Index to Financial Statements

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D. C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-K

 

 

 

x

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 20072008

 

¨

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM            TO            

 

Commission

File Number

 

Registrant

 

State of

Incorporation

 

IRS Employer

Identification Number

1-7810 Energen Corporation Alabama 63-0757759
2-38960 Alabama Gas Corporation Alabama 63-0022000

 

 

605 Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203-2707

Telephone Number 205/326-2700

http://www.energen.com

 

 

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Each Class

 

Exchange on Which Registered

Energen Corporation Common Stock, $0.01 par value New York Stock Exchange
Energen Corporation Preferred Stock Purchase RightsNew York Stock Exchange

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: NONE

 

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrants are a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

YES  x    NO  ¨

Indicate by check mark if the registrants are not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    YES  ¨    NO  x

Indicate by a check mark whether registrants (1) have filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrants were required to file such reports) and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    YES  x    NO  ¨

Indicate by a check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ¨

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.

 

Energen Corporation

 

Large accelerated filer  x

 

Accelerated filer  ¨

 

Non-accelerated filer  ¨

 

Smaller reporting company¨

Alabama Gas Corporation

 

Large accelerated filer  ¨

 

Accelerated filer  ¨

 

Non-accelerated filer  x

 

Smaller reporting company¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrants are a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    YES  ¨    NO  x

Aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrants as of June 29, 2007:30, 2008:

 

Energen Corporation

  

$3,886,440,012

5,462,223,417

Indicate number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock as of February 5, 2008:17, 2009:

 

Energen Corporation

  71,681,985

71,700,551 shares

Alabama Gas Corporation

  

1,972,052 shares

Alabama Gas Corporation meets the conditions set forth in General Instruction I(1) (a) and (b) of Form 10-K and is therefore filing this form with the reduced disclosure format pursuant to General Instruction I(2).

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Energen Corporation Proxy Statement to be filed on or about March 24, 20082009 (Part III, Item 10-14)

 

 

 


Index to Financial Statements

INDUSTRY GLOSSARY

For a more complete definition of certain terms defined below, as well as other terms and concepts applicable to successful efforts accounting, please refer to Rule 4-10(a) of Regulation S-X, promulgated pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended.

 

Basis

  

The difference between the futures price for a commodity and the corresponding cash spot price. This commonly is related to factors such as product quality, location and contract pricing.

Basin-Specific

  

A type of derivative contract whereby the contract’s settlement price is based on specific geographic basin indices.

Behind Pipe Reserves

  

Oil or gas reserves located above or below the currently producing zone(s) that cannot be extracted until a recompletion or pay-add occurs.

Call Option

A contract that gives the investor the right, but not the obligation, to buy the underlying commodity at a certain price on an agreed upon date.

Carried Interest

An agreement under which one party agrees to pay for a specified portion or for all of the development and operating costs of another party on a property in which both own a portion of the working interest.

Cash Flow Hedge

  

The designation of a derivative instrument to reduce exposure to variability in cash flows from the forecasted sale of oil, gas or natural gas liquids production whereby the gains (losses) on the derivative transaction are anticipated to offset the losses (gains) on the forecasted sale.

Collar

  

A financial arrangement that effectively establishes a price range between a floor and a ceiling for the underlying commodity. The purchaser bears the risk of fluctuation between the minimum (or floor) price and the maximum (or ceiling) price.

Development Costs

  

Costs necessary to gain access to, prepare and equip development wells in areas of proved reserves.

Development Well

  

A well drilled within the proved area of an oil or gas reservoir to the depth of a stratigraphic horizon known to be productive.

Downspacing

  

An increase in the number of available drilling locations as a result of a regulatory commission order.

Dry Well

  

An exploratory or a development well found to be incapable of producing either oil or gas in sufficient quantities to justify completion as an oil or gas well.

Exploration Expenses

  

Costs primarily associated with drilling unsuccessful exploratory wells in undeveloped properties, exploratory geological and geophysical activities, and costs of impaired and expired leaseholds.

Exploratory Well

  

A well drilled to find and produce oil or gas in an unproved area, to find a new reservoir in a field previously found to be productive of oil or gas in another reservoir, or to extend a known reservoir.

Futures Contract

  

An exchange-traded legal contract to buy or sell a standard quantity and quality of a commodity at a specified future date and price. Such contracts offer liquidity and minimal credit risk exposure but lack the flexibility of swap contracts.

Hedging

  

The use of derivative commodity instruments such as futures, swaps and collars to help reduce financial exposure to commodity price volatility.

Gross Revenues

  

Revenues reported after deduction of royalty interest payments.

Gross Well or Acre

  

A well or acre in which a working interest is owned.

Liquified Natural

Gas (LNG)

  

Natural gas that is liquified by reducing the temperature to negative 260 degrees Fahrenheit. LNG typically is used to supplement traditional natural gas supplies during periods of peak demand.


Long-Lived Reserves

  

Reserves generally considered to have a productive life of approximately 10 years or more, as measured by the reserves-to-production ratio.

Natural Gas Liquids (NGL)

  

Liquid hydrocarbons that are extracted and separated from the natural gas stream. NGL products include ethane, propane, butane, natural gasoline and other hydrocarbons.


Index to Financial Statements

Net Well or Acre

  

A net well or acre is deemed to exist when the sum of fractional ownership working interests in gross wells or acres equals one.

Odorization

  

The adding of odorant to natural gas which is a characteristic odor so that leaks can be readily detected by smell.

Operational Enhancement

  

Any action undertaken to improve production efficiency of oil and gas wells and/or reduce well costs.

Operator

  

The company responsible for exploration, development and production activities for a specific project.

Pay-Add

  

An operation within a currently producing wellbore that attempts to access and complete an additional pay zone(s) while maintaining production from the existing completed zone(s).

Pay Zone

  

The formation from which oil and gas is produced.

Production (Lifting) Costs

  

Costs incurred to operate and maintain wells.

Productive Well

  

An exploratory or a development well that is not a dry well.

Proved Developed Reserves

  

The portion of proved reserves which can be expected to be recovered through existing wells with existing equipment and operating methods.

Proved Reserves

  

Estimated quantities of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids that geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in future years from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions.

Proved Undeveloped Reserves (PUD)

  

The portion of proved reserves which can be expected to be recovered from new wells on undrilled proved acreage or from existing wells where a relatively major expenditure is required for completion.

Put Option

A contract that gives the purchaser the right, but not the obligation, to sell the underlying commodity at a certain price on an agreed date.

Recompletion

  

An operation within an existing wellbore whereby a completion in one pay zone is abandoned in order to attempt a completion in a different pay zone.

Reserves-to-Production Ratio

  

Ratio expressing years of supply determined by dividing the remaining recoverable reserves at year end by actual annual production volumes. The reserve-to-production ratio is a statistical indicator with certain limitations, including predictive value. The ratio varies over time as changes occur in production levels and remaining recoverable reserves.

Secondary Recovery

  

The process of injecting water, gas, etc., into a formation in order to produce additional oil otherwise unobtainable by initial recovery efforts.

Service Well

  

A well employed for the introduction into an underground stratum of water, gas or other fluid under pressure or disposal of salt water produced with oil or other waste.

Sidetrack Well

  

A new section of wellbore drilled from an existing well.


Swap

  

A contractual arrangement in which two parties, called counterparties, effectively agree to exchange or “swap” variable and fixed rate payment streams based on a specified commodity volume. The contracts allow for flexible terms such as specific quantities, settlement dates and location but also expose the parties to counterparty credit risk.

Transportation

  

Moving gas through pipelines on a contract basis for others.

Throughput

  

Total volumes of natural gas sold or transported by the gas utility.

Working Interest

  

Ownership interest in the oil and gas properties that is burdened with the cost of development and operation of the property.


Index to Financial Statements

Workover

  

A major remedial operation on a completed well to restore, maintain, or improve the well’s production such as deepening the well or plugging back to produce from a shallow formation.

-e

  

Following a unit of measure denotes that the oil and natural gas liquids components have been converted to cubic feet equivalents at a rate of 6 thousand cubic feet per barrel.


Index to Financial Statements

ENERGEN CORPORATION

20072008 FORM 10-K ANNUAL REPORT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

   PART I  Page
PART I

Item 1.

  

Business

  43

Item 1A.

  

Risk Factors

10

Item 1B.

Unresolved Staff Comments

  11

Item 1B.2.

  

Unresolved Staff CommentsProperties

  12

Item 2.3.

  

PropertiesLegal Proceedings

  13
Item 3.

Legal Proceedings

14
Item 4.

  

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

  1514
  PART II  

Item 5.

  

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

  1817

Item 6.

  

Selected Financial Data

  2019

Item 7.

  

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

  2221

Item 7A.

  

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

  37

Item 8.

  

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

  38

Item 9.

  

Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

  8685

Item 9A.

  

Controls and Procedures

  8685
  PART III  

Item 10.

  

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

  8988

Item 11.

  

Executive Compensation

  8988

Item 12.

  

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

  8988

Item 13.

  

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

  8988

Item 14.

  

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

  8988
  PART IV  

Item 15.

  

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

  9089

Signatures

  9593

2


(This page intentionally left blank)


Index to Financial Statements

This Form 10-K is filed on behalf of Energen Corporation (Energen or the Company)

and Alabama Gas Corporation (Alagasco).

Forward-Looking Statements:Certain statements in this report express expectations of future plans, objectives and performance of the Company and its subsidiaries and constitute forward-looking statements made pursuant to the Safe Harbor provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Except as otherwise disclosed, the forward-looking statements do not reflect the impact of possible or pending acquisitions, investments, divestitures or restructurings. The absence of errors in input data, calculations and formulas used in estimates, assumptions and forecasts cannot be guaranteed. Neither the Company nor Alagasco undertakes any obligation to correct or update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

All statements based on future expectations rather than on historical facts are forward-looking statements that are dependent on certain events, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Some of these include, but are not limited to, economic and competitive conditions, inflation rates, legislative and regulatory changes, financial market conditions, ourthe Company’s ability to access the capital markets, future business decisions, utility customer growth and retention and usage per customer, litigation results and other uncertainties, all of which are difficult to predict.

Third Party Facilities: The forward-looking statements also assume generally uninterrupted access to third party oil and gas gathering, transportation, processing and storage facilities. Energen Resources Corporation, the Company’s oil and gas subsidiary, relies upon such facilitiesSee Item 1A, Risk Factors, for access to markets for its production. Alagasco relies upon such facilities for access to natural gas supplies. Such facilities are typically limited in number and geographically concentrated. An extended interruptiona discussion of access to or service from these facilities, whether caused by weather events, natural disaster, accident, mechanical failure, criminal act or otherwise, could result in material adverse financial consequences to Alagasco, Energen Resources and/or the Company.

Energen Resources’ Production and Drilling: There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of proved oil and gas reserves and in projecting future rates of production and timing of development expenditures. The total amount or timing of actual future productionrisk factors that may vary significantly from reserve and production estimates. In the event Energen Resources is unable to fully invest its planned acquisition, development and exploratory expenditures, future operating revenues, production, and proved reserves could be negatively affected. The drilling of development and exploratory wells can involve significant risks, including those related to timing, success rates and cost overruns, and these risks can be affected by lease and rig availability, complex geology and other factors. Anticipated drilling plans and capital expenditures may also change due to weather, manpower and equipment availability, changing emphasis by management and a variety of other factors which could result in actual drilling and capital expenditures being substantially different than currently planned.

Energen Resources’ Hedging: Although Energen Resources makes use of futures, swaps, options and fixed-price contracts to mitigate price risk, fluctuations in future oil, gas and natural gas liquids prices could materially affect the Company’s financial position, results of operationsCompany and cash flows; furthermore, such risk mitigation activities may cause the Company’s financial position and results of operationsmaterial variances from forward-looking statement expectations. The Item 1A, Risk Factors, discussion is incorporated by reference to be materially different from results that would have been obtained had such risk mitigation activities not occurred. The effectiveness of such risk mitigation assumes that counterparties maintain satisfactory credit quality. The effectiveness of such risk mitigation also assumes that actual sales volumes will generally meet or exceed the volumes subject to the futures, swaps, options and fixed-price contracts. A substantial failure to meet sales volume targets, whether caused by miscalculations, weather events, natural disaster, accident, mechanical failure, criminal act or otherwise, could leave Energen Resources financially exposed to its counterparties and result in material adverse financial consequences to Energen Resources and the Company. The adverse effect could be increased if the adverse event was widespread enough to move market prices against Energen Resources’ position.

Alagasco’s Hedging: Similarly, although Alagasco makes use of futures, swaps and fixed-price contracts to mitigate gas supply cost risk, fluctuations in future gas supply costs could materially affect its financial position and rates to customers. The effectiveness of Alagasco’s risk mitigation assumes that its counterparties in such activities maintain satisfactory credit quality. The effectiveness of such risk mitigation also assumes that Alagasco’s actual gas supply needs will generally meet or exceed the volumes subject to the futures, swaps and

3


fixed-price contracts. A substantial failure to experience projected gas supply needs, whether caused by miscalculations, weather events, natural disaster, accident, mechanical failure, criminal act or otherwise, could leave Alagasco financially exposed to its counterparties and result in material adverse financial consequences to Alagasco and the Company. The adverse effect could be increased if the adverse event was widespread enough to move market prices against Alagasco’s position.

Operations: Inherent in the oil and gas production activities of Energen Resources and the gas distribution activities of Alagasco are a variety of hazards and operation risks, such as leaks, explosions and mechanical problems that could cause substantial financial losses. In addition, these risks could result in loss of human life, significant damage to property, environmental pollution, impairment of our operations and substantial losses to the Company. In accordance with customary industry practices, the Company maintains insurance against some, but not all, of these risks and losses. The location of pipeline and storage facilities near populated areas, including residential areas, commercial business centers and industrial sites, could increase the level of damages resulting from these risks. The occurrence of any of these events could adversely affect Alagasco’s, Energen Resources’ and/or the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Alagasco’s Service Territory: Alagasco’s utility customers are geographically concentrated in central and north Alabama. Significant economic, weather, natural disaster, criminal act or other events that adversely affect this region could adversely affect Alagasco and the Company.forward-looking statement disclosure.

PART I

 

ITEM 1.BUSINESS

General

Energen Corporation, based in Birmingham, Alabama, is a diversified energy holding company engaged primarily in the development, acquisition, exploration and production of oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids in the continental United States and in the purchase, distribution and sale of natural gas in central and north Alabama. Its two principal subsidiaries are Energen Resources Corporation and Alabama Gas Corporation (Alagasco).

Alagasco was formed in 1948 by the merger of Alabama Gas Company into Birmingham Gas Company, the predecessors of which had been in existence since the mid-1800s. Alagasco became publicly traded in 1953. Energen Resources was formed in 1971 as a subsidiary of Alagasco. Energen was incorporated in 1978 in preparation for the 1979 corporate reorganization in which Alagasco and Energen Resources became subsidiaries of Energen.

The Company maintains a Web site with the addresswww.energen.com. The Company does not include the information contained on its Web site as part of this report nor is the information incorporated by reference into this report. The Company makes available free of charge through its Web site the annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to these reports. Also, these reports are available in print upon shareholder request. These reports are available as soon as reasonably practicable after being electronically filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company’s Web site also includes its Code of Ethics, Corporate Governance Guidelines, Audit Committee Charter, Officers’ Review Committee Charter, Governance and Nominations Committee Charter and Finance Committee Charter, each of which is available in print upon shareholder request.

Index to Financial Statements

Financial Information About Industry Segments

The information required by this item is provided in Note 19,18, Industry Segment Information, in the Notes to Financial Statements.

4


Narrative Description of Business

 

Oil and Gas Operations

General: Energen’s oil and gas operations focus on increasing production and adding proved reserves through the development and acquisition of oil and gas properties. In addition, Energen Resources explores for and develops new reservoirs, primarily in areas in which it has an operating presence. All gas, oil and natural gas liquids production is sold to third parties. Energen Resources also provides operating services in the Black Warrior, San Juan and Permian basins for its joint interest and third parties. These services include overall project management and day-to-day decision-making relative to project operations.

At the end of 2007,2008, Energen Resources’ proved oil and gas reserves totaled 1,7541,584 billion cubic feet equivalent (Bcfe). Substantially all of these reserves are located in the San Juan Basin in New Mexico and Colorado, the Permian Basin in west Texas and the Black Warrior Basin in Alabama. Approximately 8284 percent of Energen Resources’ year-end reserves are proved developed reserves. Energen Resources’ reserves are long-lived, with a year-end reserves-to-production ratio of 1815 years. Natural gas represents approximately 6466 percent of Energen Resources’ proved reserves, with oil representing approximately 2623 percent and natural gas liquids comprising the balance.

Growth Strategy: Energen has operated for more than ten years under a strategy to grow its oil and gas operations. Since the end of fiscal year 1995, Energen Resources has invested approximately $1.2 billion in property acquisitions, $1.3$1.8 billion in related development, and $209$248 million in exploration and related development. Energen Resources’ capital investment in 2008 and 2009 is currently expected to approximate $579$227 million primarily for existing properties. The Company also may allocate additional capital during this two-year period for other oil and gas activities such as property acquisitions, additional development of existing properties and the exploration and further development of potential shale playsshales acreage primarily in Alabama. The estimates above do not include amounts for capital related to potential acquisitions or development of these shale plays discussed below.

Energen Resources seeks to acquire onshore North American properties which offer proved undeveloped and/orand behind-pipe reserves as well as operational enhancement potential. Energen Resources prefers properties with long-lived reserves and multiple pay-zone opportunities; however, Energen Resources will consider acquisitions of other types of properties which meet its investment requirements, including acquisitions with unproved properties. In addition, Energen Resources conducts exploration activities primarily in areas in which it has operations and remains open to exploration activities which complement its core expertise and meet its investment requirements. Following an acquisition, Energen Resources focuses on increasing production and reserves through development of the properties’ undeveloped reserves and behind-pipe reserve potential as well as engaging in other activities. These activities include development well drilling, exploration, behind-pipe recompletions, pay-adds, workovers, secondary recovery and operational enhancements. Energen Resources prefers to operate its properties in order to better control the nature and pace of development activities. Energen Resources operated approximately 91 percent of its proved reserves at December 31, 2007.2008.

In October 2006, Energen Resources sold to Chesapeake Energy Corporation (Chesapeake) a 50 percent interest in its unproved lease position of approximately 200,000 gross acres in various shale plays in Alabama for $75 million andplus a then expected $15 million carriedin net future drilling interest.cost. In addition, the two companies signed an agreement to form an area of mutual interest (AMI) through which they will pursue new leases, exploration, development and operations on a 50-50 basis, for at least the next 10 years. The AMI encompassed Alabama and parts of Georgia. During 2008, Energen Resources and Chesapeake continue to leaseleased shared acreage in the AMI, which encompasses AlabamaAMI. Through December 31, 2008, approximately $21.7 million of drilling costs have been incurred and some of Georgia,paid by Chesapeake. Of these drilling costs paid by Chesapeake, approximately $10.85 million relate to Energen Resources’ interest under the initial agreement. Chesapeake currently does not plan on participating in advance of drilling.future drilling costs; accordingly, all future drilling costs will be paid by Energen Resources. As of February 25, 2008,24, 2009, Energen Resources’ net acreage position in Alabama shaleshales totaled approximately 287,500343,000 acres and representsrepresenting multiple shale opportunities.

Index to Financial Statements

As of December 31, 2008, Energen Resources had approximately $42 million of unproved leasehold costs related to its lease position in Alabama shales. Results of the initial well testing program which occurred during 2008 were neither positive nor conclusive. Included in the capital spending estimates above, the Company plans to invest approximately $10 million during 2009 to drill additional shale wells, test alternative completion techniques and complete other zones in the existing test wells.

Energen Resources’ development activities can result in the addition of new proved reserves and can serve to reclassify proved undeveloped reserves to proved developed reserves. Proved reserve disclosures are provided annually, although changes to reserve classifications occur throughout the year. Accordingly, additions of new reserves from development activities can occur throughout the year and may result from numerous factors including, but not limited to, regulatory approvals for drilling unit downspacing that increase the number of

5


available drilling locations; changes in the economic or operating environments that allow previously uneconomic locations to be added; technological advances that make reserve locations available for development; successful development of existing proved undeveloped reserve locations that reclassify adjacent probable locations to proved undeveloped reserve locations; increased knowledge of field geology and engineering parameters relative to oil and gas reservoirs; and changes in management’s intent to develop certain opportunities.

During the three years ended December 31, 2007,2008, the Company’s development efforts have added 364399 Bcfe of proved reserves from the drilling of 9751,087 gross development and service wells (including 2738 sidetrack wells) and 150176 well recompletions and pay-adds. In 2007,2008, Energen Resources’ successful development wells and other activities added approximately 127124 Bcfe of proved reserves; the companyCompany drilled 367406 gross development and service wells (including 2211 sidetrack wells), performed some 34103 well recompletions and pay-adds, and conducted other operational enhancements. Energen Resources’ production from continuing operations totaled 98.6102.4 Bcfe in 20072008 and is estimated to total 102106.5 Bcfe in 2008,2009, including 100104 Bcfe of estimated production from proved reserves owned at December 31, 2007. In 2009, production is estimated to be 108 Bcfe, including approximately 100 Bcfe produced from proved reserves currently owned.2008.

Drilling Activity:The following table sets forth the total number of net productive and dry exploratory and development wells drilled:

 

Years ended December 31,

  2007  2006  2005  2008  2007  2006

Development:

            

Productive

      135.5      151.7      153.9  199.2  135.5  151.7

Dry

      1.0      -      1.7  0.9  1.0  -

Total

      136.5      151.7      155.6  200.1  136.5  151.7

Exploratory:

            

Productive

      21.7      40.1      4.1  1.8  21.7  40.1

Dry

      0.3      3.0      -  1.7  0.3  3.0

Total

      22.0      43.1      4.1  3.5  22.0  43.1

As of December 31, 2007,2008, the Company was participating in the drilling of 910 gross development and exploratory wells, with the Company’s interest equivalent to 58 wells. In addition to the development wells drilled, the Company drilled 84.1, 99.8 35.9 and 3335.9 net service wells during 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively. As of December 31, 2007,2008, the Company was participating in the drilling of 12 gross service well,wells, with the Company’s interest equivalent to 0.9 well.1.5 wells.

Productive Wells and Acreage: The following table sets forth the total gross and net productive gas and oil wells as of December 31, 2007,2008, and developed and undeveloped acreage as of the latest practicable date prior to year-end:

 

  Gross  Net  Gross  Net

Gas wells

  4,101  2,333  4,272  2,388

Oil wells

  3,161  1,587  3,231  1,644

Developed acreage

  820,732  564,748  783,124  534,922

Undeveloped acreage

  324,395  287,852  696,281  361,656

Index to Financial Statements

There were 175 wells with multiple completions in 2007.2008. All wells and acreage are located onshore in the United States, with the majority of the net undeveloped acreage located in Alabama.

Risk Management:Energen Resources attempts to lower the commodity price risk associated with its oil and natural gas business through the use of futures, swaps and options. Energen Resources does not hedge more than 80 percent of its estimated annual production and generally does not hedge more than two fiscal years forward. Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” as amended requires all derivatives to be recognized on the balance sheet and measured at fair value. If a derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge, the effectiveness of the hedge, or the

6


degree that the gain (loss) for the hedging instrument offsets the loss (gain) on the hedged item, is measured at each reporting period. The effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is recognized in other comprehensive income as a component of equity and subsequently reclassified into earnings when the forecasted transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of a derivative’s change in fair value is required to be recognized in earnings immediately. Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge treatment under SFAS No. 133 must be recorded at fair value with gains or losses recognized in operating revenues in the period of change.

The Company may also enter into derivative transactions that do not qualify for cash flow hedge accounting but are considered by management to represent valid economic hedges and are accounted for as mark-to-market transactions. These economic hedges may include, but are not limited to, put optionsbasis hedges without a corresponding New York Mercantile Exchange hedge and swapshedges on non-operated or other properties for which all of the necessary information to qualify for cash flow hedge accounting is either not readily available or subject to change.

In the case of an acquisition, Energen Resources may hedge more than two years forward to protect targeted returns. Energen Resources prefers long-lived reserves and primarily uses the then-current oil and gas futures prices in its evaluation models, the prevailing swap curve and, for the longer-term, its own pricing assumptions.

See the Forward-Looking Statements in Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and Item 1A, Risk Factors, for further discussion with respect to price and other risks.

 

Natural Gas Distribution

General: Alagasco is the largest natural gas distribution utility in the state of Alabama. Alagasco purchases natural gas through interstate and intrastate marketers and suppliers and distributes the purchased gas through its distribution facilities for sale to residential, commercial and industrial customers and other end-users of natural gas. Alagasco also provides transportation services to industrial and commercial customers located on its distribution system. These transportation customers, using Alagasco as their agent or acting on their own, purchase gas directly from producers, marketers or suppliers and arrange for delivery of the gas into the Alagasco distribution system. Alagasco charges a fee to transport such customer-owned gas through its distribution system to the customers’ facilities.

Alagasco’s service territory is located in central and parts of north Alabama and includes 177184 cities and communities in 28 counties. The aggregate population of the counties served by Alagasco is estimated to be 2.4 million. Among the cities served by Alagasco are Birmingham, the center of the largest metropolitan area in Alabama, and Montgomery, the state capital. During 2007,2008, Alagasco served an average of 416,967413,151 residential customers and 34,20033,911 commercial, industrial and transportation customers. The Alagasco distribution system includes approximately 10,200 miles of main and more than 11,900 miles of service lines, odorization and regulation facilities, and customer meters.

APSC Regulation:As an Alabama utility, Alagasco is subject to regulation by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC) which established the Rate Stabilization and Equalization (RSE) rate-setting process in 1983. RSE was extended in 2007, 2002, 1996, 1990, 1987 and 1985. On December 21, 2007, the APSC extended RSE for a seven-year period through December 31, 2014. Under the terms of the extension, RSE will continue after December 31, 2014, unless, after notice to the Company and a hearing,

Index to Financial Statements

the APSC votes to modify or discontinue the RSE methodology. Alagasco’s allowed range of return on average equity remains 13.15 percent to 13.65 percent throughout the term of the order. Alagasco is on a September 30 fiscal year for rate-setting purposes (rate year).

Under RSE, the APSC conducts quarterly reviews to determine, based on Alagasco’s projections and year-to-date performance, whether Alagasco’s return on average equity at the end of the rate year will be within the allowed range of return. Reductions in rates can be made quarterly to bring the projected return within the allowed range; increases, however, are allowed only once each rate year, effective December 1, and cannot exceed 4 percent of prior-year revenues. Prior to the December 21, 2007 extension,At September 30, 2008, RSE limited the utility’s equity upon which a return is permitted to 6057 percent of total capitalization and providedprovides for certain cost control

7


measures designed to monitor Alagasco’s operations and maintenance (O&M) expense. The equity upon which a return is permitted will be phased down to 55 percent by September 30, 2009. Under the inflation-based cost control measurement established by the APSC, if the percentage change in O&M expense per customer fellon an aggregate basis falls within a range of 1.250.75 points above or below the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index For All Urban Consumers (index range)(Index Range), no adjustment wasis required. If the change in O&M expense per customer exceededon an aggregate basis exceeds the index range,Index Range, three-quarters of the difference wasis returned to customers. To the extent the change wasis less than the index range,Index Range, the utility benefitedbenefits by one-half of the difference through future rate adjustments.

Subsequent to the extension, the equity on which a return will be permitted will be phased down to 57 percent by December 31, 2008 and 55 percent by December 31, 2009. The changes to the O&M expense cost control measurement subsequent to the extension are as follows: annual changes in O&M expense will be measured on an aggregate basis rather than per customer; the percentage change in O&M expense must fall within a range of 0.75 points above or below the percentage change in the index range; non-recurring and/or recurring items that fluctuate based on situations demonstrated to be beyond Alagasco’s control may be excluded for the cost control measurement calculation; the O&M expense base for measurement purposes will continue to be set at the prior year’s actual O&M expense amount unless the Company exceeds the top of the index rangeIndex Range in two successive years, in which case the base for the following year will be set at the top of the index range.Index Range. Certain items that fluctuate based on situations demonstrated to be beyond Alagasco’s control may be excluded for the cost control measurement calculation

The temperature adjustment rider to Alagasco’s rate tariff, approved by the APSC in 1990, was designed to mitigate the earnings impact of variances from normal temperatures. Alagasco calculates a temperature adjustment to customers’ monthly bills to moderate the impact of departures from normal temperatures on Alagasco’s earnings. This adjustment, however, is subject to certain limitations including regulatory limits on adjustments to increase customers’ bills. Other non-temperature weather conditions that may affect customer usage are not included such as the impact of wind velocity or cloud cover and the impact of any elasticity of demand as a result of high commodity prices. Adjustments to customers’ bills are made in the same billing cycle in which the weather variation occurs. Substantially all the customers to whom the temperature adjustment applies are residential, small commercial and small industrial. Alagasco’s rate schedules for natural gas distribution charges contain a Gas Supply Adjustment (GSA) rider, thatestablished in 1993, which permits the pass-through to customers of changes in the cost of gas supply. Alagasco is allowed a temperature adjustment to moderate the impact of departures from normal temperatures on Alagasco’s earnings. The temperature adjustment applies primarily to residential, small commercial and small industrial customers. Other non-temperature weather related conditions that may affect customer usage are not included in the temperature adjustment such as the impact of wind velocity or cloud cover and the elasticity of demand as a result of higher commodity prices.

The APSC approved an Enhanced Stability Reserve (ESR) beginning October 1997, with an approved maximum funding level of $4 million pre-tax, to which Alagasco may charge the full amount of: (1) extraordinary O&M expenses resulting fromforce majeure events such as storms, severe weather, and outages, when one or a combination of two such events results in more than $200,000 of additional O&M expense during a rate year; or (2) individual large industrial and commercial customer revenue losses that exceed $250,000 during the rate year, if such losses cause Alagasco’s return on equity to fall below 13.15 percent. Following a year in which a charge against the ESR is made, the APSC provides for accretions to the ESR in an amount of no more than $40,000 monthly until the maximum funding level is achieved. Subsequent toUnder the terms of the 2007 RSE extension, Alagasco will not have accretions against the ESR until December 31, 2010 unless the Company incurs a significant natural disaster during the three-year period ended December 31, 2010 and receives approval from the APSC to resume accretions under the ESR.

Gas Supply: Alagasco’s distribution system is connected to two major interstate natural gas pipeline systems, Southern Natural Gas Company (Southern) and Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company (Transco). It is also connected to several intrastate natural gas pipeline systems and to Alagasco’s two liquified natural gas (LNG) facilities.

Alagasco purchases natural gas from various natural gas producers and marketers. Certain volumes are purchased under firm contractual commitments with other volumes purchased on a spot market basis. The purchased volumes are delivered to Alagasco’s system using a variety of firm transportation, interruptible transportation and storage capacity arrangements designed to meet the system’s varying levels of demand. Alagasco’s LNG facilities can provide the system with up to an additional 200,000 thousand cubic feet per day (Mcfd) of natural gas to meet peak day demand.

8


Index to Financial Statements

As of December 31, 2007,2008, Alagasco had the following contracts in place for firm natural gas pipeline transportation and storage services:

 

    December 31, 20072008
   
(Mcfd)

Southern firm transportation

  152,933  132,933

Southern storage and no notice transportation

  251,679

Transco firm transportation

  70,000

Various intrastate transportation

  20,24020,216

Competition and Rate Flexibility:The price of natural gas is a significant competitive factor in Alagasco’s service territory, particularly among large commercial and industrial transportation customers. Propane, coal and fuel oil are readily available, and many industrial customers have the capability to switch to alternate fuels and/orand alternate sources of gas. In the residential and small commercial and industrial markets, electricity is the principal competitor. With the support of the APSC, Alagasco has implemented a variety of flexible rate strategies to help it compete for the large customer gas load in the marketplace. Rate flexibility remains critical as the utility faces competition for this load. To date, the utility has been effective in utilizing its flexible rate strategies to minimize bypass and price-based switching to alternate fuels and alternate sources of gas.

In 1994 Alagasco implemented the P Rate in response to the competitive challenge of interstate pipeline capacity release. Under this tariff provision, Alagasco releases much of its excess pipeline capacity and repurchases it as agent for its transportation customers under 12 month contracts. The transportation customers benefit from lower pipeline costs; Alagasco’s core market customers benefit, as well, since the utility uses the revenues received from the P Rate to decrease gas costs for its residential, and its small commercial and industrial sales customers. In 2007,2008, approximately 300 of Alagasco’s transportation customers utilized the P Rate, and the resulting reduction in core market gas costs totaled more than $7.8$6.3 million.

The Competitive Fuel Clause (CFC) and Transportation Tariff also have been important to Alagasco’s ability to compete effectively for customer load in its service territory. The CFC allows Alagasco to adjust large customer rates on a case-by-case basis to compete with alternate fuels and alternate sources of gas. The GSA rider to Alagasco’s tariffTariff allows the Company to recover a reduction in charges allowed under the CFC because the retention of any customer, particularly large commercial and industrial transportation customers, benefits all customers by recovering a portion of the system’s fixed costs. The Transportation Tariff allows Alagasco to transport gas for customers, rather than buy and resell it to them, and is based on Alagasco’s sales profit margin so that operating margins are unaffected. During 20072008, substantially all of Alagasco’s large commercial and industrial customer deliveries involved the transportation of customer-owned gas. In addition, Alagasco served as gas purchasing agent for more thanapproximately 99 percent of its transportation customers. Alagasco also uses long-term special contracts as a vehicle for retaining large customer load. At the end of 2007, 652008, 57 of the utility’s largest commercial and industrial transportation customers were under special contracts of varying lengths.

Natural gas service available to Alagasco customers falls into two broad categories: interruptible and firm. Interruptible service contractually is subject to interruption by Alagasco for various reasons; the most common occurrence is curtailment of industrial customers during periods of peak core market heating demand. Interruptible service typically is provided to large commercial and industrial transportation customers who can reduce their gas consumption by adjusting production schedules or by switching to alternate fuels for the duration of the service interruption. More expensive firm service, on the other hand, generally is not subject to interruption and is provided to residential and to small commercial and industrial customers; these core market customers depend on natural gas primarily for space heating.

Growth: Customer growth presents a major challenge for Alagasco, given its mature, slow-growth service area. In 2007recent years, the higher price commodity environment has resulted in a decline in the utility’s customer base of approximately 1 percent annually. Recent lower commodity prices have not yet reversed this adverse trend at the utility. In 2008, Alagasco’s average number of customers decreased 1 percent. Alagasco will continue to concentrate on maintaining its current penetration levels in theand increasing residential new construction market and generating additionalsaturation levels for all end-use applications. Alagasco will continue to explore opportunities to increase revenue in the small and large commercial and industrial market segments.

9


Index to Financial Statements

Seasonality:Alagasco’s gas distribution business is highly seasonal since a material portion of the utility’s total sales and delivery volumes isrelate to space heating customers. Alagasco’s rate tariffTariff includes a temperature adjustment riderTemperature Adjustment Rider primarily for residential, small commercial and small industrial customers that moderates the impact of departures from normal temperatures on Alagasco’s earnings. The calculation is performed monthly, and adjustments are made to customers’ bills inthrough the actual month the weather variation occurs.GSA.

 

Environmental Matters

Various environmental laws and regulations apply to the operations of Energen Resources and Alagasco. Historically, the cost of environmental compliance has not materially affected the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows and is not expected to do so inflows; however, remediation of the future; however,Huntsville, Alabama manufactured gas plant site discussed below, new regulations, enforcement policies, claims for damages or other events could result in significant unanticipated costs.

A discussion of certain litigation against Energen Resources in the state of Louisiana related to the restoration of oilfield properties is included in Item 3, Legal Proceedings of Part I in this Form 10-K.

Alagasco is in the chain of title of nine former manufactured gas plant sites (four of which it still owns) and five manufactured gas distribution sites (one of which it still owns). AnSubject to the following paragraph discussing the Huntsville, Alabama manufactured gas plant site, an investigation of the sites does not indicate the present need for remediation activities. Managementactivities and management expects that, should remediation of any such sites be required in the future, Alagasco’s share, if any, of such costs will not materially affect the Company’s financial position.position of Alagasco.

In October 2008, Alagasco received a request from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for information pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) Section 104(e) and Section 7007 of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act in connection with a former manufactured gas plant site located in Huntsville, Alabama. The site, along with the Huntsville gas distribution system, was sold by Alagasco to the City of Huntsville in 1949. While Alagasco no longer owns the Huntsville site, the Company anticipates that the EPA will consider Alagasco a potentially responsible party under CERCLA and is in discussions with EPA and the current site owner to develop an action plan for the site. Based on the limited information available at this time, Alagasco preliminarily estimates that it may incur costs associated with the site ranging from $2.9 million to $5.9 million. At the present time, the Company cannot conclude that any amount within this range is a better estimate than any other, and accordingly the Company has accrued a contingent liability of $2.9 million. The estimate assumes an action plan for surface soil. If it is determined that a greater scope of work is appropriate, then actual costs will likely exceed the preliminary estimate. Alagasco expects to recover such costs through insurance recovery and future rates and has recorded a corresponding amount to its Enhanced Stability Reserve regulatory asset account.

 

Employees

The Company has approximately 1,5421,530 employees, of which Alagasco employs 1,1691,130 and Energen Resources employs 373.400. The Company believes that its relations with employees are good.

10


Index to Financial Statements
ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS

The future success and continued viability of Energen and its businesses, like any venture, is subject to many recognized and unrecognized risks and uncertainties. Such risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements made in this report and presented elsewhere by management. The following list identifies and briefly summarizes certain risk factors, and should not be viewed as complete or comprehensive. The Company undertakes no obligation to correct or update such risk factors whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. These risk factors should be read in conjunction with the Company’s disclosure specific to Forward-Looking Statements made elsewhere in this report.

Third Party Facilities:Commodity Prices Energen Resources delivers to: The Company and Alagasco is servedare significantly influenced by third party facilities. These facilities include third partycommodity prices. Historical markets for natural gas, oil and natural gas gathering, transportation, processingliquids have been volatile. Energen Resources’ revenues, operating results, profitability and storage facilities. Energen Resources reliescash flows depend primarily upon such facilities for access to marketsthe prices realized for its production. Alagasco relies upon such facilities for access tooil, gas and natural gas supplies. Such facilitiesliquid production. Alagasco’s competitive position and customer demand is significantly influenced by prices for natural gas which are typically limited in number and geographically concentrated. An extended interruption of accesspassed-through to or service from these facilities, whether caused by weather events, natural disaster, accident, mechanical failure, criminal act or otherwise could result in material adverse financial consequences to Alagasco, Energen Resources and/or the Company.customers.

Energen Resources’ ProductionAccess to Credit Markets: The Company and Drilling: There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of proved oil and gas reserves and in projecting future rates of production and timing of development expenditures.its subsidiaries rely on access to credit markets. The total amount or timing of actual future production may vary significantly from reserve and production estimates. In the event Energen Resources is unable to fully invest its planned development, acquisition and exploratory expenditures, future operating revenues, production, and proved reserves could be negatively affected. The drilling of development and exploratory wells can involve significant risks, including those related to timing, success ratesavailability and cost overruns,of credit market access is significantly influenced by market events and these risksrating agency evaluations for both lenders and the Company. Recent market volatility and credit market disruption have demonstrated that credit availability and issuer credit ratings can be affected by leasechange rapidly. Events negatively affecting credit ratings and rigcredit market liquidity could increase borrowing costs or limit availability complex geology and other factors. Anticipated drilling plans and capital expenditures may also change dueof funds to weather, manpower and equipment availability, changing emphasis by management and a variety of other factors which could result in actual drilling and capital expenditures being substantially different than currently planned.the Company.

Energen Resources’ Hedging:Although Energen Resources makes use of futures, swaps, options and fixed-price contracts to mitigate price risk, fluctuations in future oil, gas and natural gas liquids prices could materially affect the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows; furthermore, such risk mitigation activities may cause the Company’s financial position and results of operations to be materially different from results that would have been obtained had such risk mitigation activities not occurred. The effectiveness of such risk mitigation assumes that counterparties maintain satisfactory credit quality. The effectiveness of such risk mitigation also assumes that actual sales volumes will generally meet or exceed the volumes subject to the futures, swaps, options and fixed-pricefixed- price contracts. A substantial failure to meet sales volume targets, whether caused by miscalculations, weather events, natural disaster, accident, mechanical failure, criminal act or otherwise, could leave Energen Resources financially exposed to its counterparties and result in material adverse financial consequences to Energen Resources and the Company. The adverse effect could be increased if the adverse event was widespread enough to move market prices against Energen Resources’ position.

Alagasco’s Hedging:Similarly, although Alagasco makes use of futures, swaps and fixed-price contracts to mitigate gas supply cost risk, fluctuations in future gas supply costs could materially affect its financial position and rates to customers. The effectiveness of Alagasco’s risk mitigation assumes that its counterparties in such activities maintain satisfactory credit quality. The effectiveness of such risk mitigation also assumes that Alagasco’s actual gas supply needs will generally meet or exceed the volumes subject to the futures, swaps and fixed-price contracts. A substantial failure to experience projected gas supply needs, whether caused by miscalculations, weather events, natural disaster, accident, mechanical failure, criminal act or otherwise, could leave Alagasco financially exposed to its counterparties and result in material adverse financial consequences to Alagasco and the Company. The adverse effect could be increased if the adverse event was widespread enough to move market prices against Alagasco’s position.

