that we will
conduct our operations and achieve results of operations as anticipated; that our development plans will achieve the expected results;
that lack of adequate infrastructure will not result in curtailment of production and/or reduced realized prices beyond our current
expectations; current commodity price, differentials and cost assumptions; the general continuance of current or, where applicable,
assumed industry conditions; the continuation of assumed tax, royalty and regulatory regimes; the accuracy of the estimates of
our reserve and contingent resource volumes; the continued availability of adequate debt and/or equity financing and adjusted funds
flow to fund our capital, operating and working capital requirements, and dividend payments as needed; the continued availability
and sufficiency of our adjusted funds flow and availability under our bank credit facility to fund our working capital deficiency;
the availability of third party services; the extent of our liabilities; the availability of technology and processes to achieve
environmental targets. We believe the material factors, expectations and assumptions reflected in the forward-looking information
are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these factors, expectations and assumptions will prove to be correct.
The forward-looking information included
in this news release is not a guarantee of future performance and should not be unduly relied upon. Such information involves known
and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated
in such forward-looking information including, without limitation: continued low commodity prices environment or further volatility
in commodity prices; changes in realized prices of Enerplus' products; changes in the demand for or supply of our products; unanticipated
operating results, results from our capital spending activities or production declines; curtailment of our production due to low
realized prices or lack of adequate infrastructure; changes in tax or environmental laws, royalty rates or other regulatory matters;
changes in our capital plans or by third party operators of our properties; increased debt levels or debt service requirements;
inability to comply with debt covenants under our bank credit facility and outstanding senior notes; inaccurate estimation of our
oil and gas reserve and contingent resource volumes; limited, unfavourable or a lack of access to capital markets; increased costs;
a lack of adequate insurance coverage; the impact of competitors; reliance on industry partners and third party service providers;
and certain other risks detailed from time to time in our public disclosure documents (including, without limitation, those risks
and contingencies described under "Risk Factors and Risk Management" in Enerplus' 2019 MD&A and in our other public
filings).
The forward-looking information contained
in this press release speaks only as of the date of this press release, and we do not assume any obligation to publicly update
or revise such forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required pursuant to applicable
laws.
NON-GAAP MEASURES
In this news release, Enerplus uses the
terms "adjusted funds flow", "adjusted net income", "free cash flow" and "net debt to adjusted
funds flow ratio" measures to analyze operating performance, leverage and liquidity. "Adjusted funds flow"
is calculated as net cash generated from operating activities but before changes in non-cash operating working capital and asset
retirement obligation expenditures. "Adjusted net income" is calculated as net income adjusted for unrealized derivative
instrument gain/loss, asset impairment, gain on divestment of assets, unrealized foreign exchange gain/loss, and the tax effect
of these items. "Free cash flow" is calculated as adjusted funds flow minus capital spending. "Net debt to adjusted
funds flow" is calculated as total debt net of cash, including restricted cash, divided by adjusted funds flow.
Enerplus believes that, in addition to cash
flow from operating activities, net earnings and other measures prescribed by U.S. GAAP, the terms "adjusted funds flow",
"adjusted net income", "free cash flow" and "net debt to adjusted funds flow" are useful supplemental
measures as they provide an indication of the results generated by Enerplus' principal business activities. However, these measures
are not measures recognized by U.S. GAAP and do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by U.S. GAAP. Therefore, these measures,
as defined by Enerplus, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. For reconciliation of these measures
to the most directly comparable measure calculated in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and further information about these measures,
see disclosure under "Non-GAAP Measures" in Enerplus' 2019 MD&A.
Ian C. Dundas
President & Chief Executive Officer
Enerplus Corporation
SOURCE Enerplus Corporation
View original content: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/February2020/21/c6376.html
%CIK: 0001126874
For further information: ENERPLUS CORPORATION, The Dome Tower,
Suite 3000, 333 - 7th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta T2P 2Z1, T. 403-298-2200 F. 403-298-2211, www.enerplus.com
CO: Enerplus Corporation
CNW 06:00e 21-FEB-20
This regulatory filing also includes additional resources:
ex991.pdf
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