Energen Resources Customer Concentration:Revenues and related accounts receivable from oil and gas operations primarily are generated from the sale of produced oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids to energy marketing companies. Such sales are typically made on an unsecured credit basis with payment due the month following delivery. This concentration of sales to the energy marketing industry has the potential to affect the Company’s overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that the Company’s oil and gas purchasers may be affected similarly by changes in economic, industry or other conditions. Energen Resources considers the credit quality of its customers and, in certain instances, may require credit assurances such as a deposit, letter of credit or parent guarantee. The three largest oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids purchasers are expected to account for approximately 19 percent, 18 percent and 13 percent, respectively, of Energen Resources’ estimated 2009 production. Energen Resources’ other purchasers are each expected to purchase less than 9 percent of estimated 2009 production.

Index to Financial Statements

Third Party Facilities:Energen Resources delivers to and Alagasco is served by third party facilities. These facilities include third party oil and gas gathering, transportation, processing and storage facilities. Energen Resources relies upon such facilities for access to markets for its production. Alagasco relies upon such facilities for access to natural gas supplies. Such facilities are typically limited in number and geographically concentrated. An extended interruption of access to or service from these facilities, whether caused by weather events, natural disaster, accident, mechanical failure, criminal act or otherwise could result in material adverse financial consequences to Alagasco, Energen Resources and the Company.

Energen Resources’ Production and Drilling: There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of proved oil and gas reserves and in projecting future rates of production and timing of development expenditures. The total amount or timing of actual future production may vary significantly from reserve and production estimates. In the event Energen Resources is unable to fully invest its planned development, acquisition and exploratory expenditures, future operating revenues, production, and proved reserves could be negatively affected. The drilling of development and exploratory wells can involve significant risks, including those related to timing, success rates and cost overruns, and these risks can be affected by lease and rig availability, complex geology and other factors. Anticipated drilling plans and capital expenditures may also change due to weather, manpower and equipment availability, changing emphasis by management and a variety of other factors which could result in actual drilling and capital expenditures being substantially different than currently planned.

Operations: Inherent in the gas distribution activities of Alagasco and the oil and gas production activities of Energen Resources are a variety of hazards and operation risks, such as leaks, explosions and mechanical problems that could cause substantial financial losses. In addition, these risks could result in loss of human life, significant damage to property, environmental pollution, impairment of operations and substantial losses to the Company. In accordance with customary industry practices, the Company maintains insurance against some, but not all, of these risks and losses. The location of pipeline and storage facilities near populated areas, including residential areas, commercial business centers and industrial sites, could increase the level of damages resulting from these risks. The occurrence of any of these events could adversely affect Alagasco’s, Energen Resources’ and/orand the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

11


Energen Resources Customer Concentration: Revenues and related accounts receivable from oil and gas operations primarily are generated from the sale of produced oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids to energy marketing companies. Such sales are typically made on an unsecured credit basis with payment due the month following delivery. This concentration of sales to the energy marketing industry has the potential to affect the Company’s overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that the Company’s oil and gas purchasers may be affected similarly by changes in economic, industry or other conditions. Energen Resources considers the credit quality of its customers and, in certain instances, may require credit assurances such as a deposit, letter of credit or parent guarantee. The four largest oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids purchasers account for approximately 22 percent, 14 percent, 11 percent and 10 percent, respectively, of Energen Resources’ estimated 2008 production. Energen Resources’ other purchasers each bought less than 8 percent of production.

Alagasco’s Service Territory: Alagasco’s utility customers are geographically concentrated in central and north Alabama. Significant economic, weather, natural disaster, criminal act or other events that adversely affect this region could adversely affect Alagasco and the Company.

AccessComplex federal, state and local laws and regulations:Energen and Alagasco are subject to Credit Markets: The Companyextensive federal, state and its subsidiaries rely on access to credit markets. The availability and cost of credit market access islocal regulation which significantly influenced by rating agency evaluations ofinfluences operations. Although, the Company believes that operations generally comply with applicable laws and regulations, failure to comply could result in the suspension or termination of Alagasco. Events affecting credit market liquidityoperations and subject the Company to administrative, civil and criminal penalties. Further, these laws and regulations could change in ways that substantially increase borrowing costs or limit availability of funds.operations.

 

ITEM 1B.UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None

12


Index to Financial Statements
ITEM 2.PROPERTIES

The corporate headquarters of Energen, Alagasco and Energen Resources are located in leased office space in Birmingham, Alabama. See the discussion under Item 1-Business1, Business for further information related to Energen Resources’ and Alagasco’s business operations. Information concerning Energen Resources’ production and reserves is summarized in the table below and included in Note 18,17, Oil and Gas Operations (Unaudited), in the Notes to Financial Statements. See Item 7, -Management’sManagement’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for a discussion of the future outlook and expectations for Energen Resources and Alagasco.

Oil and Gas Operations

Energen Resources focuses on increasing its production and proved reserves through the acquisition and development of onshore North American producing oil and gas properties. Energen Resources maintains offices in Arcadia, Louisiana; in Farmington, New Mexico; and in Midland, Texas. The Company also maintains offices in Lehman, Seminole, Westbrook and Penwell, Texas; and in Brookwood and Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

The major areas of operations include (1) the San Juan Basin, (2) the Permian Basin, (3) the Black Warrior Basin and (4) North Louisiana/East Texas as highlighted on the above map.

The following table sets forth the production volumes for the year ended December 31, 2007,2008, and proved reserves and reserves-to-production ratio by area as of December 31, 2007:2008:

 

  

Year Ended

December 31, 2007

 December 31, 2007  December 31, 2007  

Year ended

December 31, 2008

  December 31, 2008  December 31, 2008
  Production Volumes

(MMcfe)

 Proved Reserves
(MMcfe)
  Reserves-to-
Production Ratio
  

Production Volumes

(MMcfe)

  Proved Reserves
(MMcfe)
  Reserves-to-
Production Ratio

San Juan Basin

  47,517         943,423          19.85 years          50,319  870,618  17.30 years

Permian Basin

  28,655         501,920          17.52 years          28,878  434,452  15.04 years

Black Warrior Basin

  14,813         234,253          15.81 years          14,115  216,662  15.35 years

North Louisiana/East Texas

  7,187         68,653          9.55 years          8,554  57,925  6.77 years

Other

  433         5,403          12.48 years          488  4,718  9.67 years

Total

  98,605         1,753,652          17.78 years          102,354  1,584,375  15.48 years

13


Index to Financial Statements

The following table sets forth proved reserves by area as of December 31, 2007:2008:

 

  Gas MMcf  Oil MBbl  NGL MBbl  Gas MMcf  Oil MBbl  NGL MBbl

San Juan Basin

  762,091  1,326  28,896  710,893  1,059  25,562

Permian Basin

  47,648  72,944  2,768  49,468  60,772  3,391

Black Warrior Basin

  234,253  -  -  216,662  -  -

North Louisiana/East Texas

  67,573  180  -  57,331  98  -

Other

  4,353  175  -  4,099  105  -

Total

  1,115,918  74,625  31,664  1,038,453  62,034  28,953

The following table sets forth proved developed reserves by area as of December 31, 2007:2008:

 

  Gas MMcf  Oil MBbl  NGL MBbl  Gas MMcf  Oil MBbl  NGL MBbl

San Juan Basin

  569,800  1,320  25,805  555,136  1,029  22,056

Permian Basin

  44,042  59,553  2,543  46,211  50,705  2,813

Black Warrior Basin

  231,791  -  -  212,157  -  -

North Louisiana/East Texas

  53,526  161  -  51,270  90  -

Other

  4,351  175  -  4,099  105  -

Total

  903,510  61,209  28,348  868,873  51,929  24,869

Energen Resources files Form EIA-23 with the Department of Energy which reports gross proved reserves, including the working interest share of other owners, for properties operated by the Company. The proved reserves reported in the table above represent our share of proved reserves for all properties, based on our ownership interest in each property. For properties operated by Energen Resources, the difference between the proved reserves reported on Form EIA-23 and the gross reserves associated with the Company-owned proved reserves reported in the table above does not exceed five percent. Estimated proved reserves as of December 31, 20072008 are based upon studies for each of our properties prepared by Company engineers and reviewed by Ryder Scott Company, L.P. and T. Scott Hickman and Associates, Inc., independent oil and gas reservoir engineers. Calculations were prepared using standard geological and engineering methods generally accepted by the petroleum industry and in accordance with SEC guidelines.

The following table sets forth the total net productive gas and oil wells by area as of December 31, 2007,2008, and developed and undeveloped acreage as of the latest practicable date prior to year-end:

 

  Net Wells  Net Developed
Acreage
  Net Undeveloped
Acreage
  Net Wells  Net Developed
Acreage
  Net Undeveloped
Acreage

San Juan Basin

  1,390  302,202  1,413  1,419  276,909  9,563

Permian Basin

  1,579  87,851  3,309  1,636  83,012  1,000

Black Warrior Basin

  782  147,190  1,187  796  147,650  670

North Louisiana/East Texas

  159  20,675  55  170  20,664  1,400

Alabama Shale and Other

  10  6,830  281,888

Alabama Shales and Other

  11  6,687  349,023

Total

  3,920  564,748  287,852  4,032  534,922  361,656

Natural Gas Distribution

The properties of Alagasco consist primarily of its gas distribution system, which includes approximately 10,200 miles of main and more than 11,900 miles of service lines, odorization and regulation facilities, and customer meters. Alagasco also has two LNG facilities, four division commercial offices, three division business centers, two payment centers, threeone district offices,office, seven service centers, and other related property and equipment, some of which are leased by Alagasco.

 

ITEM 3.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Energen and its affiliates are, from time to time, parties to various pending or threatened legal proceedings. Certain of these lawsuits include claims for punitive damages in addition to other specific relief. Based upon information presently available, and in light of available legal and other defenses, contingent liabilities arising from threatened and pending litigation are not considered material in relation to the respective financial positions of Energen and its

14


affiliates. It should be noted, however, that Energen and its affiliates

Index to Financial Statements

conduct business in Alabama and other jurisdictions in which the magnitude and frequency of punitive or other damage awards may bear little or no relation to culpability or actual damages, thus making it difficult to predict litigation results.

Jefferson County, Alabama

InAs discussed in prior filings, in January 2006, RGGS Land and Minerals LTD, L.P. (RGGS) filed a lawsuit in Jefferson County, Alabama, alleging breach of contract with respect to Energen Resources’ calculation of certain allowed costs and failure to pay in a timely manner certain amounts due RGGS under a mineral lease. RGGS seeks a declaratory judgmentThe lawsuit was settled during December 2008. Consistent with respect to the parties’ rights under the lease, reformationCompany’s evaluation of the lease, monetary damages and termination of Energen Resources’ rights undercase, the lease. The Occluded Gas Lease dated January 1, 1986 was originally between Energen Resources and United States Steel Corporation (U.S. Steel) as lessor. RGGS became the lessor under the lease as a result of a 2004 conveyance from U.S. Steel to RGGS. Approximately 120,000 acres in Jefferson and Tuscaloosa counties, Alabama, are subject to the lease. Separately on February 6, 2006, Energen Resources received notice of immediate lease termination from RGGS. During 2007, Energen Resources’ production associated with the lease was approximately 10.5 Bcf.

RGGS has adopted positions contrary to the seventeen years of course of dealing between Energen Resources and its original contracting partner, U.S. Steel. The Company believes that RGGS’ assertions are without merit and that the notice of lease termination is ineffective. Energen Resources intends to vigorously defend its rights under the lease. The Company remains in possession of the lease, believes that the likelihood of a judgment in favor of RGGS is remote, and has made nodid not incur any material accrual with respect to the litigation or purported lease termination.charge.

Enron Corporation

Enron and Enron North America Corporation (ENA) have settled with Energen Resources and Alagasco related to the Enron and ENA bankruptcy proceedings. Under the settlement, Energen Resources was allowed claims in the bankruptcy cases against Enron and ENA of $12.5 million each. In December 2006, Energen Resources sold its claims against Enron and ENA for a gain of $6.7 million after-tax. All other claims have been released.

Legacy Litigation

During recent years, numerous lawsuits have been filed against oil production companies in Louisiana for restoration of oilfield properties. These suits are referred to in the industry as “legacy litigation” because they usually involve operations that were conducted on the affected properties many years earlier. Energen Resources is or has been a party to several legacy litigation lawsuits, most of which result from the operations of predecessor companies. Based upon information presently available, and in light of available legal and other defenses, contingent liabilities arising from legacy litigation in excess of the Company’s accrued provision for estimated liability are not considered material to the Company’s financial position.

Other

Various other pending or threatened legal proceedings are in progress currently, and the Company has accrued a provision for the estimated liability.

 

ITEM 4.SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of 2007.2008.

15


Index to Financial Statements

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANTS

Energen Corporation

 

Name

  Age  

Position (1)

James T. McManus, II

  49  

Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Energen and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Alagasco (2)

Wm. Michael Warren, Jr.

  60  

(3)

Charles W. Porter, Jr.

  43  

Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Energen and Alagasco (4)

John S. Richardson

  50  

President and Chief Operating Officer of Energen Resources (5)

Dudley C. Reynolds

  55  

President and Chief Operating Officer of Alagasco (6)

J. David Woodruff, Jr.

  51  

General Counsel and Secretary of Energen and Alagasco and Vice President-Corporate Development of Energen (7)

Grace B. Carr

  52  

Vice President and Controller of Energen (8)

Name

Age

Position (1)

James T. McManus, II

50

Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Energen and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Alagasco (2)

Charles W. Porter, Jr.

44

Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Energen and Alagasco (3)

John S. Richardson

51

President and Chief Operating Officer of Energen Resources (4)

Dudley C. Reynolds

56

President and Chief Operating Officer of Alagasco (5)

J. David Woodruff, Jr.

52

General Counsel and Secretary of Energen and Alagasco and Vice President-Corporate Development of Energen (6)

Russell E. Lynch, Jr.

35

Vice President and Controller of Energen (7)

Notes: 

(1)

All executive officers of Energen have been employed by Energen or a subsidiary for the past five years. Officers serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors.

(2)

Mr. McManus has been employed by the Company in various capacities since 1986. He was elected Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Energen Resources in October 1995 and President of Energen Resources in April 1997. He was elected President and Chief Operating Officer of Energen effective January 1, 2006 and Chief Executive Officer of Energen and each of its subsidiaries effective July 1, 2007. He was elected Chairman of the Board of Energen and each of its subsidiaries effective January 1, 2008. Mr. McManus serves as a Director of Energen and each of its subsidiaries.

(3)

Mr. Warren retired from the Company at the end of 2007. He had been employed by the Company in various capacities since 1983 and served as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Energen and each of its subsidiaries since 1998. Mr. Warren was succeeded by Mr. McManus as Chief Executive officer effective July 1, 2007 and as Chairman of the Board of Energen and each of its subsidiaries effective January 1, 2008. Mr. Warren continues to serve as a Director of Energen and each of its subsidiaries.

(4)

Mr. Porter has been employed by the Company in various financial capacities since 1989. He was elected Controller of Energen Resources in 1998. In 2001, he was elected Vice President – Finance of Energen Resources. He was elected Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Energen and each of its subsidiaries effective January 1, 2007.

(5)

(4)    Mr. Richardson has been employed by the Company in various capacities since 1985. He was elected Vice President – Acquisitions and Engineering of Energen Resources in 1997. He was elected Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Energen Resources effective January 1, 2006. He was elected President and Chief Operating Officer of Energen Resources effective January 23, 2008.

16


(6)

(5)    Mr. Reynolds has been employed by the Company in various capacities since 1980. He was elected General Counsel and Secretary of Energen and each of its subsidiaries in April 1991. He was elected President and Chief Operating Officer of Alagasco effective January 1, 2003.

Index to Financial Statements
 

(7)

(6)    Mr. Woodruff has been employed by the Company in various capacities since 1986. He was elected Vice President-Legal and Assistant Secretary of Energen and each of its subsidiaries in April 1991 and Vice President-Corporate Development of Energen in October 1995. He was elected General Counsel and Secretary of Energen and each of its subsidiaries effective January 1, 2003.

(8)

Ms. Carr was(7)    Mr. Lynch has been employed by the Company in various capacities from January 1985 to April 1989. Shesince 2001. He was not employed from May 1989 through December 1997. She was elected Controller of Energen in January 1998 and elected Vice President and Controller of Energen in October 2001.effective January 1, 2009.

17


Index to Financial Statements

PART II

 

ITEM 5.MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Quarterly Market Prices and Dividends Paid Per Share

Quarterly Market Prices and Dividends Paid Per ShareQuarterly Market Prices and Dividends Paid Per Share

Quarter ended(in dollars)

  High  Low  Close  Dividends Paid  High  Low  Close  Dividends Paid

March 31, 2006

  39.49  32.71    35.00  .11              

June 30, 2006

  38.42  32.16    38.41  .11              

September 30, 2006

  44.48  36.95    41.87  .11              

December 31, 2006

  47.60  38.50    46.94  .11              

March 31, 2007

  51.43  43.78    50.89  .115              51.43  43.78  50.89  .115

June 30, 2007

  60.49  51.05    54.94  .115              60.49  51.05  54.94  .115

September 30, 2007

  58.90  48.24    57.12  .115              58.90  48.24  57.12  .115

December 31, 2007

  70.41  56.81    64.23  .115              70.41  56.81  64.23  .115

March 31, 2008

  66.88  57.61  62.30  .12  

June 30, 2008

  79.57  61.97  78.03  .12  

September 30, 2008

  79.33  41.03  45.28  .12  

December 31, 2008

  45.50  23.00  29.33  .12  

Energen’s common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol EGN. On February 8, 2008,17, 2009, there were 7,1356,902 holders of record of Energen’s common stock. At the date of this filing, Energen Corporation owned all the issued and outstanding common stock of Alabama Gas Corporation. Energen expects to pay annual cash dividends of $0.48$0.50 per share on the Company’s common stock in 2008.2009. The amount and timing of all dividend payments is subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors and is based upon business conditions, results of operations, financial conditions and other factors.

The following table summarizes information concerning securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans:

 

Plan Category  Number of Securities to be
Issued for Outstanding
Options and Performance
Share Awards
  Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
  Number of Securities
Remaining Available for
Future Issuance Under Equity
Compensation Plans
  Number of Securities to be
Issued for Outstanding
Options and Performance
Share Awards
  Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
  Number of Securities
Remaining Available for
Future Issuance Under Equity
Compensation Plans

Equity compensation plans
approved by security holders*

  466,339                $30.79          1,953,996                    620,517  $40.75  2,007,156

Equity compensation plans not
approved by security holders

  -                -          -                    -   -  -

Total

  466,339                $30.79          1,953,996                    620,517  $40.75  2,007,156
*

These plans include the Company’s 1997 Stock Incentive Plan and the 1992 Energen Corporation Directors Stock Plan

The following table summarizes information concerning purchases of equity securities by the issuer:

 

Period  Total Number of
Shares Purchased
 
 
 Average Price
Paid per Share
  Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
  Maximum Number
of Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans**

October 1, 2007 through
October 31, 2007

  -  -  -  8,992,700

November 1, 2007 through
November 30, 2007

  -  -  -  8,992,700

December 1, 2007 through
December 31, 2007

  1,857* $    64.43  -  8,992,700

Total

  1,857  $    64.43  -  8,992,700
Period  Total Number of
Shares Purchased
  Average Price
Paid per Share
  Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
  Maximum Number
of Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans**

October 1, 2008 through October 31, 2008

  -   -  -  8,992,700

November 1, 2008 through November 30, 2008

  8,558* $33.58  -  8,992,700

December 1, 2008 through December 31, 2008

  2,685* $28.78  -  8,992,700

Total

  11,243  $32.43  -  8,992,700
*

Acquired in connection with tax withholdings and payment of exercise price on stock compensation plans.

**

By resolution adopted May 24, 1994, and supplemented by a resolutionresolutions adopted April 26, 2000 and June 24, 2006, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to 12,564,400 shares of the Company’s common stock. The resolutions do not have an expiration date.

18


Index to Financial Statements

PERFORMANCE GRAPH

Energen Corporation — Comparison of Five-Year Cumulative Shareholder Returns

This graph compares the total shareholder returns of Energen, the Standard & Poor’s Composite Stock Index (S&P 500), the Standard & Poor’s Supercomposite Oil & Gas Exploration & Production Index (S15OILP), and the Standard & Poor’s Supercomposite Gas Utilities Index (S15GASUX). The graph assumes $100 invested at the per-share closing price of the common stock on the New York Exchange Composite Tape on December 31, 2002,2003, in the Company and each of the indices. Total shareholder return includes reinvested dividends.

 

As of December 31,

   2002   2003   2004   2005   2006   2007  2003  2004  2005  2006  2007  2008

S&P 500 Index

  $100  $129  $143  $150  $173  $183  $100  $111  $116  $135  $142  $90

Energen

  $100  $144  $210  $262  $343  $473  $100  $146  $182  $238  $328  $151

S15OILP Index

  $100  $127  $172  $279  $289  $413  $100  $136  $220  $228  $326  $204

S15GASUX

  $100  $124  $145  $157  $196  $223  $100  $117  $127  $158  $180  $137

19


Index to Financial Statements
ITEM 6.SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The selected financial data as set forth below should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the Notes to Financial Statements included in this Form 10-K.

SELECTED FINANCIAL AND COMMON STOCK DATA

Energen Corporation

 

Years ended December 31,

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

   2007   2006   2005   2004   2003  2008  2007  2006 2005  2004

INCOME STATEMENT

                  

Operating revenues

  $  1,435,060  $  1,393,986* $  1,128,394  $936,857  $841,631  $1,568,910  $1,435,060  $1,393,986* $1,128,394  $936,857

Income from continuing operations

  $309,212  $273,523* $172,886  $127,305  $110,104  $321,915  $309,212  $273,523* $172,886  $127,305

Net income

  $309,233  $273,570* $173,012  $127,463  $110,654  $321,915  $309,233  $273,570* $173,012  $127,463

Diluted earnings per average common share
from continuing operations

  $4.28  $3.73* $2.35  $1.74  $1.54  $4.47  $4.28  $3.73* $2.35  $1.74

Diluted earnings per average common share

  $4.28  $3.73* $2.35  $1.74  $1.55  $4.47  $4.28  $3.73* $2.35  $1.74

BALANCE SHEET

                  

Total property, plant and equipment, net

  $2,538,243  $2,252,414  $2,068,011  $1,783,059  $1,433,451  $2,867,648  $2,538,243  $2,252,414  $2,068,011  $1,783,059

Total assets

  $3,079,653  $2,836,887  $2,618,226  $2,181,739  $1,778,232  $3,775,404  $3,079,653  $2,836,887  $2,618,226  $2,181,739

Long-term debt

  $562,365  $582,490  $683,236  $612,891  $552,842  $561,361  $562,365  $582,490  $683,236  $612,891

Total shareholders’ equity

  $1,378,658  $1,202,069  $892,678  $803,666  $699,032  $1,913,920  $1,378,658  $1,202,069  $892,678  $803,666

COMMON STOCK DATA

                  

Annual dividend rate at period-end

  $0.46  $0.44  $0.40  $0.385  $0.37  $0.48  $0.46  $0.44  $0.40  $0.385

Cash dividends paid per common share

  $0.46  $0.44  $0.40  $0.3775  $0.365  $0.48  $0.46  $0.44  $0.40  $0.3775

Diluted average common shares outstanding (000)

   72,181   73,278   73,715   73,117   71,434   72,030   72,181   73,278   73,715   73,117

Price range:

                  

High

  $70.41  $47.60  $44.31  $30.04  $21.00  $79.57  $70.41  $47.60  $44.31  $30.04

Low

  $43.78  $32.16  $27.06  $19.94  $14.04  $23.00  $43.78  $32.16  $27.06  $19.94

Close

  $64.23  $46.94  $36.32  $29.48  $20.52  $29.33  $64.23  $46.94  $36.32  $29.48

 

*

Includes an after-tax gain of $34.5 million, or $0.47 per diluted share, on the sale of a 50 percent interest in Energen Resources’ acreage position in Alabama shaleshales to Chesapeake Energy Corporation.

All information has been restated to reflect a 2-for-1 stock split effective June 1, 2005.

20


Index to Financial Statements

SELECTED BUSINESS SEGMENT DATA

Energen Corporation

 

Years ended December 31,

(dollars in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005   2004   2003  2008  2007  2006  2005  2004

OIL AND GAS OPERATIONS

                    

Operating revenues from continuing operations

                    

Natural gas

  $499,406  $437,560  $365,635  $276,482  $235,022  $536,283  $499,406  $437,560  $365,635  $276,482

Oil

   251,497   181,459   116,651   98,409   87,192   292,908   251,497   181,459   116,651   98,409

Natural gas liquids

   68,623   50,258   38,455   30,902   25,938   68,216   68,623   50,258   38,455   30,902

Other

   6,066   61,265   6,953   4,324   4,380   16,725   6,066   61,265   6,953   4,324

Total

  $825,592  $730,542  $527,694  $410,117  $352,532  $914,132  $825,592  $730,542  $527,694  $410,117

Production volumes from continuing operations

                    

Natural gas (MMcf)

   64,300   62,824   61,048   57,164   55,304   67,573   64,300   62,824   61,048   57,164

Oil (MBbl)

   3,879   3,645   3,316   3,434   3,411   4,114   3,879   3,645   3,316   3,434

Natural gas liquids (MMgal)

   77.2   76.3   70.5   68.2   66.6   70.7   77.2   76.3   70.5   68.2

Production volumes from continuing
operations (MMcfe)

   98,606   95,596   91,020   87,513   85,291   102,354   98,606   95,596   91,020   87,513

Total production volumes (MMcfe)

   98,605   95,595   91,099   87,606   86,157   102,354   98,605   95,595   91,099   87,606

Proved reserves

                    

Natural gas (MMcf)

   1,115,918   1,096,429   1,080,161   1,019,436   886,307   1,038,453   1,115,918   1,096,429   1,080,161   1,019,436

Oil (MBbl)

   74,625   74,893   74,962   54,500   52,528   62,034   74,625   74,893   74,962   54,500

Natural gas liquids (MBbl)

   31,664   29,504   31,934   34,613   27,245   28,953   31,664   29,504   31,934   34,613

Total (MMcfe)

   1,753,652   1,722,811   1,721,537   1,554,114   1,364,945   1,584,375   1,753,652   1,722,811   1,721,537   1,554,114

Other data from continuing operations
Lease operating expense (LOE)

          

Other data from continuing operations

          

Lease operating expense (LOE)

          

LOE and other

  $148,280  $134,853  $104,241  $79,191  $67,833  $174,127  $148,280  $134,853  $104,241  $79,191

Production taxes

   53,798   49,509   52,271   37,285   27,686   62,552   53,798   49,509   52,271   37,285

Total

  $202,078  $184,362  $156,512  $116,476  $95,519  $236,679  $202,078  $184,362  $156,512  $116,476

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

  $114,241  $97,842  $89,340  $80,896  $79,495  $139,539  $114,241  $97,842  $89,340  $80,896

Capital expenditures

  $379,479  $259,678  $353,712  $403,936  $163,338  $449,571  $379,479  $259,678  $353,712  $403,936

Operating income

  $451,567  $405,149  $243,876  $180,379  $153,325  $482,588  $451,567  $405,149  $243,876  $180,379

NATURAL GAS DISTRIBUTION

                    

Operating revenues

                    

Residential

  $388,291  $426,066  $384,753  $340,229  $320,938  $408,280  $388,291  $426,066  $384,753  $340,229

Commercial and industrial

   164,903   181,900   166,957   138,686   126,638   177,719   164,903   181,900   166,957   138,686

Transportation

   49,255   45,950   43,291   40,221   38,250   51,116   49,255   45,950   43,291   40,221

Other

   7,019   9,528   5,699   7,604   3,273   17,663   7,019   9,528   5,699   7,604

Total

  $609,468  $663,444  $600,700  $526,740  $489,099  $654,778  $609,468  $663,444  $600,700  $526,740

Gas delivery volumes (MMcf)

                    

Residential

   20,665   22,310   24,601   25,383   27,248   21,632   20,665   22,310   24,601   25,383

Commercial and industrial

   10,593   11,226   12,498   12,323   12,564   10,934   10,593   11,226   12,498   12,323

Transportation

   51,448   50,760   49,850   54,385   55,623   46,789   51,448   50,760   49,850   54,385

Total

   82,706   84,296   86,949   92,091   95,435   79,355   82,706   84,296   86,949   92,091

Average number of customers

                    

Residential

   416,967   420,558   425,110   425,673   427,413   413,151   416,967   420,558   425,110   425,673

Commercial, industrial and transportation

   34,200   34,456   34,936   35,248   35,463   33,911   34,200   34,456   34,936   35,248

Total

   451,167   455,014   460,046   460,921   462,876   447,062   451,167   455,014   460,046   460,921

Other data

                    

Depreciation and amortization

  $47,136  $44,244  $42,351  $39,881  $37,171  $48,874  $47,136  $44,244  $42,351  $39,881

Capital expenditures

  $58,862  $76,157  $73,276  $58,208  $57,906  $63,320  $58,862  $76,157  $73,276  $58,208

Operating income

  $72,742  $74,274  $72,922  $66,199  $66,848  $81,956  $72,742  $74,274  $72,922  $66,199

21


Index to Financial Statements
ITEM 7.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Consolidated Net Income

Energen Corporation’s net income for the year ended December 31, 20072008 totaled $309.2$321.9 million, or $4.28$4.47 per diluted share and compared favorably to the year ended December 31, 20062007 net income of $273.6$309.2 million, or $3.73$4.28 per diluted share. This 14.74.4 percent increase in earnings per diluted share (EPS) largely reflected the result of significantly higher prices for natural gas, oil and natural gas liquids and the impact of a 33.7 billion cubic feet equivalent (Bcfe) increase in production volumes from Energen Resources Corporation, Energen’s oil and gas subsidiary, partially offset by the prior year after-tax gain of approximately $34.5 million, or $0.47 per diluted share, on the sale of a 50 percent interest in Energen Resources’ acreage position in Alabama shale to Chesapeake Energy Corporation (Chesapeake).higher lease operating expense and increased depreciation, depletion and amortization (DD&A) expense. For the year ended December 31, 2007,2008, Energen Resources earned $273.2$282.7 million, as compared with $237.6$273.2 million in the previous year. Alabama Gas Corporation (Alagasco), Energen’s utility subsidiary, generated net income of $36.8$40.2 million in the current year as compared with net income in the prior period of $37.3$36.8 million. For the year ended December 31, 2005,2006, Energen reported earningsnet income of $173$273.6 million, or $2.35$3.73 per diluted share.

2008 vs 2007:Energen Resources’ net income and income from continuing operations totaled $282.7 million in 2008 as compared with $273.2 million in 2007 primarily due to increased commodity prices of approximately $27 million after-tax, the impact of increased production volumes of approximately $22 million after-tax and a $6.4 million after-tax gain on the sale of certain Permian Basin oil properties. These increases were partially offset by higher lease operating expense of approximately $16 million after-tax, increased DD&A expense of approximately $15 million after-tax and the reduced benefit of the Section 199 Domestic Production Activities Deduction on qualified oil and gas production income of approximately $8 million after-tax.

Alagasco earnings increased to $40.2 million in 2008 from $36.8 million in 2007 largely reflecting the utility’s ability to earn on a higher level of equity combined with timing differences associated with rate recovery of approximately $4.1 million after-tax, the $2.5 million after-tax utilization of the Enhanced Stability Reserve (ESR) to compensate for large industrial and commercial market sensitive load loss and the approximate $1.8 million after-tax benefit from the utility holding its O&M expense to below the inflation-based Cost Control Measurement (CCM). Negatively affecting net income was a decrease in customer usage and other of approximately $5 million after-tax. Alagasco achieved a return on average equity (ROE) of 12.9 percent in 2008 compared with 12.3 percent in 2007.

2007 vs 2006:For the year ended December 31, 2007, Energen Resources’ net income and income from continuing operations totaled $273.2 million and compared favorably to $237.6 million in the prior year. The primary factors positively influencing income from continuing operations included significantly higher commodity prices of approximately $80 million after-tax, the impact of increased production volumes of approximately $14 million after-tax and the benefit from the Section 199 Domestic Production Activities Deduction tax benefit on qualified oil and gas production incomededuction of approximately $7 million.million after-tax. Negatively affecting comparable income from continuing operations was the 2006 after-tax gain of approximately $34.5 million after-tax gain on the sale of a 50 percent interest in Energen Resources’ acreage position salein Alabama shales to Chesapeake recorded in the prior year,Energy Corporation (Chesapeake), higher depreciation, depletion and amortization (DD&A)DD&A expense of approximately $10 million after-tax, higher lease operating expense of approximately $8 million after-tax, increased administrative expenses of approximately $3 million after-tax and a prior year $6.7 million after-tax gain on the sale of Energen Resources’ bankruptcy claim against Enron.

Alagasco earned net income of $36.8 million in 2007 as compared with net income of $37.3 million in 2006. This decrease in earnings largely reflected revenue reductions under the utility’s rate-setting mechanism of $2.3 million after-tax partially offset by a $1.2 million after-tax increase arising from the utility’s ability to earn on a higher level of equity and a $0.9 million after-tax reduction in expenses associated with the prior year’s Cost Control Measurement (CCM)CCM giveback. Alagasco’s return on average equity (ROE)ROE was 12.3 percent in 2007 compared with 13.1 percent in 2006.

2006 vs 2005:Energen Resources’ net income rose 75.6 percent to $237.6 million in 2006. Energen Resources’ income from continuing operations totaled $237.6 million in 2006 as compared with $135.2 million in 2005 primarily due to increased commodity prices of approximately $77 million after-tax along with the impact of increased production volumes of approximately $16 million after-tax, the $34.5 million after-tax gain on the sale to Chesapeake and the $6.7 million after-tax gain on the Enron bankruptcy settlement. These increases were partially offset by higher lease operating expense of approximately $19 million after-tax, increased DD&A expense of approximately $5 million after-tax and increased administrative expenses of approximately $5 million after-tax. Alagasco earnings increased to $37.3 million in 2006 from $37 million in 2005 largely as a result of $2 million after-tax increase arising from the utility’s ability to earn on a higher level of equity and reductions in the prior year under the utility’s rate setting mechanism of $1.9 million after-tax largely offset by a decrease in customer usage and a $0.9 million after-tax reduction associated with the CCM giveback. Alagasco achieved a ROE of 13.1 percent in 2006 compared with 13.5 percent in 2005.

Operating Income

Consolidated operating income in 2008, 2007 and 2006 and 2005 totaled $562.1 million, $522 million $477.3 million and $315.7$477.3 million, respectively. This growth in operating income has been influenced by strong financial performance from Energen Resources under Energen’s diversifiedarising from increased

Index to Financial Statements

commodity prices and production. During 2008, Alagasco contributed to this growth strategy.in operating income consistent with an increase in the level of equity upon which it has been able to earn a return combined with timing differences associated with rate recovery, the utilization of the ESR and the benefit from the increase in O&M expense being below its CCM partially offset by lower customer usage. Alagasco’s operating income has been relatively flat for the threetwo previous years as the utility’s ability to earn a return on a higher level of equity was offset by decreased customer usage, a decline in the number of customers and revenue reductions under its rate-setting mechanisms.

22


Oil and Gas Operations:Revenues from oil and gas operations rose in the current year largely as a result of increased commodity prices as well as the impact of increased production volumes. Production increased primarily due to additional development activities in the San Juan and North Louisiana/East Texas basins partially offset by normal production declines and other. Revenue per unit of production for natural gas production increased 2.2 percent to $7.94 per thousand cubic feet (Mcf), oil revenue per unit of production rose 9.8 percent to $71.20 per barrel and natural gas liquids revenue per unit of production increased 7.9 percent to $0.96 per gallon during 2008. Production rose 3.8 percent to 102.4 Bcfe during 2008. Natural gas production increased 5.1 percent to 67.6 billion cubic feet (Bcf) and oil volumes rose 6.1 percent to 4,114 thousand barrels (MBbl). Production of natural gas liquids decreased 8.4 percent to 70.7 million gallons (MMgal) due to normal production declines and severe winter weather in the San Juan Basin.

In 2007, revenues from oil and gas operations rose primarily due to the impact of higher commodity prices along with increased production volumes. The primary factors affecting the increase in production were additional development activities in the San Juan and Permian basins partially offset by normal production declines. Revenue per unit of production for natural gas production increasedrose 11.6 percent to $7.77 per thousand cubic feet (Mcf),Mcf, oil revenue per unit of production roseincreased 30.2 percent to $64.83 per barrel and natural gas liquids revenue per unit of production increased 34.8 percent to an average price of $0.89 per gallon during 2007. Production from continuing operations rose 3.1 percent to 98.6 Bcfe during 2007. Natural gas production increased 2.3 percent to 64.3 billion cubic feet (Bcf)Bcf and oil volumes increased 6.4 percent to 3,879 thousand barrels (MBbl).MBbl. Production of natural gas liquids increased 1.2 percent to 77.2 million gallons (MMgal).

In 2006, revenues from oil and gas operations increased primarily as a result of increased commodity prices and increased production volumes. Production increased primarily due to additional development activities in the San Juan Basin, accelerated workovers due to milder winter weather and increased volumes related to the purchase of Permian Basin oil properties in the fourth quarter of 2005. Negatively affecting production were normal production declines. Revenue per unit of production related to natural gas increased 16.2 percent to $6.96 per Mcf, oil revenue per unit of production rose 41.5 percent to $49.79 per barrel and natural gas liquids revenue per unit of production increased 20 percent to an average price of $0.66 per gallon during the year ended December 31, 2006. Production from continuing operations increased 5 percent to 95.6 Bcfe in 2006. Natural gas production rose 2.9 percent to 62.8 Bcf, oil volumes increased 9.9 percent to 3,645 MBbl and natural gas liquids production increased 8.2 percent to 76.3 MMgal.

Coalbed methane operating fees are calculated as a percentage of net proceeds on certain properties, as defined by the related operating agreements, and vary with changes in natural gas prices, production volumes and operating expenses. Revenues from operating fees were $8.6 million, $6.1 million and $6.6 million in 2008, 2007 and $8.7 million in 2007, 2006, and 2005, respectively. During 2006, Energen Resources recorded a $55.5 million pre-tax gain in other operating revenues for the sale of a 50 percent interest in Energen Resources’ acreage position in Alabama shaleshales to Chesapeake.

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands, except sales price data)

  2007  2006  2005   2008  2007 2006

Operating revenues from continuing operations

          

Natural gas

  $    499,406  $    437,560  $    365,635   $536,283  $499,406  $437,560

Oil

  251,497  181,459  116,651    292,908   251,497   181,459

Natural gas liquids

  68,623  50,258  38,455    68,216   68,623   50,258

Operating fees

  6,119  6,553  8,674    8,599   6,119   6,553

Other

  (53) 54,712  (1,721)   8,126   (53)  54,712

Total operating revenues from continuing operations

  $    825,592  $    730,542  $    527,694   $914,132  $825,592  $730,542

Production volumes from continuing operations

          

Natural gas (MMcf)

  64,300  62,824  61,048    67,573   64,300   62,824

Oil (MBbl)

  3,879  3,645  3,316    4,114   3,879   3,645

Natural gas liquids (MMgal)

  77.2  76.3  70.5    70.7   77.2   76.3

Revenue per unit of production including effects of all derivative instruments

          

Natural gas (per Mcf)

  $          7.77  $          6.96  $          5.99   $7.94  $7.77  $6.96

Oil (per barrel)

  $        64.83  $        49.79  $        35.18   $71.20  $64.83  $49.79

Natural gas liquids (per gallon)

  $          0.89  $          0.66  $          0.55   $0.96  $0.89  $0.66

Revenue per unit of production including effects of qualifying cash flow hedges

          

Natural gas (per Mcf)

  $          7.76  $          6.96  $          6.36   $7.92  $7.76  $6.96

Oil (per barrel)

  $        64.80  $        49.54  $        35.18   $71.45  $64.80  $49.54

Natural gas liquids (per gallon)

  $          0.89  $          0.66  $          0.55   $0.96  $0.89  $0.66

Revenue per unit of production excluding effects of all derivative instruments

          

Natural gas (per Mcf)

  $          6.45  $          6.53  $          7.81   $7.94  $6.45  $6.53

Oil (per barrel)

  $        67.17  $        59.88  $        51.61   $94.97  $67.17  $59.88

Natural gas liquids (per gallon)

  $          0.98  $          0.80  $          0.74   $1.14  $0.98  $0.80

Average production (lifting) cost (per Mcfe)

  $          1.50  $          1.41  $          1.15   $1.70  $1.50  $1.41

Average production tax (per Mcfe)

  $          0.55  $          0.52  $          0.57   $0.61  $0.55  $0.52

Average DD&A rate (per Mcfe)

  $          1.13  $          1.00  $          0.96   $1.33  $1.13  $1.00

23


Index to Financial Statements

Operations and maintenance (O&M) expense increased $22.6 million and $28.7 million in 2008 and $31.5 million in 2007, and 2006, respectively. Lease operating expense (excluding production taxes) in 2008 increased $25.8 million largely due to higher workover expense, (approximately $10 million), increased transportation costs primarily related to increased San Juan production (approximately $5 million), additional compression costs (approximately $3 million), higher ad valorem taxes (approximately $2 million) and increased labor costs (approximately $2 million). In 2007, lease operating expense (excluding production taxes) increased $13.4 million largely due to additional compression costs (approximately $2 million), increased repair and maintenance expense in the San Juan and Permian basins (approximately $7 million), higher transportation related to increased San Juan Basin production (approximately $3 million) and a general rise in field service costs. In 2006, lease operatingAdministrative expense (excluding production taxes) increased by $30.6decreased $9.7 million in 2008 largely due to a varietylower benefit costs primarily related to the Company’s performance-based compensation plans. The year ended 2007 included settlement charges for the nonqualified supplemental retirement plans and the defined benefit pension plans of factors including the December 2005 acquisition of Permian Basin oil properties (approximately $9 million), additional maintenance expense primarily in the San Juan Basin designed to increase production (approximately $2 million), increased workover expense (approximately $6 million), higher transportation costs (approximately $4 million), an increased number of wells in period comparisons and other overall cost increases.$2.3 million. In 2007, administrative expense increased $16.6 million primarily due to a prior year2006 pre-tax gain of $10.7 million on the sale of Energen Resources’ bankruptcy claims against Enron and increased labor-related costs, including settlement charges for the nonqualified supplemental retirement plans and the defined benefit pension plans of $2.3 million. Administrativemillion as discussed above. Exploration expense decreased $2.6rose $6.4 million in 20062008 largely due to the $10.7 million pre-tax gain against Enron; this gain was partially offset by higher labor-related costs. Explorationwriteoff of two wells in the San Juan Basin where mechanical difficulties were encountered. In 2007, exploration expense declined $1.3 million in 2007 largely due to decreased exploratory efforts. In 2006, exploration expense rose $3.5 million.

DD&A expense increased $25.3 million in 2008 and $16.4 million in 2007 and $8.5 million in 2006.2007. The average DD&A rates were $1.33 per Mcfe in 2008, $1.13 per Mcfe in 2007 and $1.00 per Mcfe in 2006 and $0.96 per Mcfe2006. Higher development costs along with the impact in 2005.the fourth quarter of pricing year-end proved reserves resulted in an increase in the average 2008 DD&A rate of approximately $20.6 million. The increase in the average 2007 DD&A rate, which contributed approximately $13 million, was primarily due to higher development costs along with a decline in prior2006 year-end reserve prices. Increased production volumes also contributed approximately $4.2 million and $3 million to the increase in DD&A expense in the current year. The increase in the average 2006 rate contributed approximately $3.8 million2008 and was largely due to higher depletion rates on oil properties purchased in the Permian Basin in December 2005 and higher rates due to a downward revision to estimated reserves resulting from a reduction in year-end reserve prices. Partially offsetting the higher rate was increased production in lower rate areas. Increased production volumes contributed approximately $4.4 million due to the 2006 increase in DD&A expense.2007, respectively.

Energen Resources’ expense for taxes other than income taxes primarily reflected production-related taxes. Energen Resources recorded severance taxes of $62.6 million, $53.8 million and $49.5 million for 2008, 2007 and $52.32006, respectively. Higher severance taxes in 2008 resulted from increased commodity market prices and higher natural gas and oil production volumes. Higher commodity market prices and the impact of increased production volumes contributed approximately $13.7 million and $2 million, respectively. Partially offsetting the increase in severance taxes during 2008 was a $6.9 million adjustment related to 2005 through 2008 for 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.reduced severance taxes in New Mexico. Severance taxes increased $4.3 million in 2007 over the prior year. Higher commodity market prices and the impact of increased production volumes contributed approximately $3$2.7 million and $1.6 million, respectively. Decreased severance taxes in 2006 resulted from lower natural gas commodity market prices largely offset by higher production volumes and increased oil and natural gas liquids commodity market prices. Commodity market prices exclude the effects of derivative instruments for purposes of determining severance taxes.

Natural Gas Distribution:As discussed more fully in Note 2, Regulatory Matters, in the Notes to Financial Statements, Alagasco is subject to regulation by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). On December 21, 2007, the APSC issued an order and is allowed to extend the utility’s rate-setting mechanism. Under the terms of the extension, RSE will continue after December 31, 2014, unless, after notice to the company andearn a hearing, the APSC votes to modify or discontinue the RSE methodology. Alagasco’s allowed range of return on equity remainsof 13.15 percent to 13.65 percent throughout the term of the order. Prior to the December 21, 2007 extension,percent. At September 30, 2008, RSE limited the utility’s equity upon which a return is permitted to 6057 percent of total capitalization and provided for certain cost control measures designed to monitor Alagasco’s O&M expense. Subsequent to the extension, theThe equity onupon which a return will beis permitted will be phased downlimited to 57 percent by December 31, 2008 and 55 percent by December 31,September 30, 2009.

Prior to the extension, underUnder the inflation-based CCM established by the APSC, if the percentage change in O&M expense per customer fellon an aggregate basis falls within a range of 1.250.75 points above or below the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index For All Urban Consumers (index range)(Index Range), no adjustment wasis required. If the change in O&M expense per customer exceededon an aggregate basis exceeds the index range,Index Range, three-quarters of the difference wasis returned to customers. To the extent the change wasis less than the index range,Index Range, the utility benefitedbenefits by one-half of the

Index to Financial Statements

difference through future rate adjustments. The changes to the O&M expense cost control measurement subsequent to the extension are as follows: annual changes in O&M expense will be measured on an aggregate basis rather than per customer; the

24


percentage change in O&M expense must fall within a range of 0.75 points above or below the percentage change in the index range; certain items that fluctuate based on situations demonstrated to be beyond Alagasco’s control may be excluded for the cost control measurement calculation; the O&M expense base for measurement purposes will continue to be set at the prior year’s actual O&M expense amount unless the Company exceeds the top of the index rangeIndex Range in two successive years, in which case the base for the following year will be set at the top of the index range.

Index Range. Certain items that fluctuate based on situations demonstrated to be beyond Alagasco’s control may be excluded from the cost control measurement calculation. Alagasco generates revenues through the sale and transportation of natural gas. The transportation rate does not contain an amount representing the cost of gas, and Alagasco’s rate structure allows similar margins on transportation and sales gas. Weather can cause variations in space heating revenues, but the financial impactrevenues; as such Alagasco is moderated byallowed recovery of a temperature adjustment mechanism that requires Alagasco to adjust certain customer bills monthly to reflect changes in usage due tomoderate the impact of departures from normal temperatures.temperatures on Alagasco’s earnings. The temperature adjustment applies primarily to residential, small commercial and small industrial customers.

Alagasco’s natural gas and transportation sales revenues totaled $654.8 million, $609.5 million and $663.4 million in 2008, 2007 and $600.72006, respectively. In 2008, sales revenue increased primarily due to an increase in gas costs of approximately $22 million and a weather-driven increase in customer usage of approximately $11 million. Adjustments from the utility’s rate setting mechanisms also contributed to the increase in revenues as Alagasco charged approximately $4 million against the ESR during the third quarter of 2008 due to a decline in usage by market sensitive large commercial and industrial customers. At the end of the 2008 rate year, the increase in O&M expense was below its inflation-based cost control measure; as a result the utility benefited by a $2.9 million pre-tax increase in revenues. At the end of the 2007 2006 and 2005, respectively.rate year, Alagasco had a $3.6 million pre-tax reduction in revenues to bring the return on average equity to midpoint in the allowed range of return. Sales revenue in 2007 declined largely due to a decrease in gas costs of approximately $28 million and a decline in customer usage of approximately $27 million. In 2006,2008, weather that was 13.3 percent colder than in the prior year contributed to a 4.7 percent increase in residential sales revenue increased primarilyvolumes while commercial and industrial volumes rose 3.2 percent. Transportation volumes declined 9.1 percent largely due to an increase in gas costs approximately $82 million partially offset by a decrease in customerdecreased usage of approximately $28 million.from construction industry related customers. In 2007, weather was 7.9 percent warmer than in the prior year. Residential sales volumes declined 7.4 percent while commercial and industrial volumes decreased 5.6 percent. Transportation volumes rose 1.4 percent. In 2006, weather that was 2.5 percent warmer than in the prior year along with customer conservation related to higherHigher gas costs contributed tocombined with an increase in gas purchase volumes resulted in a 9.310.5 percent declineincrease in residential sales volumes while commercial and industrial volumes decreased 10.2 percent. Transportation volumes increased 1.8 percent.cost of gas in 2008. In 2007, lower gas costs along with decreased gas purchase volumes contributed to a 14.7 percent decrease in cost of gas. Higher gas costs partially offset by a decline in gas purchase volumes resulted in a 17.2 percent increase in cost of gas in 2006.

O&M expense at the utility increased 1.9decreased 1.1 percent in 20072008 primarily due to increasedlower labor-related costs (approximately $2$3.9 million), including and decreased insurance costs (approximately $1.9 million) partially offset by increased consulting and technology fees (approximately $3.5 million) and higher bad debt expense (approximately $1 million). The year ended December 31, 2007 included settlement charges for the nonqualified supplemental retirement plans and the defined benefit pension plans of $3.4 million. In 2007, O&M expense at the utility increased 1.9 percent primarily due to increased labor-related costs (approximately $2 million), including settlement charges of $3.4 million as discussed above, largely offset by decreased bad debt expense (approximately $1 million). InFor the rate year ended September 30, 2006, O&M expense increased slightly primarily due to higher bad debt expense (approximately $1 million) and increased distribution maintenance expenses (approximately $1.7 million). These increases were offset by decreased labor-related expenses (approximately $4.5 million). Thethe increase in O&M expense per customer for the rate year ended September 30, 2006 was above the inflation-based CCM established by the APSC as part of the utility’s rate-setting mechanism;Index Range; as a result, three quarters of the differences,difference, or $1.5 million pre-tax, was returned to the customers through RSE (see Note 2, Regulatory Matters, in the Notes to Financial Statements).RSE. Alagasco’s O&M expense fell within the index rangeIndex Range for the rate yearsyear ended September 30, 2007 and 2005.2007.

Depreciation expense rose 3.7 percent and 6.5 percent in 2008 and 4.5 percent in 2007, and 2006, respectively, due to extension and replacement of the utility’s distribution and replacement of its support systems. Alagasco’s expense for taxes other than income primarily reflects various state and local business taxes as well as payroll-related taxes. State and local business taxes generally are based on gross receipts and fluctuate accordingly.

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

  2007  2006  2005   2008 2007 2006 

Natural gas transportation and sales revenues

  $          609,468  $          663,444  $          600,700   $654,778  $609,468  $663,444 

Cost of natural gas

  (318,429) (373,097) (318,269)   (351,774)  (318,429)  (373,097)

Operations and maintenance

  (129,351) (126,948) (126,041)   (127,877)  (129,351)  (126,948)

Depreciation

  (47,136) (44,244) (42,351)   (48,874)  (47,136)  (44,244)

Income taxes

  (21,636) (22,002) (22,360)   (24,829)  (21,636)  (22,002)

Taxes, other than income taxes

  (41,810) (44,881) (41,117)   (44,297)  (41,810)  (44,881)

Operating income

  $            51,106  $            52,272  $            50,562   $57,127  $51,106  $52,272 

Natural gas sales volumes (MMcf)

        

Residential

  20,665  22,310  24,601    21,632   20,665   22,310 

Commercial and industrial

  10,593  11,226  12,498    10,934   10,593   11,226 

Total natural gas sales volumes

  31,258  33,536  37,099    32,566   31,258   33,536 

Natural gas transportation volumes (MMcf)

  51,448  50,760  49,850    46,789   51,448   50,760 

Total deliveries (MMcf)

  82,706  84,296  86,949    79,355   82,706   84,296 

25


Index to Financial Statements

Non-Operating Items

Consolidated:Interest expense in 2008 declined $5.1 million largely due to the May 2007 declinedvoluntary call of the $100 million Floating Rate Senior Notes due November 15, 2007 along with lower interest rates on short term borrowings. In 2007, interest expense decreased $1.6 million primarily due to lower borrowings at Energen Resources along with decreased interest expense associated with the May 2007 voluntary call of the $100 million Floating Rate Senior Notes due November 15, 2007.Notes. Also contributing to the decrease in interest expense at Alagasco was the January 2007 redemption of $34.4 million of 6.75% Notes maturing September 1, 2031 and $10 million of 7.97% Medium-Term Notes maturing September 23, 2026 partially offset by the issuance of $45 million in long-term debt with an interest rate of 5.9%. Interest expenseThe average daily outstanding balance under short-term credit facilities was $89.2 million in 2006 increased $1.9 million largely due to financing costs associated with higher storage gas inventories at Alagasco and an increase in interest rates associated with Energen’s $100 million Floating Rate Senior Notes.2008. The average daily outstanding balance under short-term credit facilities was $67.7 million in 2007. The average daily outstanding balance under short-term credit facilities was2007 as compared to $63.7 million in 2006 as compared to $17.7 million in 2005.2006. Income tax expense increased in the periods presented primarily due to higher pre-tax income. Also increasing income tax expense during 2008 was the approximate $8 million reduction in the after-tax benefit of the Section 199 deduction. Partially offsetting the increase in income tax expense in 2007 was the after-tax impact of the Section 199 deduction (approximatelyof approximately $7 million after-tax).million.

FINANCIAL POSITION AND LIQUIDITY

The Company’s net cash from operating activities totaled $569.2 million, $484.2 million and $482.9 million in 2008, 2007 and $335.1 million in 2007, 2006, and 2005, respectively. Operating cash flow in 2008, 2007 2006 and 20052006 benefited from higher realized commodity prices and production volumes at Energen Resources. NegativelyPositively affecting operating cash flows during 2008 was a decrease from the prior period in income taxes payable related to the tax effect of depreciation and basis differences. During 2007, was anoperating cash flows were negatively affected by the increase in income taxes payable related to the tax effect of the depreciation and basis differences inalong with the current period and the prior period2006 utilization of minimum tax credit. In 2006, income from operations before income taxes included a pre-tax gain of $55.5 million related to the Chesapeake acreage sale; the cash proceeds from the sale are included in the investing activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, as described more fully below.sale. During 2008, working capital needs were primarily affected by increased gas costs and income tax receivables. Working capital needs at Alagasco were reduced by declining gas costs for 2007. During 2006, and 2005, working capital needs at Alagasco were largely affected by increased gas costs compared to the prior period and storage gas inventory. Other working capital items, which primarily are the result of changes in throughput and the timing of payments, combined to create the remaining increases for all years.

During 2008, the Company made net investments of $464.6 million. Energen Resources invested $19 million in property acquisitions including approximately $18.1 million of unproved leaseholds (including approximately $13 million related to Alabama shales), $386.7 million for development costs including approximately $262 million (excludes approximately $45 million of accrued development cost) to drill 285 net development and service wells and $19.5 million for exploration. Energen Resources had cash proceeds in 2008 of $16.2 million from the sale of certain properties. Utility expenditures in 2008 totaled $62.6 million and primarily represented extension and replacement of its distribution system and support facilities. During 2007, the Company made net investments of $431.9 million. Energen Resources invested $54.6 million in property acquisitions, including an $18 million acquisition in the Permian Basin and approximately $32 million of unproved leaseholds (including approximately $28 million related to Alabama shale)shales), $313.2 million for development costs including approximately $202 million to drill 345 gross236 net development and service wells and $7.5 million for exploration. Utility expenditures in 2007 totaled $58.2 million and primarily represented extension and replacement of its distribution system and support facilities.million. During 2006, the Company made net investments of $256.9 million. Energen Resources invested $46.4 million in property acquisitions, $186.3 million for development costs including approximately $130.6 million to drill 309 gross188 net development and service wells and $25.9 million for exploration. In December 2006, Energen Resources completed its purchase of gas properties located in the San Juan Basin from Dominion Resources, Inc. for approximately $30 million. Energen Resources sold certain properties during 2006, resulting in cash proceeds of $79.4$75.4 million including $75 million received from Chesapeake for a 50 percent interest in its lease position in certain unproved shaleshales acreage in Alabama. Utility expenditures in 2006 totaled $75.1 million.

Index to Financial Statements

During 2005, cash used in investing activities totaled $400.7 million. Energen Resources invested $188.4 million in property acquisitions, $157.5 million for development costs including approximately $123 million to drill 294 gross development wells and $5.1 million for exploration. In December 2005, Energen Resources completed its purchase of oil properties located in the Permian Basin for approximately $168 million. During 2005, Energen Resources sold certain properties resulting in cash proceeds of $10.8 million. Utility expenditures in 2005 totaled $72.4 million.

During 2007,2008, the Company added approximately 151.2 Bcfe of reserves primarily from the Permian Basina North Louisiana/East Texas acquisition. Also during 2007,2008, Energen Resources added 127124 Bcfe of reserves from discoveries and other additions, primarily the result of improveddevelopment drilling technology that increased the number of proved undeveloped locations in both the San Juan Basinand Permian basins as well as continued downspacing in the Permian Basin.Basin. Energen Resources added approximately 167142 Bcfe and 224167 Bcfe of reserves in 2007 and 2006, and 2005, respectively.

26


The Company used $100.2 million for net financing activities in 2008 primarily for the repayment of short-term debt borrowings. In addition, long-term debt was reduced by $10.9 million for current maturities in 2008. The Company used $53.9 million for net financing activities in 2007 primarily for the early redemption of $100 million Floating Rate Senior Notes due November 15, 2007, $34.4 million of 6.75% Notes maturing September 1, 2031, $10 million of Medium-Term Notes, Series A, with an annual interest rate of 8.09% due September 15, 2026 and $10 million of 7.97% Medium-Term Notes maturing September 23, 2026. Partially offsetting these uses of cash was the January 2007 issuance by Alagasco of $45 million in long-term debt with an interest rate of 5.9% due January 15, 2037. In 2006, net cash used for financing activities totaled $224.4 million largely due to $84.3 million incurred from the buy-back of Energen common stock under its stock repurchase plan along with the repayment of short-term borrowings. In addition, long-term debt was reduced by $15.9 million for current maturities in 2006. The Company provided $69.8 million from net financing activities in 2005. In January 2005, Alagasco issued $40 million of long-term debt with an interest rate of 5.2 percent due January 15, 2020 and $40 million of long-term debt with an interest rate of 5.7 percent due January 15, 2035. In November 2005, Alagasco issued $80 million of long-term debt with an interest rate of 5.368 percent due December 1, 2015. Long-term debt was reduced by $84.8 million including Alagasco’s redemption of $18 million in Medium-Term Notes maturing June 27, 2007 to July 5, 2022 in August 2005 and $56.7 million of long-term debt maturing June 15, 2015 to June 27, 2025 in December 2005. For each of the years, net cash used in financing activities also reflected dividends paid to common stockholders.

Capital Expenditures

Oil and Gas Operations:Energen Resources spent a total of approximately $1$1.1 billion for capital projects during the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005.2006. Property acquisition expenditures totaled $289.5$120 million, development activities totaled $656.9$912.4 million, and exploratory expenditures totaled $38.5$52.9 million.

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005  2008  2007  2006

Capital and exploration expenditures for:

            

Property acquisitions

  $54,626  $46,428  $  188,403  $18,996  $54,626  $46,428

Development

   313,220   186,264   157,458   412,928   313,220   186,264

Exploration

   7,456   25,936   5,065   19,504   7,456   25,936

Other

   5,667   4,411   3,037   5,763   5,667   4,411

Total

   380,969   263,039   353,963   457,191   380,969   263,039

Less exploration expenditures charged to income

   1,490   3,361   251   7,620   1,490   3,361

Net capital expenditures

  $  379,479  $  259,678  $353,712  $449,571  $379,479  $259,678

Natural Gas Distribution:During the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, Alagasco invested $208.3$198.3 million for capital projects: $164.5$154.4 million for expansion, replacements and support of its distribution system and $43.7$43.9 million for support facilities and the development and implementation of information systems.

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005  2008  2007  2006

Capital expenditures for:

            

Renewals, replacements, system expansion and other

  $    50,924  $    60,244  $    53,381  $43,284  $50,924  $60,244

Support facilities

   7,938   15,913   19,895   20,036   7,938   15,913

Total

  $58,862  $76,157  $73,276  $63,320  $58,862  $76,157

FUTURE CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY

Recent Market Events

Capital and credit markets experienced extreme volatility and disruption during 2008. If such volatility and disruptions continue or worsen during 2009, the Company may experience material adverse effects upon its financial position, results of operations and cash flows. While such events did not have a material impact on 2008, these events have the potential for a negative impact including, but not limited to, the following areas:

Risk Management: The Company utilizes derivative instruments to hedge its exposure to commodity price fluctuations. These derivative instruments are entered into with investment grade counterparties and are assessed each reporting period as to hedge effectiveness. Specifically, the Company considers the likelihood that the counterparty will be able to perform under the terms of the derivative instrument. If the Company is unable to conclude that it is probable that such counterparty will be able to perform under

Index to Financial Statements

the terms of the derivative instrument, then the Company would be required to cease hedge accounting and recognize all gains and losses from that point forward in its results of operations. Further, the Company is at risk of nonperformance for any derivative contracts which are in a gain position. The Company’s current counterparties with active positions are Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Bank of Montreal, Merrill Lynch, BP and Barclays Capital. The Company also maintains insurance policies which protect against certain business risks. Associated with these policies the Company has recognized insurance receivables for losses incurred. If these receivables were adversely affected, a loss would be recognized in the results of operations.

Access to Capital: The Company relies upon its excess cash flows supplemented by its short-term credit facilities to fund working capital needs. The Company currently has not experienced any disruption in the availability of its short-term credit facilities.

As detailed in the following table, the Company currently has available short-term credit facilities with seven investment grade financial institutions aggregating $480 million of which Energen has available $205 million, Alagasco has available $105 million and $170 million is available to either Company.

(in thousands)  Current
Term
  Energen  Alagasco  Total

Regions Bank

  4/24/2009  $145,000  $55,000  $200,000

Wachovia Bank, N.A.

  10/31/2009   100,000   100,000   100,000

Compass Bank

  8/6/2009   70,000   70,000   70,000

RBC Bank (USA)

  10/21/2009   20,000   15,000   35,000

The Bank of New York Mellon

  1/22/2010   25,000   -   25,000

The Northern Trust Company

  10/14/2009   15,000   10,000   25,000

First Commercial

  7/31/2009   -   25,000   25,000
      $375,000  $275,000  $480,000

The above short-term credit facilities are 364-day committed bilateral agreements. Energen and Alagasco are subject to the risk that these facilities will not be renewed or will be renewed at less favorable terms. However, the Company believes that its expected cash flows, the diversity of credit facilities and its ability to adjust future capital spending provides adequate support for its liquidity needs.

Oil and Gas Operations

During 2009, Energen Resources anticipates some decline in various market driven costs due to the recently lower commodity price environment including, but not limited to, workover and maintenance expenses, ad valorem taxes, capital costs and other field-service-related expenses. The Company anticipates influences such as weather, natural disasters, changes in global economics and political unrest will continue to contribute to increased price volatility in the near term. Commodity price volatility will affect the Company’s revenue and associated cash flow available for investment.

The Company plans to continue investing significant capital in Energen Resources’s oil and gas production operations. For 2008,2009, the Company expects its oil and gas capital spending to total approximately $308$227 million, including $290$214 million for existing properties. Included in this $290$214 million is approximately $153 million for the development of previously identified proved undeveloped reserves. The Company expects capital spending to total approximately $271 million during 2009, including approximately $260 million for existing properties. Included in this $260 million is approximately $81$103 million for the development of previously identified proved undeveloped reserves.

27


Capital expenditures by area during 20082009 are planned as follows:

 

Year ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2008  2009

San Juan Basin

  $      92,300  $71,100

Permian Basin

   162,150   112,200

Black Warrior Basin

   10,500   12,100

North Louisiana/East Texas

   25,300   18,100

Other

   17,350   13,300

Total

  $307,600  $226,800

As of December 31, 2007, Energen Resources had approximately $28 million of unproved leaseholds costs related

Index to its lease position in Alabama shale. As of February 25, 2008, Energen Resources’ net acreage position in Alabama shale totaled approximately 287,500 acres and represents multiple shale opportunities. In 2008, the Company will begin a 5 to 10 well test program. The Company has not included in its capital spending estimates discussed above any amounts associated with exploratory drilling and/or future potential development for the Alabama shale position.

Financial Statements

Energen anticipates having the following drilling rigs and net wells by area during 2008.2009. The drilling rigs presented below are operated while the net wells include operated and non-operated wells.

 

  Drilling Rigs  Net Wells  Drilling Rigs  Net Wells

San Juan Basin

  6  67  4  48

Permian Basin

  4 - 5  209  1 - 5  122

Black Warrior Basin

  1-2  31  1 - 2  31

North Louisiana/East Texas

  2  10  1 - 2  5

Total

  13 - 15  317  7 - 13  206

The Company also may allocate additional capital for other oil and gas activities such as property acquisitions, additional accelerated development of existing properties and the exploration and further development of potential shaleshales acreage primarily in Alabama. Energen Resources may evaluate acquisition opportunities which arise in the marketplace and from time to time will pursue acquisitions that meet Energen’s acquisition criteria. Energen Resources’ ability to invest in property acquisitions is subject to market conditions and industry trends. Property acquisitions are not included in the aforementioned estimate of oil and gas investments and could result in capital expenditures different from those outlined above.

To finance capital spending at Energen Resources, the Company primarily expects to use internally generated cash flow supplemented by its short-term credit facilities. The Company also may issue long-term debt and equity periodically to replace short-term obligations, enhance liquidity and provide for permanent financing.

Energen also plans to consider stock repurchases as a capital investment. Alabama Shales

In MayOctober 2006, Energen beganResources sold to Chesapeake Energy Corporation (Chesapeake) a buy-back50 percent interest in its unproved lease position of approximately 200,000 gross acres in various shale plays in Alabama for $75 million plus a then expected $15 million in net future drilling cost. In addition, the two companies signed an agreement to form an area of mutual interest (AMI) through which they will pursue new leases, exploration, development and operations on a 50-50 basis, for at least the next 10 years. The AMI encompassed Alabama and parts of Georgia. During 2008, Energen Resources and Chesapeake leased shared acreage in the AMI. Through December 31, 2008, approximately $21.7 million of drilling costs have been incurred and paid by Chesapeake. Of these drilling costs paid by Chesapeake approximately $10.85 million relate to Energen Resources interest under the initial agreement. Chesapeake currently does not plan on participating in future drilling costs; accordingly, all future drilling costs will be paid by Energen Resources. As of February 24, 2009, Energen Resources’ net acreage position in Alabama shales totaled approximately 343,000 acres representing multiple shale opportunities.

As of December 31, 2008, Energen Resources had approximately $42 million of unproved leasehold costs related to its common stock under an existing stock repurchase plan. In June 2006,lease position in Alabama shales. Results of the Company’s Board of Directors authorized an additional 9 million shares of common stock for repurchase. Energen may buy shares from time to time oninitial well testing program which occurred during 2008 were neither positive nor conclusive. Included in the open market or in negotiated purchases. The timing and amounts of any repurchases are subject to changes in market conditions. During 2006,capital spending estimates above, the Company purchased 2.2 million shares at an average price of $39.08 per share. The Company did not repurchase shares of common stock for this program during 2007. The Company plans to continue utilizing internally generated cash flowinvest approximately $10 million during 2009 to fund any future stock repurchases. During 2008, the Company anticipates purchasing approximately $27 million of Company common stock in conjunction with tax withholdings on its non-qualified deferred compensation plandrill additional shale wells, test alternative completion techniques and complete other stock compensation. The Company plans to utilize internally generated cash flows to fund these purchases of common stock.

Energen Resources has experienced various market driven conditions generally caused by the increased commodity price environment including, but not limited to, increased finding and development costs, higher workover and maintenance expenses, increased taxes and other field-service-related expenses. The Company anticipates influences such as weather, natural disasters, changes in global economics and political unrest will continue to contribute to increased commodity price volatilityzones in the near term. Commodity price volatility will affect the Company’s revenue and associated cash flow available for investment.existing test wells.

Natural Gas Distribution

28


Alagasco’s use of commodity price hedges for a portion of its gas supply needs is reflected in the utility’s current rates. Alagasco’s rate schedules for natural gas distribution charges contain a Gas Supply Adjustment (GSA) rider which permits the pass-through to customers for changes in the cost of gas supply. The GSA rider is designed to capture the Company’s cost of natural gas and provides for a pass-through of gas cost fluctuations to customers without markup; the cost of gas includes the commodity cost, pipeline capacity, transportation and fuel costs, and risk management gains and losses. SustainedIn recent years, the higher price commodity environment has resulted in a decline in the utility’s customer base of approximately 1% annually. The recent lower commodity price environment has not yet reversed this adverse trend at the utility. A return of natural gas prices may decrease Alagasco’s customer base andto higher levels could result in a further decline of perin Alagasco’s customer usebase and number of customers. The utilityusage and in significant increases in the utility’s GSA. Alagasco will continue to monitor its bad debt reserve and will make adjustments as required based on the evaluation of its receivables which are impacted by natural gas prices.prices and the economy.

Index to Financial Statements

Alagasco maintains an investment in storage gas that is expected to average approximately $65$59 million in 20082009 but maywill vary depending upon the price of natural gas. During 2008 and 2009, Alagasco plans to invest approximately $69$65 million and $79 million, respectively, in utility capital expenditures for normal distribution and support systems. The utility anticipates funding these capital requirements through internally generated cash flow and the utilization of short-term credit facilities. Alagasco issued $45received a cash benefit in February 2009 from an approximate $26.2 million income tax refund claim from 2007 which resulted from an approved change by the Internal Revenue Service in long-term debt witha tax accounting method relating to the Company’s recovery of its gas distribution property.

Stock Repurchases

Energen periodically considers stock repurchases as a capital investment. Energen may buy shares on the open market or in negotiated purchases. The timing and amounts of any repurchases are subject to changes in market conditions. During 2006, the Company purchased 2.2 million shares at an interest rateaverage price of 5.9% in January 2007$39.08 per share. The Company did not repurchase shares of common stock for this program during 2008 and redeemed $34.42007. The Company expects any future stock repurchases to be funded through internally generated cash flows or through the utilization of short-term credit facilities. During 2008, the Company had noncash purchases of approximately $27 million of 6.75% Notes maturing September 1, 2031Company common stock in conjunction with tax withholdings on its non-qualified deferred compensation plan and $10 millionother stock compensation plans. The Company utilized internally generated cash flows in payment of 7.97% Medium-Term Notes maturing September 23, 2026 in the same period in order to capitalize on lower interest rates.related tax withholdings.

Short-Term Credit Facilities

Access to capital is an integral part of the Company’s business plan. While the Company expects to have ongoing access to its short-term credit facilities and the longer-term markets, continued access could be adversely affected by current and future economic and business conditions and credit rating downgrades. To help finance its growth plans and operating needs, the Company currently has available short-term credit facilities with seven investment grade financial institutions aggregating $480 million of which Energen has available $205 million, Alagasco has available $105 million and $170 million is available to either Company. At December 31, 2008, Energen has no borrowings on its short-term credit facilities while Alagasco had borrowings of $62 million.

The Company regularly provides information to corporate rating agencies related to current business activities and future performance expectations.

In February 2009, Standard & Poor’s (S&P) removed from “CreditWatch with negative implications” the long-term debt ratings of Energen and Alagasco following a review of four diversified energy companies and their subsidiaries. The investment-grade, consolidated rating for Energen and Alagasco was downgraded from BBB+ to BBB; the outlook is “stable.” S&P said the one-notch downgrade primarily reflected a greater weighting of Energen’s exploration and production activities in S&P’s business risk assessment. In addition, S&P said the rating reflected Energen’s “solid credit measures, a favorable discretionary cash flow outlook for 2009, and some cash flow diversification provided by its regulated utility subsidiary.” The downgrade does not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements or the results of operations. Future borrowing costs and terms may be negatively impacted.

On September 25, 2007, Moody’s Investors Service (Moody’s) downgraded the debt rating of Energen to Baa3 senior unsecured from Baa2. Energen’s debt rating of Baa3 remains investment grade and reflects Moody’s assignment of increased risk exposure to the Company related to the growth of its oil and gas operations.operations in contrast to its legacy natural gas distribution assets. Moody’s also confirmed the debt rating of Alagasco during this review as A1 senior unsecured. On October 31, 2007, Standard & Poor’s affirmed its BBB+ corporate credit rating on Energen and Alagasco; the outlook remained stable. While the Company expects to have ongoing access to its short-term credit facilities and the broader long-term markets, continued access could be adversely affected by future economic and business conditions and credit rating downgrades. To help finance its growth plans and operating needs, the Company currently has available short-term credit facilities aggregating $415 million of which Energen has available $255 million, Alagasco has available $110 million and $50 million is available to either Company. At December 31, 2007, Energen and Alagasco had borrowings of $72 million and $62 million, respectively on its short-term credit facilities.

Dividends

Energen expects to pay annual cash dividends of $0.48$0.50 per share on the Company’s common stock in 2008.2009. The amount and timing of all dividend payments is subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors and is based upon business conditions, results of operations, financial conditions and other factors.

On April 27, 2005, Energen’s shareholders approved a 2-for-1 split of the Company’s common stock. The split was effected in the form of a 100 percent stock dividend and was effective on June 1, 2005,

Index to shareholders of record on May 13, 2005. All share and per share amounts of capital stock outstanding have been adjusted to reflect the stock split.

Financial Statements

Contractual Cash Obligations and Other Commitments

In the course of ordinary business activities, Energen enters into a variety of contractual cash obligations and other commitments. The following table summarizes the Company’s significant contractual cash obligations, other than hedging contracts, as of December 31, 2007.2008.

 

29


   Payments Due before December 31,  Payments Due before December 31,

(in thousands)

   Total   2008   2009-2010   2011-2012   
 
2013 and
Thereafter
  Total  2009  2010-2011  2012-2013  

2014 and

Thereafter

Short-term debt

  $    134,000  $    134,000  $-  $-  $-  $62,000  $62,000  $-  $-  $-

Long-term debt(1)

   573,467   10,000   150,000   6,000   407,467   562,557   -   155,000   51,000   356,557

Interest payments on debt

   446,010   37,300   72,945   50,050   285,715   407,611   36,731   61,309   48,965   260,606

Purchase obligations(2)

   178,400   50,964   89,450   17,751   20,235   117,668   49,019   42,638   15,278   10,733

Capital lease obligations

   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -

Operating leases

   46,147   4,128   8,092   7,339   26,588   46,273   5,756   9,491   7,731   23,295

Asset retirement obligations(3)

   491,444   5,069   7,311   2,106   476,958   502,480   6,586   6,554   3,853   485,487

Nonqualified supplemental
retirement plans

   35,111   3,126   4,811   4,711   22,463   31,927   3,888   4,539   5,045   18,455

Total contractual cash obligations

  $    1,904,579  $    244,587  $    332,609  $    87,957  $    1,239,426  $1,730,516  $163,980  $279,531  $131,872  $1,155,133

 

(1)

Long-term cash obligations include $1.1$0.9 million of unamortized debt discounts as of December 31, 2007.2008.

(2)

Certain of the Company’s long-term gas procurement contracts for the supply, storage and delivery of natural gas include fixed charges of $178 million through October 2015. The Company also is committed to purchase minimum quantities of gas at market-related prices or to pay certain costs in the event the minimum quantities are not taken. These purchase commitments are approximately 135.2 Bcf through April 2015.

(3)

(2) Certain of the Company’s long-term gas procurement contracts for the supply, storage and delivery of natural gas include fixed charges of $118 million through October 2015. The Company also is committed to purchase minimum quantities of gas at market-related prices or to pay certain costs in the event the minimum quantities are not taken. These purchase commitments are approximately 119.9 Bcf through April 2015.

(3) Represents the estimated future asset retirement obligation on an undiscounted basis.

Energen Resources operates in certain instances through joint ventures under joint operating agreements. Typically, the operator under a joint operating agreement enters into contracts, such as drilling contracts, for the benefit of all joint venture partners. Through the joint operating agreement, the non-operators reimburse, and in some cases advance, the funds necessary to meet the contractual obligations entered into by the operator. These obligations are typically shared on a working interest basis as defined in the joint operating contractual agreement.

The Company has two defined non-contributory pension plans and provides certain postretirement healthcare and life insurance benefits. The Company is not required to make any funding payments during 20082009 for the pension plans and does not currently planbut expects to make discretionary contributions.contributions of at least $5 million. The Company expects to make discretionary payments of approximately $2.2$4.7 million to postretirement benefit program assets during 2008.2009. The contractual obligations reported above exclude any payments the Company expects to make to postretirement benefit program assets.

The contractual obligations reported above exclude the Company’s liability of $8.5$16.8 million recognized under FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes-an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (FIN 48) related to the Company’s provision for uncertain tax positions. The Company cannot make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amount and period of related future payments for such liability.

OUTLOOK

Oil and Gas Operations:Energen Resources plans to continue to implement its growth strategy with capital spending in 2008 and 2009 as outlined above. Production in 20082009 is estimated to be 102106.5 Bcfe, including approximately 100104 Bcfe of estimated production from proved reserves owned at December 31, 2007. In 2009, production is estimated to be 108 Bcfe, including approximately 100 Bcfe produced from proved reserves currently owned.2008. Production estimates above do not include amounts for potential future acquisitions or Alabama shale.shales.

Index to Financial Statements

Production volumes by area are expected to be as follows:

 

Years Ended December 31, (Bcfe)

  2008      2009    

San Juan Basin

  50  54

Permian Basin

  30  34

Black Warrior Basin

  14  14

North Louisiana/East Texas

  8  6

Total

  102  108
Years ended December 31, (Bcfe)2009

San Juan Basin

53

Permian Basin

32

Black Warrior Basin

14

North Louisiana/East Texas

7

Total

106

During 2008 and 2009, Energen Resources expects an annualized decline rate of approximately 75 percent for its proved developed producing properties owned at December 31, 2007.2008. During the same period, total production from proved properties is expected to increasedecrease approximately 1 percent and total production is expected to increase approximately 4 percent. Total production estimates doThe above proved developed producing properties decline rate is not include any production associated withnecessarily indicative of the Alabama shale position.Company’s expectations for its terminal decline rate on a long term basis.

30


In the event Energen Resources is unable to fully invest in its capital investment opportunities, future operating revenues, production and proved reserves could be negatively affected. Energen Resources’ major market risk exposure is in the pricing applicable to its oil and gas production. Historically, prices received for oil and gas production have been volatile because of seasonal weather patterns, national supply and demand factors and general economic conditions. Crude oil prices also are affected by quality differentials, worldwide political developments and actions of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries. Basis differentials, like the underlying commodity prices, can be volatile because of regional supply and demand factors, including seasonal variations and the availability and price of transportation to consuming areas.

Revenues and related accounts receivable from oil and gas operations primarily are generated from the sale of produced oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids to energy marketing companies. Such sales are typically made on an unsecured credit basis with payment due the month following delivery. This concentration of sales to the energy marketing industry has the potential to affect the Company’s overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that the Company’s oil and gas purchasers may be affected similarly by changes in economic, industry or other conditions. Energen Resources considers the credit quality of its customers and, in certain instances, may require credit assurances such as a deposit, letter of credit or parent guarantee. The fourthree largest oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids purchasers are expected to account for approximately 2219 percent, 14 percent, 1118 percent, and 1013 percent, respectively, of Energen Resources’ estimated 20082009 production. Energen Resources’ other purchasers are each boughtexpected to purchase less than 89 percent of production.

Energen Resources periodically enters into derivative commodity instruments that qualify as cash flow hedges under SFAS No. 133 to hedge its price exposure to its estimated oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids production. Such instruments may include regulated natural gas and crude oil futures contracts traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) and over-the-counter (OTC) swaps, collars and basis hedges with major energy derivative product specialists. The counterparties to the commodity instruments are investment and commercial banks and energy-trading firms. In some contracts, the amount of credit allowed before Energen Resources must post collateral for out-of-the-money hedges varies depending on the credit rating of the Company. At December 31, 2007,2008, the counterparty agreements under which the Company had active positions did not include collateral posting requirements. Energen Resources was in a net gain position with threeall of its counterparties and a net loss with the remaining four.at December 31, 2008. The Company believesis at risk for economic loss based upon the creditworthiness of these counterparties is satisfactory.its counterparties. Hedge transactions are pursuant to standing authorizations by the Board of Directors, which do not permit speculative positions. Energen Resources does not hedge more than 80 percent of its estimated annual production and generally does not hedge this production more than two years forward. Production may be hedged for a longer period immediately following an acquisition in order to protect targeted returns.

Index to Financial Statements

Energen Resources entered into the following transactions for 20082009 and subsequent years:

 

Production

Period

  

Total Hedged

Volumes

  

Average Contract

Price

  Description

Natural Gas

         
        20082009  30.815.6 Bcf  $8.538.34 Mcf  NYMEX Swaps
        2008  18.831.8 Bcf  $7.537.58 Mcf  Basin Specific Swaps
        20092010  24.714.3 Bcf  $7.818.79 McfNYMEX Swaps
28.3 Bcf$7.98 Mcf  Basin Specific Swaps
        2009*14.2 Bcf$8.55 McfNYMEX Swaps
        2009*4.9 Bcf$7.55 McfBasin Specific Swaps
Natural Gas Basis Differential
        200812.0 Bcf**Basis Swaps

Oil

         
        20082009  3,2032,700 MBbl  $70.1772.93 Bbl  NYMEX Swaps
        20092010  2,4602,160 MBbl  $71.0397.60 Bbl  NYMEX Swaps
        2009*240 MBbl$92.38 BblNYMEX Swaps
        2010720 MBbl$81.20 BblNYMEX Swaps

Oil Basis Differential

         
            20082009  2,4832,136 MBbl  **  Basis Swaps
            20092010  1,9801,440 MBbl  **  Basis Swaps
            2009*156 MBbl**Basis Swaps

Natural Gas Liquids

         
            20082009  47.843.3 MMGal  $0.961.15 Gal  Liquids Swaps
            200920.2 MMGal$1.05 GalLiquids Swaps

*

Contracts entered into subsequent to December 31, 2007

**

Average contract prices not meaningful due to the varying nature of each contract

31


The Company has prepared a sensitivity analysis to evaluate the hypothetical effect that changes in the market value of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids may have on the fair value of its derivative instruments. This analysis measured the impact on the commodity derivative instruments and, thereby, did not consider the underlying exposure related to the commodity. At December 31, 2007,2008, the Company was in a net lossgain position of $110.6$337.1 million for derivative contracts and estimates that a 10 percent increase or decrease in the commodities prices would have resulted in a $116.8an approximate $78 million change in the fair value of open derivative contracts; however, gains and losses on derivative contracts are expected to be similarly offset by sales at the spot market price. The hypothetical change in fair value was calculated by multiplying the difference between the hypothetical price and the contractual price by the contractual volumes and did not include the impact of related taxes on actual cash prices.

Effective January 1, 2008, the Company partially adopted SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” under the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Staff Position 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157.” SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. As defined under SFAS No. 157, 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 (exit price). SFAS No.157 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value defined as follows:

Level 1

Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;

Level 2

Pricing inputs other than quoted prices in active markets included within Level 1, which are either directly or indirectly observable through correlation with market data as of the reporting date;

Level 3

Pricing that requires inputs that are both significant and unobservable to the calculation of the fair value measure. The fair value measure represents estimates of the assumptions that market value participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.

Over-the-counter derivatives are valued using market transactions and other market evidence whenever possible, including market-based inputs to models and broker or dealer quotations. These OTC derivative contracts trade in less liquid markets with limited pricing information as compared to markets with actively traded, unadjusted quoted prices; accordingly, the determination of fair value is inherently more difficult. OTC derivatives for which the Company is able to substantiate fair value through directly observable market prices are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. These Level 2 fair values consist of New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) swaps. OTC derivatives valued using unobservable market prices have been classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. These Level 3 fair values include basin specific, basis and liquids swaps. All derivative commodity instruments in a gain position are valued on a discounted basis incorporating an estimate of performance risk specific to each related

Index to Financial Statements

counterparty. Derivative commodity instruments in a loss position are valued on a discounted basis incorporating an estimate of performance risk specific to Energen or Alagasco. As of the balance sheet date, the Company believes that these prices represent the best estimate of the exit price for these instruments and are representative of the prices for which the contract will ultimately settle or realize.

The following table sets forth derivative assets and liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

    December 31, 2008 
(in thousands)  Level 2*  Level 3*  Total 

Current assets

  $91,687  $104,812  $196,499 

Noncurrent assets

   91,321   49,282   140,603 

Current liabilities

   (27,653)  -   (27,653)

Noncurrent liabilities

   (8,821)  -   (8,821)

Net derivative asset

  $146,534  $154,094  $300,628 
*

Amounts classified in accordance with FASB Interpretation No. 39 (as amended), “Offsetting of Amounts Related to Certain Contracts” which permits offsetting of fair value of amounts recognized for multiple derivative instruments executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement.

Alagasco has $27.7 million and $8.8 million of derivative instruments which are classified as Level 2 fair values and are included in the above table as current and noncurrent liabilities, respectively.

Level 3 assets as of December 31, 2008 represent approximately 4 percent of total assets. Changes in fair value primarily result from price changes in the underlying commodity. The Company has prepared a sensitivity analysis to evaluate the hypothetical effect that changes in the prices used to estimate fair value would have on the fair value of its derivative instruments. The Company estimates that a 10 percent increase or decrease in commodity prices would result in an approximate $33 million change in the fair value of open Level 3 derivative contracts. The resulting impact upon the results of operations for Level 3 derivatives would be immaterial due to the derivative instruments qualifying as cash flow hedges under SFAS No. 133. Liquidity requirements to meet the obligation would not be significantly impacted as gains and losses on the derivative contracts would be similarly offset by sales at the spot market price.

Natural Gas Distribution:The extension of RSE in December 2007 provides Alagasco the opportunity to continue earning an allowed ROE between 13.15 percent and 13.65 percent through December 31, 2014. Under the terms of that extension, RSE will continue beyond that date, unless, after notice to the Company and a hearing, the APSC votes to modify or discontinue its operations. Alagasco’s rate schedules for natural gas distribution charges contain a Gas Supply Adjustment rider which permits the pass-through to customers for changes in the cost of gas supply. Also as discussed in Note 2, Regulatory Matters, in the Notes to Financial Statements, the utility’s CCM is based on the rate of inflation. Continued low inflation and significantlyor the risk of deflation combined with a return to higher gas prices resulting in increased bad debt expense could impact the utility’s ability to manage its O&M expense sufficiently for the inflation-based cost control requirements of RSE and may result in an average return on equity lower than the allowed range of return. In addition, continued decreases in residential customers and continued declines in useusage per customer in the residential and small commercial classes, as well as market sensitive load losses from large industrial and commercial customers, will make it more difficult for the utility to earn within its allowed range of return on equity. The utility continues to rely on rate flexibility to deter bypass of its distribution system by large industrial and commercial customers.

As required by SFAS No. 133, Alagasco recognizes all derivatives at fair value as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet. Any gains or losses are passed through to customers using the mechanisms of the GSA in compliance with Alagasco’s APSC-approved tariff and are recognized as a regulatory asset or regulatory liability as required by SFAS No. 71. At December 31, 2007,2008, Alagasco recorded a $0.4$27.7 million loss as a liability in accounts payable with a corresponding current regulatory asset representing the fair value of derivatives. The gains or lossesAlagasco also recognized a noncurrent $8.8 million loss in deferred credits and other liabilities with a corresponding noncurrent regulatory asset related to these derivative contracts, as adjusted for any changes in the fair value, will be recognized in the GSA during the first quarter of 2008.contracts.

Index to Financial Statements

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The Company’s consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Management has identified the following critical accounting policies in the application of existing accounting standards or in the implementation of new standards that involve significant judgments and estimates by the Company. The application of these accounting policies necessarily requires managements’management’s most subjective or complex judgments regarding estimates and projected outcomes of future events that could have a material impact on the financial statements.

Oil and Gas Operations

Accounting for Natural Gas and Oil Producing Activities and Related Reserves:The Company utilizes the successful efforts method of accounting for its natural gas and oil producing activities. Under this accounting method, acquisition and development costs of proved properties are capitalized and amortized on a units-of-production basis over the remaining life of total proved and proved developed reserves. Proved oil and gas reserves are the estimated quantities of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids that geological and engineering data

32


demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in future years from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions. Accordingly, these estimates do not include probable or possible reserves. Estimated oil and gas reserves are based on currently available reservoir data and are subject to future revision. Estimates of physical quantities of oil and gas reserves have been determined by Company engineers. Independent oil and gas reservoir engineers have reviewed the estimates of proved reserves of natural gas, crude oil and natural gas liquids attributed to the Company’s net interests in oil and gas properties as of December 31, 2007.2008. The independent reservoir engineers have issued reports covering approximately 9899 percent of the Company’s ending proved reserves and in their judgment these estimates were reasonable in the aggregate. The Company’s production of undeveloped reserves requires the installation or completion of related infrastructure facilities such as pipelines and the drilling of development wells.

Changes in oil and gas prices, operating costs and expected performance from the properties can result in a revision to the amount of estimated reserves held by the Company. If reserves are revised upward, earnings could be affected due to lower depreciation and depletion expense per unit of production. Likewise, if reserves are revised downward, earnings could be affected due to higher depreciation and depletion expense or due to an immediate writedown of the property’s book value if an impairment is warranted. The table below reflects an estimated increase in 20082009 depreciation, depletion and amortization expense associated with an assumed downward revision in the reported oil and gas reserve amounts at December 31, 2007:2008:

 

  Percentage Change in Oil & Gas Reserves

From Reported Reserves as of December 31, 2007

  

Percentage Change in Oil & Gas Reserves

From Reported Reserves as of December 31, 2008

(dollars in thousands)

  -5% -10%  -5%  -10%

Estimated increase in DD&A expense for the
year ended December 31, 2008, net of tax

  $    3,900 $    8,200

Estimated increase in DD&A expense for the year ended December 31, 2009, net of tax

  $    5,453  $    11,525

Exploratory drilling costs are capitalized pending determination of proved reserves. If proved reserves are not discovered, the exploratory drilling costs are expensed. Other exploration costs, including geological and geophysical costs, are expensed as incurred.

Asset Impairments:Oil and gas proved properties periodically are assessed for possible impairment, generally on a field-by-field basis, using the estimated undiscounted future cash flows of each field. Impairment losses are recognized when the estimated undiscounted future cash flows are less than the current net book values of the properties in a field. The Company monitors its oil and gas properties as well as the market and business environments in which it operates and makes assessments about events that could result in potential impairment issues. Such potential events may include, but are not limited to, substantial commodity price declines, unanticipated increased operating costs, and lower-than-expected production performance. If a material event occurs, Energen Resources makes an estimate of undiscounted future cash flows to determine whether the asset is impaired. If the asset is impaired, the Company will record an impairment loss for the difference between the net book value of the properties and the fair value of the properties. The fair value of the properties typically is estimated using discounted cash flows.

Index to Financial Statements

Cash flow and fair value estimates require Energen Resources to make projections and assumptions for pricing, demand, competition, operating costs, legal and regulatory issues, discount rates and other factors for many years into the future. These variables can, and often do, differ from the estimates and can have a positive or negative impact on the Company’s need for impairment or on the amount of impairment. In addition, further changes in the economic and business environment can impact the Company’s original and ongoing assessments of potential impairment.

Energen Resources adheres to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No.19, “Financial Accounting and Reporting by Oil and Gas Producing Companies,” for recognizing any impairment of capitalized costs to unproved properties. The greatest portion of these costs generally relates to the acquisition of leasehold costs. The costs are capitalized and periodically evaluated as to recoverability, based on changes brought about by economic factors and potential shifts in business strategy employed by management. The Company considers a combination of geologic and engineering factors to evaluate the need for impairment of these costs.

33


Derivatives: Energen Resources periodically enters into commodity derivative contracts to manage its exposure to oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids price volatility. SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” as amended requires all derivatives to be recognized on the balance sheet and measured at fair value. Realized gains and losses from derivatives designated as cash flow hedges are recognized in oil and gas production revenues when the forecasted transaction occurs. Energen Resources may also enter into derivative transactions that do not qualify for cash flow hedge accounting but are considered by management to be valid economic hedges. Gains and losses from the change in fair value of derivative instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported in current period operating revenues, rather than in the period in which the hedge transaction is settled. Energen Resources does not enter into derivatives or other financial instruments for trading purposes. The use of derivative contracts to mitigate price risk may cause the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flow to be materially different from results that would have been obtained had such risk mitigation activities not occurred.

Natural Gas Distribution

Regulated Operations: Alagasco applies SFAS No. 71, “Accounting for the Effects of Certain Types of Regulation,” to its regulated operations. This standard requires a cost to be capitalized as a regulatory asset that otherwise would be charged to expense if it is probable that the cost is recoverable in the future through regulated rates. Likewise, if current recovery is provided for a cost that will be incurred in the future, SFAS No. 71 requires the cost to be recognized as a regulatory liability. The Company anticipates SFAS No. 71 will continue as the applicable accounting standard for its regulated operations. Alagasco’s rate setting methodology, Rate Stabilization and Equalization, has been in effect since 1983.

Consolidated

Employee Benefit Plans:In December 2006, the Company adopted SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and 132 (R)” (SFAS No. 158). This Standard retains the previous periodic expense calculation on an actuarial basis under the provisions of SFAS No. 87, “Employers’ Accounting for Pensions” and SFAS No. 106, “Employers’ Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other than Pensions.” In addition, SFAS No. 158 requires an employer to recognize the net funded status of defined benefit pensions and other postretirement benefit plans (benefit plans) as an asset or liability in its statement of financial position and to recognize changes in the funded status through comprehensive income in the year in which the changes occur. As required by SFAS No. 158, as of December 31, 2006, the pension benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation (PBO), a measurement of earned benefit obligations at expected retirement salary levels; for other postretirement plans, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation (APBO), a measurement of earned postretirement benefit obligations expected to be paid to employees upon retirement. Prior to implementation of SFAS No. 158, the required pension benefit obligation was the accumulated benefit obligation (ABO), a measurement of earned benefit obligations at existing salary levels, and other postretirement obligations were not recorded as a liability on the statement of financial position. Alagasco established a regulatory asset for the portion of the total benefit obligation to be recovered through rates in future periods in accordance with SFAS No. 71.

Actuarial assumptions attempt to anticipate future events and are used in calculating the expenses and liabilities related to these plans. The calculation of the liability related to the Company’s benefit plans includes assumptions regarding the appropriate weighted average discount rate, the expected long-term rate of return on the plans’ assets and the estimated weighted average rate of increase in the compensation level of its employee base for defined benefit pension plans. The key assumptions used in determining these calculations are disclosed in Note 5, Employee Benefit Plans, in the Notes to Financial Statements.

Index to Financial Statements

In selecting the discount rate, consideration was given to Moody’s Aa corporate bond rates, along with a yield curve applied to payments the Company expects to make out of its retirement plans. The yield curve is comprised of a broad base of Aa bonds with maturities between zero and thirty years. The discount rate was developed as the level equivalent rate that would produce the same present value as that using spot rates aligned with the projected benefit payments; the discount rate used to determine net periodic costs was 5.776.50 percent for each of the plans for the year ended December 31, 2007.2008. The assumed rate of return on assets is the weighted average of expected long-term asset assumptions; the return on assets used to determine net periodic expense was 8.25 percent for each of the applicable plans for the year ended December 31, 2007.2008. The estimated weighted average rate of increase in the compensation level for pay related plans was 4.24.07 percent for the year ended December 31, 2007.2008.

34


The selection and use of actuarial assumptions affects the amount of benefit expense recorded in the Company’s financial statements. The table below reflects a hypothetical 25 basis point change in assumed actuarial assumptions to pre-tax benefit expense for the year ended December 31, 2007:2008:

 

(in thousands)

  Pension
Expense
  Postretirement

Expense

  Pension
Expense
  Postretirement
Expense

Discount rate change

  $      900      $      100              $  1,000  $    200

Return on assets

  $      400      $      200              $     400  $    200

Compensation increase

  $      700      $          -              $     600  $         -

The weighted average discount rate, return on plan assets and estimated rate of compensation increase used in the 20082009 actuarial assumptions is 6.186.50 percent, 8.25 percent, and 4.073.90 percent, respectively.

Asset Retirement Obligation:The Company records the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation (ARO) in the period in which it is incurred. Subsequent to initial measurement, liabilities are required to be accreted to their present value each period and capitalized costs are depreciated over the estimated useful life of the related assets. Upon settlement of the liability, the Company will settle the obligation for its recorded amount and recognize the resulting gain or loss. Energen Resources has an obligation to remove tangible equipment and restore land at the end of oil and gas production operations. Alagasco has certain removal cost obligations related to its gas distribution assets and a conditional asset retirement obligation to purge and cap its distribution and transmission lines upon abandonment. The estimate of future restoration and removal costs includes numerous assumptions and uncertainties, including but not limited to, inflation factors, discount rates, timing of settlement, and changes in contractual, regulatory, political, environmental, safety and public relations considerations.

Uncertain Tax Positions:As of January 1, 2007, the Company accounts for uncertain tax positions in accordance with the provisions of FIN 48. The application of income tax law is inherently complex; laws and regulation in this area are voluminous and often ambiguous. As such, the Company is required to make many subjective assumptions and judgments regarding income tax exposures. Interpretations and guidance related to income tax laws and regulation change over time. It is possible that changes in the Company’s subjective assumptions and judgments could materially affect amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and statements of income. Additional information related to the Company’s uncertain tax position is provided in Note 17, Recent Pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board,4, Income Taxes, in the Notes to the Financial Statements.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements in this report express expectations of future plans, objectives and performance of the Company and its subsidiaries and constitute forward-looking statements made pursuant to the Safe Harbor provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Except as otherwise disclosed, the Company’s forward-looking statements do not reflect the impact of possible or pending acquisitions, investments, divestitures or restructurings. The absence of errors in input data, calculations and formulas used in estimates, assumptions and forecasts cannot be guaranteed. Neither the Company nor Alagasco undertakes any obligation to correct or update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Index to Financial Statements

All statements based on future expectations rather than on historical facts are forward-looking statements that are dependent on certain events, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Some of these include, but are not limited to, economic and competitive conditions, inflation rates, legislative and regulatory changes, financial market conditions, ourthe Company’s ability to access the capital markets, future business decisions, utility customer growth and retention and usage per customer, litigation results and other uncertainties, all of which are difficult to predict.

Third Party Facilities: The forward looking statements also assume generally uninterrupted access to third party oil and gas gathering, transportation, processing and storage facilities. Energen Resources relies upon such facilities

35


See Item 1A, Risk Factors, for access to markets for its production. Alagasco relies upon such facilities for access to natural gas supplies. Such facilities are typically limited in number and geographically concentrated. An extended interruptiona discussion of access to or service from these facilities, whether caused by weather events, natural disaster, accident, mechanical failure, criminal act or otherwise, could result in material adverse financial consequences to Alagasco, Energen Resources and/or the Company.

Energen Resources’ Production and Drilling: There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of proved oil and gas reserves and in projecting future rates of production and timing of development expenditures. The total amount or timing of actual future productionrisk factors that may vary significantly from reserve and production estimates. In the event Energen Resources is unable to fully invest its planned acquisition, development and exploratory expenditures, future operating revenues, production, and proved reserves could be negatively affected. The drilling of development and exploratory wells can involve significant risks, including those related to timing, success rates and cost overruns, and these risks can be affected by lease and rig availability, complex geology and other factors. Anticipated drilling plans and capital expenditures may also change due to weather, manpower and equipment availability, changing emphasis by management and a variety of other factors which could result in actual drilling and capital expenditures being substantially different than currently planned.

Energen Resources’ Hedging: Although Energen Resources makes use of futures, swaps and fixed-price contracts to mitigate price risk, fluctuations in future oil, gas and natural gas liquids prices could materially affect the Company’s financial position, results of operationsCompany and cash flows; furthermore, such risk mitigation activities may cause the Company’s financial position and results of operationsmaterial variances from forward-looking statement expectations. The Item 1A, Risk Factors, discussion is incorporated by reference to be materially different from results that would have been obtained had such risk mitigation activities not occurred. The effectiveness of such risk mitigation assumes that counterparties maintain satisfactory credit quality. The effectiveness of such risk mitigation also assumes that actual sales volumes will generally meet or exceed the volumes subject to the futures, swaps and fixed price contracts. A substantial failure to meet sales volume targets whether caused by miscalculations, weather events, natural disaster, accident, criminal act or otherwise, could leave Energen Resources financially exposed to its counterparties and result in material adverse financial consequences to Energen Resources and the Company. The adverse effect could be increased if the adverse event was widespread enough to move market prices against Energen Resources’ position.

Alagasco’s Hedging:Similarly, although Alagasco makes use of futures, swaps and fixed-price contracts to mitigate gas supply cost risk, fluctuations in future gas supply costs could materially affect its financial position and rates to customers. The effectiveness of Alagasco’s risk mitigation assumes that its counterparties in such activities maintain satisfactory credit quality. The effectiveness of such risk mitigation also assumes that Alagasco’s actual gas supply needs will generally meet or exceed the volumes subject to the futures, swaps and fixed price contracts. A substantial failure to experience projected gas supply needs, whether caused by miscalculations, weather events, natural disaster, accident, mechanical failure, criminal act or otherwise, could leave Alagasco financially exposed to its counterparties and result in material adverse financial consequences to Alagasco and the Company. The adverse effect could be increased if the adverse event was widespread enough to move market prices against Alagasco’s position.

Operations: Inherent in the gas distribution activities of Alagasco and the oil and gas production activities of Energen Resources are a variety of hazards and operation risks, such as leaks, explosions and mechanical problems that could cause substantial financial losses. In addition, these risks could result in loss of human life, significant damage to property, environmental pollution, impairment of operations and substantial losses to the Company. In accordance with customary industry practices, the Company maintains insurance against some, but not all, of these risks and losses. The location of pipeline and storage facilities near populated areas, including residential areas, commercial business centers and industrial sites, could increase the level of damages resulting from these risks. The occurrence of any of these events could adversely affect Alagasco’s, Energen Resources’ and/or the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Alagasco’s Service Territory: Alagasco’s utility customers are geographically concentrated in central and north Alabama. Significant economic, weather, natural disaster, criminal act or other events that adversely affect this region could adversely affect Alagasco and the Company.forward-looking statement disclosure.

36


RECENT PRONOUNCEMENTS OF THE FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING STANDARDS BOARD (FASB)

The Company adopted the provisions of FIN 48 as of January 1, 2007. This Interpretation prescribed a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition, measurement and disclosure of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, the Company recognized an approximate $1.2 million increaseSee Note 15, Recently Issued Accounting Standards, in the liabilityNotes to Financial Statements for unrecognized tax benefits which was accounted for as a decrease to the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings. As of the date of adoption and after the impact of recognizing the increase in liability noted above, the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits totaled $8.2 million. The amount of unrecognized tax benefits at January 1, 2007 that would favorably impact the Company’s effective tax rate, if recognized, was $3.4 million. The Company recognized potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. As of January 1, 2007, the Company recognized approximately $484,000 in potential interest (net of tax benefit) and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions.

During September 2006, the FASBinformation regarding recently issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” which clarifies that fair value should be based on the assumptions market participants would use when pricing an asset or a liability and establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the information used to develop those assumptions. Under SFAS No. 157, fair value measurements would be separately disclosed by level within the fair value hierarchy effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this Statement. In February 2008, the FASB announced it will issue Final FASB Staff Positions (FSP’s) that will partially defer the effective date of SFAS No. 157 for one year for certain nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities and remove certain leasing transactions from the scope of SFAS No. 157. The Company will evaluate the impact of the FSP’s upon issuance.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities,” which permits entities to measure financial instruments and certain other items at fair value to mitigate volatility in reported earnings. This Statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The effect of this Standard on the Company is currently being evaluated.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations,” which will improve the relevance, representational faithfulness, and comparability of the information that a reporting entity provides in its financial reports about a business combination and its effects. This Statement applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first fiscal year beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this Statement.

The FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendment of ARB No. 51,” in December 2007. SFAS No. 160 establishes accounting and reporting standards for ownership interests in subsidiaries held by parties other than the parent, the amount of consolidated net income attributable to the parent and to the noncontrolling interest, changes in a parent’s ownership interest, and the valuation of retained noncontrolling equity investments when a subsidiary is deconsolidated. SFAS No. 160 also establishes disclosure requirements that clearly identify and distinguish between the interests of the parent and the interests of the noncontrolling owners. This Statement is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The effect of this Standard on the Company is currently being evaluated.standards.

 

ITEM 7A.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The information required by this item with respect to market risk is set forth in Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations under the heading “Outlook” and in Note 8, Financial Instruments and Risk Management, in the Notes to Financial Statements.

37


Index to Financial Statements
ITEM 8.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

ENERGEN CORPORATION

ALABAMA GAS CORPORATION

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

 

     Page

1.

 

Financial Statements

  
 

Energen Corporation

  
 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

  39
 

Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 20052006

  41
 

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 20072008 and 20062007

  42
 

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 20052006

  44
 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 20052006

  45
 

Notes to Financial Statements

  51
 

Alabama Gas Corporation

  
 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

  40
 

Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 20052006

  46
 

Balance Sheets as of December 31, 20072008 and 20062007

  47
 

Statements of Shareholder’s Equity for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 20052006

  49
 

Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 20052006

  50
 

Notes to Financial Statements

  51

2.

 

Financial Statement Schedules

  
 

Energen Corporation

  
 

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

  8584
 

Alabama Gas Corporation

  
 

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

  8584

Schedules other than those listed above are omitted because they are not required, not applicable, or the required information is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.

38


Index to Financial Statements

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Energen Corporation:

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the accompanying index present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Energen Corporation and its subsidiaries at December 31, 20072008 and 2006,2007, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 20072008 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007,2008, based on criteria established inInternal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements and financial statement schedule, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, appearing onincluded in Management’s Report onOn Internal Control Over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedule, and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

As discussed in Note 17, Recent Pronouncements of the Financial15, Recently Issued Accounting Standards, Board, and Note 5, Employee Benefit Plans, in the Notes to Financial Statements, the Company adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes-an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” and Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 158, “Employers’Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and 132 (R)”, effective January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Birmingham, Alabama

February 25, 200824, 2009

39


Index to Financial Statements

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholder of Alabama Gas Corporation:

In our opinion, the financial statements of Alabama Gas Corporation listed in the accompanying index present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Alabama Gas Corporation at December 31, 20072008 and 2006,2007, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 20072008 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related financial statements. TheseAlso in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial statements and financial statement schedule arereporting as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established inInternal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the responsibilityCommittee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management; our responsibilitymanagement is to express an opinion onresponsible for these financial statements and financial statement schedule, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s Report On Internal Control Over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedule, and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits.audits (which was an integrated audit in 2008). We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the auditaudits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includesmisstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.opinions.

As discussedA company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in Note 5, Employee Benefit Plans,accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the Notestransactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to Financial Statements,permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company adopted SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pensioncompany are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and Other Postretirement Plans, an amendmentdirectors of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106the company; and 132 (R)”, effective December 31, 2006.(iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Birmingham, Alabama

February 25, 200824, 2009

40


Index to Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

Energen Corporation

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands, except share data)

   2007   2006   2005   2008 2007 2006 

Operating Revenues

        

Oil and gas operations

  $825,592  $730,542  $527,694   $914,132  $825,592  $730,542 

Natural gas distribution

   609,468   663,444   600,700    654,778   609,468   663,444 

Total operating revenues

   1,435,060   1,393,986   1,128,394    1,568,910   1,435,060   1,393,986 

Operating Expenses

        

Cost of gas

   318,429   373,097   315,622    351,774   318,429   373,097 

Operations and maintenance

   333,443   302,157   268,727    354,760   333,443   302,157 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

   161,377   142,086   131,691    188,413   161,377   142,086 

Taxes, other than income taxes

   95,831   95,727   93,983    107,605   95,831   95,727 

Accretion expense

   3,948   3,619   2,647    4,290   3,948   3,619 

Total operating expenses

   913,028   916,686   812,670    1,006,842   913,028   916,686 

Operating Income

   522,032   477,300   315,724    562,068   522,032   477,300 

Other Income (Expense)

        

Interest expense

   (47,100)  (48,652)  (46,800)   (41,981)  (47,100)  (48,652)

Other income

   2,668   951   2,163    1,885   2,668   951 

Other expense

   (959)  (1,046)  (710)   (7,014)  (959)  (1,046)

Total other expense

   (45,391)  (48,747)  (45,347)   (47, 110)  (45,391)  (48,747)

Income From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes

   476,641   428,553   270,377    514,958   476,641   428,553 

Income tax expense

   167,429   155,030   97,491    193,043   167,429   155,030 

Income From Continuing Operations

   309,212   273,523   172,886    321,915   309,212   273,523 

Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes

        

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

   3   (6)  (6)   -   3   (6)

Gain on disposal of discontinued operations

   18   53   132    -   18   53 

Income From Discontinued Operations

   21   47   126    -   21   47 

Net Income

  $309,233  $273,570  $173,012   $321,915  $309,233  $273,570 

Diluted Earnings Per Average Common Share

        

Continuing operations

  $4.28  $3.73  $2.35   $4.47  $4.28  $3.73 

Discontinued operations

   -   -   -    -   -   - 

Net Income

  $4.28  $3.73  $2.35   $4.47  $4.28  $3.73 

Basic Earnings Per Average Common Share

        

Continuing operations

  $4.32  $3.77  $2.37   $4.50  $4.32  $3.77 

Discontinued operations

   -   -   -    -   -   - 

Net Income

  $4.32  $3.77  $2.37   $4.50  $4.32  $3.77 

Diluted Average Common Shares Outstanding

   72,180,861   73,278,277   73,714,602    72,030,210   72,180,861   73,278,277 

Basic Average Common Shares Outstanding

   71,591,551   72,504,897   73,051,903    71,600,925   71,591,551   72,504,897 

The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

41


Index to Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

Energen Corporation

 

  December 31,              December 31,            

(in thousands)

  2007              2006              December 31,
2008
  December 31,
2007

ASSETS

            

Current Assets

            

Cash and cash equivalents

    $            8,687    $        10,307  $13,177  $8,687

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $12,244 and $13,961 at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively

    254,154    329,766

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $12,868 and $12,244 at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively

   414,362   254,154

Inventories, at average cost

            

Storage gas inventory

    78,064    68,769   77,243   78,064

Materials and supplies

    13,711    9,281   13,541   13,711

Liquified natural gas in storage

    3,502    3,766   3,219   3,502

Regulatory asset

    10,232    35,479   41,714   10,232

Income tax receivable

   50,476   -

Deferred income taxes

    54,166    -   -   54,166

Prepayments and other

    26,514    32,211   29,309   26,514

Total current assets

     449,030     489,579   643,041   449,030

Property, Plant and Equipment

            

Oil and gas properties, successful efforts method

    2,530,049    2,163,065   2,959,665   2,530,049

Less accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization

    664,290    559,059   793,465   664,290

Oil and gas properties, net

     1,865,759     1,604,006   2,166,200   1,865,759

Utility plant

    1,108,392    1,060,562   1,166,967   1,108,392

Less accumulated depreciation

    448,053    421,075   480,601   448,053

Utility plant, net

     660,339     639,487   686,366   660,339

Other property, net

     12,145     8,921   15,082   12,145

Total property, plant and equipment, net

     2,538,243     2,252,414   2,867,648   2,538,243

Other Assets

            

Regulatory asset

    32,238    38,385   97,511   32,238

Prepaid pension costs and postretirement assets

    20,054    19,975   -   20,054

Long-term derivative instruments

   140,603   2,428

Deferred charges and other

    40,088    36,534   26,601   37,660

Total other assets

     92,380     94,894   264,715   92,380

TOTAL ASSETS

     $    3,079,653     $    2,836,887  $3,775,404  $3,079,653

The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

42


Index to Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

Energen Corporation

 

 December 31,              December 31,                 

(in thousands, except share data)

 2007              2006                   December 31,
2008
 December 31,
2007
 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

        

Current Liabilities

        

Long-term debt due within one year

  $            10,000    $        100,000   $-  $10,000 

Notes payable to banks

  134,000    58,000    62,000   134,000 

Accounts payable

  259,836    194,448    224,309   259,836 

Accrued taxes

  40,857    42,960    42,183   40,857 

Customers’ deposits

  21,425    21,094    22,081   21,425 

Amounts due customers

  20,534    14,382    15,124   20,534 

Accrued wages and benefits

  25,410    24,548    24,966   25,410 

Regulatory liability

  32,154    33,871    25,363   32,154 

Royalty payable

   12,275   22,563 

Deferred income taxes

  -    5,594    41,969   - 

Other

  62,014    65,985    39,831   39,451 
    

Total current liabilities

  606,230    560,882    510,101   606,230 
    

Long-term debt

 562,365    582,490    561,631   562,365 

Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities

        

Asset retirement obligation

  60,571    53,980    66,151   60,571 

Pension liabilities

  31,985    32,504 

Pension and other postretirement liabilities

   67,474   31,985 

Regulatory liability

  141,123    135,466    147,514   141,123 

Deferred income taxes

  238,706    250,906    482,058   238,706 

Long-term derivative instruments

   8,821   47,093 

Other

  60,015    18,590    18,364   12,922 
    

Total deferred credits and other liabilities

 532,400    491,446    790,382   532,400 

Commitments and Contingencies

       

Shareholders’ Equity

Preferred stock, cumulative, $0.01 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized

  -    -    -   - 

Common shareholders’ equity

        

Common stock, $0.01 par value; 150,000,000 shares authorized, 74,190,786 shares issued at December 31, 2007 and 73,699,244 shares issued at December 31, 2006

  742    737 

Common stock, $0.01 par value; 150,000,000 shares authorized, 74,521,957 shares issued at December 31, 2008 and 74,190,786 shares issued at December 31, 2007

   745   742 

Premium on capital stock

  434,999    412,989    454,778   434,999 

Capital surplus

  2,802    2,802    2,802   2,802 

Retained earnings

  1,119,816    844,880    1,405,970   1,119,816 

Accumulated other comprehensive gain (loss), net of tax

        

Unrealized gain (loss) on hedges

  (65,057)   50,555    200,867   (65,057)

Pension and postretirement plans, net of tax

  (21,167)   (23,177)

Pension and postretirement plans

   (31,050)  (21,167)

Deferred compensation plan

  16,121    13,956    2,948   16,121 

Treasury stock, at cost; 3,374,336 shares and 3,253,337 shares at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively

  (109,598)   (100,673)

Treasury stock, at cost; 2,977,947 shares and 3,374,336 shares at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively

   (123,770)  (109,598)
    

Total shareholders’ equity

 1,378,658    1,202,069    1,913,290   1,378,658 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 $      3,079,653    $    2,836,887   $3,775,404  $3,079,653 

The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

43


Index to Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Energen Corporation

 

(in thousands, except share data)

 Common Stock Premium on
Capital Stock
  Capital
Surplus
 Retained
Earnings
  Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
  Deferred
Compensation
Restricted Stock
  Deferred
Compensation
Plan
  Treasury
Stock
  Total
Shareholders’
Equity
 
 Number of
Shares
 Par
Value
        

BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2004

 73,165,958 $732 $380,965  $2,802 $459,626  $(37,330) $(2,675) $28,919  $(29,373) $803,666 

Net income

      173,012       173,012 

Other comprehensive income (loss):

          

Current period change in fair value of derivative instruments, net of tax of ($100,484)

       (163,947)     (163,947)

Reclassification adjustment, net of tax of $59,636

       97,301      97,301 

Minimum pension liability, net of tax of ($990)

       (1,843)     (1,843)
             

Comprehensive income

           104,523 
             

Purchase of treasury shares

          (2,459)  (2,459)

Shares issued for:

          

Employee benefit plans

 327,379  3  8,958        1,821   10,782 

Deferred compensation obligation

         (17,012)  17,012   —   

Issuance of restricted stock

        (1,249)    (1,249)

Amortization of restricted stock

        1,801     1,801 

Stock based compensation

    465         465 

Tax benefit from employee stock plans

    2,487         2,487 

Long-range performance plan

    1,986         1,986 

Cash dividends - $0.40 per share

      (29,324)      (29,324)
                                    

BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2005

 73,493,337  735  394,861   2,802  603,314   (105,819)  (2,123)  11,907  $(12,999)  892,678 

Net income

      273,570       273,570 

Other comprehensive income (loss):

          

Current period change in fair value of derivative instruments, net of tax of $79,827

       130,244      130,244 

Reclassification adjustment, net of tax of $7,614

       12,423      12,423 

Pension and postretirement plans, net of tax of $3,062

       5,686      5,686 
             

Comprehensive income

           421,923 
             

Adjustment to initially apply SFAS No. 158, net of tax of ($8,161)

       (15,156)     (15,156)

Purchase of treasury shares

          (87,566)  (87,566)

Shares issued for:

          

Employee benefit plans

 205,907  2  1,444        1,941   3,387 

Deferred compensation obligation

         2,049   (2,049)  —   

Reclassification of restricted stock awards

    (2,123)     2,123     —   

Amortization of restricted stock

    2,252         2,252 

Stock based compensation

    196         196 

Tax benefit from employee stock plans

    1,980         1,980 

Long-range performance plan

    14,501         14,501 

Forfeiture adjustment on stock plans

    (122)        (122)

Cash dividends - $0.44 per share

      (32,004)      (32,004)
                                    

BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2006

 73,699,244  737  412,989   2,802  844,880   27,378   —     13,956  $(100,673)  1,202,069 

Net income

      309,233       309,233 

Other comprehensive income (loss):

          

Current period change in fair value of derivative instruments, net of tax of ($44,619)

       (72,800)     (72,800)

Reclassification adjustment, net of tax of ($26,239)

       (42,811)     (42,811)

Pension and postretirement plans, net of tax of $1,082

       2,009      2,009 
             

Comprehensive income

           195,631 
             

Adjustment to initially apply FIN 48

      (1,181)      (1,181)

Purchase of treasury shares

          (6,760)  (6,760)

Shares issued for:

          

Employee benefit plans

 491,542  5  9,671         9,676 

Deferred compensation obligation

         2,165   (2,165)  —   

Amortization of restricted stock

    891         891 

Stock based compensation

    3,134         3,134 

Tax benefit from employee stock plans

    10,937         10,937 

Long-range performance plan

    (2,643)        (2,643)

Forfeiture adjustment on stock plans

    20         20 

Cash dividends - $0.46 per share

      (33,116)      (33,116)
                                    

BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2007

 74,190,786 $742 $434,999  $2,802 $1,119,816  $(86,224) $—    $16,121  $(109,598) $1,378,658 
                                    

Share and per(in thousands, except share data have been restated to reflect a 2-for-1 stock split effective June 1, 2005.data)

  

Common Stock

         Accumulated
Other
  Deferred  Deferred     Total 
  Number of Par Premium on  Capital Retained  Comprehensive  Compensation  Compensation  Treasury  Shareholders’ 
  Shares  Value  Capital Stock   Surplus  Earnings   Income (Loss)   Restricted Stock   Plan   Stock   Equity 

BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2005

 73,493,337 $735 $394,861  $2,802 $603,314  $(105,819) $(2,123) $11,907  $(12,999) $892,678 

Net income

      273,570       273,570 

Other comprehensive income (loss):

          

Current period change in fair value of derivative instruments, net of tax of $79,827

       130,244      130,244 

Reclassification adjustment, net of tax of $7,614

       12,423      12,423 

Pension and postretirement plans, net of tax of $3,062

       5,686      5,686 
             

Comprehensive income

           421,923 
             

Adjustment to initially apply SFAS No. 158, net of tax of ($8,161)

       (15,156)     (15,156)

Purchase of treasury shares

          (87,566)  (87,566)

Shares issued for:

          

Employee benefit plans

 205,907  2  1,444        1,941   3,387 

Deferred compensation obligation

         2,049   (2,049)  - 

Reclassification of restricted stock awards

    (2,123)     2,123     - 

Amortization of restricted stock

    2,252         2,252 

Stock based compensation

    14,575         14,575 

Tax benefit from employee stock plans

    1,980         1,980 

Cash dividends - $0.44 per share

              (32,004)                  (32,004)

BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2006

 73,699,244  737  412,989   2,802  844,880   27,378   -   13,956   (100,673)  1,202,069 

Net income

      309,233       309,233 

Other comprehensive income (loss):

          

Current period change in fair value of derivative instruments, net of tax of ($44,619)

       (72,800)     (72,800)

Reclassification adjustment, net of tax of ($26,239)

       (42,811)     (42,811)

Pension and postretirement plans, net of tax of $1,082

       2,009      2,009 
             

Comprehensive income

           195,631 
             

Adjustment to initially apply FIN 48

      (1,181)      (1,181)

Purchase of treasury shares

          (6,760)  (6,760)

Shares issued for:

          

Employee benefit plans

 491,542  5  9,671         9,676 

Deferred compensation obligation

         2,165   (2,165)  - 

Amortization of restricted stock

    891         891 

Stock based compensation

    511         511 

Tax benefit from employee stock plans

    10,937         10,937 

Cash dividends - $0.46 per share

              (33,116)                  (33,116)

BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2007

 74,190,786  742  434,999   2,802  1,119,816   (86,224)  -   16,121   (109,598)  1,378,658 

Net income

      321,915       321,915 

Other comprehensive income (loss):

          

Current period change in fair value of derivative instruments, net of tax of $120,742

       197,000      197,000 

Reclassification adjustment, net of tax of $42,243

       68,924      68,924 

Pension and postretirement plans, net of tax of ($5,324)

       (9,883)     (9,883)
             

Comprehensive income

           577,956 
             

Purchase of treasury shares

          (27,345)  (27,345)

Shares issued for:

          

Employee benefit plans

 331,171  3  8,548         8,551 

Deferred compensation obligation

         (13,173)  13,173   - 

Amortization of restricted stock

    596         596 

Stock based compensation

    (6,458)        (6,458)

Tax benefit from employee stock plans

    17,093         17,093 

Adjustment to apply SFAS No. 158, net of tax of ($614)

      (1,141)      (1,141)

Cash dividends - $0.48 per share

              (34,620)                  (34,620)

BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2008

 74,521,957 $745 $454,778  $2,802 $1,405,970  $169,817  $-  $2,948  $(123,770) $1,913,290 

The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

44


Index to Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Energen Corporation

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

 2007  2006  2005   2008 2007 2006 

Operating Activities

            

Net income

  $309,233    $273,570    $173,012   $321,915  $309,233  $273,570 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

            

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

   161,377     142,086     131,719    188,413   161,377   142,086 

Deferred income taxes

   1,162     98,209     58,608    188,414   1,162   98,209 

Change in derivative fair value

   (970)    (2,043)    2,328    (2,580)  (970)  (2,043)

Gain on sale of assets

   (506)    (55,916)    (1,928)   (10,752)  (506)  (55,916)

Other, net

   20,035     4,255     (5,912)   (9,517)  20,035   4,255 

Net change in:

            

Accounts receivable, net

   71,810     9,249     (70,944)   6,565   71,810   9,249 

Inventories

   (13,461)    1,084     (20,276)   1,274   (13,461)  1,084 

Accounts payable

   (74,927)    64,178     39,330    (36,149)  (74,927)  64,178 

Amounts due customers

   21,247     (38,940)    12,890    (16,873)  21,247   (38,940)

Income tax receivable

   (50,476)  -   - 

Other current assets and liabilities

   (10,833)    (12,812)    16,297    (11,001)  (10,833)  (12,812)
       

Net cash provided by operating activities

  484,167     482,920     335,124    569,233   484,167   482,920 

Investing Activities

            

Additions to property, plant and equipment

   (373,857)    (302,177)    (230,715)   (460,237)  (373,857)  (302,177)

Acquisitions, net of cash acquired

   (56,323)    (27,814)    (179,268)   (17,914)  (56,323)  (27,814)

Proceeds from sale of assets

   1,295     75,429     10,832    16,224   1,295   75,429 

Other, net

   (2,994)    (2,337)    (1,573)   (2,656)  (2,994)  (2,337)
       

Net cash used in investing activities

  (431,879)    (256,899)    (400,724)   (464,583)  (431,879)  (256,899)

Financing Activities

            

Payment of dividends on common stock

   (33,116)    (32,004)    (29,324)   (34,620)  (33,116)  (32,004)

Issuance of common stock

   2,051     833     10,782    277   2,051   833 

Purchase of treasury stock

   -     (84,339)    (2,459)   -   -   (84,339)

Reduction of long-term debt

   (155,289)    (15,898)    (84,796)   (10,910)  (155,289)  (15,898)

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

   45,000     -     160,000    -   45,000   - 

Debt issuance costs

   (494)    -     (2,378)   -   (494)  - 

Net change in short-term debt

   76,000     (95,000)    18,000    (72,000)  76,000   (95,000)

Tax benefit on stock compensation

   10,937     1,980     -    17,093   10,937   1,980 

Other

   1,003     -     -    -   1,003   - 
       

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

  (53,908)    (224,428)    69,825 

Net cash used in financing activities

   (100,160)  (53,908)  (224,428)

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

   (1,620)    1,593     4,225    4,490   (1,620)  1,593 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

   10,307     8,714     4,489    8,687   10,307   8,714 
      

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

 $8,687    $10,307    $8,714   $13,177  $8,687  $10,307 

The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

45


Index to Financial Statements

STATEMENTS OF INCOME

Alabama Gas Corporation

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007           2006           2005           2008 2007 2006 
 

Operating Revenues

  $609,468  $663,444  $600,700   $  654,778  $  609,468  $  663,444 

Operating Expenses

        

Cost of gas

   318,429   373,097   318,269    351,774   318,429   373,097 

Operations and maintenance

   129,351   126,948   126,041    127,877   129,351   126,948 

Depreciation

   47,136   44,244   42,351 

Depreciation and amortization

   48,874   47,136   44,244 

Income taxes

        

Current

   15,415   19,745   20,556    (26,075)  15,415   19,745 

Deferred

   6,221   2,257   1,804    50,904   6,221   2,257 

Taxes, other than income taxes

   41,810   44,881   41,117    44,297   41,810   44,881 
 

Total operating expenses

   558,362   611,172   550,138    597,651   558,362   611,172 
 

Operating Income

   51,106   52,272   50,562    57,127   51,106   52,272 

Other Income (Expense)

        

Allowance for funds used during construction

   611   951   792    700   611   951 

Other income

   1,665   1,490   1,371    704   1,665   1,490 

Other expense

   (868)  (961)  (701)   (3,563)  (868)  (961)
 

Total other income

   1,408   1,480   1,462 

Total other income (expense)

   (2,159)  1,408   1,480 

Interest Charges

        

Interest on long-term debt

   11,956   12,836   13,752    11,961   11,956   12,836 

Other interest charges

   3,740   3,618   1,308    2,846   3,740   3,618 
 

Total interest charges

   15,696   16,454   15,060    14,807   15,696   16,454 
 

Net Income

  $36,818  $37,298  $36,964   $40,161  $36,818  $37,298 

The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

46


Index to Financial Statements

BALANCE SHEETS

Alabama Gas Corporation

 

 December 31,  December 31, 

(in thousands)

 2007  2006   December 31,
2008
 December 31,
2007
 

ASSETS

     

Property, Plant and Equipment

     

Utility plant

 $        1,108,392  $    1,060,562   $  1,166,967  $  1,108,392 

Less accumulated depreciation

 448,053  421,075    480,601   448,053 
 

Utility plant, net

 660,339  639,487    686,366   660,339 

Other property, net

 157  163    151   157 

Current Assets

     

Cash

 7,335  8,765    9,728   7,335 

Accounts receivable

     

Gas

 139,761  159,101    146,886   139,761 

Other

 6,336  10,708    10,014   6,336 

Allowance for doubtful accounts

 (11,500) (13,200)   (12,100)  (11,500)

Inventories, at average cost

     

Storage gas inventory

 78,064  68,769    77,243   78,064 

Materials and supplies

 3,866  4,199    4,381   3,866 

Liquified natural gas in storage

 3,502  3,766    3,219   3,502 

Regulatory asset

 10,232  35,479    41,714   10,232 

Income tax receivable

   30,654   2,445 

Deferred income taxes

 25,179  25,222    22,152   25,179 

Prepayments and other

 2,247  3,557    2,622   2,247 
 

Total current assets

 265,022  306,366    336,513   267,467 

Other Assets

     

Regulatory asset

 32,238  38,385    97,511   32,238 

Prepaid pension costs and postretirement assets

 15,831  15,369    -   15,831 

Deferred charges and other

 7,226  6,326    6,046   7,226 

Total other assets

 55,295  60,080    103,557   55,295 
 

TOTAL ASSETS

 $            980,813  $    1,006,096   $1,126,587  $983,258 

The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

47


Index to Financial Statements

BALANCE SHEETS

Alabama Gas Corporation

 

  December 31,  December 31,

(in thousands, except share data)

  2007  2006  December 31,
2008
  December 31,
2007

LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION

        

Capitalization

        

Preferred stock, cumulative, $0.01 par value, 120,000 shares authorized

  $                -  $                -  $-  $-

Common shareholder’s equity

        

Common stock, $0.01 par value; 3,000,000 shares authorized, 1,972,052 shares issued at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively

  20  20

Common stock, $0.01 par value; 3,000,000 shares authorized, 1,972,052 shares issued at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively

   20   20

Premium on capital stock

  31,682  31,682   31,682   31,682

Capital surplus

  2,802  2,802   2,802   2,802

Retained earnings

  261,979  250,560   273,743   261,979
 

Total common shareholder’s equity

  296,483  285,064   308,247   296,483

Long-term debt

  208,467  208,756   207,557   208,467
 

Total capitalization

  504,950  493,820   515,804   504,950

Current Liabilities

        

Notes payable to banks

  62,000  58,000   62,000   62,000

Accounts payable

  80,067  118,936   110,838   80,067

Affiliated companies

  4,934  18,130   21,582   4,934

Accrued taxes

  30,858  37,813   33,911   33,303

Customers’ deposits

  21,425  21,094   22,081   21,425

Amounts due customers

  20,534  14,382   15,124   20,534

Accrued wages and benefits

  10,062  9,714   10,497   10,062

Regulatory liability

  32,154  33,871   25,363   32,154

Other

  10,417  8,225   9,703   10,417
 

Total current liabilities

  272,451  320,165   311,099   274,896

Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities

        

Deferred income taxes

  59,790  54,166   102,473   59,790

Pension and other postretirement liabilities

   30,021   -

Regulatory liability

  141,123  135,466   147,514   141,123

Customer advances for construction and other

  2,499  2,479

Long-term derivative instruments

   8,821   -

Other

   10,855   2,499
 

Total deferred credits and other liabilities

  203,412  192,111   299,684   203,412
 

Commitments and Contingencies

          
 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION

  $    980,813  $    1,006,096  $  1,126,587  $  983,258

The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

48


Index to Financial Statements

STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDER’S EQUITY

Alabama Gas Corporation

 

      

(in thousands, except share data)

                           
  Common Stock        

 
 

Total

Shareholder’s
Equity

 

 
 

  Common Stock  Premium on
Capital Stock
  Capital
Surplus
  Retained
Earnings
  Total
Shareholder’s
Equity
 
  Number of

Shares

   

 

Par

Value

   

 

Premium on

Capital Stock

   

 

Capital

Surplus

   

 

Retained

Earnings

 

 

   

Number of

Shares

  

Par

Value

   

Balance December 31, 2004

  1,972,052  $20  $31,682  $2,802  $223,515  $258,019 

Net income

           36,964   36,964 

Cash dividends

               (23,522)  (23,522)

Balance December 31, 2005

  1,972,052   20   31,682   2,802   236,957   271,461   1,972,052  $20  $31,682  $2,802  $236,957  $271,461 

Net income

           37,298   37,298            37,298   37,298 

Cash dividends

               (23,695)  (23,695)               (23,695)  (23,695)

Balance December 31, 2006

  1,972,052   20   31,682   2,802   250,560   285,064   1,972,052   20   31,682   2,802   250,560   285,064 

Net income

           36,818   36,818            36,818   36,818 

Cash dividends

               (25,399)  (25,399)               (25,399)  (25,399)

Balance December 31, 2007

  1,972,052  $20  $31,682  $2,802  $261,979  $296,483   1,972,052   20   31,682   2,802   261,979   296,483 

Net income

           40,161   40,161 

Cash dividends

               (28,397)  (28,397)

Balance December 31, 2008

  1,972,052  $  20  $  31,682  $  2,802  $  273,743  $  308,247 

The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

49


Index to Financial Statements

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Alabama Gas Corporation

 

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007               2006               2005               2008 2007 2006 

Operating Activities

        

Net income

  $36,818  $37,298  $36,964   $40,161  $36,818  $37,298 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

        

Depreciation and amortization

   47,136   44,244   42,351    48,874   47,136   44,244 

Deferred income taxes

   6,221   2,257   1,804    50,904   6,221   2,257 

Other, net

   3,036   (5,019)  (3,025)   (8,573)  3,036   (5,019)

Net change in:

        

Accounts receivable, net

   19,501   37,260   (48,623)   (9,734)  19,501   37,260 

Inventories

   (8,698)  2,384   (20,056)   589   (8,698)  2,384 

Accounts payable

   (27,702)  1,240   24,560    3,608     (27,702)  1,240 

Amounts due customers

   21,247   (38,940)  12,890      (16,873)  21,247     (38,940)

Income tax receivable

   (28,209)  (4,041)  1,355 

Other current assets and liabilities

   (4,000)  3,190   9,371    774   41   1,835 
 

Net cash provided by operating activities

   93,559   83,914   56,236    81,521   93,559   83,914 

Investing Activities

        

Additions to property, plant and equipment

   (58,154)  (75,107)  (72,388)   (62,637)  (58,154)  (75,107)

Net advances from (to) parent company

   -   3,215   (1,025)

Net advances from parent company

   -   -   3,215 

Other, net

   (2,460)  (1,963)  (1,551)   (3,832)  (2,460)  (1,963)
 

Net cash used in investing activities

   (60,614)  (73,855)  (74,964)   (66,469)  (60,614)  (73,855)

Financing Activities

        

Payment of dividends on common stock

   (25,399)  (23,695)  (23,522)   (28,397)  (25,399)  (23,695)

Reduction of long-term debt

   (45,289)  (5,898)  (84,796)   (910)  (45,289)  (5,898)

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

   45,000   -   160,000    -   45,000   - 

Debt issuance costs

   (494)  -   (2,252)   -   (494)  - 

Net advances from parent company

   (13,196)  18,130   -    16,648   (13,196)  18,130 

Net change in short-term debt

   4,000   3,000   (27,000)   -   4,000   3,000 

Other

   1,003   -   -    -   1,003   - 
 

Net cash provided (used) by financing activities

   (34,375)  (8,463)  22,430 

Net cash used by financing activities

   (12,659)  (34,375)  (8,463)

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

   (1,430)  1,596   3,702    2,393   (1,430)  1,596 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

   8,765   7,169   3,467    7,335   8,765   7,169 
 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  $7,335  $8,765  $7,169   $9,728  $7,335  $8,765 

The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

50


Index to Financial Statements

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Energen Corporation (Energen or the Company) is a diversified energy holding company engaged primarily in the development, acquisition, exploration and production of oil and gas in the continental United States (oil and gas operations) and in the purchase, distribution, and sale of natural gas principally in central and north Alabama (natural gas distribution). The following is a description of the Company’s significant accounting policies and practices.

A.

A. Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries, principally Energen Resources Corporation and Alabama Gas Corporation (Alagasco), after elimination of all significant intercompany transactions in consolidation. Certain reclassifications have been made to conform the prior years’ financial statements to the current-year presentation.

B.

B. Oil and Gas Operations

Property and Related Depletion: Energen Resources follows the successful efforts method of accounting for costs incurred in the exploration and development of oil, gas and natural gas liquid reserves. Lease acquisition costs are capitalized initially, and unproved properties are reviewed periodically to determine if there has been impairment of the carrying value, with any such impairment charged to exploration expense currently. All development costs are capitalized. Exploratory drilling costs are capitalized pending determination of proved reserves. If proved reserves are not discovered, the exploratory drilling costs are expensed. Other exploration costs, including geological and geophysical costs, are expensed as incurred. Depreciation, depletion and amortization expense is determined on a field-by-field basis using the units-of-production method based on proved reserves. Anticipated abandonment and restoration costs are capitalized and depreciated using the units-of-production method based on proved developed reserves.

Operating Revenue: Energen Resources utilizes the sales method of accounting to recognize oil, gas and natural gas liquids production revenue. Under the sales method, revenues are based on actual sales volumes of commodities sold to purchasers. Over-production liabilities are established only when it is estimated that a property’s over-produced volumes exceed the net share of remaining reserves for such property. Energen Resources had no material production imbalances at December 31, 20072008 and 2006.2007.

Derivative Commodity Instruments: Energen Resources periodically enters into derivative commodity instruments to hedge its price exposure to its estimated oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids production. Such instruments may include regulated natural gas and crude oil futures contracts traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) and over-the-counter swaps, collars and basis hedges with major energy derivative product specialists. The counterparties to the commodity instruments are investment banks and energy-trading firms. In some contracts, the amount of credit allowed before Energen Resources must post collateral for out-of-the-money hedges varies depending on the credit rating of the Company. In cases where these arrangements exist, the credit ratings must be maintained at investment grade status to have any available counterparty credit. Adverse changes to the Company’s credit rating results in decreasing amounts of credit available under these contracts. The counterparties for these contracts do not extend credit to the Company in the event credit ratings are below investment grade.

Energen Resources applies Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” as amended which requires all derivatives be recognized on the balance sheet and measured at fair value. If a derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge, the effectiveness of the hedge, or the degree that the gain (loss) for the hedging instrument offsets the loss (gain) on the hedged item is measured at each reporting period. The effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is

51


recognized in other comprehensive income as a component of shareholders’ equity and subsequently reclassified to operating revenues when the forecasted transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of a derivative’s change in fair value is recognized in operating revenues immediately. Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge treatment under SFAS No. 133 are recorded at fair value with gains or losses recognized in operating revenues in the period of change. All derivative transactions are included in operating activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Energen Resources periodically enters into derivative commodity instruments to hedge its price exposure to its estimated oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids production. Such instruments may include natural gas and crude oil over-the-counter (OTC) swaps, collars and basis hedges with major energy derivative product specialists. The counterparties to the commodity instruments are investment and commercial banks and energy-trading firms. In some contracts, the amount of credit allowed before Energen Resources must post collateral for out-of-the-money hedges varies depending on the credit rating of the Company. In cases where

Index to Financial Statements

these arrangements exist, the credit ratings must be maintained at investment grade status to have any available counterparty credit. Adverse changes to the Company’s credit rating results in decreasing amounts of credit available under these contracts. The counterparties for these contracts do not extend credit to the Company in the event credit ratings are below investment grade. All derivative commodity instruments in a gain position are valued on a discounted basis incorporating an estimate of performance risk specific to each related counterparty. Derivative commodity instruments in a loss position are valued on a discounted basis incorporating an estimate of performance risk specific to Energen.

Additionally, the Company may also enter into derivatives that do not qualify for cash flow hedge accounting but are considered by management to represent valid economic hedges and are accounted for as mark-to-market transactions. These economic hedges may include, but are not limited to, basis hedges without a corresponding NYMEXNew York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) hedge put options and hedges on non-operated or other properties for which all of the necessary information to qualify for cash flow hedge accounting is either not readily available or subject to change.

All hedge transactions are pursuant to standing authorizations by the Board of Directors, which do not permit speculative positions. The Company formally documents all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items at the inception of the hedge, as well as its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge. This process includes specific identification of the hedging instrument and the hedge transaction, the nature of the risk being hedged and how the hedging instrument’s effectiveness in hedging the exposure to the hedged transaction’s variability in cash flows attributable to the hedged risk will be assessed. Both at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, the Company assesses whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of hedged items. The Company discontinues hedge accounting if a derivative has ceased to be a highly effective hedge. The maximum term over

Effective January 1, 2008, the Company partially adopted SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” under the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Staff Position 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157.” SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. As defined under SFAS No. 157, 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 (exit price). SFAS No. 157 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value defined as follows:

Level 1 –

Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;

Level 2 –

Pricing inputs other than quoted prices in active markets included within Level 1, which are either directly or indirectly observable through correlation with market data as of the reporting date;

Level 3 –

Pricing that requires inputs that are both significant and unobservable to the calculation of the fair value measure. The fair value measure represents estimates of the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.

Over-the-counter derivatives are valued using market transactions and other market evidence whenever possible, including market-based inputs to models and broker or dealer quotations. These OTC derivative contracts trade in less liquid markets with limited pricing information as compared to markets with actively traded, unadjusted quoted prices; accordingly, the determination of fair value is inherently more difficult. OTC derivatives for which Energen Resources has hedged exposuresthe Company is able to substantiate fair value through directly observable market prices are classified within Level 2 of the variabilityfair value hierarchy. These Level 2 fair values consist of cash flows is through December 31, 2010.New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) swaps. OTC derivatives valued using unobservable market prices have been classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. These Level 3 fair values include basin specific, basis and liquids swaps.

Index to Financial Statements

Long-Lived Assets and Discontinued Operations: The Company applies SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” which requires the Company to reflect gains and losses on the sale of certain oil and gas properties and any impairments of properties held-for-sale be reported as discontinued operations, with income or loss from operations of the associated properties reported as income or loss from discontinued operations. The results of operations for certain held-for-sale properties are reclassified and reported as discontinued operations for prior periods in accordance with SFAS No. 144. Energen Resources may, in the ordinary course of business, be involved in the sale of developed or undeveloped properties. All assets held-for-sale are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value.

C.

C. Natural Gas Distribution

Utility Plant and Depreciation: Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. The cost of utility plant includes an allowance for funds used during construction. Maintenance is charged for the cost of normal repairs and the renewal or replacement of an item of property which is less than a retirement unit. When property which represents a retirement unit is replaced or removed, the cost of such property is credited to utility plant and is charged to the accumulated reserve for depreciation. The estimated net removal costs on certain gas distribution assets are charged through depreciation and recognized as a regulatory liability in accordance with regulatory accounting. Depreciation is provided on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of utility property at rates establishedapproved by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). Approved depreciation rates averaged approximately 4.4 percent in the year ended December 31, 2008 and 4.5 percent in the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, and 2005.respectively.

Inventories: Inventories, which consist primarily of gas stored underground, are stated at average cost.

Operating Revenue and Gas Costs: Alagasco records natural gas distribution revenues in accordance with its tariff established by the APSC. The margin and gas costs on service delivered to cycle customers but not yet billed are recorded in current assets as accounts receivable with a corresponding regulatory liability. Gas imbalances are settled on a monthly basis. Alagasco had gas imbalances of $1.6 million at December 31, 2008. Alagasco had no material gas imbalances at December 31, 2007 and 2006.2007.

52


Regulatory Accounting: Alagasco is subject to the provisions of SFAS No. 71, “Accounting for the Effects of Certain Types of Regulation.” In general, SFAS No. 71 requires utilities to capitalize or defer certain costs or revenues, based upon approvals received from regulatory authorities, to be recovered from or refunded to customers in future periods.

Derivative Commodity Instruments:On December 4, 2000, the APSC authorized Alagasco to engage in energy-risk management activities. Accordingly, Alagasco may enter into cash flow derivative commodity instruments to hedge its exposure to price fluctuations on its gas supply. As required by SFAS No. 133, Alagasco recognizes all derivatives as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet. Any gains or losses are passed through to customers using the mechanisms of the Gas Supply Adjustment (GSA) rider in accordance with Alagasco’s APSC approved tariff and are recognized as a regulatory asset or regulatory liability as required by SFAS No. 71.

All derivative commodity instruments in a gain position are valued on a discounted basis incorporating an estimate of performance risk specific to each related counterparty. Derivative commodity instruments in a loss position are valued on a discounted basis incorporating an estimate of performance risk specific to Alagasco.

Taxes on revenues:Collections and payments of excise taxes are reported on a gross basis. These amounts are included in taxes other than income taxes on the consolidated statements of income as follows:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

  2007  2006  2005  2008  2007  2006

Taxes on revenues

  $    31,067  $    33,983  $    30,899  $  32,970  $  31,067  $  33,983

The collection and payment of utility gross receipts tax and utility service use tax areis presented on a net basis.

Index to Financial Statements
D.

D. Income Taxes

The Company uses the liability method of accounting for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” Under this method, a deferred tax asset or liability is recognized for the estimated future tax effects attributable to temporary differences between the financial statement basis and the tax basis of assets and liabilities as well as tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period of the change. The Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. Consolidated federal income taxes are charged to appropriate subsidiaries using the separate return method.

E.

E. Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amounts and do not bear interest. The allowance for doubtful accounts is the Company’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in the existing accounts receivable. The Company determines the allowance based on historical experience and reviews the allowance for doubtful accounts monthly.in consideration of current market conditions. Account balances are charged against the allowance when it is anticipated the receivable will not be recovered.

F.

F. Cash Equivalents

The Company includes highly liquid marketable securities and debt instruments purchased with a maturity of three months or less in cash equivalents.

G.

G. Earnings Per Share (EPS)

The Company’s basic earnings per share amounts have been computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share amounts reflect the assumed issuance of common shares for all potentially dilutive securities (see Note 9, Reconciliation of Earnings Per Share).

 

53


H.

H. Stock-Based Compensation

The Company adoptedapplies SFAS No. 123123R (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” (SFAS No. 123R), using the modified prospective application method for new awards effective January 1, 2006. The Company previously adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123 as amended, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” prospectively for stock-based compensation effective January 1, 2003. As a result, the adoption of SFAS No. 123R did not have a significant impact to the Company since the expensing provisions were voluntarily adopted in 2003.

SFAS No. 123R requires that all share-based compensation awards be measured at fair value at the date of grant and expensed over the requisite vesting period. SFAS No. 123R requires forfeitures to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if the actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123R, the Company accounted for forfeitures upon occurrence. This change in method did not have a significant impact to the Company upon adoption of SFAS No. 123R.

The Company previously recognized all stock-based employee compensation expense over the stated vesting periods for each award. For awards granted prior to January 1, 2006, the Company recorded any unrecognized expense on the date of an employee’s retirement. For new awards granted to retirement eligible employees effective January 1, 2006, the Company began recognizing the entire compensation expense in the period of grant. If this method of expense recognition had been applied to all awards during 2008 compensation expense would have been increased by approximately $1.2 million. If this method of expense recognition had been applied to all awards during 2007 2006 and 2005,2006 compensation expense would have been reduced by approximately $1.1 million $2.1 million and $0.8$2.1 million, respectively.The Company utilized the long-form method of calculating the available pool of windfall tax benefit. For 20072008 and 2006,2007, the Company recognized an excess tax benefit of $10.9$17.1 million and $2$10.9 million related to its stock-based compensation.

The following table illustrates the effect on net income and diluted and basic earnings per share as if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123, superseded by SFAS No. 123R, to all outstanding and unvested employee share-based awards during 2005:

 

I.

Year ended December 31, (in thousands)

2005              

Net income

As reported

$    173,012

Stock based compensation expense included in reported net income, net of tax

8,131

Stock based compensation expense determined under the fair value based method, net of tax

(6,238)

Pro forma

$    174,905

Diluted earnings per average common share

As reported

$          2.35

Pro forma

$          2.37

Basic earnings per average common share

As reported

$          2.37

Pro forma

$          2.39

I. Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the

Index to Financial Statements

date of the financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The major estimates and assumptions identified by management include, but are not limited to, estimates of physical quantities of oil and gas reserves, periodic assessments of oil and gas properties for impairment, an assumption that SFAS No. 71 will continue as the applicable accounting standard for the Company’s regulated operations and estimates used in determining the Company’s obligations under its employee pension plans and asset retirement obligations. Due to the inherent uncertainty involved in making estimates, actual results reported in future periods may differ from the estimates.

 

54


J.

J. Environmental Costs

Environmental compliance costs, including ongoing maintenance, monitoring and similar costs, are expensed as incurred. Environmental remediation costs are accrued when remedial efforts are probable and the cost can be reasonably estimated.

2. REGULATORY MATTERS

 

All of Alagasco’s utility operations are conducted in the state of Alabama. Alagasco is subject to regulation by the APSC which established the Rate Stabilization and Equalization (RSE) rate-setting process in 1983. RSE was extended with modifications in 2007, 2002, 1996, 1990, 1987 and 1985. On December 21, 2007, the APSC extended Alagasco’s rate-setting methodology, RSE, with certain modifications as outlined below,RSE’s current extension is for a seven-year period through December 31, 2014. Under the terms of the extension, RSE will continue after December 31, 2014, unless, after notice to the Company and a hearing, the APSC votes to modify or discontinue the RSE methodology. Alagasco is on a September 30 fiscal year for rate-setting purposes (rate year) and reports on a calendar year for the Securities and Exchange Commission and all other financial accounting reporting purposes.

Alagasco’s allowed range of return on equity remains 13.15 percent to 13.65 percent throughout the term of the order. Under RSE the APSC conducts quarterly reviews to determine, based on Alagasco’s projections and year-to-date performance, whether Alagasco’s return on average equity at the end of the rate year will be within the allowed range of return. Reductions in rates can be made quarterly to bring the projected return within the allowed range; increases, however, are allowed only once each rate year, effective December 1, and cannot exceed 4 percent of prior-year revenues. As of September 30, 2007, and 2005, Alagasco had a $3.6 million and a $3.3 million pre-tax, respectively, reduction in revenues to bring the return on average equity to midpoint within the allowed range of return. Under the provisions of RSE, corresponding reductions in rates for 2007 were effective October 1, 2007 and December 1, 2007, and for 2005 effective December 1, 2005,2007. Alagasco did not have a reduction in rates related to the return on average equity for rate yearyears ended 2008 and 2006. A $24.7 million, $12 million $14.3 million and $15.8$14.3 million annual increase in revenues became effective December 1, 2008, 2007, 2006, and 2005,2006, respectively.

Prior to the December 21, 2007 extension,At September 30, 2008, RSE limited the utility’s equity upon which a return is permitted to 6057 percent of total capitalization. Subsequent to the extension, theThe equity onupon which a return will beis permitted will be phased down to 57 percent by December 31, 2008 and 55 percent by December 31,September 30, 2009.

Prior to the extension, underUnder the inflation-based Cost Control Measurement (CCM) established by the APSC, if the percentage change in operations and maintenance (O&M) expense per customer fellon an aggregate basis falls within a range of 1.250.75 points above or below the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index For All Urban Consumers (index range)(Index Range), no adjustment wasis required. If the change in O&M expense per customer exceededon an aggregate basis exceeds the index range,Index Range, three-quarters of the difference wasis returned to customers. To the extent the change wasis less than the index range,Index Range, the utility benefitedbenefits by one-half of the difference through future rate adjustments. The changes to the O&M expense cost control measurement subsequent to the extension are as follows: annual changes in O&M expense will be measured on an aggregate basis rather than per customer; the percentage change in O&M expense must fall within a range of 0.75 points above or below the percentage change in the index range; certain items that fluctuate based on situations demonstrated to be beyond Alagasco’s control may be excluded for the cost control measurement calculation; the O&M expense base for measurement purposes will continue to be set at the prior year’s actual O&M expense amount unless the Company exceeds the top of the index rangeIndex Range in two successive years, in which case the base for the following year will be set at the top of the index range.Index Range. Certain items that fluctuate based on situations demonstrated to be beyond Alagasco’s control may be excluded from the CCM calculation.

In the rate year ended September 30, 2008, the increase in O&M expense was below the Index Range; as a result the utility benefited by $2.9 million pre-tax with the related impact to rates effective December 1, 2008. Alagasco’s O&M expense fell within the index rangeIndex Range for the rate yearsyear ended September 30, 2007 and 2005.2007. The increase in O&M expense per customer was above the index rangeIndex Range for the rate year ended September 30, 2006; as a result, the utility had a $1.5 million pre-tax decrease in revenues with the related rate reduction effective December 1, 2006.

Index to Financial Statements

Alagasco’s rate schedules for natural gas distribution charges contain a GSA rider, established in 1993, which permits the pass-through to customers of changes in the cost of gas supply. Alagasco calculatesis allowed a temperature adjustment to customers’ monthly bills to moderate the impact of departures from normal temperatures on Alagasco’s earnings. Adjustments to customers’ bills are made in the same billing

55


cycle in which the weather variation occurs. The temperature adjustment applies primarily to residential, small commercial and small industrial customers. This adjustment, however, is subject to regulatory limitations on increases to customers’ bills. Other non-temperature weather related conditions that may affect customer usage are not included in the temperature adjustment such as the impact of wind velocity or cloud cover and the elasticity of demand as a result of higher commodity prices. Alagasco’s rate schedules for natural gas distribution charges contain a GSA rider, established in 1993, which permits the pass-through to customers of changes in the cost of gas supply.

The APSC approved an Enhanced Stability Reserve (ESR), beginning rate year 1998 with an approved maximum funding level of $4 million, to which Alagasco may charge the full amount of: (1) extraordinary O&M expenses resulting fromforce majeure events such as storms, severe weather, and outages, when one or a combination of two such events results in more than $200,000 of additional O&M expense during a rate year; or (2) individual industrial and commercial customer revenue losses that exceed $250,000 during the rate year, if such losses cause Alagasco’s return on average equity to fall below 13.15 percent. Following a year in which a charge against the ESR is made, the APSC provides for accretions to the ESR of no more than $40,000 monthly until the maximum funding level is achieved. An ESR balancesbalance of $4 million at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, areis included in the consolidated financial statements. Subsequent toUnder the terms of the 2007 RSE extension, Alagasco will not have accretions against the ESR until December 31, 2010 unless the Company incurs a significant natural disaster during the three-year period ended December 31, 2010 and receives approval from the APSC to resume accretions under the ESR. Due to revenue losses from market sensitive large commercial and industrial customers, Alagasco utilized the entire ESR of approximately $4 million pre-tax during the third quarter of 2008.

The excess of total acquisition costs over book value of net assets of acquired municipal gas distribution systems is included in utility plant and is being amortized through Alagasco’s rate-setting mechanism on a straight-line basis over approximately 23 years. At December 31, 20072008 and 2006,2007, the net acquisition adjustments were $8.1$7 million and $9.3$8.1 million, respectively.

3. LONG-TERM DEBT AND NOTES PAYABLE

 

Long-term debt consisted of the following:

   

(in thousands)

  December 31, 2007  December 31, 2006

Energen Corporation:

    

Medium-term Notes, Series A and B, interest ranging from
6.95% to 7.625%, for notes due July 15, 2008, to February 15, 2028

  $    315,000  $    325,000

5% Notes, due October 1, 2013

  50,000  50,000

Floating Rate Senior Notes

  -  100,000

Alabama Gas Corporation:

    

Medium-term Notes, Series A, interest of 7.57%, due September 20, 2011

  5,000  15,000

6.75% Notes

  -  34,445

5.20% Notes, due January 15, 2020

  40,000  40,000

5.70% Notes, due January 15, 2035

  38,467  39,311

5.368% Notes, due December 1, 2015

  80,000  80,000

5.90% Notes, due January 15, 2037

  45,000  -

Total

  573,467  683,756

Less amounts due within one year

  10,000  100,000

Less unamortized debt discount

  1,102  1,266

Total

  $    562,365  $    582,490

 

(in thousands)  December 31, 2008  December 31, 2007

Energen Corporation:

    

Medium-term Notes, Series A and B, interest ranging from 7.125% to 7.625%, for notes due December 15, 2010, to February 15, 2028

  $    305,000  $    315,000

5% Notes, due October 1, 2013

  50,000  50,000

Alabama Gas Corporation:

    

Medium-term Notes, Series A, interest of 7.57%, due September 20, 2011

  5,000  5,000

5.20% Notes, due January 15, 2020

  40,000  40,000

5.70% Notes, due January 15, 2035

  37,557  38,467

5.368% Notes, due December 1, 2015

  80,000  80,000

5.90% Notes, due January 15, 2037

  45,000  45,000

Total

  562,557  573,467

Less amounts due within one year

  -  10,000

Less unamortized debt discount

  926  1,102

Total

  $    561,631  $    562,365

56


Index to Financial Statements

The aggregate maturities of Energen’s long-term debt for the next five years are as follows:

 

Years ending December 31,(in thousands)
          2008                      2009                      2010                      2011                      2012          
$    10,000  -  $    150,000  $    5,000  $    1,000
Years ending December 31,(in thousands)
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
- $  150,000 $  5,000 $  1,000 $  50,000

The aggregate maturities of Alagasco’s long-term debt for the next five years are as follows:

 

Years ending December 31,(in thousands)Years ending December 31,(in thousands)Years ending December 31,(in thousands)
2008             2009                      2010                      2011                      2012          
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
-  -  -  $    5,000  - - $  5,000 - -

The Company is in compliance with the financial covenants under its various long-term debt agreements. Except as discussed below, debt covenants also address routine matters such as timely payment of principal and interest, maintenance of corporate existence and restrictions on liens. The Company’s outstanding debt is subject to a cross default provision under Energen’s Indenture dated September 1, 1996 with The Bank of New York as Trustee. In the event Alagasco or Energen Resources had a debt default of more than $10 million it would also be considered an event of default by Energen under the 1996 Indenture. All of the Company’s debt is unsecured. No conditions exist under long-term debt agreements which could restrict the Company’s ability to pay dividends.

In May 2007, Energen voluntarily called $100 million Floating Rate Senior Notes due November 15, 2007. In April 2007, Energen voluntarily redeemed $10 million of Medium-Term Notes, Series A, with an annual interest rate of 8.09% due September 15, 2026. Associated with this redemption, the Company incurred a call premium of 4.045%. In January 2007, Alagasco issued $45 million of long-term debt with an interest rate of 5.9% due January 15, 2037. Alagasco used these long-term debt proceeds to redeem the $34.4 million of 6.75% Notes, maturing September 1, 2031 and $10 million of 7.97% Medium-Term Notes maturing September 23, 2026.

As of December 31, 2007,2008, the Company had short-term credit lines and other credit facilities, with renewal terms at various dates during 2009, with various financial institutions aggregating $415$490 million of which Energen had available $255$205 million, Alagasco had available $110$115 million and $50$170 million was available to either Company for working capital needs. Alagasco has been authorized by the APSC to borrow up to $200 million at any one time outstanding under short-term lines of credit. As of December 31, 2007,2008, the Company is in compliance with the financial covenants under the various short-term loan agreements. Certain of the Company’s credit facilities in the aggregate amount of $85 million,$95 million; including $75$60 million for Energen and $10$35 million for Alagasco, have a covenant that the ratio of consolidated debt to consolidated capitalization will not exceed 0.65:1. The following is a summary of information relating to notes payable to banks:

 

(in thousands)

  December 31, 2007  December 31, 2006  December 31, 2008  December 31, 2007

Energen outstanding

  $        72,000  $                -  $                -  $      72,000

Alagasco outstanding

  62,000  58,000  62,000  62,000

Notes payable to banks

  134,000  58,000  62,000  134,000

Available for borrowings

  281,000  307,000  428,000  281,000

Total

  $      415,000  $    365,000  $    490,000  $    415,000

Energen maximum amount outstanding at any month-end

  $      134,000  $    117,000  $    128,000  $    134,000

Energen average daily amount outstanding

  $        67,734  $      63,658  $      89,210  $      67,734

Energen weighted average interest rates based on:

        

Average daily amount outstanding

  5.35%  5.32%  2.82%  5.35%

Amount outstanding at year-end

  4.64%  5.70%  1.35%  4.64%

Alagasco maximum amount outstanding at any month-end

  $        62,000  $      58,000  $      75,000  $      62,000

Alagasco average daily amount outstanding

  $        29,518  $      37,104  $      35,833  $      29,518

Alagasco weighted average interest rates based on:

        

Average daily amount outstanding

  5.39%  5.43%  2.82%  5.39%

Amount outstanding at year-end

  4.62%  5.70%  1.35%  4.62%

57


Index to Financial Statements

Energen’s total interest expense was $41,981,000, $47,100,000 $48,652,000 and $46,800,000$48,652,000 for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively. Total interest expense for Alagasco was $14,807,000, $15,696,000 $16,454,000 and $15,060,000$16,454,000 for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively.

4. INCOME TAXES

 

The components of Energen’s income taxes consisted of the following:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005  2008  2007  2006

Taxes estimated to be payable currently:

            

Federal

  $    149,787  $47,799  $29,765  $1,090  $149,787  $47,799

State

   16,480   9,022   6,078   3,539   16,480   9,022

Total current

   166,267   56,821   35,843   4,629   166,267   56,821

Taxes deferred:

            

Federal

   838   93,605   59,685   172,137   838   93,605

State

   324   4,604   1,963   16,277   324   4,604

Total deferred

   1,162   98,209   61,648   188,414   1,162   98,209

Total income tax expense from continuing operations

  $167,429  $    155,030  $    97,491  $  193,043  $  167,429  $  155,030

For the year ended December 31, 2008, Energen recorded no income tax expense related to income from discontinued operations. For the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, Energen recorded a current income tax expense of $12,000 and $29,000, respectively, related to income from discontinued operations. For the year ended December 31, 2005, Energen recorded a current income tax expense of $3,117,000 and a deferred tax benefit of $3,040,000 related to income from discontinued operations.

The components of Alagasco’s income taxes consisted of the following:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005

Taxes estimated to be payable currently:

      

Federal

  $    13,604  $    17,472  $    18,430

State

   1,811   2,273   2,126

Total current

   15,415   19,745   20,556

Taxes deferred:

      

Federal

   5,510   1,999   1,597

State

   711   258   207

Total deferred

   6,221   2,257   1,804

Total income tax expense

  $21,636  $22,002  $22,360

58


Years ended December 31, (in thousands)  2008  2007  2006

Taxes estimated to be payable currently:

     

Federal

  $   (24,972) $    13,604  $    17,472

State

   (1,103)  1,811   2,273

Total current

   (26,075)  15,415   19,745

Taxes deferred:

     

Federal

   46,869   5,510   1,999

State

   4,035   711   258

Total deferred

   50,904   6,221   2,257

Total income tax expense

  $24,829  $21,636  $22,002

Temporary differences and carryforwards which gave rise to Energen’s deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:

(in thousands)  December 31, 2008  December 31, 2007
   Current  Noncurrent  Current  Noncurrent

Deferred tax assets:

        

Unbilled and deferred revenue

  $  9,574  $  -  $  10,648  $-

Enhanced stability reserve and other regulatory costs

   -   -   1,497   -

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   4,803   -   4,567   -

Insurance accruals

   1,747   -   2,564   -

Compensation accruals

   6,952   -   8,655   -

Inventories

   1,142   -   1,230   -

Other comprehensive income

   -   -   23,995   27,275

Gas supply adjustment related accruals

   1,953   -   1,486   -

Index to Financial Statements

State net operating losses and other carryforwards

   842   2,777   -   3,024 

Other

   2,933   121   2,789   153 

Total deferred tax assets

   29,946   2,898   57,431   30,452 

Valuation allowance

   (353)  (2,424)  (2,137)  (887)

Total deferred tax assets

   29,593   474   55,294   29,565 

Deferred tax liabilities:

     

Depreciation and basis differences

   -   426,031   -   261,137 

Pension and other costs

   -   17,102   -   6,094 

Other comprehensive income

   68,619   37,773   -   - 

Enhanced stability reserve and other regulatory costs

   1,014   -   -   - 

Other

   1,929   1,626   1,128   1,040 

Total deferred tax liabilities

   71,562   482,532   1,128   268,271 

Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)

  $  (41,969) $  (482,058) $  54,166  $  (238,706)

Temporary differences and carryforwards which gave rise to Alagasco’s deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:

 

Energen Corporation

(in thousands)

   December 31, 2007   December 31, 2006 
   Current   Noncurrent   Current   Noncurrent 

Deferred tax assets:

     

Minimum tax credit

  $-  $            -  $-  $1,267 

Unbilled and deferred revenue

   10,648   -   10,269   - 

Enhanced stability reserve and
other regulatory costs

   1,497   -   2,009   - 

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   4,567   -   5,216   - 

Insurance accruals

   2,564   -   2,693   - 

Compensation accruals

   8,655   -   8,460   - 

Inventories

   1,230   -   889   - 

Other comprehensive income

   23,995   27,275   -   17,017 

Gas supply adjustment accruals

   1,486   -   1,309   - 

State net operating losses and other
carryforwards

   -   3,024   -   2,698 

Other

   2,789   153   2,705   602 

Total deferred tax assets

   57,431   30,452   33,550   21,584 

Valuation allowance

   (2,137)  (887)  (1,928)  (770)

Total deferred tax assets

   55,294   29,565   31,622   20,814 

Deferred tax liabilities:

     

Depreciation and basis differences

   -   261,137   -   261,960 

Pension and other costs

   -   6,094   -   9,760 

Other comprehensive income

   -   -   35,523   - 

Other

   1,128   1,040   1,693   - 

Total deferred tax liabilities

   1,128   268,271   37,216   271,720 

Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)

  $    54,166   $    (238,706)  $    (5,594)  $    (250,906)
     
Alabama Gas Corporation   

(in thousands)

   December 31, 2007   December 31, 2006   December 31, 2008 December 31, 2007 
   Current   Noncurrent   Current   Noncurrent   Current  Noncurrent Current  Noncurrent 

Deferred tax assets:

            

Unbilled and deferred revenue

  $    10,648  $-  $10,269  $-   $9,574  $-  $10,648  $- 

Enhanced stability reserve and other
regulatory costs

   1,497   -   2,009   -    -   -   1,497   - 

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   4,348   -   4,991   -    4,575   -   4,348   - 

Insurance accruals

   2,804   -   2,092   -    2,671   -   2,804   - 

Compensation accruals

   3,132   -   3,639   -    2,502   -   3,132   - 

Inventories

   1,230   -   889   -    1,142   -   1,230   - 

Gas supply adjustment accruals

   1,486   -   1,309   - 

Gas supply adjustment related accruals

   1,953   -   1,486   - 

State net operating losses and other carryforwards

   842   -   -   - 

Other

   704   115   830   487    745   97   704   115 

Total deferred tax assets

   25,849   115   26,028   487    24,004   97   25,849   115 

Deferred tax liabilities:

            

Depreciation and basis differences

   -   48,892   -   42,682    -   84,458   -   48,892 

Pension and other costs

   -   11,013   -   11,971    -   18,112   -   11,013 

Enhanced stability reserve and other regulatory costs

   1,014   -   -   - 

Other

   670   -   806   -    838   -   670   - 

Total deferred tax liabilities

   670   59,905   806   54,653    1,852   102,570   670   59,905 

Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)

  $25,179   $    (59,790)  $    25,222   $    (54,166)  $  22,152  $  (102,473) $  25,179  $  (59,790)

The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return with all of its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2007, the Company has fully utilized the minimum tax credit carryforward that was previously recognized as a reduction of income tax expense. The minimum tax credit relates to alternative minimum taxes previously paid that are allowed to be carried forward to offset future cash tax liabilities. The Company has a full valuation allowance recorded against a noncurrent deferred tax asset of $3,024,000$2,777,000 arising from certain state net operating loss and charitable contribution carryforwards. The Company intends to fully reserve this asset until it is determined that it is more likely than not that the asset can be realized through future taxable income in the respective state taxing jurisdictions. No other valuation allowance with respect to deferred taxes is deemed necessary as the Company anticipates generating adequate future taxable income to realize the benefits of all remaining deferred tax assets on the consolidated balance sheets.

59


Index to Financial Statements

Total income tax expense for the Company differed from the amount which would have been provided by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35 percent to earnings before taxes from continuing operations as illustrated below:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005   2008 2007 2006 

Income tax expense from continuing operations at
statutory federal income tax rate

  $    166,824  $    149,994  $    94,632   $  180,235  $  166,824  $  149,994 

Increase (decrease) resulting from:

        

State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit

   12,251   8,906   5,197    12,524   12,251   8,906 

Qualified Section 199 production activities deduction

   (8,470)  (1,114)  (1,060)   (455)  (8,470)  (1,114)

401(k) stock dividend deduction

   (637)  (682)  (667)   (574)  (637)  (682)

Other, net

   (2,539)  (2,074)  (611)   1,313   (2,539)  (2,074)

Total income tax expense from continuing operations

  $167,429  $155,030  $97,491   $  193,043  $167,429  $155,030 

Effective income tax rate (%)

   35.13   36.18   36.06    37.49   35.13   36.18 

Total income tax expense for Alagasco differed from the amount which would have been provided by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35 percent to earnings before taxes from continuing operations as illustrated below:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005   2008  2007 2006 

Income tax expense at statutory federal income tax rate

  $    20,459  $    20,755  $    20,763   $  22,747  $  20,459  $  20,755 

Increase (decrease) resulting from:

         

State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit

   1,643   1,666   1,673    1,826   1,643   1,666 

Other, net

   (466)  (419)  (76)   256   (466)  (419)

Total income tax expense

  $21,636  $22,002  $22,360   $24,829  $21,636  $22,002 

Effective income tax rate (%)

   37.01   37.10   37.69    38.20   37.01   37.10 

Energen adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—Taxes - an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (FIN 48) as of January 1, 2007. This Interpretation prescribed a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition, measurement and disclosure of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, the Company recognized an approximate $1.2 million increase in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits which was accounted for as a decrease to the January 1, 2007 retained earnings balance. A reconciliation of Energen’s beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

 

(in thousands)

Balance as of 1/1/2007

    $8,163

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

1,162

Additions for tax positions of prior years

2,372

Reductions for tax positions of prior years (lapse of statute of limitations)

(3,180)

Balance as of 12/31/2007

    $    8,517
(in thousands)     

Balance as of January 1, 2007

  $8,163 

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

   1,162 

Additions for tax positions of prior years

   2,372 

Reductions for tax positions of prior years (lapse of statute of limitations)

   (3,180)

Balance as of December 31, 2007

   8,517 

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

   2,732 

Additions for tax positions of prior years

   7,199 

Reductions for tax positions of prior years (lapse of statute of limitations)

   (1,643)

Balance as of December 31, 2008

  $  16,805 

The increase in the additions for tax positions of prior years in 2008 is primarily related to Alagasco’s tax accounting method change for the recovery of its gas distribution property that was recently approved by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The amount of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 20072008 that would favorably impact the Company’s effective tax rate, if recognized, is $2.5$3.3 million. The Company recognizes potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. During the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007, 2006, and 2005,2006, the Company recognized approximately $164,000 of expense, $36,000 of expense, and $155,000 of income and $636,000 of expense for interest (net of tax benefit) and penalties, respectively. The Company had approximately $517,000$681,000 and $481,000$517,000 for the payment of interest (net of tax benefit) and penalties accrued at December 31, 2008, and 2007, and 2006, respectively. The Company’s tax returns for years 2004-2006 remain open

Index to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and major state taxing jurisdictions. The Company recognized approximately $1.8 million of previously unrecognized tax benefits in the current year as the result of the statute of limitations expiring for federal and state tax returns prior to 2004. This change recognized in the current year, which is reflected in the Company’s effective tax rate reconciliation as shown above, and the change in the unrecognized tax benefit expected within the next 12 months is not considered material to the financial statements.

60


Financial Statements

The adoption of FIN 48 resulted in no adjustment to Alagasco’s January 1, 2007 retained earnings balance. A reconciliation of Alagasco’s beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

 

(in thousands)

        

Balance as of 1/1/2007

  $        713  

Balance as of January 1, 2007

  $713 

Additions for tax positions of prior years

   578     578 

Reductions for tax positions of prior years (lapse of statute of limitations)

   (336)    (336)

Balance as of 12/31/2007

  $955  

Balance as of December 31, 2007

   955 

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

   515 

Additions for tax positions of prior years

   5,804 

Reductions for tax positions of prior years (lapse of statute of limitations)

   (384)

Balance as of December 31, 2008

  $  6,890 

NoneThe increase in the additions for tax positions of prior years in 2008 is primarily related to Alagasco’s tax accounting method change for the recovery of its gas distribution property discussed above. The amount of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 20072008 that would favorably impact the Company’sAlagasco’s effective tax rate, if recognized. The Companyrecognized, is $195,000. Alagasco recognizes potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. During the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006, and 2005, the CompanyAlagasco recognized approximately $131,000 of expense, $23,000 of expense and $36,000 of income and $100,000 of expense for interest (net of tax benefit) and penalties, respectively. The CompanyAlagasco had approximately $87,000$218,000 and $64,000$87,000 for the payment of interest (net of tax benefit) and penalties accrued at December 31, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

The Company and 2006, respectively. The Company’sAlagasco’s tax returns for years 2004-20062005-2007 remain open to examination by the Internal Revenue ServiceIRS and major state taxing jurisdictions. The IRS has notified the stateCompany and Alagasco of Alabama. The Company recognized approximately $214,000a forthcoming examination of previously unrecognized tax benefits in the current year as the result of the statute of limitations expiring forits federal and stateconsolidated income tax returns priorfor 2006 and 2007 that will commence in 2009. The Alabama Department of Revenue has also notified the Company and Alagasco of its intent to 2004. This change recognized inexamine the current year and the2005-2007 Alabama income tax returns. The change in the unrecognized tax benefit expected within the next 12 months is not considered material to the financial statements.

5. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

 

In December 2006, theThe Company adoptedaccounts for defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans (benefit plans) in accordance with SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and 132 (R).(SFAS No. 158). This Standard retained the previous periodicPeriodic expense calculationis calculated on an actuarial basis under the provisions of SFAS No. 87, “Employers’ Accounting for Pensions” and SFAS No. 106, “Employers’ Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions.” In addition, SFAS No. 158 requires an employer to recognize the net funded status of defined benefit pensions and other postretirement benefit plans (benefit plans)is recognized as an asset or liability in its statement of financial position and to recognizewith changes in the funded status recognized through comprehensive income. Additional minimum pension liabilities (AML) and related intangible assets are derecognized upon adoption of the new Standard. For pension plans, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation; for other postretirement plans, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation. Alagasco establishedrecognizes a regulatory asset for the portion of the obligation to be recovered in rates in future periods and a regulatory liability for the portion of the plan obligation to be provided through rates in the future in accordance with SFAS No. 71. SFAS No. 158 also requires an employer to measure the funded status of a plan as of the date of its year-end statement of financial position effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2008. The Company currently usespreviously used a September 30 valuation date for its benefit plans and anticipates adoptingplans. During the change infourth quarter of 2008, the Company changed the measurement date to December 31 using the alternative method. During 2008, theThe Company expectsrecognized a one-time reduction to retained earnings of approximately $1.7$1.8 million to complete implementation of this Standard.

The following table summarizes the effect of required changespre-tax and an increase to the Company’s financial statements ascurrent and noncurrent regulatory assets of December 31, 2006 priorAlagasco totaling approximately $0.1 million and subsequent$1.4 million pre-tax, respectively. The increase to regulatory assets which total $1.5 million will be recovered in rates over the adoptionaverage remaining service lives of SFAS No. 158.each plan.

(in thousands)

   

 

 

Prior to SFAS

No. 158

Adoption

   

 

AML

Adjustment

 

 

  

 
 

SFAS No.

158
Adjustment

 

 
 

  

 
 

Subsequent to

SFAS No.
158 Adoption

Prepaid pension costs

  $49,500  $-  $(43,914) $5,586

Postretirement assets

  $-  $-  $14,389  $14,389

Regulatory asset

  $22,807  $(22,807) $28,476  $28,476

Other assets

  $3,337  $(558) $(2,781) $-

Accumulated other comprehensive
income, net of tax

  $13,707  $(5,686) $15,156  $23,177

Pension liabilities

  $47,234  $(32,113) $21,016  $36,137

Regulatory liability

  $-  $-  $7,220  $7,220

61


Pension Plans:

The Company has two defined benefit non-contributory qualified pension plans. These plans cover substantially all employees. Pension benefits for the majority of the Company’s employees are based on years of service and final earnings; one plan is based on years of service and flat dollar amounts. The Company’s policy is to use the projected unit credit actuarial method for funding and financial reporting purposes. The Company also has nonqualified supplemental pension plans covering certain officers of the Company.

Index to Financial Statements

The following table sets forth the combined funded status of the pension plans and their reconciliation with the related amounts in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The effect of changes prior to implementation of SFAS No. 158 as well as the impact upon initial adoption of SFAS No. 158 are reflected below:statements:

 

(in thousands)

         
   2007   2006 

Accumulated benefit obligation (September 30)

  $    161,437  $    164,207 

Projected benefit obligation:

   

Balance at beginning of period

  $198,637  $200,977 

Service cost

   6,812   6,452 

Interest cost

   11,106   10,715 

Plan amendments

   2,538   154 

Actuarial loss (gain)

   3,614   (4,525)

Benefits paid

   (23,344)  (15,136)

Balance at end of period (September 30)

  $199,363  $198,637 

Plan assets:

   

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period

  $160,936  $140,211 

Actual return on plan assets

   22,245   12,937 

Employer contributions

   16,807   22,924 

Benefits paid

   (23,344)  (15,136)

Fair value of plan assets at end of period (September 30)

  $176,644  $160,936 

Before reflecting SFAS 158:

   

Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets:

   

Funded status of plan

  $-  $(37,701)

Unrecognized actuarial loss

   -   67,125 

Unrecognized prior service cost

   -   4,330 

Employer contributions (October 1 to December 31)

   -   7,150 

Accrued pension asset (December 31)

  $-  $40,904 

Prepaid benefit cost

   -   42,500 

Accrued benefit liability

   -   (23,868)

Intangible asset

   -   2,781 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

   -   12,340 

Net amount recognized (September 30)

  $-  $33,753 

After reflecting SFAS 158:

   

Funded status of plan

  $(22,718) $(37,701)

Employer contributions (October 1 to December 31)

   50   7,150 

Net pension liability (December 31)

  $(22,668) $(30,551)

Noncurrent assets

  $12,443  $5,586 

Current liabilities

   (3,126)  (3,633)

Noncurrent liabilities

   (31,985)  (32,504)

Net liability recognized (December 31)

  $(22,668) $(30,551)

Amounts recognized to accumulated other comprehensive income:

   

Prior service costs, net of tax of $0.9 million and $1 million

  $1,675  $1,877 

Net actuarial loss, net of tax of $11.1 million and $12.9 million

   20,525   23,957 

Total accumulated other comprehensive income (December 31)

  $    22,200  $    25,834 

62


(in thousands)               
   December 31, 2008  September 30, 2007 

Accumulated benefit obligation

    $156,304    $161,437 

Projected benefit obligation:

     

Balance at beginning of period

   $199,363   $198,637 

Service cost

    8,951    6,812 

Interest cost

    14,751    11,106 

Plan amendments

    (365)   2,538 

Actuarial (gain) loss

    (5,957)   3,614 

Benefits paid

     (26,312)    (23,344)

Balance at end of period

    $  190,431    $199,363 

Plan assets:

     

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period

   $176,644   $160,936 

Actual return (loss) on plan assets

    (38,643)   22,245 

Employer contributions

    27,585    16,807 

Benefits paid

     (26,312)    (23,344)

Fair value of plan assets at end of period

    $139,274    $  176,644 

Funded status of plan (September 30, 2007)

    -   $(22,718)

Employer contributions (October 1 to December 31, 2007)

     -     50 

Funded status of plan (December 31)

    $(51,157)   $(22,668)

Noncurrent assets

   $-   $12,443 

Current liabilities

    (3,888)   (3,126)

Noncurrent liabilities

     (47,269)    (31,985)

Net liability recognized (December 31)

    $(51,157)   $(22,668)

Amounts recognized to accumulated other comprehensive income:

     

Prior service costs, net of tax of $0.7 million and $0.9 million

   $1,334   $1,675 

Net actuarial loss, net of tax of $14.8 million and $11.1 million

     27,402     20,525 

Total accumulated other comprehensive income (December 31)

    $28,736    $22,200 

Alagasco recognized a regulatory asset of $21.2$54.7 million and $28.5$21.2 million as of December 31, 20072008 and 2006,2007, respectively, for the portion of the obligation to be recovered through rates in future periods in accordance with SFAS No. 71. Additionally, Alagasco also recognized an offset of $2 million and $3.2 million to a regulatory liability as of December 31, 2007, and 2006, respectively, for the portion of the plan obligation to be provided through rates in future periods in accordance with SFAS No. 71.

Related to the Company’s nonqualified supplemental retirement plans, the Company has designated assets of $27.3$18.3 million and $26.9$27.3 million as of December 31, 20072008 and 2006,2007, respectively. While intended for payment of this benefit, these assets remain subject to the claims of the Company’s creditors and are not included in the fair value of plan assets in the above table. Accordingly, these assets are not recognized in the funded status of the plan.

Other changes in pension plan assets and projected benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income during 2007 were as follows:

 

(in thousands)

Net actuarial loss experienced during the year

$       1,312

Net actuarial loss recognized as expense

(6,583)

Prior service cost recognized as expense

(321)

Total recognized in other comprehensive income (December 31)

$    (5,592)
Years ended December 31, (in thousands)  2008  2007 

Net actuarial loss experienced during the year

  $14,061  $1,312 

Net actuarial loss recognized as expense

   (3,472)  (6,583)

Prior service cost established during the year

   (131)  - 

Prior service cost recognized as expense

   (403)  (321)

Total recognized in other comprehensive income (December 31)

  $  10,055  $  (5,592)

Index to Financial Statements

Estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into pension cost during 20082009 are as follows:

 

(in thousands)

Amortization of prior service cost

$        321

Amortization of net actuarial loss

$     2,706
(in thousands)       

Amortization of prior service cost

  $299 

Amortization of net actuarial loss

  $  2,378  

Weighted average rate assumptions used to determine the projected benefit obligations at the measurement date:

 

  September 30, 2007  September 30, 2006  December 31, 2008 September 30, 2007 

Discount rate

  6.18% 5.77%  6.50% 6.18%  

Rate of compensation increase for pay-related plans

  4.07% 4.22%  3.90% 4.07%  

The components of net pension expense were:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005   2008 2007 2006 

Components of net periodic benefit cost:

        

Service cost

  $6,812  $6,452  $6,400   $7,160  $6,812  $6,452 

Interest cost

   11,106   10,715   10,458    11,802   11,106   10,715 

Expected long-term return on assets

   (13,070)  (11,990)  (10,954)     (13,156)    (13,070)    (11,990)

Transition amortization

   -   4   5    -   -   4 

Prior service cost amortization

   918   726   916    918   918   726 

Actuarial loss

   4,611   5,257   4,348    4,283   4,611   5,257 

Settlement loss

   5,656   326   -    677   5,656   326 

Net periodic expense

  $16,033  $11,490  $11,173   $11,684  $16,033  $11,490 

Net retirement expense for Alagasco was $5,595,000, $6,812,000 $6,158,000 and $6,288,000$6,158,000 for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively. The Company recognized settlement charges of $2.4 million in 2007 for the payment of lump sums from the nonqualified supplemental retirement plans. The Company also recognized a settlement chargecharges of $0.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2008 and $3.2 million in the third quarter of 2007 for the payment of lump sums from a defined benefit

63


pension plan. This charge represented an acceleration of the unamortized actuarial losses as required under SFAS No. 88, “Employers’ Accounting for Settlements and Curtailments of Defined Benefit Pension Plans and for Termination Benefits.”

Weighted average rate assumptions to determine net periodic benefit costs for the period ending:

 

  December 31,
2007
 
 
 December 31,
2006
 
 
 December 31,
2005
 
 
  December 31,
2008
 December 31,
2007
 December 31,
2006
 

Discount rate

  5.77% 5.50% 5.75%  6.18% 5.77% 5.50%

Expected long-term return on plan assets

  8.25% 8.50% 8.50%  8.25% 8.25% 8.50%

Rate of compensation increase for pay-related plans

  4.22% 3.60% 4.00%  4.07% 4.22% 3.60%

The Company’s weighted-average defined benefit pension plan asset allocations by asset category were as follows:

 

  Target  December 31,
2007
 
 
 December 31,
2006
 
 
  Target December 31,
2008
 December 31,
2007
 

Asset category:

        

Equity securities

  56% 51% 53%  49% 47% 51%

Debt securities

  32% 29% 31%  28% 30% 29%

Other

  12% 20% 16%  23% 23% 20%

Total

  100% 100% 100%  100% 100% 100%

Plan equity securities do not include the Company’s common stock. The Company is not required to make pension contributions in 2008 and does not currently plan on making2009 but expects to make discretionary contributions.contributions of at least $5 million. The Company expects to make benefit payments of approximately $3.1$3.9 million during 20082009 to retirees from the nonqualified supplemental retirement plans.

Index to Financial Statements

Defined benefit pension plan payments, which reflect expected future service, are anticipated to be paid as follows:

 

(in thousands)

          

2008

  $    16,672

2009

  $    14,156  $14,122 

2010

  $    14,231  $13,914 

2011

  $    14,722  $14,958 

2012

  $    15,169  $16,443 

2013-2017

  $    89,194

2013

  $18,196 

2014-2018

  $  116,433 

Postretirement Health Care and Life Insurance Benefits:

In addition to providing pension benefits, the Company provides certain postretirement health care and life insurance benefits. Substantially all of the Company’s employees may become eligible for certain benefits if they reach normal retirement age while working for the Company. The projected unit credit actuarial method was used to determine the normal cost and actuarial liability.

64


The status of the postretirement benefit programs was as follows:

 

(in thousands)

       
     2007              2006         

Projected postretirement benefit obligation:

        

Balance at beginning of period

    $    63,818     $    70,229 

Service cost

     1,022      1,217 

Interest cost

     3,693      3,682 

Actuarial (gain) loss

     14,395      (7,758)

Benefits paid

     (3,953)     (3,552)

Balance at end of period (September 30)

    $    78,975     $    63,818 

Plan assets:

        

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period

    $    77,939     $    73,552 

Actual return on plan assets

     11,493      6,387 

Employer contributions

     1,181      1,552 

Benefits paid

     (3,953)     (3,552)

Fair value of plan assets at end of period (September 30)

    $    86,660     $77,939 

Before reflecting SFAS 158:

        

Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets:

        

Funded status of plan

    $-     $14,121 

Unrecognized actuarial gain

     -      (27,949)

Unrecognized net transition obligation

     -      13,409 

Employer contributions (October 1 to December 31)

     -      268 

Accrued benefit liability (December 31)

    $-     $(151)

After reflecting SFAS 158:

 

Funded status of plan

    $7,685     $14,121 

Employer contributions (October 1 to December 31)

     234      268 

Net pension asset (December 31)

    $7,919     $14,389 

Noncurrent assets

    $7,919     $14,389 

Net asset recognized (December 31)

    $7,919     $14,389 

Amounts recognized to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):

        

Transition obligation, net of taxes of $585 and $640

    $1,086     $1,188 

Net actuarial gain, net of taxes of ($1,141) and ($2,070)

     (2,119)     (3,845)

Total accumulated other comprehensive loss (December 31)

    $(1,033)    $(2,657)
(in thousands)               
   December 31, 2008  September 30, 2007 

Projected postretirement benefit obligation:

     

Balance at beginning of period

   $78,975   $63,818 

Service cost

    2,046    1,022 

Interest cost

    6,143    3,693 

Actuarial (gain) loss

    (5,641)   14,395 

Benefits paid

     (4,897)    (3,953)

Balance at end of period

    $76,626    $78,975 

Plan assets:

     

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period

   $86,660   $77,939 

Actual return (loss) on plan assets

    (27,926)   11,493 

Employer contributions

    2,584    1,181 

Benefits paid

     (4,897)    (3,953)

Fair value of plan assets at end of period

    $56,421    $86,660 

Funded status of plan (September 30, 2007)

    -   $7,685 

Employer contributions (October 1 to December 31, 2007)

     -     234 

Funded status of plan (December 31)

    $(20,205)   $7,919 

Noncurrent assets (liabilities)

    $  (20,205)   $7,919 

Net asset (liability) recognized (December 31)

    $(20,205)   $7,919 

Amounts recognized to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):

     

Transition obligation, net of taxes of $496 and $585

   $921   $1,086 

Net actuarial (gain) loss, net of taxes of $750 and ($1,141)

     1,393     (2,119)

Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (December 31)

    $2,314    $  (1,033)

Alagasco recognized a regulatory liabilityasset of $6.2 million and $10.5$16.4 million as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. This amount will reduce recovery2008 for the portion of the obligation to be recovered through rates in future periods in accordance with SFAS No. 71. Alagasco recognized a regulatory liability of $6.2 million as of December 31, 2007.

Index to Financial Statements

Other changes in postretirement plan assets and projected benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income during 2007 were as follows:

 

(in thousands)

Net actuarial loss experienced during the year

$    2,464

Amortization of net actuarial gain

279

Amortization of transition obligation

(246)

Total recognized in other comprehensive loss (December 31)

$    2,497
Years ended December 31, (in thousands)  2008  2007 

Net actuarial loss experienced during the year

  $  5,333  $  2,464 

Amortization of net actuarial gain

   157   279 

Amortization of transition asset

   (341)  (246)

Total recognized in other comprehensive income (December 31)

  $5,149  $2,497 

Estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into benefit cost during 20082009 are as follows:

 

(in thousands)

Amortization of transition obligation

$     259

Amortization of net actuarial gain

$    (120)
(in thousands)    

Amortization of transition obligation

  $     273

Amortization of net actuarial gain

  $49

Weighted average rate assumptions used to determine postretirement benefit obligations at the measurement date:

 

  September 30, 2007  September 30, 2006

Discount rate

 6.40% 5.95%

Rate of compensation increase for pay-related plans

 3.65% 3.70%

65


    December 31, 2008  September 30, 2007 

Discount rate

  6.50% 6.40%

Rate of compensation increase for pay-related plans

  3.55% 3.65%

Net periodic postretirement benefit expense included the following:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005   2008 2007 2006 

Components of net periodic benefit cost:

        

Service cost

  $1,023  $1,217  $1,423   $1,637  $1,023  $1,217 

Interest cost

   3,693   3,682   4,030    4,914   3,693   3,682 

Expected long-term return on assets

   (5,002)  (4,858)  (4,335)     (5,534)    (5,002)    (4,858)

Actuarial gain

   (1,260)  (884)  (274)   (781)  (1,260)  (884)

Prior service costs

   —     —     4 

Transition amortization

   1,917   1,917   1,967    1,917   1,917   1,917 

Net periodic expense

  $371  $1,074  $2,815   $2,153  $371  $1,074 

Net periodic postretirement benefit expense for Alagasco was $1,457,000, $300,000 $971,000 and $2,273,000$971,000 for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively.

Weighted average rate assumptions to determine net periodic benefit costs for the years ending:

 

  December 31,
2007
 
 
 December 31,
2006
 
 
 December 31,
2005
 
 
  December 31,
2008
 December 31,
2007
 December 31,
2006
 

Discount rate

  5.95% 5.50% 5.75%  6.40% 5.95% 5.50%

Expected long-term return on plan assets

  8.25% 8.50% 8.50%  8.25% 8.25% 8.50%

Rate of compensation increase

  3.70% 3.50% 4.00%  3.65% 3.70% 3.50%

Assumed post-65 health care cost trend rates used to determine the postretirement benefit obligation at the measurement date:

 

  September 30, 2007  September 30, 2006   December 31, 2008 September 30, 2007 

Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year

  9.50% 10.00%  9.50% 9.50%

Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline

  5.50% 5.00%  5.50% 5.50%

Year that rate reaches ultimate rate

  2011  2011   2013  2011 

Index to Financial Statements

Assumed health care cost trend rates used in determining the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation have an effect on the amounts reported. For example, increasing the weighted average health care cost trend rate by 1 percentage point would have the following effects:

 

(in thousands)

      
  
1-Percentage Point
Increase

Effect on total of service and interest cost

  $         510306      

Effect on net postretirement benefit obligation

  $      5,0074,916      

The Company’s weighted-average postretirement benefit program asset allocations by asset category were as follows:

 

  Target  December 31,
2007
 
 
 December 31,
2006
 
 
  Target December 31,
2008
 December 31,
2007
 

Asset category:

        

Equity securities

  70% 70% 71%  70% 65% 70%

Debt securities

  30% 30% 20%  30% 35% 30%

Other

  0% 0% 9%

Total

  100% 100% 100%  100% 100% 100%

Equity securities for the postretirement benefit programs do not include the Company’s common stock. The Company expects to make discretionary contributions of $2.2$4.7 million to postretirement benefit program assets during 2008.2009.

66


The following postretirement benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are anticipated to be paid:

 

(in thousands)

            

2008

  $4,867  

2009

  $5,088    $4,430  

2010

  $5,303    $4,667  

2011

  $5,519    $4,925  

2012

  $5,689    $5,157  

2013-2017

  $    30,277   

2013

  $5,381  

2014-2018

  $   31,113   

The following benefits reflect the expected prescription drug subsidy related to the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (Act). The Act includes a prescription drug benefit under Medicare Part D as well as a federal subsidy beginning in 2007:

 

(in thousands)

          

2008

  $        (363) 

2009

  $        (382)   $(327) 

2010

  $        (393)   $(340) 

2011

  $        (401)   $(349) 

2012

  $        (405)   $(356) 

2013-2017

  $     (1,958) 

2013

  $(358) 

2014-2018

  $  (1,726) 

For retirement plans and other postretirement plans, certain financial assumptions are used in determining the Company’s projected benefit obligation. These assumptions are examined periodically by the Company, and any required changes are reflected in the subsequent determination of projected benefit obligations.

The Company employs a total return investment approach whereby a mix of equities and fixed income investments are used to maximize the long-term return of plan assets with a prudent level of risk. Risk tolerance is established through consideration of plan liabilities, plan funded status, corporate financial condition, and market conditions.

The Company has developed an investment strategy that focuses on asset allocation, diversification and quality guidelines. The investment goals of the Company are to obtain an adequate level of return to meet future obligations of the plan by providing above average risk-adjusted returns with a risk exposure in the mid-range of comparable funds. Investment managers are retained by the

Index to Financial Statements

Company to manage separate pools of assets. Funds are allocated to such managers in order to achieve an appropriate, diversified, and balanced asset mix. Comparative market and peer group benchmarks are utilized to ensure that investment managers are performing satisfactorily.

The Company based its expected return on long-term investment expectations. The Company considered past performance and current expectations for assets held by the plan as well as the expected long-term allocation of plan assets. At December 31, 2007,2008, the expected return on plan assets was 8.25%.

The Company has a long-term disability plan covering most employees. The Company had expense for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 of $346,000, $382,000 and 2005 of $382,000, $304,000, and $438,000, respectively.

6. COMMON STOCK PLANS

 

Energen Employee Savings Plan (ESP):A majority of Company employees are eligible to participate in the ESP by electing to contribute a portion of their compensation to the ESP. The Company may match a percentage of the contributions and make these contributions in Company common stock (new issue or treasury shares) or in funds for the purchase of Company common stock. Vested employees may diversify 100 percent of their ESP Company stock account into other ESP investment options. The ESP also contains employee stock ownership plan provisions. At December 31, 2007,2008, total shares reserved for issuance equaled 1,080,108. Expense associated with Company contributions to the ESP was $5,559,000, $5,237,000 $4,891,000 and $4,650,000$4,891,000 for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively.

67


1997 Stock Incentive Plan and 1988 Stock Option Plan:The 1997 Stock Incentive Plan and the Energen 1988 Stock Option Plan provided for the grant of incentive stock options and non-qualified stock options to officers and key employees. The 1997 Stock Incentive Plan also provided for the grant of performance share awards and restricted stock. The Company has typically funded options, restricted stock obligations and performance share obligations through original issue shares. Under the 1997 Stock Incentive Plan, 5,600,000 shares of Company common stock were reserved for issuance with 1,740,0541,804,432 remaining for issuance as of December 31, 2007.2008. Under the 1988 Stock Option Plan, 1,080,000 shares of Company common stock reserved for issuance have been granted.

Performance Share Awards: The Energen 1997 Stock Incentive Plan provided for the grant of performance share awards, with each unit equal to the market value of one share of common stock, to eligible employees based on predetermined Company performance criteria at the end of a four-year award period. On January 25, 2006, the Company amended itsThe 1997 Stock Incentive Plan to provideprovided that payment of earned performance share awards be made in the form of Company common stock, with no portion of an award paid in cash. This amendment affected 29 participants. Prior to the amendment, payment of performance awards could be made in cash or in a combination of Company common stock or cash. The impact of this modification was not significant to the Company.stock.

1997 Stock Incentive Plan performance share awards granted or modified after the adoption of SFAS No. 123R have been valued in a Monte Carlo model. The Monte Carlo model uses historical volatility and other variables to estimate the probability of satisfying the market condition of the award. For performance share awards granted prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123R, the Company estimated fair value based on the quoted market price of the Company’s common stock and adjusted each period for the expected payout ratio.

No performance share awards were granted in 2008 or 2007. A summary of performance share award activity as of December 31, 2007,2008, and transactions during the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 20052006 are presented below:

 

  1997 Stock Incentive Plan          1997 Stock Incentive Plan   
  Shares              Weighted            

Average Price        

  Shares 

Weighted

Average Price

   

Nonvested at December 31, 2004

  574,820  $    38.18        

Granted

  117,540  29.16        

Paid

  (214,640) 51.80        

Nonvested at December 31, 2005

  477,720  40.26          477,720  $    40.26 

Granted

  111,990  43.81          111,990  43.81 

Forfeitures

  (847) 43.81          (847) 43.81 

Nonvested at December 31, 2006

  588,863  40.81          588,863  40.81 

Paid

  (225,960) 30.53        

Vested and paid

  (225,960) 30.53 

Nonvested at December 31, 2007

  362,903  $    49.87          362,903  49.87 

Vested and paid

  (134,220) 54.25 

Nonvested at December 31, 2008

  228,683  $    30.80 

Index to Financial Statements

The Company recorded income of $2,308,000 for the year ended December 31, 2008 for performance share awards with a related deferred income tax expense of $873,000. The Company recorded expense of $4,254,000 $8,779,000 and $9,338,000$8,779,000 for the years ended December 31, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively, for performance share awards with a related deferred income tax benefit of $1,608,000 $3,319,000 and $3,531,000,$3,319,000, respectively. As of December 31, 2007,2008, there was $1,963,000$502,000 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to performance share awards. These awards have a remaining weighted average requisite service period of 1.27 years from the date of grant.1 year.

Stock Options: The 1997 Stock Incentive Plan and the Energen 1988 Stock Option Plan provided for the grant of incentive stock options, non-qualified stock options, or a combination thereof to officers and key employees. Options granted under the Plans provide1997 Stock Incentive Plan provided for the purchase of Company common stock at not less than the fair market value on the date the option is granted. The sale or transfer of the shares is limited during certain periods. All outstanding options are incentive or non-qualified, vest within three years from date of grant, and expire 10 years from the grant date.

68


A summary of stock option activity as of December 31, 2007,2008, and transactions during the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 20052006 are presented below:

 

  1997 Stock Incentive Plan  1988 Stock Option Plan  1997 Stock Incentive Plan  1988 Stock Option Plan  
  Shares  Weighted Average
Exercise Price
  Shares  Weighted Average
Exercise Price
  Shares Weighted Average
Exercise Price
  Shares Weighted Average
Exercise Price
  

Outstanding at December 31, 2004

  695,240  $    13.72  58,000  $    7.39

Exercised

  (80,140) 11.26  (30,000) 5.77

Forfeited

  (1,700) 14.86  -  -

Outstanding at December 31, 2005

  613,400  14.04  28,000  9.13  613,400    $14.04           28,000    $9.13            

Exercised

  (206,322) 13.18  (7,000) 9.13  (206,322)    13.18           (7,000)    9.13            

Outstanding at December 31, 2006

  407,078  14.69  21,000  9.13  407,078     14.69           21,000     9.13            

Granted

  239,545  46.71  -  -  239,545     46.71           -     -           

Exercised

  (180,284) 15.59  (21,000) 9.13  (180,284)    15.59           (21,000)    9.13            

Outstanding at December 31, 2007

  466,339  $    30.79  -  $          -  466,339     30.79           -     -            

Exercisable at December 31, 2005

  415,260  $    10.48  28,000  $    9.13

Granted

  186,700     60.56           -     -           

Exercised

  (28,068)    11.88                

Forfeited

  (4,454)    10.17                  

Outstanding at December 31, 2008

  620,517    $40.75           -    $-            

Exercisable at December 31, 2006

  324,318  $    12.98  21,000  $    9.13  324,318    $12.98           21,000    $    9.13           

Exercisable at December 31, 2007

  226,794  $    13.97  -  $          -  226,794    $13.97           -    $-           

Remaining reserved for issuance at
December 31, 2007

  1,740,054  -  -  -

Exercisable at December 31, 2008

  276,530    $    24.05           -    $-            

Remaining reserved for issuance at
December 31, 2008

  1,804,432     -           -     -            

During 2008, the Company granted 186,700 shares with a weighted-average grant-date fair value of $17.83. The Company granted options for 232,285 shares during the first quarter of 2007 and 7,260 shares during the second quarter of 2007 with weighted-average grant-date fair values of $17.33 and $20.05, respectively. The Company uses the Black-Scholes pricing model to calculate the fair values of the options awarded. For purposes of this valuation the following assumptions were used to derive the fair values: a 6 year time of exercise; an annualized volatility rate of 24.3 percent in 2008; an annualized volatility rate of 27.3 percent and 25.2 percent for the first and second quarters of 2007, respectively; a risk-free interest rate of 2.87 percent for 2008; a risk-free interest rate of 4.75 percent and 5 percent for the first and second quarters of 2007, respectively; and a dividend yield of zero to reflect dividend protection in award provisions. The Company granted no stock options during 2006 and 2005.2006. The Company recorded stock option expense of $3,080,000, $3,124,000 $196,000 and $465,000$196,000 during the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively, with a related deferred tax benefit of $1,165,000, $1,181,000 $41,000 and $107,000$41,000 respectively.

The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2007,2008, was $7,161,000.$911,000. During the year ended December 31, 2007,2008, the total intrinsic value of stock appreciation rights exercised was $1,095,000.$172,000. During the year ended December 31, 2007,2008, the Company received cash of $3,908,000$347,000 from the exercise of stock options and paid $608,000$123,000 in settlement of stock appreciation rights. Total intrinsic value for both outstanding and exercisable options as of December 31, 2007,2008, was $15,664,000 and $11,468,000 for exercisable options.$2,909,000. The fair value of options vested for the year ended December 31, 20072008 was $588,000.$1,390,000. As of December 31, 2007,2008, there was $1,038,000$1,278,000 of unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding nonvested stock options.

Index to Financial Statements

The following table summarizes options outstanding as of December 31, 2007:2008:

 

1997 Stock Incentive Plan

Range of Exercise Prices

  Shares  Weighted Average Remaining
Contractual Life

$9.13-$9.41

    34,102  1.43 years

    $13.72

    57,250  2.83 years

    $11.32

    37,880  3.83 years

    $14.86

    69,080  5.08 years

    $21.38

    28,482  6.08 years

    $46.45

  232,285  9.00 years

    $55.08

      7,260  9.50 years

$9.13-$55.08

  466,339  6.52 years

69


1997 Stock Incentive Plan
Range of Exercise Prices Shares 

Weighted Average Remaining

Contractual Life

$9.41

 19,768 0.83 years

$13.72

 46,062 1.83 years

$11.32

 34,680 2.83 years

$14.86

 65,280 4.08 years

$21.38

 28,482 5.08 years

$46.45

 232,285 8.00 years

$55.08

 7,260 8.50 years

$60.56

 186,700 9.00 years

$9.41-$60.56

 620,517 6.79 years

The weighted average remaining contractual life of currently exercisable stock options is 3.884.60 years as of December 31, 2007.2008.

Restricted Stock: In addition, the 1997 Stock Incentive Plan provided for the grant of restricted stock which have been valued based on the quoted market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant. A summary of restricted stock activity as of December 31, 2007,2008, and transactions during the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 20052006 is presented below:

 

  1997 Stock Incentive Plan  1997 Stock Incentive Plan
  Shares  Weighted Average

Price

  Shares 

Weighted Average

Price

Nonvested at December 31, 2004

  221,028  $    18.99

Granted

  44,040  29.16

Vested

  (21,424) 22.46

Forfeited

  (1,200) 29.16

Nonvested at December 31, 2005

  242,444  20.48  242,444  $    20.48      

Granted

  44,750  40.10  44,750  40.10      

Vested

  (59,764) 14.99  (59,764) 14.99      

Forfeited

  (1,600) 29.16  (1,600) 29.16      

Nonvested at December 31, 2006

  225,830  25.76  225,830  25.76      

Granted

  6,805  46.45  6,805  46.45      

Vested

  (95,040) 21.18  (95,040) 21.18      

Nonvested at December 31, 2007

  137,595  $    29.94  137,595  29.94      

Vested

  (26,240) 23.36      

Nonvested at December 31, 2008

  111,355  $    31.49      

The Company recorded expense of $596,000, $908,000 $2,252,000 and $1,800,000$2,252,000 for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively, related to restricted stock, with a related deferred income tax benefit of $225,000, $343,000 $851,000 and $681,000,$851,000, respectively. As of December 31, 2007,2008, there was $1,092,000$496,000 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested restricted stock awards recorded in premium on capital stock. These awards have a remaining requisite service period of 1.19 years from the date of grant. The Company has typically funded options, restricted stock obligations and performance share obligations through original issue shares.0.68 years.

2004 Stock Appreciation Rights Plan:The Energen 2004 Stock Appreciation Rights Plan provided for the payment of cash incentives measured by the long-term appreciation of Company stock. These awards are liability awards which settle in cash and are re-measured each reporting period until settlement. These awards have a three year requisite service period. Awards granted prior to January 1, 2006 were valued using the intrinsic value method. During 2007, 85,906In 2008, 67,093 awards were granted with stock appreciation rights. These awards had a weighted average grant-date fair value of $26.79$2.73 as of December 31, 20072008 which was calculated using the Black-Scholes pricing model. For purposes of this valuation the following assumptions were used to derive the fair value: an expected life of the award of 5.6 years; an annualized volatility rate of 24.234.1 percent; a risk-free interest rate of 3.581.70 percent; and a dividend yield of 0.71.6 percent. During 2007, 85,906 awards were granted with stock appreciation rights. These awards had a weighted average grant-date fair value of $3.87 as of December 31, 2008 which was calculated using the

Index to Financial Statements

Black-Scholes pricing model. For purposes of this valuation the following assumptions were used to derive the fair value: an expected life of the award of 4.6 years; an annualized volatility rate of 34.1 percent; a risk-free interest rate of 1.46 percent; and a dividend yield of 1.6 percent. There were no awards granted with stock appreciation rights in 2006 or 2005.2006. Income associated with stock appreciation rights of $2,413,000 was recorded for the year ended December 31, 2008. Expense associated with stock appreciation rights of $1,933,000 $1,218,000 and $1,326,000$1,218,000 was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, and 2005, respectively.

2005 Petrotech Incentive Plan: The Energen Resources’ 2005 Petrotech Incentive Plan provided for the grant of stock equivalent units which may include market conditions. These awards are liability awards which settle in cash and are re-measured each reporting period until settlement and have a three year vesting period.settlement. Effective January 1, 2006, the fair value of the stock equivalent units with a market condition was calculated using a Monte Carlo approach. Stock equivalent units with service conditions were valued based on the Company’s stock price at the end of the period adjusted to remove the present value of future dividends. Prior to the implementation of SFAS No. 123R, these awards were valued using the Company’s common stock price at each period end.

Energen Resources awarded 1,805 stock equivalent units with a two year vesting period and 1,014 stock equivalent units with a three year vesting period in 2008, none of which included a market condition. During 2007, Energen Resources awarded 5,242 stock equivalent units with a three year vesting period, none of which included a market condition. During 2006, Energen Resources awarded 25,720 stock equivalent units with a three year vesting period of which 22,545 included a market condition. Energen Resources awarded 46,920 stock equivalent units in 2005recognized income of which 23,460 included a market condition.$2,042,000 during 2008 related to these units. Energen Resources recognized expense of $2,389,000 $791,000 and $534,000$791,000 during 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively, related to these units.

70


1997 Deferred Compensation Plan:The 1997 Deferred Compensation Plan allowed officers and non-employee directors to defer certain compensation. Amounts deferred by a participant under the 1997 Deferred Compensation Plan are credited to accounts maintained for a participant in either a stock account or an investment account. The stock account tracks the performance of the Company’s common stock, including reinvestment of dividends. The investment account tracks the performance of certain mutual funds. The Company has funded, and presently plans to continue funding, a trust in a manner that generally tracks participants’ accounts under the 1997 Deferred Compensation Plan. While intended for payment of benefits under the 1997 Deferred Compensation Plan, the trust’s assets remain subject to the claims of the Company’s creditors. Amounts earned under the Deferred Compensation Plan and invested in Company common stock held by the trust have been recorded as treasury stock, along with the related deferred compensation obligation in the Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity.

Shareholder Rights Plan: On June 24, 1998, the Company adopted a Shareholder Rights Plan (the 1998 Plan) designed to protect shareholders from coercive or unfair takeover tactics. Under certain circumstances, the 1998 Plan provides shareholders with the right to acquire the Company’s Series 1998 Junior Participating Preferred Stock (or, in certain cases, securities of an acquiring person) at a significant discount. Terms and conditions are set forth in a Rights Agreement between the Company and its Rights Agent. Under the 1998 Plan, one half of a right is associated with each outstanding share of common stock. Rights outstanding under the 1998 Plan at December 31, 2007, were convertible into 741,908 shares of Series 1998 Junior Participating Preferred Stock (1/100 share of preferred stock for each full right) subject to adjustment upon occurrence of certain take-over related events. No rights were exercised or exercisable during the period. The price at which the rights would be exercised is $70 per right, subject to adjustment upon occurrence of certain take-over related events. In general, absent certain take-over related events as described in the Plan, the rights may be redeemed prior to the July 27, 2008 expiration for $0.01 per right.

1992 Energen Corporation Directors Stock Plan:In 1992 the Company adopted the Energen Corporation 1992 Directors Stock Plan to pay parta portion of the compensation of its non-employee directors in shares of Company common stock. Under the Plan, 11,218 shares, 11,503 shares 11,517 shares and 12,11611,517 shares were awarded during the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively, leaving 213,942202,724 shares reserved for issuance as of December 31, 2007.2008.

Dividend Reinvestment and Direct Stock Purchase Plan: The Company’s Dividend Reinvestment and Direct Stock Purchase Plan included a direct stock purchase feature which allowed purchases by non-shareholders. As of December 31, 2007,2008, 1,098,292 common shares were reserved under this Plan. Effective December 15, 2006, the Company suspended operations under the Plan and shareholders became eligible to reinvest dividends or make direct stock purchases using the Company’s stock transfer and dividend paying agent, The Bank of New York.

Stock Repurchase Program:By resolution adopted May 25, 1994, and supplemented by a resolution adopted April 26, 2000 and June 24, 2006, the Board authorized the Company to repurchase up to 12,564,400 shares of the Company’s common stock. There were no shares repurchased pursuant to its repurchase authorization for the years ended December 31, 20072008 and 2005.2007. For the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company repurchased 2,158,000 shares pursuant to its repurchase authorization. As of December 31, 2007,2008, a total of 8,992,700 shares remain authorized for future repurchase. The Company also from time to time acquires shares in connection with participant elections under the Company’s stock compensation plans. For the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, the Company acquired 446,045 shares, 209,388 shares 82,707 shares and 67,95782,707 shares, respectively, in connection with its stock compensation plans.

Index to Financial Statements

7. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Commitments and Agreements: Certain of Alagasco’s long-term gas procurement contracts for the supply, storage and delivery of natural gas include fixed charges of approximately $178$118 million through October 2015. Alagasco also is committed to purchase minimum quantities of gas at market-related prices or to pay certain costs in the event the minimum quantities are not taken. These purchase commitments are approximately 135.2119.9 Bcf through April 2015.

71


Environmental Matters:Various environmental laws and regulations apply to the operations of Energen Resources and Alagasco. Historically, the cost of environmental compliance has not materially affected the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows and is not expected to do so inflows; however, remediation of the future; however,Huntsville, Alabama manufactured gas plant site discussed below, new regulations, enforcement policies, claims for damages or other events could result in significant unanticipated costs.

A discussion of certain litigation in the state of Louisiana related to the restoration of oilfield properties is included below under Legal Matters.

Alagasco is in the chain of title of nine former manufactured gas plant sites (four of which it still owns), and five manufactured gas distribution sites (one of which it still owns). AnSubject to the following paragraph discussing the Huntsville, Alabama manufactured gas plant site, an investigation of the sites does not indicate the present need for remediation activities. Managementactivities and management expects that, should remediation of any such sites be required in the future, Alagasco’s share, if any, of such costs will not materially affect the financial position of Alagasco.

In October 2008, Alagasco received a request from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for information pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) Section 104(e) and Section 7007 of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act in connection with a former manufactured gas plant site located in Huntsville, Alabama. The site, along with the Huntsville gas distribution system, was sold by Alagasco to the City of Huntsville in 1949. While Alagasco no longer owns the Huntsville site, the Company anticipates that the EPA will consider Alagasco a potentially responsible party under CERCLA and is in discussions with EPA and the current site owner to develop an action plan for the site. Based on the limited information available at this time, Alagasco preliminarily estimates that it may incur costs associated with the site ranging from $2.9 million to $5.9 million. At the present time, the Company cannot conclude that any amount within this range is a better estimate than any other, and accordingly the Company has accrued a contingent liability of $2.9 million. The estimate assumes an action plan for surface soil. If it is determined that a greater scope of work is appropriate, then actual costs will likely exceed the preliminary estimate. Alagasco expects to recover such costs through insurance recovery and future rates and has recorded a corresponding amount to its Enhanced Stability Reserve regulatory asset account.

Legal Matters:Energen and its affiliates are, from time to time, parties to various pending or threatened legal proceedings. Certain of these lawsuits include claims for punitive damages in addition to other specified relief. Based upon information presently available, and in light of available legal and other defenses, contingent liabilities arising from threatened and pending litigation are not considered material in relation to the respective financial positions of Energen and its affiliates. It should be noted, however, that Energen and its affiliates conduct business in jurisdictions in which the magnitude and frequency of punitive and other damage awards may bear little or no relation to culpability or actual damages, thus making it difficult to predict litigation results.

Jefferson County, Alabama

InAs discussed in prior filings, in January 2006, RGGS Land and Minerals LTD, L.P. (RGGS) filed a lawsuit in Jefferson County, Alabama, alleging breach of contract with respect to Energen Resources’ calculation of certain allowed costs and failure to pay in a timely manner certain amounts due RGGS under a mineral lease. RGGS seeks a declaratory judgmentThe lawsuit was settled during December 2008. Consistent with respect to the parties’ rights under the lease, reformationCompany’s evaluation of the lease, monetary damages and termination of Energen Resources’ rights undercase the lease. The Occluded Gas Lease dated January 1, 1986 was originally between Energen Resources and United States Steel Corporation (U.S. Steel) as lessor. RGGS became the lessor under the lease as a result of a 2004 conveyance from U.S. SteelCompany did not incur any material charge.

Index to RGGS. Approximately 120,000 acres in Jefferson and Tuscaloosa counties, Alabama, are subject to the lease. Separately on February 6, 2006, Energen Resources received notice of immediate lease termination from RGGS. During 2007, Energen Resources’ production associated with the lease was approximately 10.5 Bcf.

RGGS has adopted positions contrary to the seventeen years of course of dealing between Energen Resources and its original contracting partner, U.S. Steel. The Company believes that RGGS’ assertions are without merit and that the notice of lease termination is ineffective. Energen Resources intends to vigorously defend its rights under the lease. The Company remains in possession of the lease, believes that the likelihood of a judgment in favor of RGGS is remote, and has made no material accrual with respect to the litigation or purported lease termination.

Financial Statements

Enron Corporation

During 2006, Enron and Enron North America Corporation (ENA) settled with Energen Resources and Alagasco related to the Enron and ENA bankruptcy proceedings. Under the settlement, Energen Resources was allowed claims in the bankruptcy cases against Enron and ENA of $12.5 million each. In December 2006, Energen Resources sold its claims against Enron and ENA for a gain of $6.7 million after-tax. All other claims have been released.

Legacy Litigation

During recent years, numerous lawsuits have been filed against oil production companies in Louisiana for restoration of oilfield properties. These suits are referred to in the industry as “legacy litigation” because they usually involve operations that were conducted on the affected properties many years earlier. Energen Resources is

72


or has been a party to several legacy litigation lawsuits, most of which result from the operations of predecessor companies. Based upon information presently available, and in light of available legal and other defenses, contingent liabilities arising from legacy litigation in excess of the Company’s accrued provision for estimated liability are not considered material to the Company’s financial position.

Other

Various other pending or threatened legal proceedings are in progress currently, and the Company has accrued a provision for estimated liability.

Lease Obligations: Alagasco leases the Company’s headquarters building over a 25-year term and the related lease is accounted for as an operating lease. Under the terms of the lease, Alagasco has a renewal option; the lease does not contain a bargain purchase price or a residual value guarantee. Energen’s total lease payments related to leases included as operating lease expense were $21,403,000, $18,212,000 $15,845,000 and $13,628,000$15,845,000 for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively. Minimum future rental payments required after 20072008 under leases with initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year are as follows:

 

Years Ending December 31,(in thousands)
2008  2009  2010  2011  2012  2013 and thereafter
$    4,128  $    4,258  $    3,834  $    3,661  $    3,678  $    26,588
Years Ending December 31,(in thousands)
    2009  2010  2011  2012  2013  2014 and thereafter    
    $    5,756  $    5,290  $    4,201  $    4,215  $    3,516  $    23,295

Alagasco’s total payments related to leases included as operating expense were $3,139,000, $3,180,000 $3,310,000 and $3,148,000$3,310,000 for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, respectively. Minimum future rental payments required after 20072008 under leases with initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year are as follows:

 

Years Ending December 31,(in thousands)
2008  2009  2010  2011  2012  2013 and thereafter
$    3,139  $    3,147  $    3,113  $    3,121  $    3,137  $    26,452
Years Ending December 31,(in thousands)
    2009  2010  2011  2012  2013  2014 and thereafter    
    $    3,159  $    3,122  $    3,121  $    3,137  $    3,158  $    23,295

8. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT

 

Financial Instruments: The stated value of cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables (net of allowance), and short-term debt approximates fair value due to the short maturity of the instruments. The fair value of Energen’s long-term debt, including the current portion, with a carrying value of $573,467,000$562,557,000 would be $595,146,000$538,803,000 at December 31, 2007.2008. The fair value of Alagasco’s fixed-rate long-term debt, including the current portion, with a carrying value of $208,467,000$207,557,000 would be $203,237,000$190,086,000 at December 31, 2007.2008. The fair values were based on current market prices.prices of similar issues having the same remaining maturities, redemption terms and credit rating.

Alagasco purchases gas as an agent for certain of its large commercial and industrial customers. Alagasco has in certain instances provided commodity-related guarantees to counterparties in order to facilitate these agency purchases. Liabilities existing for gas delivered to customers subject to these guarantees are included in the consolidated balance sheet. In the event the customer for whom the guarantee was entered fails to take delivery of the gas, Alagasco can sell such gas for the customer, with the customer liable for any resulting loss. Although the substantial majority of purchases under these guarantees are for the customers’ current monthly consumption and are at current market prices, in some instances, the purchases are for an extended term at a fixed price. At December 31, 2007,2008, the fixed price purchased under these guarantees had a maximum term outstanding through December 20082009 with an aggregate purchase price of $9.3$11.3 million and a market value of $8.8$8.3 million.

Index to Financial Statements

Price Risk:Risk Management: The Company applies SFAS No. 133 as amended which requires all derivatives to be recognized on the balance sheet and measured at fair value. If a derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge, the effectiveness of the hedge, or the degree that the gain (loss) for the hedging instrument offsets the loss (gain) on the hedged item, is measured at each reporting period. The effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is recognized in other comprehensive income as a component of equity and subsequently reclassified into earnings in operating revenues when the forecasted transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of a derivative’s change in fair value is required to be recognized in operating revenues immediately. Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge treatment under SFAS No. 133 must be recorded at fair value with gains or losses recognized in operating revenues in the period of change.

73


Energen Resources periodically enters into cash flow derivative commodity instruments to hedge its price exposure on its estimated oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids production. In addition, Alagasco periodically enters into cash flow derivative commodity instruments to hedge its exposure to price fluctuations on its gas supply. Such instruments may include regulated natural gas and crude oil futures contracts traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange and over-the-counter swaps, collars and basis hedges with major energy derivative product specialists. The counterparties to the commodity instruments are investment banks and energy-trading firms. In some contracts, the amount of credit allowed before Energen Resources or Alagasco collateral must be posted for out-of-the-money hedges varies depending on the credit rating of the Company or Alagasco. At December 31, 2007,2008, the counterparty agreements under which the Company had active positions did not include collateral posting requirements. Energen Resources was in a net gain position with threeall of its counterparties and a net loss with the remaining four.at December 31, 2008. The Company believesis at risk for economic loss based upon the creditworthiness of these counterparties is satisfactory.its counterparties. The three largest counterparties Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs and Citigroup represented approximately 5437 percent, 2829 percent and 1319 percent, respectively, of Energen Resources’ lossgain on fair value of derivatives.

The following table details the fair values of risk management assets and liabilities by business segment on the consolidated balance sheets:

(in thousands)  December 31, 2008  December 31, 2007
   Oil and Gas
Operations
  Natural Gas
Distribution
  Total  Oil and Gas
Operations
  Natural Gas
Distribution
  Total

Derivative assets:

            

Accounts receivable

  $196,499  $-  $  196,499  $14,002  $-  $14,002

Long-term derivative instruments

   140,603   -   140,603   2,428   -   2,428

Total derivative assets

  $337,102  $-  $337,102  $16,430  $-  $16,430

Derivative liabilities:

            

Accounts payable

  $-  $27,653  $27,653  $79,916  $376  $80,292

Long-term derivative instruments

   -   8,821   8,821   47,093   -   47,093

Total derivative liabilities

  $-  $36,474  $36,474  $127,009  $376  $  127,385

The Company had a net $123.1 million deferred tax liability and a net $39.9 million deferred tax asset included in current and noncurrent deferred income taxes on the consolidated balance sheets related to derivative items included in other comprehensive income as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

As of December 31, 2007, $37.42008, $114.2 million of deferred net lossesgains on derivative instruments recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax, are expected to be reclassified and reported in earnings as operating revenues during the next twelve-month period. The actual amount that will be reclassified to earnings over the next year could vary materially from this amount due to changes in market conditions. Gains and losses on derivative instruments that are not accounted for as cash flow hedge transactions, as well as the ineffective portion of the change in fair value of derivatives accounted for as cash flow hedges, are included in operating revenues in the consolidated financial statements. The Company recorded a $0.7$0.8 million after-tax gain in 20072008 for the ineffective portion of the change in fair value of derivatives accounted for as cash flow hedges. Also, the Company recorded an after-tax gain of $0.2$0.1 million in 20072008 on contracts which did not meet the definition of cash flow hedges under SFAS No. 133. As of December 31, 2007, all2008, the Company had 0.1 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of the Company’sgas hedges metwhich expire during 2009 that did not meet the definition of a cash flow hedge.hedge but are considered by the Company to be economic hedges. During 2007,2008, the Company discontinued hedge accounting and reclassified gains of $0.2$0.4 million after-tax from OCIother comprehensive income into operating revenues when Energen Resources determined it was probable certain forecasted volumes would not occur.

The Company had $39.9 million and $31 million included in current and noncurrent deferred income taxes on the consolidated balance sheets related

Index to items included in other comprehensive income as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. The Company had $14 million and $93.3 million of current gains recorded in accounts receivable at December 31, 2007 and 2006 respectively. At December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Company also had $79.9 million and $0.7 million, respectively, of current losses recorded in accounts payable. The Company also had $47.1 million and $11.9 million at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, of non-current losses recorded in deferred credits and other liabilities related to derivative contracts. Additionally, the Company had $2.4 million of non-current gains recorded in deferred charges and other on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2007.

74


Financial Statements

As of December 31, 2007,2008, Energen Resources entered into the following transactions for 20082009 and subsequent years:

 

Production

Period

  

Total Hedged
Volumes

Volumes

  

Average Contract

Price

  Description

Natural Gas

2008

  30.8
200915.6 Bcf  $8.538.34 Mcf  NYMEX Swaps
  18.831.8 Bcf  $7.537.58 Mcf  Basin Specific Swaps

2009

2010
  24.714.3 Bcf  $7.818.79 McfNYMEX Swaps
28.3 Bcf$7.98 Mcf  Basin Specific Swaps

Natural Gas Basis DifferentialOil

2008

  12.0 Bcf  *  Basis Swaps

Oil

2008

3,203 MBbl$70.17 BblNYMEX Swaps
2009  2,4602,700 MBbl  $71.0372.93 Bbl  NYMEX Swaps
2010     7202,160 MBbl  $81.2097.60 Bbl  NYMEX Swaps

Oil Basis Differential

2008  2,483
20092,136 MBbl  *  Basis Swaps
20092010  1,9801,440 MBbl  *  Basis Swaps

Natural Gas Liquids

2008  47.8 MMGal  $0.96 Gal  Liquids Swaps
2009  20.243.3 MMGal  $1.051.15 Gal  Liquids Swaps

*  Average contract prices not meaningful due to the varying nature of each contract

All hedge transactions are subject to the Company’s risk management policy, approved by the Board of Directors, which does not permit speculative positions. The Company formally documents all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items at the inception of the hedge, as well as its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge. This process includes specific identification of the hedging instrument and the hedge transaction, the nature of the risk being hedged and how the hedging instrument’s effectiveness in hedging the exposure to the hedged transaction’s variability in cash flows attributable to the hedged risk will be assessed and measured. Both at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, the Company assesses whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of hedged items. The Company discontinues hedge accounting if a derivative has ceased to be a highly effective hedge. The maximum term over which Energen Resources has hedged exposures to the variability of cash flows is through December 31, 2010.

At December 31, 2007, The following table sets forth derivative assets and liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

    December 31, 2008 
(in thousands)  Level 2*  Level 3*  Total 

Current assets

  $91,687  $104,812  $196,499 

Noncurrent assets

   91,321   49,282   140,603 

Current liabilities

   (27,653)  -   (27,653)

Noncurrent liabilities

   (8,821)  -   (8,821)

Net derivative asset

  $  146,534  $  154,094  $  300,628 
*

Amounts classified in accordance with FASB Interpretation No. 39 (as amended), “Offsetting of Amounts Related to Certain Contracts” which permits offsetting of fair value of amounts recognized for multiple derivative instruments executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement.

Alagasco recordedhas $27.7 million and $8.8 million of derivative instruments which are classified as Level 2 fair values and are included in the above table as current and noncurrent liabilities, respectively.

The table below sets forth a $0.4 million loss as a liabilitysummary of changes in accounts payable with a corresponding current regulatory asset representing the fair value of derivatives. At December 31, 2006, Alagasco recorded an $11.5 million lossthe Company’s Level 3 derivative commodity instruments as a liability in accounts payable with a corresponding current regulatory asset representing the fair value of derivatives. Additionally, as of December 31, 2006, Alagasco recorded a current regulatory liability and a corresponding receivable of $1.2 million related to certain interest rate treasury futures. These futures were entered into by the Company to reduce the interest rate risk associated with a $45 million debt issuance completed by Alagasco in January 2007.follows:

(in thousands)Year ended
December 31, 2008

Balance at beginning of period

$          (9,998)

Unrealized gains relating to instruments held at the reporting date

158,171

Settlements during period

5,921

Balance at end of period

$       154,094

Concentration of Credit Risk:Revenues and related accounts receivable from oil and gas operations primarily are generated from the sale of produced natural gas and oil to natural gas and oil marketing companies. Such sales are typically made on an unsecured credit basis with payment due the month following delivery. This concentration of sales to the energy marketing industry has the potential to affect the Company’s overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that the Company’s oil and gas purchasers may be affected similarly by changes in economic, industry or other conditions. Energen Resources considers the credit quality for its customers and, in certain instances, may require credit assurances such as a deposit, letter of credit or parent guarantee. The twofour largest oil and gas purchasers accounted for approximately 3516 percent, 14 percent, 11 percent and 1710 percent of Energen Resources’ accounts receivable for commodity sales as of December 31, 2007.2008. Energen Resources’ other purchasers each accounted for less than 9 percent of this accounts receivable as of December 31, 2007.2008. During the year ended December 31, 2007, one purchaser2008, two purchasers accounted for approximately 1523 percent of the Company’s total operating revenues.

Index to Financial Statements

Natural gas distribution operating revenues and related accounts receivable are generated from state-regulated utility natural gas sales and transportation to approximately 451,000447,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers located in central and north Alabama. A change in economic conditions may affect the ability of customers to meet their obligations; however, the Company believes that its provision for possible losses on uncollectible accounts receivable is adequate for its credit loss exposure.

75


9. RECONCILIATION OF EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS)

 

 

Years ended December 31,

Years ended December 31,

                                                

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

  2007     2006  2005(in thousands, except per share amounts)  2008      2007  2006
  Net
Income
  Shares  Per Share
Amount
  Net
Income
  Shares  Per Share
Amount
  Net
Income
  Shares  Per Share
Amount
  

Net

Income

  Shares  Per Share
Amount
  

Net

Income

  Shares  Per Share
Amount
  

Net

Income

  Shares  Per Share
Amount

Basic EPS

  $    309,233  71,592  $    4.32  $    273,570  72,505  $    3.77  $    173,012  73,052  $    2.37  $321,915  71,601  $4.50  $309,233  71,592  $4.32  $273,570  72,505  $3.77

Effect of dilutive securities

                                    

Performance share awards

    351      408      208      106      351      408  

Stock options

    158      252      334      225      158      252  

Non-vested restricted stock

    80      113      121      98      80      113  

Diluted EPS

  $    309,233  72,181  $    4.28  $    273,570  73,278  $    3.73  $    173,012  73,715  $    2.35  $321,915  72,030  $4.47  $309,233  72,181  $4.28  $273,570  73,278  $3.73

The Company had no securities that were excluded from the computation of diluted EPS for years ended December 31, 2008 and 2006. For the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company had 239,545 options that were excluded from the computation of diluted EPS, as their effect was non-dilutive. The Company had no options that were excluded from the computation of diluted EPS for years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005. For the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, the Company had no shares of non-vested restricted stock that were excluded from the computation of diluted EPS.

10. ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS

 

The Company applies SFAS No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations,” which requires the Company to record the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation (ARO) in the period in which it is incurred. Subsequent to initial measurement, liabilities are required to be accreted to their present value each period and capitalized costs are depreciated over the estimated useful life of the related assets. Upon settlement of the liability, the Company may recognize a gain or loss for differences between estimated and actual settlement costs. The ARO fair value liability is recognized on a discounted basis incorporating an estimate of performance risk specific to the Company

In 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, Energen Resources recognized amounts representing expected future costs associated with site reclamation, facilities dismantlement, and plug and abandonment of wells as follows:

 

(in thousands)

    

Balance of ARO as of December 31, 2004

$    34,841

Liabilities incurred during the year ended December 31, 2005

10,102

Liabilities settled during the year ended December 31, 2005

(689)

Revision in estimated cash flows

3,369

Accretion expense

2,647 

Balance of ARO as of December 31, 2005

  $50,270 

Liabilities incurred during the year ended December 31, 2006

   1,176 

Liabilities settled during the year ended December 31, 2006

   (1,085)

Accretion expense

   3,619 

Balance of ARO as of December 31, 2006

   53,980 

Liabilities incurred during the year ended December 31, 2007

   3,505 

Liabilities settled during the year ended December 31, 2007

   (862)

Accretion expense

   3,948 

Balance of ARO as of December 31, 2007

  60,571

Liabilities incurred

3,736

Liabilities settled

(2,446)

Accretion expense

4,290

Balance of ARO as of December 31, 2008

$    60,57166,151 

The Company also applies FIN 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations,” which clarifies that if a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity exists but performance is conditional upon a future event, the liability is required to be recognized in accordance with SFAS 143 if the obligation can be reasonably measured. Alagasco recorded a conditional asset retirement obligation on a discounted basis of $14.4$17 million and $12.8$14.4 million to purge and cap its gas pipelines upon abandonment as a regulatory liability under SFAS No. 71 as of December 31, 20072008 and 2006,2007, respectively. The costs associated with asset retirement obligations under FIN 47 are currently either being recovered in rates or are probable of recovery in future rates.

76


Index to Financial Statements

Alagasco accrues removal costs on certain gas distribution assets over the useful lives of its property, plant and equipment through depreciation expense in accordance with rates approved by the APSC. In accordance with SFAS No. 71, the accumulated asset removal costs of $121.6$129.6 million and $114.5$121.6 million for December 31, 20072008 and 2006,2007, respectively, are included as regulatory liabilities in deferred credits and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.

11. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

 

Supplemental information concerning Energen’s cash flow activities was as follows:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005  2008  2007  2006

Interest paid, net of amount capitalized

  $44,368  $    48,879  $    43,849  $    39,814  $44,368  $    48,879

Income taxes paid

  $    154,187  $    60,308  $    32,879  $38,235  $    154,187  $60,308

Noncash investing activities:

            

Accrued development and exploration costs

  $70,319  $44,196  $30,369

Capitalized depreciation

  $97  $99  $           96  $98  $97  $99

Allowance for funds used during construction

  $611  $951  $         792  $700  $611  $951

Noncash financing activities:

            

Issuance of common stock for employee benefit plans

  $7,940  $2,410  $      8,420  $8,275  $7,940  $2,410

Treasury stock acquired in connection with tax
withholdings

  $6,760  $1,309  $              -  $27,345  $6,760  $1,309

Under SFAS No. 143, the Company recorded a non-cash adjustment for accretion expense of $4.3 million, $3.9 million and $3.6 million during 2008, 2007 and $2.6 million during 2007, 2006, and 2005, respectively. In December 2006, the Company adopted SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and 132 (R).” In adopting the standard, the Company recognized noncash adjustments to its financial statements as disclosed in Note 5, Employee Benefit Plans.

Supplemental information concerning Alagasco’s cash flow activities was as follows:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

  2007  2006  2005  2008  2007  2006

Interest paid, net of amount capitalized

  $    12,848  $    14,683  $    12,664  $    12,611  $12,848  $14,683

Income taxes paid

  $    24,579  $    21,027  $    22,456  $3,012  $    24,579  $    21,027

Noncash investing activities:

            

Accrued property, plant and equipment costs

  $2,510  $2,625  $3,203

Capitalized depreciation

  $           97  $           99  $           96  $98  $97  $99

Allowance for funds used during construction

  $         611  $         951  $         792  $700  $611  $951

12. SUMMARIZED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA(Unaudited)

The Company’s business is seasonal in character. The following data summarizes quarterly operating results.

   Year Ended December 31, 2007

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

  First  Second  Third  Fourth

Operating revenues

  $    492,661  $    314,922  $    276,022  $    351,455

Operating income

  $    173,198  $    115,905  $      98,632  $    134,297

Income from continuing operations

  $    103,881  $      67,903  $      58,014  $      79,414

Net income

  $    103,882  $      67,903  $      58,034  $      79,414

Diluted earnings per average common share

        

Continuing operations

  $          1.44  $          0.94  $          0.80  $          1.10

Net income

  $          1.44  $          0.94  $          0.80  $          1.10

Basic earnings per average common share

        

Continuing operations

  $          1.45  $          0.95  $          0.81  $          1.11

Net income

  $          1.45  $          0.95  $          0.81  $          1.11

77


   Year Ended December 31, 2006

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

  First  Second  Third  Fourth*

Operating revenues

  $    488,142  $    282,374  $    242,711  $    380,759

Operating income

  $    151,735  $      89,298  $      75,669  $    160,598

Income from continuing operations

  $      87,501  $      49,602  $      41,297  $      95,123

Net income

  $      87,494  $      49,601  $      41,352  $      95,123

Diluted earnings per average common share

        

Continuing operations

  $          1.18  $          0.67  $          0.56  $          1.31

Net income

  $          1.18  $          0.67  $          0.56  $          1.31

Basic earnings per average common share

        

Continuing operations

  $          1.19  $          0.68  $          0.57  $          1.33

Net income

  $          1.19  $          0.68  $          0.57  $          1.33
*

Includes an after-tax gain of $34.5 million on the sale of a 50 percent interest in Energen Resources’ acreage position in Alabama shale to Chesapeake Energy Corporation.

Alagasco’s business is seasonal in character and influenced by weather conditions. The following data summarizes Alagasco’s quarterly operating results.

   Year Ended December 31, 2007

(in thousands)

  First  Second  Third  Fourth

Operating revenues

  $    298,628  $    111,566  $       67,599  $    131,675

Operating income (loss)

  $      68,437  $        4,970  $    (13,673)  $      13,008

Net income (loss)

  $      40,329  $        1,378  $    (10,541)  $        5,652

   Year Ended December 31, 2006

(in thousands)

  First  Second  Third  Fourth

Operating revenues

  $    318,623  $    113,196  $    71,195  $    160,430

Operating income (loss)

  $      63,727  $        2,711  $   (8,921)  $      16,757

Net income (loss)

  $      37,369  $        (531)  $   (7,673)  $        8,133

13. ACQUISITION AND DISPOSITIONS OF OIL AND GAS PROPERTIES

 

During the year ended December 31, 2007,2008, Energen Resources capitalized approximately $32$18.1 million of unproved leaseholdsleasehold costs, more than $28approximately $13 million of which was related to the Company’s acreage position in Alabama shale.shales. Energen used its available cash and existing lines of credit to finance these unproved leasehold costs.

Energen Resources recorded a $10.3 million pre-tax gain in other operating revenues from the March 2008 property sale of certain Permian Basin oil properties. The Company received approximately $15.5 million pre-tax in cash from the sale of this property.

In May 2007, Energen Resources purchased oil properties in the Permian Basin for $18 million. To finance the acquisition, Energen used its available cash and existing lines of credit.

In December 2006, Energen Resources completed a purchase which expanded its operations in the San Juan Basin from Dominion Resources, Inc. effective December 1, 2006 for approximately $30 million. Energen used its available cash and existing lines of credit

Index to finance the acquisition.

In October 2006, Energen Resources sold a 50 percent interest in its lease position in various shale plays in Alabama to Chesapeake for cash and a carried drilling interest. In addition, the two companies have signed an agreement to form an area of mutual interest (AMI) to focus on the further exploration and development of these shale plays throughout Alabama and a part of Georgia. Energen Resources received $75 million in cash from Chesapeake for a 50 percent interest in Energen Resources’ existing shale lease position of approximately 200,000 net acres in Alabama. Chesapeake also will pay for Energen Resources’ first $15 million of future drilling costs. During 2007, no significant drilling costs were incurred. Energen Resources had a gain of approximately $34.5 million after-tax in the fourth quarter of 2006 resulting from this sale of its lease position.

78


Financial Statements

14.13. REGULATORY ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

 

The following table details regulatory assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets:

 

Energen Corporation

            

(in thousands)

  December 31, 2007  December 31, 2006  December 31, 2008  December 31, 2007
  Current  Noncurrent  Current  Noncurrent  Current  Noncurrent  Current  Noncurrent

Regulatory assets:

                

Pension asset

  $               -  $     21,160  $              -  $     28,476

Pension and postretirement assets

  $132  $72,560  $-  $21,160

Accretion and depreciation for asset retirement
obligation

  -  11,024  -  9,803   -   13,145   -   11,024

Gas supply adjustment

  9,711  -  23,595  -   11,173   -   9,711   -

Risk management activities

  376  -  11,543  -   27,653   8,821   376   -

RSE adjustment

   2,688   -   -   -

Enhanced stability reserve

   -   2,917   -   -

Other

  145  54  341  106   68   68   145   54

Total regulatory assets

  $    10,232  $     32,238  $    35,479  $     38,385  $    41,714  $97,511  $10,232  $32,238

Regulatory liabilities:

                

Enhanced stability reserve

  $      3,951  $               -  $      3,951  $               -  $-  $-  $3,951  $-

RSE adjustment

  3,445  -  1,460  -   137   -   3,445   -

Unbilled service margin

  24,725  -  27,233  -   25,192   -   24,725   -

Asset removal costs, net

  -  121,573  -  114,520   -   129,579   -   121,573

Asset retirement obligation

  -  14,367  -  12,833   -   17,024   -   14,367

Pension liability and postretirement
benefits, net

  -  4,188  -  7,220   -   -   -   4,188

Other

  33  995  1,227  893   34   911   33   995

Total regulatory liabilities

  $    32,154  $   141,123  $    33,871  $    135,466  $25,363  $147,514  $    32,154  $141,123

As described in Note 2, Regulatory Matters, Alagasco’s rates are established under the RSE rate-setting process and are based on average equity for the period. Alagasco’s rates are not adjusted to exclude a return on its investment in regulatory assets during the recovery period.

15. STOCK DIVIDEND

On April 27, 2005, Energen’s shareholders approved a 2-for-1 split of the Company’s common stock. The split was effected in the form of a 100 percent stock dividend and was payable on June 1, 2005, to shareholders of record on May 13, 2005. All share and per share amounts of capital stock outstanding have been adjusted to reflect the stock split. Effective April 29, 2005, the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Energen Corporation was amended to increase the Company’s authorized common stock, par value $0.01 per share, from 75,000,000 shares to 150,000,000 shares.

16.14. TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES

 

Alagasco purchased natural gas of $2,731,000 from affiliates for the year ended December 31, 2005. These amounts were included in gas purchased for resale. All transactions were at market based pricing. Alagasco did not purchase natural gas from affiliated companies in 2007 or 2006.

The Company allocates certain corporate costs to Energen Resources and Alagasco based on the nature of the expense to be allocated using various factors including, but not limited to, total assets, earnings, or number of employees. The Company’s cash management program matches short-term cash surpluses with the needs of its affiliates,seeks to minimize borrowing from outside sources.sources through inter-company lending. Under this program, Alagasco may borrow from but does not lend to affiliates. Alagasco had net payables to affiliates of $4,934,000$21,582,000 and $18,130,000$4,934,000 at December 31, 20072008 and 2006,2007, respectively. Interest income and expense between affiliates is calculated monthly based on the market weighted average interest rate. The weighted average interest rate during 2008 and 2007 was 2.82 percent and 2006 was 5.39 percent, and 5.43 percent, respectively.

79


17. RECENT PRONOUNCEMENTS OF THE FINANCIAL15. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS BOARD (FASB)

 

The Company partially adopted the provisions of FIN 48SFAS No. 157 as of January 1, 2007. This Interpretation prescribed a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition, measurement and disclosure2008 as permitted by Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Staff Position No. 157-2 (FSP 157-2), “Effective Date of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, the Company recognized an approximate $1.2 million increase in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits which was accounted for as a decrease to the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings. As of the date of adoption and after the impact of recognizing the increase in liability noted above, the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits totaled $8.2 million. The amount of unrecognized tax benefits at January 1, 2007 that would favorably impact the Company’s effective tax rate, if recognized, was $3.4 million. The Company recognized potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. As of January 1, 2007, the Company recognized approximately $484,000 in potential interest (net of tax benefit) and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions.

During September 2006, the FASB issuedStatement No. 157.” SFAS No. 157 “Fair Value Measurements,” which clarifies thatdefines fair value, shouldestablishes criteria to be based on the assumptions market participants would useconsidered when pricing an asset or a liability and establishes ameasuring fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the information used to develop those assumptions. Underand expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FSP 157-2 amends SFAS No. 157 fair value measurements would be separately disclosed by level withinto allow an entity to delay the fair value hierarchy effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this Statement. In February 2008, the FASB announced it will issue Final FASB Staff Positions (FSP’s) that will partially defer the effective dateapplication of SFAS No. 157 for one yearuntil periods beginning January 1, 2009 for certain nonfinancialnon-financial assets and nonfinancial liabilities and remove certain leasing transactions from the scope ofliabilities. The additional disclosures for recurring financial instruments required under SFAS No. 157. The Company will evaluate the impact of the FSP’s upon issuance.157 are included in Note 8, Financial Instruments and Risk Management.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities,” which permits entities to measure financial instruments and certain other items at fair value to mitigate volatility in reported earnings. This Statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The effectCompany has not elected the fair value option for any of its assets or liabilities and, therefore, implementation of this Standardstandard did not have a material impact on the Company is currently being evaluated.consolidated financial position and results of operations.

Index to Financial Statements

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations,” which willwas issued to improve the relevance, representational faithfulness, and comparability of the information that a reporting entity provides in its financial reports about a business combination and its effects. This Statement applies prospectivelyUnder SFAS No. 141R, a company is required to recognize the assets acquired, liabilities assumed, contractual contingencies, and any contingent consideration measured at their fair value at the acquisition date. SFAS No. 141R is effective for business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first fiscal yearannual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The Company is currently evaluatingeffect of adopting SFAS No. 141R may be significant, as compared to the impact of this Statement.Company’s prior accounting, for future acquisitions.

The FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—Statements – an amendment of ARB No. 51,” in December 2007. SFAS No. 160 establishes accounting and reporting standards for ownership interests in subsidiaries held by parties other than the parent, the amount of consolidated net income attributable to the parent and to the noncontrolling interest, changes in a parent’s ownership interest, and the valuation of retained noncontrolling equity investments when a subsidiary is deconsolidated. SFAS No. 160 also establishes disclosure requirements that clearly identify and distinguish between the interests of the parent and the interests of the noncontrolling owners. This Statement is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The effect of this Standard on the Company is currently being evaluated.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures About Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133.” SFAS No. 161 expands quarterly disclosure requirements in SFAS No. 133 about an entity’s derivative instruments and hedging activities. SFAS No. 161 is effective for years beginning after November 1, 2008. The effect of this Standard on the Company is currently being evaluated.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” SFAS No. 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles used in the preparation of financial statements of nongovernmental entities that are presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States. This Statement is effective 60 days following certain approvals by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The effect of this Standard on the Company is currently being evaluated.

In June 2008, the FASB issued FSP Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) No. 03-06-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities,” which addresses whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions are participating securities prior to vesting and need to be included in the calculation of EPS under the two-class method as described in SFAS No. 128, “Earnings per Share.” This FSP is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2008. The Company does not anticipate this FSP to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements or the results of operations.

In October 2008, the FASB issued FSP 157-3, “Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset Is Not Active,” which clarifies the application of SFAS No. 157 in an inactive market. This FSP was effective upon issuance and did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements or the results of operations.

In December 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. 132(R)-1, “Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets,” which provides guidance on an employer’s disclosures about plan assets of a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan. FSP No. 132(R)-1 requires additional disclosures to aid in the understanding of: (1) how investment allocation decisions are made, including the factors that are pertinent to an understanding of investment policies and strategies, (2) the major categories of plan assets, (3) the inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of plan assets, (4) the effect of fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) on changes in plan assets for the period, and (5) significant concentrations of risk within plan assets. This FSP is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2009 and is not expected to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements or the results of operations.

Index to Financial Statements

On December 31, 2008, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued its final rule Modernization of Oil and Gas Reporting (Final Rule), which revises the disclosures required by oil and gas companies. In addition to changing the definition and disclosure requirements for oil and gas reserves, the Final Rule changes the requirements for determining quantities of oil and gas reserves. The revisions are intended to provide investors with a more meaningful and comprehensive understanding of oil and gas reserves, with a view to helping investors evaluate their investments in oil and gas companies. The amendments are designed to modernize the requirements for the determination of oil and gas reserves, aligning them with current practices and updating them for changes in technology. The Final Rule applies to annual reports on Forms 10-K for fiscal years ending on or after December 31, 2009, pending the potential alignment of certain accounting standards by the FASB with the Final Rule. The Company is currently studying the impact of the Final Rule.

18.16. SUMMARIZED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA(Unaudited)

The Company’s business is seasonal in character. The following data summarizes quarterly operating results.

   

Year ended December 31, 2008

(in thousands, except per share amounts)  First  Second  Third  Fourth

Operating revenues

  $ 521,646  $ 341,266  $ 330,205  $ 375,793

Operating income

  $195,339  $116,933  $130,678  $119,118

Net income

  $116,688  $66,878  $73,064  $65,285

Diluted earnings per average common share

  $1.62  $0.93  $1.01  $0.91

Basic earnings per average common share

  $1.63  $0.93  $1.02  $0.91
                 
   

Year ended December 31, 2007

(in thousands, except per share amounts)  First  Second  Third  Fourth

Operating revenues

  $492,661  $314,922  $276,022  $351,455

Operating income

  $173,198  $115,905  $98,632  $134,297

Income from continuing operations

  $103,881  $67,903  $58,014  $79,414

Net income

  $103,882  $67,903  $58,034  $79,414

Diluted earnings per average common share

      

Continuing operations

  $1.44  $0.94  $0.80  $1.10

Net income

  $1.44  $0.94  $0.80  $1.10

Basic earnings per average common share

      

Continuing operations

  $1.45  $0.95  $0.81  $1.11

Net income

  $1.45  $0.95  $0.81  $1.11

Alagasco’s business is seasonal in character and influenced by weather conditions. The following data summarizes Alagasco’s quarterly operating results.

 
   

Year ended December 31, 2008

(in thousands)  First  Second  Third  Fourth

Operating revenues

  $296,751  $109,486  $82,452  $166,089

Operating income (loss)

  $74,488  $(1,472) $(5,891) $14,831

Net income (loss)

  $43,674  $(3,093) $(5,804) $5,384
     
                 
   

Year ended December 31, 2007

(in thousands)  First  Second  Third  Fourth

Operating revenues

  $298,628  $111,566  $67,599  $131,675

Operating income (loss)

  $68,437  $4,970  $(13,673) $13,008

Net income (loss)

  $40,329  $1,378  $(10,541) $5,652

Index to Financial Statements

17. OIL AND GAS OPERATIONS(Unaudited)

 

The following schedules detail historical financial data of the Company’s oil and gas operations.

Capitalized Costs

(in thousands)

  December 31, 2007  December 31, 2006

Proved

  $    2,477,587  $    2,141,874

Unproved

  52,462  21,191

Total capitalized costs

  2,530,049  2,163,065

Accumulated depreciation, depletion, and amortization

  664,290  559,059

Capitalized costs, net

  $    1,865,759  $    1,604,006

 

80


(in thousands)  December 31, 2008  December 31, 2007

Proved

  $    2,899,322  $    2,477,587

Unproved

  60,343  52,462

Total capitalized costs

  2,959,665  2,530,049

Accumulated depreciation, depletion, and amortization

  793,465  664,290

Capitalized costs, net

  $    2,166,200  $    1,865,759

Costs Incurred:The following table sets forth costs incurred in property acquisition, exploration and development activities and includes both capitalized costs and costs charged to expense during the year:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005  2008  2007  2006

Property acquisition:

            

Proved

  $22,439  $24,388  $170,338  $864  $22,439  $24,388

Unproved

   32,187   22,040   18,065   18,132   32,187   22,040

Exploration

   8,860   26,767   5,490   21,180   8,860   26,767

Development

   315,852   187,734   158,025   415,682   315,852   187,734

Total costs incurred

  $    379,338  $    260,929  $    351,918  $    455,858  $    379,338  $    260,929

Results of Continuing Operations From Producing Activities:The following table sets forth results of the Company’s oil and gas continuing operations from producing activities:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007   2006   2005  2008  2007  2006

Gross revenues

  $825,645  $675,830  $529,415  $906,006  $825,645  $675,830

Production (lifting costs)

   202,078   184,362   156,512   236,679   202,078   184,362

Exploration expense

   2,894   4,181   676   9,296   2,894   4,181

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

   111,567   95,522   87,398   136,404   111,567   95,522

Accretion expense

   3,948   3,619   2,647   4,290   3,948   3,619

Income tax expense

   177,083   140,619   102,102   194,953   177,083   140,619

Results of continuing operation from producing activities

  $    328,075  $    247,527  $    180,080  $    324,384  $    328,075  $    247,527

Oil and Gas Operations: The calculation of proved reserves is made pursuant to rules prescribed by the SEC. Such rules, in part, require that only proved categories of reserves be disclosed and that reserves and associated values be calculated using year-end prices and current costs. Changes to prices and costs could have a significant effect on the disclosed amount of reserves and their associated values. In addition, the estimation of reserves inherently requires the use of geologic and engineering estimates which are subject to revision as reservoirs are produced and developed and as additional information is available. Accordingly, the amount of actual future production may vary significantly from the amount of reserves disclosed. The proved reserves are located onshore in the United States of America.

Estimates of physical quantities of oil and gas proved reserves were determined by Company engineers. Ryder Scott Company, L.P. and T. Scott Hickman and Associates, Inc., independent oil and gas reservoir engineers, have reviewed the estimates of proved reserves of natural gas, oil and natural gas liquids that the Company has attributed to its net interests in oil and gas properties as of December 31, 2007.2008. Ryder Scott Company, L.P. reviewed the reserve estimates for coalbed methane in the Black Warrior and San Juan basins and substantially all of the Permian Basin reserves. T. Scott Hickman and Associates, Inc. reviewed the reserves for the North Louisiana and East Texas regions and the conventional reserves in the San Juan Basin. The independent reservoir engineers have issued reports covering approximately 9899 percent of the Company’s ending proved reserves indicating that in their judgment the estimates are reasonable in the aggregate.

Year ended December 31, 2007

  Gas MMcf  Oil MBbl  NGL MBbl  Total Bcfe 

Proved reserves at beginning of period

  1,096,429  74,893  29,504  1,722.8 

Revisions of previous estimates

  2,977  (4,573) 1,999  (12.5)

Purchases

  483  2,202  145  14.6 

Extensions and discoveries

  80,328  5,982  1,855  127.4 

Production

  (64,299) (3,879) (1,839) (98.6)

Proved reserves at end of period

  1,115,918  74,625  31,664  1,753.7 

Proved developed reserves at end of period

  903,510  61,209  28,348  1,440.9 

81

Index to Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2008  Gas MMcf  Oil MBbl  NGL MBbl  Total Bcfe 

Proved reserves at beginning of period

  1,115,918  74,625  31,664  1,753.7 

Revisions of previous estimates

  (73,105) (15,813) (3,359) (188.1)

Purchases

  1,211  6  -  1.2 

Extensions and discoveries

  62,232  7,937  2,407  124.3 

Production

  (67,573) (4,114) (1,683) (102.4)

Sales

  (230) (607) (76) (4.3)

Proved reserves at end of period

  1,038,453  62,034  28,953  1,584.4 

Proved developed reserves at end of period

  868,873  51,929  24,869  1,329.7 
     
Year ended December 31, 2007  Gas MMcf  Oil MBbl  NGL MBbl  Total Bcfe 

Proved reserves at beginning of period

  1,096,429  74,893  29,504  1,722.8 

Revisions of previous estimates

  2,977  (4,573) 1,999  (12.5)

Purchases

  483  2,202  145  14.6 

Extensions and discoveries

  80,328  5,982  1,855  127.4 

Production

  (64,299) (3,879) (1,839) (98.6)

Proved reserves at end of period

  1,115,918  74,625  31,664  1,753.7 

Proved developed reserves at end of period

  903,510  61,209  28,348  1,440.9 
              
Year ended December 31, 2006  Gas MMcf  Oil MBbl  NGL MBbl  Total Bcfe 

Proved reserves at beginning of period

  1,080,161  74,962  31,934  1,721.5 

Revisions of previous estimates

  (40,458) (3,518) (1,449) (70.2)

Purchases

  19,561  81  24  20.2 

Extensions and discoveries

  99,988  7,013  812  146.9 

Production

  (62,823) (3,645) (1,817) (95.6)

Proved reserves at end of period

  1,096,429  74,893  29,504  1,722.8 

Proved developed reserves at end of period

  866,874  55,210  26,932  1,359.7 

Energen Resources had downward reserve revisions during 2008 which totaled 188.1 Bcfe. The Black Warrior Basin had downward reserve revisions totaling 13.0 Bcfe of which approximately 3.1 Bcfe related to changes in year-end pricing and approximately 9.9 Bcfe was associated with high water production from several wells. In the San Juan Basin, downward reserve revisions of 72.7 Bcfe were largely due to 52 Bcfe of estimated price revisions plus higher operating expense and fuel usage and partially offset by improved performance. Downward reserve revisions of 92.6 Bcfe in the Permian Basin were largely due to 61 Bcfe of estimated price related revisions and delayed waterflood responses estimated at 36 Bcfe partially offset by improved performance.


Year ended December 31, 2006

  Gas MMcf  Oil MBbl  NGL MBbl  Total Bcfe 

Proved reserves at beginning of period

  1,080,161  74,962  31,934  1,721.5 

Revisions of previous estimates

  (40,458) (3,518) (1,449) (70.2)

Purchases

  19,561  81  24  20.2 

Extensions and discoveries

  99,988  7,013  812  146.9 

Production

  (62,823) (3,645) (1,817) (95.6)

Proved reserves at end of period

  1,096,429  74,893  29,504  1,722.8 

Proved developed reserves at end of period

  866,874  55,210  26,932  1,359.7 
     

Year ended December 31, 2005

  Gas MMcf  Oil MBbl  NGL MBbl  Total Bcfe 

Proved reserves at beginning of period

  1,019,436  54,500  34,613  1,554.1 

Revisions of previous estimates

  43,221  186  (1,484) 35.4 

Purchases

  3,974  21,614  58  134.0 

Extensions and discoveries

  75,742  1,979  429  90.2 

Production

  (61,117) (3,316) (1,681) (91.1)

Sales

  (1,095) (1) (1) (1.1)

Proved reserves at end of period

  1,080,161  74,962  31,934  1,721.5 

Proved developed reserves at end of period

  891,978  54,901  27,681  1,387.5 

Energen Resources purchased 1.2 Bcfe of reserves during 2008 primarily related to the acquisition of gas properties in East Texas.

During 2008, Energen Resources had extensions and discoveries of 124.3 Bcfe of which 68 percent were proved undeveloped reserves and 32 percent were proved developed reserves. Extension drilling resulted in discoveries of 124 Bcfe with exploratory drilling providing 0.3 Bcfe of discoveries. The Black Warrior Basin added 9.5 Bcfe of reserves primarily through the drilling or identification of 57 well locations. The San Juan Basin added 43.7 Bcfe of reserves through the drilling or identification of 173 well locations; additionally, 12 sidetrack wells added 6.6 Bcfe of reserves. The Permian Basin added 38.8 Bcfe of reserves through the drilling or identification of 159 well locations.

Energen Resources had downward reserve revisions during 2007 which totaled 12.5 Bcfe. The Black Warrior Basin had downward reserve revisions totaling 3 Bcfe of which approximately 6.1 Bcfe related to changes in year-end pricing which accelerated reversions in ownership partially offset by an estimated 3.1 Bcfe of upward revisions associated with improved performance. In the San Juan Basin, upward reserve revisions of 9.2 Bcfe were largely due to 25 Bcfe of estimated price-revisionsprice revisions partially offset by a 16 Bcfe decrease for the removal of proved undeveloped locations due to new reservoir interpretations. Downward reserve revisions of 21.4 Bcfe in the Permian Basin were largely a result of delayed waterflood responses estimated at 34.1 Bcfe partially offset by upward price revisions of approximately 12.7 Bcfe.

Index to Financial Statements

Energen Resources purchased 14.6 Bcfe of reserves during 2007 primarily related to the acquisition of oil properties in the Permian Basin.

During 2007, Energen Resources had extensions and discoveries of 127.4 Bcfe of which 65 percent were proved undeveloped reserves and 35 percent were proved developed reserves. Extension drilling resulted in discoveries of 109.7 Bcfe with exploratory drilling providing 17.7 Bcfe of discoveries. The Black Warrior Basin added 20.5 Bcfe of reserves primarily through the drilling or identification of 55 well locations. The San Juan Basin added 47.2 Bcfe of reserves through the drilling or identification of 92 well locations; additionally, 18 sidetrack wells added 12.9 Bcfe of reserves. The Permian Basin added 30.1 Bcfe of reserves through the drilling or identification of 128 well locations.

For the year ended December 31, 2006, Energen Resources had downward reserve revisions which totaled 70.2 Bcfe and were primarily the result of reduced year-end pricing. Purchases for 2006 added 20.2 Bcfe of reserves and related primarily to an acquisition of gas properties in the San Juan Basin. Extension and discoveries during 2006 totaled 146.9 Bcfe of reserves, the majority of which related to extension drilling.

During 2005, Energen Resources had upward reserve revisions totaling 35.4 Bcfe largely due to changes in year-end pricing. Other reserve revisions related to changes in the reservoirs’ performance. Purchases for 2005 added 134 Bcfe of reserves and related primarily to the acquisition of oil properties in the Permian Basin. Energen Resources had extensions and discoveries during 2005 totaling 90.2 Bcfe of reserves, the majority of which related to extension drilling. During 2005, Energen Resources sold approximately 1.1 Bcfe of proved reserves, recording a net pre-tax gain of $1.7 million on certain properties in the Permian and Black Warrior basins.

Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves: The standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows is not intended, nor should it be interpreted, to present the fair market value of the Company’s crude oil and natural gas reserves. An estimate of fair market value would

82


take into consideration factors such as, but not limited to, the recovery of reserves not presently classified as proved reserves, anticipated future changes in prices and costs, and a discount factor more representative of the time value of money and the risks inherent in reserve estimates. At December 31, 2008, 2007 2006 and 2005,2006, the Company had a deferred hedging gain of $324 million, a deferred hedging loss of $104.9 million, and a deferred hedging gain of $81.5 million, and a deferred hedging loss of $148.6 million, respectively, all of which are excluded from the calculation of standardized measure of future net cash flows.

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)  2007  2006  2005  2008  2007  2006

Future gross revenues

  $  15,789,245  $  11,012,667  $  14,252,735  $    8,212,212  $    15,789,245  $    11,012,667

Future production costs

  4,682,021  3,909,649  4,168,061   3,692,060   4,682,021   3,909,649

Future development costs

  471,655  556,131  357,408   485,806   471,655   556,131

Future income tax expense

  3,501,519  2,062,210  3,268,157   1,070,005   3,501,519   2,062,210

Future net cash flows

  7,134,050  4,484,677  6,459,109   2,964,341   7,134,050   4,484,677

Discount at 10% per annum

  3,869,337  2,338,576  3,547,454   1,337,724   3,869,337   2,338,576

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash

flows relating to proved oil and gas reserves

  $    3,264,713  $    2,146,101  $    2,911,655  $1,626,617  $3,264,713  $2,146,101

Discounted future net cash flows before income taxes

  $    4,470,808  $    2,827,411  $    4,045,529  $1,902,594  $4,470,808  $2,827,411

Reserves and associated values were calculated using year-end prices and current costs. The following are the principal sources of changes in the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows:

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)  

Year Ended

December 31,

2007

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2006

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2005

   2008 2007 2006 

Balance at beginning of year

  $    2,146,101  $    2,911,655  $    1,891,418   $    3,264,713  $    2,146,101  $    2,911,655 

Revisions to reserves proved in prior years:

        

Net changes in prices, production costs and future

development costs

  1,556,198  (1,489,312) 1,288,366    (2,571,311)  1,556,198   (1,489,312)

Net changes due to revisions in quantity estimates

  (32,074) (123,057) 90,952    (250,491)  (32,074)  (123,057)

Development costs incurred, previously estimated

  215,155  86,554  101,740    177,343   215,155   86,554 

Accretion of discount

  214,610  291,166  189,142    326,471   214,610   291,166 

Other

  (135,935) 159,945  (69,803)

Changes in timing and other

   461,876   (135,935)  159,945 

Total revisions

  1,817,954  (1,074,704) 1,600,397    (1,856,112)  1,817,954   (1,074,704)

New field discoveries and extensions, net of future

production and development costs

  327,564  253,277  235,832    36,266   327,564   253,277 

Sales of oil and gas produced, net of production costs

  (598,720) (549,559) (595,439)   (843,202)  (598,720)  (549,559)

Purchases

  28,468  39,481  199,319    1,085   28,468   39,481 

Sales

  -  -  (2,474)   (26,861)  -   - 

Net change in income taxes

  (456,654) 565,951  (417,398)   1,050,728   (456,654)  565,951 

Net change in standardized measure of discounted future

net cash flows

  1,118,612  (765,554) 1,020,237    (1,638,096)  1,118,612   (765,554)

Balance at end of year

  $    3,264,713  $    2,146,101  $    2,911,655   $1,626,617  $3,264,713  $2,146,101 

83


Index to Financial Statements

19.18. INDUSTRY SEGMENT INFORMATION

 

The Company is principally engaged in two business segments: the acquisition, development, exploration and production of oil and gas in the continental United States (oil and gas operations) and the purchase, distribution and sale of natural gas in central and north Alabama (natural gas distribution). The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. Certain reclassifications have been made to conform the prior years’ financial statements to the current year presentation.

 

(in thousands)  

Year Ended

December 31,

2007

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2006

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2005

 
Years ended December 31, (in thousands)  2008 2007 2006 

Operating revenues from continuing operations

        

Oil and gas operations

  $     825,592  $     730,542  $     530,341   $914,132  $825,592  $730,542 

Natural gas distribution

  609,468  663,444  600,700    654,778   609,468   663,444 

Eliminations and other

  -  -  (2,647)

Total

  $  1,435,060  $  1,393,986  $  1,128,394   $1,568,910  $1,435,060  $1,393,986 

Operating income (loss) from continuing operations

        

Oil and gas operations

  $     451,567  $     405,149  $     243,876   $482,588  $451,567  $405,149 

Natural gas distribution

  72,742  74,274  72,922    81,956   72,742   74,274 

Subtotal

  524,309  479,423  316,798    564,544   524,309   479,423 

Eliminations and corporate expenses

  (2,277) (2,123) (1,074)   (2,476)  (2,277)  (2,123)

Total

  $     522,032  $     477,300  $     315,724   $562,068  $522,032  $477,300 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization expense from continuing operations

        

Oil and gas operations

  $     114,241  $       97,842  $       89,340   $139,539  $114,241  $97,842 

Natural gas distribution

  47,136  44,244  42,351    48,874   47,136   44,244 

Total

  $     161,377  $     142,086  $     131,691   $188,413  $161,377  $142,086 

Interest expense

        

Oil and gas operations

  $       32,673  $       33,542  $       32,778   $27,587  $32,673  $33,542 

Natural gas distribution

  15,696  16,454  15,060    14,807   15,696   16,454 

Subtotal

  48,369  49,996  47,838    42,394   48,369   49,996 

Eliminations and other

  (1,269) (1,344) (1,038)   (413)  (1,269)  (1,344)

Total

  $       47,100  $       48,652  $       46,800   $41,981  $47,100  $48,652 

Income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations

        

Oil and gas operations

  $     147,418  $     134,938  $       76,362   $169,862  $147,418  $134,938 

Natural gas distribution

  21,636  22,002  22,360    24,829   21,636   22,002 

Subtotal

  169,054  156,940  98,722    194,691   169,054   156,940 

Other

  (1,625) (1,910) (1,231)   (1,648)  (1,625)  (1,910)

Total

  $     167,429  $     155,030  $       97,491   $193,043  $167,429  $155,030 

Capital expenditures

        

Oil and gas operations

  $     379,479  $     259,678  $     353,712   $449,571  $379,479  $259,678 

Natural gas distribution

  58,862  76,157  73,276    63,320   58,862   76,157 

Total

  $     438,341  $     335,835  $     426,988   $512,891  $438,341  $335,835 

Identifiable assets

        

Oil and gas operations

  $  2,065,229  $  1,822,216  $  1,637,244   $2,650,136  $2,065,229  $1,822,216 

Natural gas distribution

  980,813  1,006,096  946,819    1,126,587   983,258   1,006,096 

Subtotal

  3,046,042  2,828,312  2,584,063    3,776,723   3,048,487   2,828,312 

Eliminations and other

  33,611  8,575  34,163    (1,319)  31,166   8,575 

Total

  $  3,079,653  $  2,836,887  $  2,618,226   $  3,775,404  $  3,079,653  $  2,836,887 

Property, plant and equipment, net

        

Oil and gas operations

  $  1,877,747  $  1,612,764  $  1,470,063   $2,181,131  $1,877,747  $1,612,764 

Natural gas distribution

  660,496  639,650  597,948    686,517   660,496   639,650 

Total

  $  2,538,243  $  2,252,414  $  2,068,011   $2,867,648  $2,538,243  $2,252,414 

84


Index to Financial Statements

SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

Energen Corporation

 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007               2006               2005             
 

ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS

 

Balance at beginning of year

  $13,961  $11,573  $10,472 

Additions:

    

Charged to income

   5,610   6,972   6,076 

Recoveries and adjustments

   (202)  (232)  (431)

Net additions

   5,408   6,740   5,645 

Less uncollectible accounts written off

   (7,125)  (4,352)  (4,544)

Balance at end of year

  $12,244  $13,961  $11,573 

Alabama Gas Corporation

    

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)

   2007               2006               2005             

ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS

 

Balance at beginning of year

  $13,200  $10,800  $9,600 

Additions:

    

Charged to income

   5,610   6,972   6,076 

Recoveries and adjustments

   (197)  (227)  (342)

Net additions

   5,413   6,745   5,734 
    

Less uncollectible accounts written off

   (7,113)  (4,345)  (4,534)

Balance at end of year

  $11,500  $13,200  $10,800 

Years ended December 31, (in thousands)  2008  2007  2006 

ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS

    

Balance at beginning of year

  $    12,244  $    13,961  $    11,573 

Additions:

    

Charged to income

   6,716   5,610   6,972 

Recoveries and adjustments

   (245)  (202)  (232)

Net additions

   6,471   5,408   6,740 

Less uncollectible accounts written off

   (5,847)  (7,125)  (4,352)

Balance at end of year

  $12,868  $12,244  $13,961 

Alabama Gas Corporation

 

    
Years ended December 31, (in thousands)  2008  2007  2006 

ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS

    

Balance at beginning of year

  $11,500  $13,200  $10,800 

Additions:

    

Charged to income

   6,590   5,610   6,972 

Recoveries and adjustments

   (199)  (197)  (227)

Net additions

   6,391   5,413   6,745 

Less uncollectible accounts written off

   (5,791)  (7,113)  (4,345)

Balance at end of year

  $12,100  $11,500  $13,200 

85


Index to Financial Statements
ITEM 9.ITEM 9.CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None

 

ITEM 9A.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Energen Corporation

a. Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Energen Corporation have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, they have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of December 31, 20072008 at a reasonable assurance level.

b. Management’s Report On Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management of Energen Corporation is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Energen Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Internal control over financial reporting includes those written policies and procedures that:

 

 i

pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of Energen Corporation;

 

 ii

provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and that receipts and expenditures of Energen Corporation are being made only in accordance with authorization of management and directors of Energen Corporation; and

 

 iii

provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of assets that could have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management assessed the effectiveness of Energen Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007.2008. Management based this assessment on criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting described in “Internal Control - Integrated Framework”issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Management’s assessment included an evaluation of the design of Energen Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting and testing of the operational effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting. Management reviewed the results of its assessment with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.

Based on this assessment, management determined that, as of December 31, 2007,2008, Energen Corporation maintained effective internal control over financial reporting. The effectiveness of Energen Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 20072008 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears herein.

February 25, 200824, 2009

86


Index to Financial Statements

c. Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Our chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Energen Corporation have concluded that during the most recent fiscal quarter covered by this report there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

Alabama Gas Corporation

a. Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Alabama Gas Corporation have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation they have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of December 31, 20072008 at a reasonable assurance level.

b. Management’s Report On Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management of Alabama Gas Corporation is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Alabama Gas Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Internal control over financial reporting includes those written policies and procedures that:

 

 i

pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of Alabama Gas Corporation;

 

 ii

provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and that receipts and expenditures of Alabama Gas Corporation are being made only in accordance with authorization of management and directors of Alabama Gas Corporation; and

 

 iii

provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of assets that could have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management assessed the effectiveness of Alabama Gas Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007.2008. Management based this assessment on criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting described inInternal Control - Integrated Framework”issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Management’s assessment included an evaluation of the design of Alabama Gas Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting and testing of the operational effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting. Management reviewed the results of its assessment with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.

Based on this assessment, management determined that, as of December 31, 2007,2008, Alabama Gas Corporation maintained effective internal control over financial reporting. The effectiveness of Alabama Gas Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears herein.

February 25, 200824, 2009

87


Index to Financial Statements

c. Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Our chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Alabama Gas Corporation have concluded that during the most recent fiscal quarter covered by this report there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

88


Index to Financial Statements

PART III

 

ITEM 10.DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Information regarding the executive officers of Energen is included in Part I. The other information required by Item 10 is incorporated herein by reference from Energen’s definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 23, 2008.22, 2009. The definitive proxy statement will be filed on or about March 24, 2008.27, 2009.

 

ITEM 11.EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information regarding executive compensation is incorporated herein by reference from Energen’s definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 23, 2008.22, 2009.

 

ITEM 12.SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

a. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners

The information regarding the security ownership of the beneficial owners of more than five percent of Energen’s common stock is incorporated herein by reference from Energen’s definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 23, 2008.22, 2009.

b. Security Ownership of Management

The information regarding the security ownership of management is incorporated herein by reference from Energen’s definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 23, 2008.22, 2009.

c. Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

The information regarding securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans is included in Part 2 under Item 5.

 

ITEM 13.CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information regarding certain relationships and related transactions, and director independence is incorporated herein by reference from Energen’s definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 23, 2008.22, 2009.

 

ITEM 14.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information regarding Principal Accountant Fees and Services is incorporated herein by reference from Energen’s definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 23, 2008.22, 2009.

89


Index to Financial Statements

PART IV

 

ITEM 15.EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

a. Documents Filed as Part of This Report

 

 (1)

Financial Statements

The consolidated financial statements of Energen and the financial statements of Alagasco are included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K

 

 (2)

Financial Statement Schedules

The financial statement schedules are included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K

 

 (3)

Exhibits

The exhibits listed on the accompanying Index to Exhibits are filed as part of this Form 10-K

90


Index to Financial Statements

Energen Corporation

Alabama Gas Corporation

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

Item 14(a)(3)

 

Exhibit


Number

 

Description

*3(a)

 

Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Energen Corporation (composite, as amended April 29, 2005) which was filed as Exhibit 3(a) to Energen’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2005

*3(b)

 

Articles of Amendment to Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Energen, designating Series 1998 Junior Participating Preferred Stock (July 27, 1998) which was filed as Exhibit 4(b) to Energen’s Post Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-3 (Registration No. 333-00395)

*3(c)

 

Bylaws of Energen Corporation (as amended through October 30, 2002)July 23, 2008) which was filed as Exhibit 4(c)99.1 to Energen’s Registration StatementCurrent Report on Form S-8 (Registration No. 33-46641)8-K, dated July 25, 2008

*3(d)

 

Articles of Amendment and Restatement of the Articles of Incorporation of Alabama Gas Corporation, dated September 27, 1995, which was filed as Exhibit 3(i) to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1995

*3(e)

 

Bylaws of Alabama Gas Corporation (as amended through October 24, 2007) which was filed as Exhibit 3 to Energen’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended October 31, 2007

*4(a)

 

Rights Agreement, dated as of July 27, 1998, between Energen Corporation and First Chicago Trust Company of New York, Rights Agent, which was filed as Exhibit 1 to Energen’s Registration Statement on Form 8-A, dated July 10, 1998

*4(b)

Form of Indenture between Energen Corporation and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, which was dated as of September 1, 1996 (the “Energen 1996 Indenture”), and which was filed as Exhibit 4(i) to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 (Registration No. 333-11239)

*4(b)4(a)(i)

 

Officers’ Certificate, dated September 13, 1996, pursuant to Section 301 of the Energen 1996 Indenture setting forth the terms of the Series A Notes which was filed as Exhibit 4(d)(i) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2001

*4(b)4(a)(ii)

 

Officers’ Certificate, dated July 8, 1997, pursuant to Section 301 of the Energen 1996 Indenture amending the terms of the Series A Notes which was filed as Exhibit 4(d)(ii) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2001

*4(b)4(a)(iii)

 

Amended and Restated Officers’ Certificate, dated February 27, 1998, setting forth the terms of the Series B Notes which was filed as Exhibit 4(d)(iii) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2001

*4(b)4(a)(iv)

 

Officers’ Certificate, dated October 3, 2003, pursuant to Section 301 of the Energen 1996 Indenture setting forth the terms of the 5 percent Notes due October 1, 2013, which was filed as Exhibit 4 to Energen’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated October 3, 2003

*4(c)4(b)

 

Indenture dated as of November 1, 1993, between Alabama Gas Corporation and NationsBank of Georgia, National Association, Trustee, (“Alagasco 1993 Indenture”), which was filed as Exhibit 4(k) to Alabama Gas’Gas Corporations’ Registration Statement on Form S-3 (Registration No. 33-70466)

91


*4(c)4(b)(i)

 

Officers’ Certificate, dated January 14, 2005, pursuant to Section 301 of the AlagascoAlabama Gas Corporation 1993 Indenture setting forth the terms of the 5.70 percent Notes due January 15, 2035, which was filed as Exhibit 4.3 to Alabama Gas’Gas Corporations’ Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 14, 2005

Index to Financial Statements

*4(c)4(b)(ii)

 

Officers’ Certificate, dated January 14, 2005, pursuant to Section 301 of the AlagascoAlabama Gas Corporation 1993 Indenture setting forth the terms of the 5.20 percent Notes due January 15, 2020, which was filed as Exhibit 4.4 to Alabama Gas’Gas Corporations’ Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 14, 2005

*4(c)4(b)(iii)

 

Officers’ Certificate, dated November 17, 2005, pursuant to Section 301 of the AlagascoAlabama Gas Corporation 1993 Indenture setting forth the terms of the 5.368 percent Notes due December 1, 2015, which was filed as Exhibit 4.2 to Alabama Gas’Gas Corporations’ Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 17, 2005

*4(c)4(b)(iv)

 

Officers’ Certificate, dated January 16, 2007, pursuant to Section 301 of the AlagascoAlabama Gas Corporation 1993 Indenture setting forth the terms of the 5.90 percent Notes due January 15, 2037, which was filed as Exhibit 4.2 to Alabama Gas’Gas Corporations’ Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 16, 2007

*10(a)

 

Service Agreement Under Rate Schedule CSS (No. SSNG1), between Southern Natural Gas Company and Alabama Gas Corporation, dated as of September 1, 2005, which was filed as Exhibit 10(a) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005

*10(b)

 

Firm Transportation Service Agreement Under Rate Schedule FT and/or FT-NN (No. FSNG1), between Southern Natural Gas Company and Alabama Gas Corporation dated as of September 1, 2005, which was filed as Exhibit 10(b) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005

*10(c)

 

Form of Service Agreement Under Rate Schedule IT (No. 790420), between Southern Natural Gas Company and Alabama Gas Corporation, which was filed as Exhibit 10(b) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1993

  10(c)(i)

Amended Exhibits A and B, effective October 1, 2008, to Firm Transportation Service Agreement (No. FSNG1) between Southern Natural Gas Company and Alabama Gas Corporation

*10(d)

 

Service Agreement between Transcontinental Gas Pipeline Corporation and Transco Energy Marketing Company as Agent for Alabama Gas Corporation, dated August 1, 1991 which was filed as Exhibit 3(e) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003

*10(e)

 

Amendment to Service Agreement between Transcontinental Gas Pipeline Corporation and Alabama Gas Corporation, dated December 2, 2005, which was filed as Exhibit 10(e) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005

*10(f)

 

Occluded Gas Lease, dated January 1, 1986 and First through Seventh Amendments, which was filed as Exhibit 10(f) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005

  10(f)(i)

Eighth Amendment to Occluded Gas Lease, dated January 1, 2009

*10(g)

 

Form of Executive Retirement Supplement Agreement between Energen Corporation and it’s executive officers (as revised October 2000) which was filed as Exhibit 10(c) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2000

*10(h)

 

Amendment to Executive Retirement Supplement Agreement with Mr. Warren, dated December 13, 2006, which was filed as Exhibit 99.2 to Energen’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed December 14, 2006

*10(i)

Amendment to Executive Retirement Supplement Agreement with Mr. Ketcham, dated December 13, 2006, which was filed as Exhibit 99.3 to Energen’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed December 14, 2006

92


*10(j)

Form of Severance Compensation Agreement between Energen Corporation and it’s executive officers which was filed as Exhibit 99.1 to Energen’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated January 29, 2007

*10(k)10(i)

 

Energen Corporation 1997 Stock Incentive Plan (as amended effective January 1, 2007) which was filed as Exhibit 10 to Energen’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2007

Index to Financial Statements

*10(l)10(j)

 

Form of Stock Option Agreement under the Energen Corporation 1997 Stock Incentive Plan which was filed as Exhibit 10(a) to Energen’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2004

*10(m)10(k)

 

Form of Restricted Stock Agreement under the Energen Corporation 1997 Stock Incentive Plan which was filed as Exhibit 10(b) to Energen’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2004

*10(n)10(l)

 

Form of Performance Share Award under the Energen Corporation 1997 Stock Incentive Plan which was filed as Exhibit 10(c) to Energen’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2004

  10(o)*10(m)

 

Energen Corporation 1997 Deferred Compensation Plan (amended and restated effective January 1, 2008)

  10(p)*10(n)

 

Energen Corporation 1992 Directors Stock Plan (as amended December 12, 2007)

*10(q)10(o)

 

Energen Corporation Annual Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended effective October 25, 2006 which was filed as Exhibit 99.1 to Energen’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 30, 2006

*10(r)

Energen Corporation Officer Split Dollar Life Insurance Plan, effective October 1, 1999 which was filed as Exhibit 10(l) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2000 (File No. 1-7810)

*10(s)

Form of Split Dollar Life Insurance Plan Agreement under Energen Corporation Officer Split Dollar Life Insurance Plan which was filed as Exhibit 10(m) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2000 (File No. 1-7810)

*10(t)

Officer Split Dollar Tax Matters Agreement which was filed as Exhibit 10(n) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2000 (File No. 1-7810)

*10(u)

Energen Board of Directors resolution adopted as of May 14, 2004, terminating the Energen Corporation Officer Split Dollar Life Insurance Plan which was filed as Exhibit 10(u) to Energen’s Annual Report on Form 10K for the year ended December 31, 2005

  21

 

Subsidiaries of Energen Corporation

  23(a)

 

Consent of Registered Public Accounting Firm (PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP)

  23(b)

 

Consent of Registered Public Accounting Firm (PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP)

  23(c)

Consent of Independent Oil and Gas Reservoir Engineers (Ryder Scott Company, L.P.)

  23(d)23(c)

 

Consent of Independent Oil and Gas Reservoir Engineers (T. Scott Hickman and Associates, Inc.)

  24(a)

Power of Attorney – Energen Corporation

  24(b)

Power of Attorney – Alabama Gas Corporation

31(a)

 

Energen Corporation Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a)

93


  31(b)

 

Energen Corporation Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a)

  31(c)

 

Alabama Gas Corporation Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a- 14(a)13a-14(a) or 15d- 14(a)

  31(d)

 

Alabama Gas Corporation Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a- 14(a)13a-14(a) or 15d- 14(a)15d-14(a)

  32

 

Certification pursuant to Section 1350

*

Incorporated by reference

94


Index to Financial Statements

SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrants have duly caused this report to be signed on their behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

ENERGEN CORPORATION

(Registrant)

ALABAMA GAS CORPORATION

(Registrant)

 

            February 25, 2008

By24, 2009            

 

/s/By

    /s/ James T. McManus, II

 

James T. McManus, II

 

Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Energen Corporation; Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Alabama Gas Corporation

95


Index to Financial Statements

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the Registrants and in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

 

February 25, 200824, 2009

 By 

/s/ By    /s/James T. McManus, II

James T. McManus, II
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of
Energen Corporation; Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer of Alabama Gas Corporation

February 24, 2009

By    /s/ Charles W. Porter, Jr.                                                                            
Charles W. Porter, Jr.
Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and
  

James T. McManus II

Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and PresidentTreasurer of Energen Corporation; ChairmanCorporation and Chief Executive Officer of Alabama

Gas Corporation

February 25, 200824, 2009

 

By

 

/s/ Charles W. Porter,By    /s/ Russell E. Lynch, Jr.

  

Charles W. Porter,Russell E. Lynch, Jr.

  

Vice President Chief Financial Officer and TreasurerController of Energen Corporation and Alabama Gas Corporation

                February 25, 2008

By

/s/ Grace B. Carr

  Corporation

Grace B. CarrFebruary 24, 2009

By    /s/ William D. Marshall                                                                              
  

Vice President and Controller of Energen Corporation

                February 25, 2008

By

/s/ Paula H. Rushing

William D. Marshall
  

Paula H. Rushing

Vice President and Controller of Alabama Gas
  

Vice President-Finance of Alabama Gas Corporation

February 25, 200824, 2009

 

By

 

/s/ Julian W. Banton

        *                                                                                                                  
  

Julian W. Banton

  

Director

February 25, 200824, 2009

 

By

 

/s/ Kenneth W. Dewey

        *                                                                                                                  
  

Kenneth W. Dewey

  

Director

February 25, 200824, 2009

 

By

 

/s/ James S. M. French

        *                                                                                                                  
  

James S. M. French

  

Director

February 25, 200824, 2009

 

By

 

/s/ Judy M. Merritt

        *                                                                                                                  
  

Judy M. Merritt

  

Director

February 25, 200824, 2009

 

By

 

/s/ Wm. Michael Warren, Jr.

        *                                                                                                                  
  

Wm. Michael Warren, Jr.

  

Director

February 25, 200824, 2009

 

By

 

/s/ David W. Wilson

        *                                                                                                                  
  

David W. Wilson

  

Director

*By    /s/ Charles W. Porter, Jr.                                                                          
Charles W. Porter, Jr.,
Attorney-in-Fact

 

9694